Godafoss & Akureyri

Your tour starts with a short drive to the Godafoss waterfall. Nicknamed “Beauty” (with Dettifoss being the “Beast”), Godafoss is indeed one of the prettiest waterfalls in Iceland. Its name means “waterfall of the gods” as it is believed that idols of the old gods were thrown into it when Iceland embraced Christianity in 1000 A.D.

We drive back to Akureyri via the Vikurskard mountain pass, with excellent views over Eyjafjordur and the town. Akureyri is Iceland’s second largest town outside of the capital area and is the heart of North Iceland.

The old town is charming, with well-preserved houses and monuments. Designed by the same architect as Reykjavik’s Hallgrimskirkja, the Lutheran church is one of Akureyri’s most famous icons. The charming red and white wooden Catholic Church is also worth a look.

Our last main stop is Lystigardurinn botanical gardens. Just 50 kilometres south of the Arctic Circle, it is one of the world’s northernmost botanical gardens and a great place for a coffee.

It is possible to take a detour to the Laufas turf-roofed houses and the Christmas house and garden on the shore of Eyjafjordur fjord.
Dating back to the 9th century, Laufas now houses a museum that provides insight into Iceland’s history and the lives of its people.
At the Christmas House, you can enjoy year-round festive spirit and a huge selection of Christmas collectibles, including items handcrafted in Iceland. A very special festival in Iceland, Christmas traditions include 13 ‘Yule Lads’, a mean-spirited Christmas cat and other unique folk stories.

*Please note that private tour bookings are classed as requests until availability can be confirmed by our staff. Prices shown are flexible and you may be offered different prices, subject to availability.