Diamond Circle Express from Akureyri Port

Embark on an extraordinary adventure through North Iceland’s most captivating natural wonders with our exhilarating Diamond Circle Express Tour from Akureyri Port. The shore excursion from the vibrant city of Akureyri, the gateway to the North, traverses a mesmerizing route that showcases the region’s awe-inspiring highlights. Prepare to be enchanted by the roaring majesty of Dettifoss waterfall, the mystical landscapes of Lake Mývatn, the dramatic cliffs of Ásbyrgi Canyon, and the picturesque fishing village of Húsavík. Delve into local folklore, and geological wonders, and immerse yourself in the untamed beauty of North Iceland. This is the ultimate sightseeing tour that will leave you breathless. Book now to experience the best of North Iceland’s wonders on the Diamond Circle.

Itinerary

Your adventure begins with a thrilling pickup from the cruise ship terminal in Akureyri. Once everyone is onboard, we set off on our exhilarating exploration of the Diamond Circle, where every stop promises an unforgettable experience.

Goðafoss Waterfalls

Prepare to be captivated by the sheer magnificence of Goðafoss, a true gem among Icelandic waterfalls. Standing at an impressive height of 12 meters and stretching 30 meters wide, it exudes a breathtaking beauty that few falls in Iceland can rival. As you explore the walking trails that wind their way around this natural wonder, you’ll be treated to an unforgettable display of elemental power and serene elegance.

But Goðafoss is more than just a stunning waterfall—it holds immense cultural and historical significance in the hearts of Icelanders. Translating to “Waterfall of the Gods” in Icelandic, its very name evokes the ancient tales and mythologies that have shaped the nation. Legend has it that over a millennium ago, an influential chieftain, moved by a momentous decision to steer his people toward Christianity, performed a symbolic act of transformation at this sacred site. He cast aside the remnants of the old pagan gods, plunging them into the rushing waters of Goðafoss. In that single act, Goðafoss became a living testament to the pivotal Christianization of Iceland—a tangible embodiment of the country’s spiritual evolution.

Soak in the ambiance and let your imagination wander as you stand before Goðafoss, taking in its grandeur from multiple vantage points along the enchanting trails. Every step unveils new perspectives, each one revealing a different facet of its majestic allure. Be sure to savor this extraordinary moment, for it is a gateway to the wonders that lie ahead on our exhilarating journey through the Diamond Circle.

Ásbyrgi Canyon

Prepare to be awe-inspired as we venture into the heart of Ásbyrgi Canyon, a mesmerizing horse-shoe-shaped valley that beckons with its natural wonders. As our Diamond Circle tour continues, this remarkable destination unveils its awe-inspiring grandeur. Brace yourself for an encounter with nature’s breathtaking masterpiece.

Spanning an astonishing width of 1 kilometer and stretching 4 kilometers in length, Ásbyrgi Canyon is a testament to the sheer scale and immensity of Iceland’s landscapes. Surrounding this magical realm are towering, vertical cliffs that stand guard with a commanding presence, reaching heights of up to 100 meters. Prepare to feel dwarfed by their imposing magnificence, as they create a dramatic embrace around a picturesque forest and an idyllic pond. The sheer beauty of this enchanting panorama is simply indescribable.

The cliffs of Ásbyrgi Canyon serve as both a sanctuary and a stage for a variety of avian life. Delicate and resilient, many bird species have made their homes within the hidden nooks and crannies of these rugged rocky walls. Listen to the melodic symphony of their calls and witness their graceful flights as they navigate this natural labyrinth. It’s a sight that will leave you in awe of the intricate balance of life that thrives within these majestic cliffs.

But Ásbyrgi Canyon isn’t just a geological wonder; it also holds a place in the tapestry of Icelandic folklore. According to ancient tales, the distinctive shape of this canyon was forged by the mighty Sleipnir, the legendary eight-legged horse of Norse mythology’s revered god, Odin. Legend has it that with one thunderous stomp of his hoof, Sleipnir left an indelible mark on the land, carving out this extraordinary canyon. It’s a testament to the mythical origins that permeate every inch of Iceland’s awe-inspiring landscapes.

While folklore adds a touch of enchantment to Ásbyrgi Canyon’s story, geologists offer a different perspective. They posit that this geological masterpiece is the result of colossal glacier flooding, unleashed by the powerful river Jökulsá á fjöllum—the very same river that gifts us the magnificent Dettifoss waterfall. It’s a reminder of the raw forces that shaped this land, leaving behind a natural wonder that continues to awe and inspire.

As you step foot into Ásbyrgi Canyon, let the enormity of its cliffs, the serenity of its forest, and the whispers of its avian inhabitants transport you to a realm where nature’s grandeur and mythical tales intertwine in perfect harmony. This is a place where dreams are woven, where legends come to life, and where the true essence of Iceland’s untamed beauty reveals itself.

Dettifoss Waterfalls

Embark on an exhilarating quest to unlock the secrets of the Dettifoss waterfall, an awe-inspiring masterpiece that reigns supreme in the realm of Icelandic wonders. Brace yourself for a pulse-pounding adventure that will leave you breathless and spellbound, as you witness the raw power and untamed beauty of nature in its most exhilarating form.

Prepare to have your senses ignited as you draw near to the majestic Dettifoss. With each step, anticipation dances in the air, electrifying the atmosphere with irresistible energy. The ground beneath you trembles in anticipation, a prelude to the grand unveiling of an extraordinary natural spectacle.

As the mighty torrent crashes against ancient rocks, a thunderous symphony reverberates through the canyon, sending shockwaves of awe down your spine. You find yourself mesmerized by the sheer magnitude of this watery titan, defying gravity as it plummets down a towering 44-meter drop. The deafening roar engulfs you, stirring a primal instinct deep within your soul.

Dettifoss is no ordinary waterfall—it is a force of nature unmatched in its breathtaking might. With an astonishing volume of 193 cubic meters of water per second, it has rightfully earned its title as the most powerful waterfall in all of Europe. Its relentless surge, fueled by the convergence of rivers and the mighty Vatnajökull glacier, unveils a display of nature’s fury that commands both respect and admiration.

Prepare to be swept away by the allure of Dettifoss, a mesmerizing icon that has captivated the world’s imagination. Its magnetic pull has drawn adventurers and explorers from far and wide, seeking to witness its extraordinary grandeur firsthand. From its prominent appearance in Ridley Scott’s epic masterpiece, Prometheus, to its rise as a symbol of untamed beauty, Dettifoss has claimed its rightful place in the annals of natural wonders.

In the presence of Dettifoss, time seems to stand still. The world around you fades into insignificance as you become one with the roaring cascade. It’s a moment of transcendence, where the power of nature merges with your own sense of wonder, leaving an indelible mark on your very being.

Prepare to embark on a legendary encounter with Dettifoss, a colossal testament to the indomitable spirit of nature. Unleash your adventurous spirit, surrender to the intoxicating allure of this natural marvel, and let its overwhelming beauty leave an everlasting imprint on your heart and soul. Get ready to immerse yourself in the extraordinary narrative of Dettifoss—a saga of untamed power, unrivaled magnificence, and boundless wonder.

Húsavík

Indulge yourself in the captivating embrace of Húsavík, a charming village in North Iceland where life and business revolve around the bustling harbor. Here, amidst the rhythmic dance of fishing boats, a world of wonder awaits, as Húsavík stakes its claim as the ultimate destination in Iceland for unforgettable whale-watching boat tours.

At the heart of this vibrant village stands the church of Húsavík, a celestial jewel that graces the town center. Renowned as one of Iceland’s most exquisite architectural marvels, its ethereal presence exudes a sense of tranquility and captures the essence of timeless beauty.

But there’s more to Húsavík’s allure than meets the eye. This coastal gem has captivated the attention of the world, basking in the spotlight of recent years. It found its place on the global stage through the mesmerizing Netflix film, “Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga,” starring the charismatic Will Ferrell. Within this cinematic masterpiece lies an Oscar-nominated song, aptly titled “Húsavík,” igniting hearts and spirits with its captivating melody.

So, venture forth into the enchanting embrace of Húsavík, where the symphony of nature and human creativity intertwines, leaving an indelible mark on all who have the privilege of experiencing its wonders.

Námaskarð hot-spring area

Prepare to immerse yourself in the extraordinary realm of the Námaskarð hot-spring area, a place where the very essence of Iceland’s volcanic heritage comes alive. As you venture into this otherworldly landscape near Mývatn, the remnants of ancient volcanic eruptions paint a captivating tableau of nature’s raw power.

Here, at Namaskard, also known as Hverir, you will witness a mesmerizing dance between Earth’s restless energy and the fragile beauty of its surface. The vibrantly colored rocks and ground, a testament to the mineral-rich treasures that emanate from deep within the earth, create a visual feast for the senses. Each step unveils a symphony of hues, an artist’s palette crafted by the unseen forces beneath.

Prepare to be captivated not only by the stunning visuals but also by the sensory symphony that surrounds you. The air is thick with the scent of sulfur, an unmistakable reminder of the geothermal wonders that lie beneath your feet. The ground beneath you rumbles with life, as boiling mud pots bubble and churn, releasing their primal energy. Hot springs gush forth, their warm embrace providing a momentary respite from the cool Icelandic air.

Embrace the ethereal ambiance as you traverse this geothermal wonderland. Allow yourself to be enchanted by the juxtaposition of beauty and power, where the earth’s untamed energy molds the landscape with its fiery touch. The Námaskarð hot-spring area invites you to witness the ongoing geological ballet, a spectacle that reminds us of the ever-changing nature of our planet.

So, step into this realm of captivating sights, intoxicating scents, and the palpable energy that courses through the earth. At Namaskard, prepare to be humbled by the magnificence of nature’s artistry, where the ancient and the present converge in a breathtaking display of geothermal grandeur.

Lake Mývatn

As our journey unfolds, we find ourselves traversing the enchanting realm of Lake Mývatn, a place renowned for its unparalleled beauty and the bewitching allure of its surroundings. The landscape that unfolds before us is nothing short of extraordinary, a testament to the captivating forces of nature that have shaped this mystical land.

Driving past the shimmering waters of Lake Mývatn, we feel a sense of awe wash over us as if stepping into a realm untouched by time. The lake’s tranquil surface reflects the sky above, mirroring the ethereal colors and clouds that dance across the heavens. It’s a sight that captures the imagination, evoking a sense of wonder that is truly ineffable.

But our journey doesn’t end there, for we have a special treat in store. We come to a halt at a magnificent viewpoint, perched high above the lake. From this vantage point, the splendor of the landscape unfolds in all its glory. The panoramic vista stretches far and wide, allowing us to drink in the breathtaking scenery that surrounds us.

In the distance, we spot the majestic Skútusstaðir craters, rising proudly from the shores of the lake and even occupying a small island within its watery embrace. These ancient formations, remnants of fiery eruptions that once shaped the land, stand as silent sentinels, guarding the secrets of the past. Their unique presence adds an air of mystery to the already captivating tableau.

Take a moment to immerse yourself in the splendor of this view. Let the serenity of the lake, the grandeur of the landscape, and the intriguing presence of the craters envelop your senses. It is a scene that invites contemplation, a harmonious blend of nature’s artistry and the inexorable passage of time.

As we stand at this remarkable viewpoint, a profound appreciation for the wonders of the natural world washes over us. Lake Mývatn, with its ethereal beauty and the Skútusstaðir craters as its guardians, offers a glimpse into the captivating tapestry of Iceland’s remarkable landscapes.

Frequently Asked Questions