Akureyri Port: Small Group Diamond Circle Express Shore Excursion

Akureyri , Iceland

Akureyri Port: Small Group Diamond Circle Express Shore Excursion

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About this experience

This small-group Diamond Circle Express Shore Excursion is an ideal way to experience North Iceland’s most iconic natural attractions in a limited time, directly from Akureyri Port. Designed for cruise passengers, the tour follows a carefully planned route to ensure comfort and timely return.

Travel through dramatic volcanic landscapes to Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall, where glacial waters thunder into a rugged canyon. Continue to the geothermal area of Námafjall, famous for steaming vents, bubbling mud pools, and vivid mineral colors. The journey then leads to the Lake Mývatn region, known for its unique lava formations and volcanic scenery, before visiting the historic Goðafoss Waterfall, the legendary “Waterfall of the Gods.”

With comfortable transport, expert local guidance, and well-paced stops, this express tour offers a memorable overview of the Diamond Circle highlights.

Available options

Akureyri Port: Small Group Diamond Circle Express Shore Excursion

Pickup included

What's included

Small-group shore excursion from Akureyri Port

Professional local guide speaking English and Spanish

All parking and entrance fees at listed attractions

Transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle

Timely return to Akureyri Port aligned with cruise schedules

Guided visits to all scheduled Diamond Circle highlights

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Your tour begins with pickup directly at Akureyri cruise ship terminal. Your local guide will welcome you and provide a brief introduction to the day. Once everyone is onboard the comfortable vehicle, the journey through North Iceland’s spectacular Diamond Circle begins.

Your first stop is the stunning Goðafoss Waterfall, famous for its beauty and historical significance. Walk along the trails, admire the curved waterfall from multiple viewpoints, and take photos of the powerful cascading water.

Next, travel to the horseshoe-shaped Ásbyrgi Canyon, a natural marvel surrounded by sheer cliffs and a small forest. Your guide will share stories of Icelandic folklore, including the legend of Odin’s horse Sleipnir, and explain the geological formation caused by ancient glacial floods.

Stop 3

Continue to Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall. Watch 193 cubic meters of water per second crash into the canyon below. Enjoy time for photography, taking in the force of nature and the surrounding dramatic landscapes.

Stop 4

Visit Húsavík, a picturesque village known for its harbor and whale-watching tours. Walk along the waterfront, admire the charming church, and hear about the village’s culture and history. Optionally, you may spot puffins along the nearby cliffs.

Stop 5

Stop at the Tjörnes cliff viewpoint for sweeping panoramic views of the sea, coastline, and Öxarfjörður fjord. This is a great spot to enjoy the North Icelandic scenery and possibly see nesting seabirds during the summer.

Explore the Námaskarð hot-spring area, also known as Hverir. See boiling mud pools, steaming vents, and colorful mineral-rich grounds. Your guide will explain the ongoing geothermal activity and the volcanic history of the region.

Stop 7

Drive past Lake Mývatn and stop at a scenic viewpoint overlooking the lake and surrounding volcanic formations. Admire the unique craters, islands, and clear waters of this iconic North Iceland location.

After a full day discovering waterfalls canyons geothermal landscapes and coastal scenery relax on the return drive to Akureyri cruise terminal, arriving in good time for your ship departure.

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Akureyri

Akureyri is a charming and vibrant city in North Iceland, known for its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural scene, and mild climate. Often referred to as the 'Capital of the North,' it serves as a gateway to some of Iceland's most breathtaking landscapes, including waterfalls, geothermal pools, and the dramatic Arctic wilderness.

Top Attractions

Akureyri Botanical Garden

A beautiful botanical garden featuring a variety of plants from different climates, including a greenhouse with tropical plants.

Nature 1-2 hours Free (donations welcome)

Akureyrarkirkja

A striking church with a unique design, known for its tall steeple and beautiful interior.

Architecture 30 minutes to 1 hour Free (donations welcome for tower access)

Hof Cultural and Conference Center

A modern cultural center hosting concerts, exhibitions, and events throughout the year.

Cultural Varies by event Varies by event

Mývatn Nature Baths

A geothermal spa with warm, mineral-rich waters, similar to the Blue Lagoon but with a more natural setting.

Nature Half-day to full day Approximately 5000-6000 ISK

Goðafoss

A powerful and beautiful waterfall known for its dramatic drop and rich history.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Plokkfiskur

A traditional Icelandic fish stew made with mashed potatoes, white fish, onions, and béchamel sauce.

Dinner Contains fish and dairy

Hákarl

Fermented shark, a traditional Icelandic delicacy with a strong flavor and ammonia-like smell.

Snack Contains fish, not suitable for those sensitive to strong smells

Skyr

A thick, protein-rich Icelandic yogurt-like dairy product, often served with berries or cream.

Dessert Contains dairy, can be vegetarian or vegan if made with plant-based milk

Rúgbrauð

Dense, dark rye bread traditionally baked underground using geothermal heat.

Breakfast Vegan, contains gluten

Popular Activities

Hiking Whale watching Geothermal bathing Scenic drives Strolling through the city Visiting museums Attending cultural events Exploring historical sites

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the most popular time to visit Akureyri, with long days, mild temperatures, and abundant wildlife. This is the best time for hiking, whale watching, and exploring the outdoors.

10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F) 50°F to 59°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Icelandic
Widely spoken: English, Danish, German
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Icelandic Króna (ISK)

Time Zone

GMT+0

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Akureyri is generally safe, with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious when driving in winter conditions
• Stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight

Getting there

By air

Akureyri Airport • 3 km (1.9 miles) from city center

By bus

Akureyri Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is efficient and affordable, with frequent schedules.

Taxis

Available • Apps: No specific apps, but taxis can be hailed or booked by phone

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

City Center Brekkubær Glerá

Day trips

Mývatn

45 km (28 miles) • Half day to full day

A scenic lake known for its geothermal activity, birdlife, and stunning landscapes.

Goðafoss

60 km (37 miles) • Half day

A powerful and historic waterfall with a dramatic drop and rich cultural significance.

Húsavík

80 km (50 miles) • Full day

A charming coastal town known for its whale watching opportunities and beautiful surroundings.

Festivals

Akureyri Folk Festival • Mid-June Winter Lights Festival • Late January to early February Akureyri Christmas Market • Late November to early December

Pro tips

Visit the Akureyri Botanical Garden for a taste of the tropics in the Arctic
Climb the tower of Akureyrarkirkja for a panoramic view of the city
Experience the Midnight Sun or the Northern Lights, depending on the season
Try local dishes like plokkfiskur and hákarl for an authentic Icelandic culinary experience
Book whale watching tours in advance, especially during peak season