Lake Myvatn & Godafoss Waterfall

We start our Godafoss and Myvatn tour by driving from Akureyri, over Vikurskard mountain pass, to Godafoss waterfall. Sometimes 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 Pagan gods were thrown into it when Iceland accepted Christianity in 1000 A.D.

Continuing east to Lake Myvatn, we start on the southern shore of the lake.
Myvatn is Iceland’s fourth-largest lake and is surrounded by incredible natural wonders.

Our first stop here is the pseudocraters at Skutustadagigar. Formed 2300 years ago, these unusual geological features are the result of bubbling molten lava flowing over marshy wetlands.

Next, we head to Dimmuborgir (or Dark Cities), where you can walk amidst some of the most fascinating rock formations in Iceland. The area is also believed to be the home of Iceland’s famous 13 Yule Lads (or Santa Clauses).

We take a short detour to the Grjotagja lava cave. Believed to be the home of an outlaw in the 18th century, it was used as a local hot spring until the 1970s. Despite being too warm to bathe in after the Krafla eruptions, its deep blue colour and concealed setting makes it very popular, more so after being featured in the Game of Thrones series.

Our final stop is the colourful geothermal area of Hverir, reached by crossing a small mountain pass. On the other side, you will experience the force of nature, amidst sulphurous fissures in cracked earth, steaming fumaroles and bubbling mud pools.

At the arrival back to Akureyri is an option to go into the Akureyri Forest Lagoon where you can enjoy a relaxing soak in the geothermal waters.