Lake Mývatn & Goðafoss: Day Trip from Akureyri Port

Summary

Goðafoss waterfall, Dimmuborgir lava fields, and Hverir steam vents on a Lake Mývatn day trip from Akureyri port

You’ll travel from Akureyri port to North Iceland’s wildest sights—hear local stories at Goðafoss waterfall, wander through Dimmuborgir’s lava fields, sip coffee by Lake Mývatn, and feel the steam at Hverir. Includes pickup and a taste of Icelandic treats. These landscapes might stick with you longer than you expect.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit it—I almost missed the coach because I got distracted by the smell of cinnamon rolls wafting from a bakery near Akureyri port. Our guide, Jónas, just grinned when I finally jogged up (a little out of breath) and welcomed me aboard like it was no big deal. The bus had WiFi, which felt weirdly modern against all that wild landscape outside the window. We rolled out past colorful houses and into this endless sweep of mossy hills. There was a moment when the clouds broke and suddenly Goðafoss appeared—louder than I expected, with spray in the air so fine it stuck to my eyelashes.

Jónas told us stories about trolls in Dimmuborgir—he swore his grandmother believed they were real. Walking among those twisted lava formations felt like stepping into someone else’s dream. The wind picked up there; it made my ears sting but also brought this sharp mineral smell from somewhere deeper in the rocks. At Lake Mývatn, we stopped at Skútustaðir for coffee (and something sweet that tasted faintly of licorice—I never caught the name). The lake itself was quiet except for a few ducks skimming across the surface. I didn’t expect to feel so small standing there, but maybe that’s just Iceland.

The last stop was Hverir—the ground hissed and bubbled under our feet. Sulfur hung in the air (not my favorite scent), but watching steam curl up against gray sky was strangely beautiful. Someone asked if we’d be back before our ship left—Jónas just nodded and said he’d done this run “hundreds of times.” On the way back to Akureyri, everyone got quieter, maybe tired or just thinking about what we’d seen. I still think about that view over Lake Mývatn sometimes, especially when things get noisy at home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Lake Mývatn and Goðafoss

• Board coach at Akureyri port
• Drive through Icelandic countryside
• Visit Goðafoss Waterfall
• See crater row at Skútustaðir
• Explore Dimmuborgir lava fields
• Visit boiling mud pools at Hverir
• Return to Akureyri port

Top questions

How long is the day trip from Akureyri port to Lake Mývatn?

The tour lasts several hours including stops at Goðafoss waterfall, Dimmuborgir lava fields, Hverir geothermal area, and Lake Mývatn before returning to Akureyri port at least 1 hour before ship departure.

Is pickup included from Akureyri port?

Yes, pickup is included directly from Akureyri port for cruise passengers joining the day trip.

What attractions are visited on this tour?

The tour visits Goðafoss waterfall, Dimmuborgir lava fields, Hverir geothermal field, Skútustaðir crater row by Lake Mývatn, and scenic viewpoints around North Iceland.

Are food or drinks provided during the tour?

A cup of coffee or tea and an Icelandic treat are offered at Hotel Goðafoss during the day trip.

Will I return in time for my cruise ship departure?

Yes, return to Akureyri is scheduled at least one hour before your ship departs to ensure you don’t miss it.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes, this coach tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels with short walks at each stop.

Does the bus have WiFi?

Yes, WiFi is available on board during your journey between stops.

Are entry fees included in the price?

All fees and taxes are included as part of your booking for this day trip.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup directly from Akureyri port with WiFi on board the coach; all entry fees and taxes covered; plus a cup of coffee or tea paired with an Icelandic treat at Hotel Goðafoss before heading back toward your ship in plenty of time for departure.