Description
Summary
Description
Discover the highlights of North Iceland on this express Diamond Circle shore excursion from Akureyri, designed for cruise passengers who want to make the most of their limited time in port. This 8-hour tour, led by an English- or Spanish-speaking guide, follows one of the region’s most scenic routes and returns to Akureyri Port with time to spare.
The Diamond Circle, home to Lake Myvatn and Dettifoss Waterfall, is often described as the northern counterpart to Iceland’s famous Golden Circle. This scenic route connects some of North Iceland’s most impressive natural attractions. As an express Diamond Circle tour, the day is thoughtfully planned to include the region’s key highlights within a shorter timeframe.
Your Akureyri excursion begins as your guide meets you directly at the cruise port. After a short introduction, you set off in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle with your small group.
Your first highlight is Godafoss Waterfall, often called the “Waterfall of the Gods.” This wide, curved waterfall is one of Iceland’s most beautiful natural landmarks. Walking paths allow you to explore several viewpoints where you can admire the beautiful cascades and take memorable photos.
From here, the Diamond Circle tour continues to the remarkable Asbyrgi Canyon. This massive horseshoe-shaped canyon is surrounded by towering cliffs and contains a small forest in its center.
Your guide will share local legends about the canyon. One story tells that it was formed by the hoofprint of Odin’s eight-legged horse, Sleipnir. In reality, the canyon was shaped by strong glacial floods thousands of years ago.
Next comes one of the most dramatic stops of the day. Dettifoss Waterfall, known as Europe’s most powerful waterfall, sends enormous volumes of glacial water plunging into a rugged canyon. Standing near the viewing area, you can feel the ground tremble as around 6,800 cubic feet (193 cubic meters) of water per second crashes into the canyon below.
The journey continues to the charming fishing village of Huavik. Known for its colorful harbor and whale-watching heritage, the town offers a peaceful coastal atmosphere. During summer, visitors may also spot puffins along the nearby cliffs.
Nearby, the tour pauses at the Tjornes Cliffs Viewpoint, where sweeping views open across the sea and the coastline of Oxarfjordur Fjord. Seabirds often nest along the cliffs, adding life to the dramatic coastal landscape.
The volcanic nature of Iceland becomes even more visible at the Namaskard Geothermal Area. Here, steaming vents rise from the ground, and bubbling mud pools release geothermal heat from deep beneath the earth’s surface.
Not far away, you will see the famous Lake Myvatn area, a key stop on this express Diamond Circle tour. The tour stops at a scenic spot overlooking the lake and its surrounding volcanic formations. The area is known for its unusual craters, lava fields, and small islands scattered across the water.
After a full day exploring waterfalls, canyons, geothermal landscapes, and coastal scenery, it is time to return to Akureyri. You will arrive at Akureyri Cruise Port in good time for your ship’s departure.
Discover North Iceland’s top highlights on this express Diamond Circle tour from Akureyri, designed for cruise passengers. Check availability now by choosing a date.
