German-speaking shore excursion Góðafoss & Mývatn from Akureyri in a small group

Exploring Iceland with a Small-Group Tour from Akureyri: Góðafoss & Mývatn

If you’re looking for a way to see some of Iceland’s most striking sights without the hassle of self-driving or large tour buses, this German-speaking small-group tour from Akureyri might just fit the bill. It’s tailored for cruise ship travelers eager to explore the Northeastern Region in comfort and style. From breathtaking waterfalls to bubbling geothermal fields, this tour packs a punch in just under 8 hours.

Two things we especially appreciate about this experience are the personalized feel of a small group—max 19 participants—and the ability to enjoy local insights from a native guide fluent in German. The tour’s flexible schedule, timed around cruise ship arrivals and departures, ensures you won’t miss out, no matter your ship’s schedule. One possible drawback? The full itinerary means a lot of ground is covered, so be prepared for a busy day that involves quite a bit of driving with scenic stops.

This tour is perfect for travelers who love stunning landscapes and want a more intimate experience outside the large coach crowds. It’s also well-suited for those who value local stories and detailed explanations in their native language, making Iceland’s natural wonders come alive in German.

Key Points

• Small-group intimacy ensures personalized attention and less time waiting.
• German-speaking guides provide clear, local insights.
• Varied stops cover waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, geothermal areas, and caves.
• Flexible timing adapts to cruise ship schedules.
• Approximate 8-hour duration balances sightseeing with comfort.
• Ideal for cruise travelers wanting an authentic experience in a manageable day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and First Drive

The adventure begins at the cruise port in Akureyri, where your bus is waiting in the designated parking lot. Look for the sign “SPS-ferðir 7 Kria-Tours” in the windshield to find your ride. The group is limited to 19 participants, which means you’ll get a more intimate experience than your typical large bus tour. The guide, a local fluent in German, immediately sets a friendly, informative tone.

From here, you’ll embark on a scenic 45-minute drive along the fjord, offering glimpses of Akureyri’s charming harbor and the surrounding mountains. The route through the Vikurskarð mountain pass provides your first taste of Iceland’s rugged beauty, setting the scene for what’s to come.

Góðafoss Waterfall: A Highlight

The first major stop is Góðafoss, often called the “Waterfall of the Gods.” It’s a captivating cascade of water plunging over volcanic rocks, with a powerful roar and stunning views in every direction. The 30-minute photo stop gives you ample time to marvel at the falls, snap pictures, and soak in the atmosphere.

Travelers consistently praise this stop. One reviewer noted, “Sehr schöner Wasserfall with enough time for photos and to appreciate its raw beauty.” The falls’ mythic reputation and dramatic setting make it a favorite. The fact that the guide attempts to avoid the large group buses means you’ll have more space and quieter moments here.

From Waterfalls to Volcanic Landscapes

After Góðafoss, the journey continues over two plateaus to Lake Mývatn, a region renowned for its pseudocraters, lava formations, and geothermal activity. The tour makes several strategically timed stops here, each designed to showcase Iceland’s volcanic character.

Skutustadhir and Dimmuborgir

The first stop at Skutustadhir lasts about 30 minutes, allowing you to walk among the pseudo-craters created by volcanic explosions. The landscape here resembles a moonscape, and the guide shares stories about how these formations came to be.

Next, Dimmuborgir—often called the “Dark Fortress”—is a highlight. This one-hour walk offers a surreal experience of lava fields and bizarre rock formations, perfect for photography and imagination. Reviews mention how this stop feels like entering another world, with a chance to see the volcanic forces that shaped Iceland.

Grjótagjá Cave and Hverir Geothermal Area

The tour continues with a 15-minute visit to Grjótagjá, a small cave filled with warm water, famous from Game of Thrones. Despite the short duration, it’s a memorable stop for its unique geothermal ambiance and the chance to see the hidden, steaming cave.

Following that, a 30-minute exploration of Hverir offers bubbling mud springs, steaming fumaroles, and sulfurous vents—an otherworldly landscape. Travelers have commented on the “bizarre lava formations” and the boiling mud springs that make this site so distinctive.

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Krafla Volcano and Surroundings

The Krafla area is next, with a 30-minute visit to witness the volcanic activity that continues to shape this landscape. The geothermal fields here are a testament to Iceland’s ongoing geological processes and provide fascinating photo opportunities.

Break and Relaxation in Reykjahlid

After a busy morning, you get a 25-minute break in Reykjahlid, a small town near Lake Mývatn. It’s a good chance to stretch your legs, grab a snack, or simply enjoy the serene views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

Long Drive Back with Scenic Stops

The return journey is approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes, giving you time to reflect on the day’s sights. The tour ends back at Laufásgata, near the cruise port, making it convenient for travelers with tight schedules.

How Value and Comfort Intertwine

This tour costs $180 per person, which might seem steep at first glance. However, considering the small group size, professional guide, and variety of stops in a single day, it offers good value, especially for cruise passengers eager to see Iceland’s highlights without the hassle of independent travel.

You’ll appreciate the personalized attention and the local insights from your guide, which bring the landscapes to life beyond just photographs. The timed stops ensure you experience each site without feeling rushed, though be prepared for a full day of sightseeing.

The transportation is described as a comfortable bus that prioritizes avoiding the large tour buses. This means a more relaxed atmosphere and better views, especially at popular spots like Góðafoss and Dimmuborgir. The German-speaking guide is a key feature, making complex geological and cultural stories accessible for native speakers.

Practical Considerations

Remember to bring rain gear and closed-toe shoes, especially since Iceland’s weather can change rapidly. The tour is wheelchair accessible but with some limitations; not all sights may be reachable with a walker or wheelchair, so contacting the provider in advance is recommended if needed. Child seats for kids over 15 kg are available if arranged beforehand.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for cruise travelers wanting a comprehensive yet manageable taste of Iceland’s northeastern highlights. It’s perfect if you prefer small groups over large buses and want a guide who speaks your language fluently. Nature lovers, photographers, and those eager to learn about Iceland’s volcanic phenomena will find plenty to enjoy here.

It’s a great choice for anyone who values authentic landscapes, personalized service, and the chance to see diverse geological wonders in one day. If you’re looking for a relaxed, informative, and scenic adventure with a friendly local guide, this tour ticks those boxes nicely.

The Sum Up

For travelers eager to explore Iceland’s volcanic landscapes, waterfalls, and geothermal sites without the crowds and in a more intimate setting, this small-group, German-speaking tour from Akureyri offers a compelling option. It balances scenic beauty, expert guidance, and practical logistics in a way that’s hard to beat.

The stops at Góðafoss and Mývatn’s geological wonders promise memorable sights and plenty of photo opportunities. The small group size guarantees a more personal experience, while the timed stops ensure you get the most out of each location. The inclusion of well-loved spots like Dimmuborgir and Grjótagjá adds both adventure and story to the day.

While it’s a full schedule, it’s an excellent way to maximize your time in Iceland, especially if your cruise schedule is tight. The price reflects the level of comfort and expertise, making it a worthwhile investment for those seeking a guided, authentic, and beautifully curated Icelandic day trip.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
The tour is wheelchair accessible, but not all sights may be reachable with a walker or wheelchair. It’s best to contact the provider in advance to discuss specific needs.

What time does the tour start and end?
Start times are adapted to cruise ship berthing schedules, and the tour lasts approximately 8 hours, ending back at the starting point near the cruise port.

Does the tour include food and drinks?
No, food and drinks are not included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan for a quick meal during the break time.

What should I bring for this tour?
Rain gear and closed-toe shoes are recommended as Iceland’s weather can change rapidly. It’s also wise to carry a camera, water, and warm clothing.

Is the guide fluent in English?
No, the guide speaks German. If you prefer an English-speaking guide, you might need to look for other options.

How do I book this tour?
You can reserve your spot now and pay later, with full cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance. Just check availability for your travel dates.

In the end, this tour offers a well-rounded look at Iceland’s geological wonders in a comfortable, personalized setting. Whether you’re a geology enthusiast, a landscape photographer, or simply someone who wants to see Iceland’s spectacular scenery without the hassle of driving and large crowds, this trip is worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: