Private 8-Hour North Iceland Geology Tour with Asbyrgi Canyon & Jokulsargljufur Waterfalls
Description
Summary
Description
Delve into the fascinating geological history of North Iceland on this exclusive eight-hour private tour, starting from the coastal town of Husavik. This private itinerary highlights the Asbyrgi canyon, the Tjornes peninsula, and three breathtaking waterfalls of the Jokulsargljufur canyon.
Your adventure begins with a convenient pick-up from Gardarsbraut 5 or any preferred location in Husavik. Just let the tour operator know your desired pick-up point in advance, and your knowledgeable guide will be there to greet you.
This private tour is designed to offer a personalized experience, allowing you to explore the unique geological features of North Iceland at your own pace. Your guide, an expert in Icelandic geology, will provide in-depth insights into the natural wonders you'll encounter.
The journey begins in the Tungulending area along the coastline of the Tjornes peninsula. These sandstone layers were formed at the end of the Tertiary period and during the Ice Age, offering a window into the past.
Here, you can observe fossils that trace changes in climate, vegetation, and marine life over millions of years. You'll also have the opportunity to see a giant rock that is believed to have drifted from Greenland under unclear circumstances.
Continuing eastward, you'll travel towards Kelduhverfi, south of the scenic Oxarfjordur bay. As you drive, you'll witness impressive tectonic fissures and breathtaking ocean views.
This portion of the tour highlights the majestic Asbyrgi canyon, a horseshoe-shaped geological marvel believed to have been created by a catastrophic glacial flood during the last Ice Age.
Asbyrgi stretches approximately 2.2 miles (3.5 kilometers) in length and over 0.7 miles (1.1 kilometers) in width, with steep cliffs reaching up to 328 feet (100 meters) high. The canyon is divided by a distinctive rock formation called Eyjan, or "the island," which rises 82 feet (25 meters) above the canyon floor.
After exploring Asbyrgi, the tour takes you to Jokulsargljufur National Park, where you'll discover the awe-inspiring Jokulsargljufur canyon. This deep glacier canyon is home to three stunning waterfalls, each with its unique charm.
Dettifoss, the most famous and powerful waterfall in Iceland, thunders down from a height of 144 feet (44 meters) with an impressive flow rate of 6,186 cubic feet (193 cubic meters).
Nearby, you'll find the less powerful yet captivating Selfoss waterfall, followed by Hafragilsfoss, where the lookout point offers the best panoramic view of the entire canyon.
The tour concludes with a visit to Vesturdalur valley, halfway between Dettifoss and Asbyrgi. Here, you'll explore Hljodaklettar, a collection of bizarre basalt rock formations that create swirls, spirals, and honeycombs from ancient volcanic activity.
After a satisfying geology and sightseeing tour, the guide will drop you off at your chosen location in Husavik.
Book your private geology tour today and uncover the hidden geological treasures of North Iceland. Check availability now by choosing a date.
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