Akureyri: Lake Mývatn, Goðafoss & Dettifoss Super Jeep Tour

Summary

North Iceland’s wild waterfalls, volcanic lakes and winter warmth

You’ll crunch across frozen roads from Akureyri with a local guide, feel spray on your face at Goðafoss and Dettifoss, taste warm lamb soup by Lake Mývatn, then sink into steaming nature baths while snow piles high outside. It’s a day of wild landscapes and quiet moments that’ll stick with you long after you’ve thawed out.

What’s the experience like?

We bounced out of Akureyri just after sunrise, tires crunching over icy gravel — I could smell the cold before I even stepped into the super jeep. Our guide Jón had that quiet confidence you only get from growing up around these parts; he told us to keep our eyes open for reindeer but I was honestly too busy gawking at the way the snow seemed to swallow up everything except the road ahead. First stop: Goðafoss. The roar was almost muffled by the thick air, but you could feel it in your chest. Jón explained why it’s called “Waterfall of the Gods” — something about old idols tossed into the water — but I got distracted watching a couple locals toss snowballs near the edge, laughing like they’d never left childhood.

Driving on toward Lake Mývatn, things got even stranger — steam rising in random places, black lava fields poking through white drifts. The lake itself was half-frozen, half-reflective; birds still circled overhead even though it felt like we were on another planet. Lunch was at this little roadside place (can’t remember the name) where everyone seemed to know Jón. He ordered for us — lamb soup and rye bread so dense you could probably patch a tire with it. It tasted earthy and real, especially after hours outside.

The drive to Dettifoss was rougher — Jón grinned and said this is where the super jeep earns its keep. He wasn’t kidding; we slid sideways more than once and he just shrugged like it was nothing. When we finally reached Dettifoss, I swear my face hurt from the wind and spray. It’s not just big — it’s loud enough to drown out your own thoughts for a minute or two. We didn’t talk much there; just stood together on the rim, letting the cold sting our cheeks while that wall of water thundered below.

I didn’t expect to care so much about a hot soak after all that, but sinking into those geothermal Nature Baths back at Mývatn felt like every muscle finally let go. Steam everywhere, blue water against snowbanks, locals chatting quietly in Icelandic as if this was just any old Tuesday night. On the drive back to Akureyri I kept replaying that moment at Dettifoss — how small we all looked next to something that old and wild.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore waterfalls and nature baths

• Pick up in Akureyri area
• Visit Goðafoss waterfall
• Explore Lake Mývatn area
• Drive to Dettifoss waterfall by super jeep
• Relax at Mývatn Nature Baths
• Return to Akureyri

Top questions

How long does this private super jeep tour last?

The tour lasts approximately 8-9 hours including all stops.

Is hotel pickup included from Akureyri?

Yes, hotel or port pickup in Akureyri or nearby is included.

What should I bring for winter conditions?

You’ll need warm clothes, gloves, a cap, good hiking shoes, swimsuit and towel for the baths.

Are meals included during the tour?

A lunch stop is included at a local restaurant but check if food cost is covered when booking.

Can anyone join this tour or is fitness required?

This tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels.

What are the main highlights of this day trip?

You’ll visit Goðafoss waterfall, Lake Mývatn area, Dettifoss waterfall and Mývatn Nature Baths.

Does this tour operate in bad weather?

Yes, it runs in all weather conditions unless unsafe; alternative dates or refund offered if canceled due to weather.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel or port pickup in Akureyri with a professional local guide driving a private super jeep; all transport between Goðafoss waterfall, Lake Mývatn area and Dettifoss; time for lunch at a local restaurant; plus entry and time to relax in the Mývatn Nature Baths before heading back in comfort.