Private Lake Mývatn Wonders Tour: Godafoss, Namaskard, Dettifoss, Dimmuborgir
Begin your journey with a full-day private tour from Akureyri that captures the essence of North Iceland’s incredible natural beauty. Perfect for cruise ship passengers and travelers seeking a deeper, more personal exploration of Iceland’s untouched landscapes, this tour is led by a local guide who brings the region to life with expert knowledge and engaging storytelling. From roaring waterfalls to surreal volcanic landscapes, this journey showcases the highlights and hidden gems of the stunning Lake Mývatn area.
Your adventure begins with one of Iceland’s most legendary waterfalls — Góðafoss, or “Waterfall of the Gods.” This dramatic cascade is not only striking in its beauty but steeped in historical significance. It is said that in the year 1000 AD, Þorgeir Ljósvetningagoði, a chieftain and lawmaker, threw statues of Norse gods into the falls to mark Iceland’s conversion to Christianity. As the water crashes over the curved cliffs, you'll feel the weight of both natural and cultural history.
From Góðafoss, the route winds through Iceland’s scenic volcanic plains toward Vatnajökull National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Europe’s last great wildernesses. Here, you’ll visit two of Iceland’s most powerful and visually striking waterfalls. First, experience the majestic beauty of Selfoss, where water fans out in elegant ribbons over horseshoe-shaped cliffs. Just a short walk upstream, you'll encounter the awe-inspiring Dettifoss, renowned as the most powerful waterfall in Europe. Watching the massive volume of water thunder into the canyon below is an unforgettable moment — a true testament to the raw power of Icelandic nature.
Next, the tour heads into the heart of the Lake Mývatn region, a place shaped by fire and ice and famous for its unique geothermal and volcanic features. The lake itself is surrounded by a variety of natural wonders, and your guide will take you to several of its most extraordinary sites.
At Skútustaðagígar, you'll walk among a series of pseudo craters, formed by steam explosions when hot lava met water thousands of years ago. These grassy, moon-like formations offer sweeping views of the lake and its birdlife, especially during summer months when the area becomes a haven for nesting ducks and other species.
Then, step into the otherworldly landscapes of Dimmuborgir, also known as the “Dark Castles.” This maze of strange lava pillars and eerie formations was created during a volcanic eruption over 2,000 years ago and is steeped in Icelandic folklore. Legends tell of trolls and elves living among these formations, and walking through the twisting paths feels like entering a fantasy world.
The tour also includes a stop at Hverir (Namaskard), one of Iceland’s most active geothermal areas. Here, bubbling mud pools, hissing steam vents, and sulfur-streaked hillsides create a truly alien landscape. The vibrant colors and constant geothermal activity are mesmerizing — a photographer’s dream and a geologist’s paradise.
Throughout the day, you’ll travel in comfort in a private vehicle, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions, take photos, and enjoy the spectacular scenery at your own pace. Your local guide will share insights into Icelandic history, geology, and culture, offering a deeper understanding of the land you’re exploring.
This private tour is more than just a sightseeing trip — it’s an intimate encounter with some of Iceland’s most iconic and unforgettable natural wonders. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to see more, the Lake Mývatn Wonders Tour is a truly immersive way to experience the best of North Iceland.
