Lake Myvatn & Godafoss: Day Tour from Akureyri Port

Summary

Godafoss waterfall views, bubbling mud pools and steamy baths near Lake Myvatn

You’ll join a small group right from Akureyri port, hear stories as you watch Godafoss thunder below, wander through Dimmuborgir’s wild lava shapes, feel steam rising at Hverir’s mud pools and either soak in the blue haze of Myvatn Nature Baths or step into Grjotagja cave’s rift. It’s a day full of raw landscapes and those odd quiet moments that stick with you.

What’s the experience like?

Li was waiting with a little sign at the Akureyri port — I almost missed her because I got distracted by a group of kids skipping rocks nearby. She waved us over, and just like that, we piled into the minibus with a handful of other cruise folks. The drive out to Godafoss didn’t take long, but it was enough for Li to tell us how locals call it the “Waterfall of the Gods.” You could hear it before you saw it — this low thunder in the air, mixing with the smell of wet moss and something sharp and mineral. I tried to take a photo but mostly just stood there watching spray drift sideways in the wind. It’s bigger than it looks in pictures, you know?

The road kept winding past fields that looked like they belonged on another planet — mossy lava stretches and these odd little hills. When we reached Lake Myvatn, Li pointed out where the American and Eurasian tectonic plates are literally pulling apart under our feet (I didn’t expect that part). We wandered through Dimmuborgir’s lava formations, which honestly felt like walking through some old storybook illustration — black rocks twisting up against a sky that couldn’t decide if it wanted to rain or not. Someone in our group tried to pronounce “Dimmuborgir” and Li laughed so hard she had to stop walking for a second.

I picked the Nature Baths option — figured if you’re gonna do a day trip from Akureyri to Lake Myvatn, might as well go all in. The steam here is different from anywhere else I’ve been; it smells faintly of eggs (sulfur, Li said), but after five minutes you don’t notice it anymore. There’s this blue haze over everything and people just float quietly, except for one local who sang under his breath while sipping coffee from the café window. If baths aren’t your thing, some folks went off with another guide to see Grjotagja cave instead — apparently there’s a rift you can stand right inside.

On the way back I kept thinking about how weirdly peaceful everything felt around Lake Myvatn — even with all those steaming vents at Hverir hissing like kettles left on too long. The bus windows fogged up from everyone’s damp hair and nobody really talked much until we were nearly back at Akureyri port again. I still think about that view over Godafoss when I close my eyes sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit Godafoss and Lake Myvatn sites

• Depart from Akureyri Port
• Visit Godafoss waterfall
• Explore Dimmuborgir lava formations
• See bubbling Hverir mud pools and fumaroles
• Stop at Myvatn Nature Baths or Grjotagja cave
• Enjoy Myvatn Nature Baths and cafe

Top questions

How long does the Lake Myvatn day tour from Akureyri port last?

The tour is designed for cruise ship schedules; exact duration depends on your ship's docking time but covers all main sights comfortably.

Is pickup included for this Lake Myvatn & Godafoss tour?

Yes, free pickup and drop off at Akureyri port are included.

Are entrance fees for Myvatn Nature Baths included?

No, entrance fees for the Nature Baths are not included; tickets must be reserved separately in advance.

Can I skip the Nature Baths during this day trip?

Yes, if you prefer not to visit the baths you can join an alternative visit to Grjotagja cave and rift instead.

Is lunch provided on this tour?

No lunch is included; however there is a café at Myvatn Nature Baths where you can buy food or drinks.

Are children allowed on this tour?

Yes, infants and small children can join; prams or strollers are welcome.

What should I bring for this Lake Myvatn day trip?

Bring weather-appropriate clothing (it can be chilly), swimwear if using the baths, and snacks if needed.

Will there be a local guide during the tour?

Yes, an experienced local guide leads the entire tour from start to finish.

What’s included

Your day includes small group transport with pickup and drop off right at Akureyri port, guidance from an experienced local throughout every stop — from Godafoss waterfall through Dimmuborgir lava fields to Hverir mud pools — plus time at either Myvatn Nature Baths (entry not included) or Grjotagja cave before returning comfortably to your ship.