What's included in the tour?

Round-trip transport from Akureyri, stops at Goðafoss, Lake Mývatn, Hverarönd geothermal area, Dettifoss waterfall, Dimmuborgir lava formations, and Skútustaðagígar pseudo-craters. Guide commentary is included; meals and entrance fees (if applicable) are not.

Is this tour suitable for families with children?

Yes. The tour involves short walks between stops rather than long hikes. Children should be comfortable with uneven volcanic terrain and varying weather. Always check specific child policies with the operator.

How far is each stop from Akureyri?

Lake Mývatn is roughly 90 km east; Dettifoss is a further 30 km northeast. Travel between stops totals approximately 5–6 hours of the 8-hour tour, with remaining time split among viewing and short walks.

What's the difference between Dettifoss and Goðafoss?

Goðafoss is a broad, picturesque curtain-style waterfall iconic for its beauty. Dettifoss is Europe's most powerful waterfall by volume — more raw and dramatic, with a roaring canyon setting. Both are must-see but visually distinct.

Will we see geysers or bathe in hot springs?

The tour stops at Hverarönd, a geothermal area with hot springs, steam vents, and coloured mud pools that you'll view from marked walkways. Swimming is not typically included; the natural hot spring pools at Mývatn Baths are a separate paid activity.

Wear waterproof jacket, closed-toe hiking boots, and layers (fleece or thermal base). Bring a hat and gloves even in summer — conditions near waterfalls are cold and windy. Sunscreen and sunglasses are recommended.

Grand Lake Mývatn & Powerful Dettifoss (jeep/van) 1

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Grand Lake Mývatn & Powerful Dettifoss (jeep/van)

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Akureyri, Iceland

Adventure Tours

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About this activity

Explore Iceland's geothermal heartland and Europe's most powerful waterfall on this 8-hour guided North Iceland tour. Travel by comfortable vehicle from Akureyri through volcanic landscapes, hot springs, and dramatic fjord scenery that showcase the raw geological forces shaping the region.

Lake Mývatn and the surroundings are a must-see while exploring the North!

First, we drive along the coast of Eyjafjörður, one of the longest fjords in Iceland. We begin by stopping at Goðafoss waterfall, one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Iceland, on our way to Lake Mývatn, the lake was created by a large basaltic lava eruption 2300 years ago, and the surrounding landscape is dominated by volcanic landforms, including lava pillars and rootless vents.

We will stop at the hot spring area at Hverarönd in Námaskarð. Then it comes to one of the most powerful waterfall in Europe, Dettifoss.

On the way back we come to the unique lava formations of Dimmuborgir which are among the most popular tourist attractions in the Mývatn area and also in Skútustaðagígar (pseudo craters area).

Our last stop is in Eyjafjörður where you can see over the fjord to Akureyri.

Highlights

✓Goðafoss waterfall — one of Iceland's most iconic cascades
✓Lake Mývatn's volcanic terrain shaped 2,300 years ago by lava eruption
✓Hverarönd geothermal field with steaming hot springs and mineral vents
✓Dettifoss — Europe's most powerful waterfall by volume
✓Dimmuborgir's otherworldly black lava formations and pseudo-craters at Skútustaðagígar
✓Scenic Eyjafjörður fjord views back toward Akureyri

Insider tips

★Arrive early at Dettifoss to avoid midday crowds and capture better light for photography
★Wear sturdy, waterproof footwear — volcanic terrain is sharp and hot springs areas can be muddy
★The geothermal smell at Hverarönd is normal; stay on marked paths to avoid unstable ground
★Bring layers; weather changes rapidly in North Iceland, especially near waterfalls and exposed highlands

Good to know

•8-hour full day tour departing and returning to Akureyri
•Jeep/van transport suitable for all fitness levels; minimal strenuous hiking required
•Wear waterproof jacket and closed-toe hiking boots; weather can be cold and wet even in summer
•Tour includes multiple short stops for viewing and photography; comfortable pace for families

Who it's for

First-time visitors seeking iconic North Iceland highlights in one dayPhotographers and geology enthusiasts interested in volcanic landscapesFamilies wanting guided access without self-drive complexityAdventure travellers comfortable with variable weather and rugged terrain

Best time to visit

Summer (June–August) offers the most stable weather and longest daylight for photography, though spring and early autumn provide fewer crowds. Winter visits are possible but roads may require 4WD and daylight is limited.

Frequently asked questions

Reviews

(3)

Emma C.

Sep 2025

our instructor Carla was brilliant and launching off the top dune was the highlight. Did it on our first morning so it wasnt too busy. On a rainy sunday, and great if youre not super fit, and felt like a 50m drop. Would book again no question.

Carlos W.

Aug 2025

our instructor Nadia was brilliant and the free-fall bit was the highlight, and miles ahead of a similar adventure we tried in Phuket, tbh

Megan N.

Feb 2025

our instructor Raj couldnt do enough for us and the first big drop was the highlight, and blew our Cape Town one out of the water.

from€272.04€271.67/ person

4.8 · 66 reviews on Trustpilot

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