Akureyri: Goðafoss Waterfall Day Trip with Cruise Pickup

Summary

From Akureyri port to Goðafoss waterfall for coffee, stories and wild Icelandic air

You’ll drive from Akureyri port through rolling hills to stand at the edge of Goðafoss waterfall — feeling its spray and hearing its roar up close. With a local guide sharing stories, a warm drink at Hotel Goðafoss, and time to wander at your own pace, you’ll remember how wild Iceland can feel in just one afternoon.

What’s the experience like?

We rolled out of Akureyri port in this quiet, warm minibus — I could still smell the sea on my jacket from walking the dock. Our guide, Jón, waved as he counted us off (I think he’s done this a thousand times but still somehow seemed amused by us). The drive toward Goðafoss waterfall was all soft hills and scattered sheep; I tried to read about the area on my phone using the bus WiFi, but mostly just stared out the window. There’s something about those Icelandic colors — like someone turned down the saturation but made everything sharper.

When we pulled up near Goðafoss, Jón handed out these little chocolate licorice things (he called them “lakkrís” — I’m still not sure if I liked them or not). The air was cold enough that my breath came out in puffs, and you could hear the river before you even saw it. The path was a bit slick from last night’s rain; someone behind me laughed when I nearly slipped. And then suddenly there it was: Goðafoss waterfall just roaring away under this weirdly bright sky. Not as tall as I expected, but wide and loud — spray on my face, wind tugging at my scarf. We had about an hour to wander; Jón pointed out where some old saga supposedly happened right here. I didn’t catch every word (my fault, not his), but it felt kind of important anyway.

Afterwards we ducked into Hotel Goðafoss for coffee and something sweet — I picked a cinnamon bun that tasted faintly of cardamom. The bathroom was clean (always a relief), and people milled around speaking softly in different languages. On the way back to Akureyri, nobody said much; maybe tired or maybe just letting it all sink in. Even now, sometimes I hear water rushing in my head when things get too quiet.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Tour to Goðafoss Waterfall from Akureyri

• Drive through Akureyri City
• Drive 40-45 minutes to Goðafoss
• Spend 1 hour at Goðafoss Waterfall
• Drive 40-45 minutes back to Akureyri

Top questions

How long is the drive from Akureyri port to Goðafoss waterfall?

The drive takes about 40–45 minutes each way between Akureyri port and Goðafoss waterfall.

Is there pickup from cruise ships in Akureyri?

Yes, pickup is available directly from Akureyri port for cruise ship passengers.

How much time do you spend at Goðafoss waterfall?

You’ll have about 1 hour or more to explore around Goðafoss waterfall.

Are restrooms available during the tour?

Yes, there is free access to a restroom at Hotel Goðafoss near the waterfall.

Is WiFi provided on board?

Yes, vehicles are equipped with WiFi for passengers during the trip.

What snacks or drinks are included?

A cup of coffee or tea and an Icelandic treat are included at Hotel Goðafoss.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?

The tour is accessible for travelers with mobility issues and strollers are allowed.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup directly from Akureyri port with air-conditioned transport featuring onboard WiFi and reading material in several languages. At Goðafoss you’ll have free restroom access at Hotel Goðafoss plus a cup of coffee or tea with an Icelandic treat before heading back to your ship on time.