Our most recommended things to do in North Iceland

Akureyri: 3-Hour Classic Whale Watching Tour

1. Akureyri: 3-Hour Classic Whale Watching Tour

Experience the majestic beauty of the Eyjafjord's humpback whales and other marine life in their natural habitat on a cruise trip from Akureyri. Listen to your guide's commentary and discover how the warmth of the summer sun brings vibrant life and plenty of food for the larger-than-life mammals.  Benefit from the services of specially-trained whale watching guides who are experts at spotting the animals. Listen as they tell you about the behavior of the whales and answer any questions you may have. Journey aboard the only specially-modified, high-speed whale watching ship in Iceland. Capable of carrying 200 people, it provides spectacular views from its cinema-style viewing platforms. Relax aboard the boat and enjoy the ample indoor and outdoor seating. Purchase drinks and snacks along the way from the onboard bar and cafeteria. Experience a pleasant and comfortable ride, even at speed, and share your adventure live on social media with free Wi-Fi.

Árskógssandur: Whale-Watching Boat Trip

2. Árskógssandur: Whale-Watching Boat Trip

The picturesque village of Árskógssandur is located on the western shore of Eyjafjörður, Iceland, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the tranquil waters of the fjord. Eyjafjörður is a favorable habitat for marine life, so favorable in fact that whales were spotted on all of these tours in 2016. On this whale-watching tour, you'll graciously glide through the calm seas of Eyjafjörður under the guidance and expertise of a qualified crew. This tour is approximately two-and-a-half hours long. This tour gives you the unique and exceptional opportunity to get in touch with the magnificent wildlife found in the north of Iceland, most notably the majestic whales and seabirds. The check in point is located in the reception of Hotel Kaldi.

Akureyri: 2–Hour Whale Watching Express by RIB Speedboat

3. Akureyri: 2–Hour Whale Watching Express by RIB Speedboat

Enjoy a 2-hour whale and bird watching tour starting from the floating pier in Akureyri. Experience and get close to the incredible humpback whales of the Eyjafjord, starting from the capital of North Iceland, Akureyri. With only 12 passengers on each boat, take part in an adventure of a lifetime on an intimate whale watching tour.   The specially made RIB boats allow you to get closer to the whales and wildlife than any other boat can offer. The RIBs are fast and small boats that will also get you quicker to the whales and cover a bigger area as you search for the wild life. This means a bigger chance of spotting whales, dolphins and bird life with out disturbing them in their natural habitat. If you have a passion for nature and love for adventure, this is the tour for you.

From Akureyri: Godafoss Waterfall Guided Trip with Transfers

4. From Akureyri: Godafoss Waterfall Guided Trip with Transfers

Embark on a journey from the charming town of Akureyri to the majestic Goðafoss Waterfall, one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Iceland, on a guided tour with hotel transfers. Marvel at the unspoiled beauty of Icelandic landscapes and the untamed beauty of Mother Nature. Begin your adventure in Akureyri by hopping onboard an air-conditioned bus to travel through the breathtaking landscapes of North Iceland. Be amazed by the pristine beauty of the region, where the horizon is a painting of rolling green hills, distant mountain ranges, and stunningly blue skies. As you approach Goðafoss, also known as the "Waterfall of the Gods," feel the anticipation building up. Upon arrival, be greeted by the roar and the mist of the imposing Goðafoss. Take your time to wander around, capturing stunning photos, feeling the mist on your skin, and absorbing the raw beauty of this natural wonder. Learn how the waterfall earns its heavenly name from a tale tied to the year 1000 AD when the Lawspeaker Þorgeir Þorkelsson made Christianity the official religion of Iceland and symbolically threw his pagan statues into the falls. Stretching 30 meters wide and plunging 12 meters down, witness the waterfall's horseshoe-shaped cascade pour into the mighty Skjálfandafljót River, creating a spectacle of nature's power and beauty.

From Akureyri: Diamond Circle Guided Day Trip with Lunch

5. From Akureyri: Diamond Circle Guided Day Trip with Lunch

Explore the top natural attractions along Iceland's Diamond Circle Route on a guided day trip from Akureyri. See the waterfalls at Dettifoss, visit the charming seaside village of Húsavík, and much more. Board a comfortable, air-conditioned bus at the cruise ship terminal in Akureyri and get ready for your full day of sightseeing. Your first stop, Goðafoss waterfall. Marvel at the powerful falls and watch as the water cascades down from a height of 12 meters. Make the most of the walking trails here, taking in a view of the falls from several different vantage points. Next, make your way to Ásbyrgi Canyon, a horse-shoe-shaped valley surrounded by vertical cliffs, before heading to Dettifoss waterfall, the second-largest waterfall in Iceland by volume. Take a break from Iceland's dramatic landscapes with a visit to the idyllic village of Húsavík and see the town church. Located in the heart of the village, this small wooden church is considered one of the most beautiful in the country. Hop back aboard your bus and head to the Tjörnes cliff viewpoint just north of Húsavík to take in fantastic panoramic views of the sea and Öxarfjörður fjord. From here, make your way to the Námaskarð hot-spring area to learn about the country's ancient volcanic eruptions and see the impact of ongoing geothermal activity firsthand. End your tour on a high note as you pass the iconic Lake Mývatn, famed for its beauty and strange surrounding landscape on your way back to the cruise ship terminal, where your Icelandic adventure comes to an end.

Akureyri: Mývatn Nature Baths and Góðafoss Waterfall Tour

6. Akureyri: Mývatn Nature Baths and Góðafoss Waterfall Tour

On this wonderful 6 hour tour from Akureyri, visit some of the highlight of North Iceland and enjoy the quintessential Icelandic experience, soaking outdoors in the natural heated waters of a geothermal hot-springs. Your tour begins at Akureyri´s cruise ship terminal. Our tour schedule is tailored to fit your docking times so you needn´t worry about being back late to the docks. We also provide packed lunches so that we can devote more time to sightseeing. You can choose between a chicken or vegan packed lunch. Just tell your guide at the start of the tour. The first stop of the day is to the picturesque surrounding of Góðdafoss waterfall. The waterfall is winder than it is high and curves in a crescent shape. Góðafoss is noteworthy for a symbolic role in Icelandic history, when a local chieftain threw his pagan statues into the falls, representing the moment Icelanders adopted christianity. We continue onto Lake Mývatn and view this unique landscape from a special viewing point. The Mývatn area and its strange landscape was heavily affected by volcanic forces, with ancient eruptions resulting in the pseudo craters that dot the lake and surrounding areas. The highlight of the day is arguably our visit to Mývatn Nature Baths, the blue lagoon of the north. The water here is naturally heated by geothermal forces below the surface and is said to have healing properties. Lounge and relax in the various pool areas and enjoy spectacular views of Mývatn. Our last stop of the day is at Námaskarð geothermal area. Here mud-pools and hot-pools dot the area. Steam and the smell of sulphur lingers in the area. This barren landscape seems a world away from the green craters on Lake Mývatn. We return to Akureyri and our tour ends at your cruise ship.

Mývatn: Lake Mývatn ATV Guided Safari Experience

7. Mývatn: Lake Mývatn ATV Guided Safari Experience

Experience the Wilderness just around the corner. Join us for an exploration of Lake Mývatn's surroundings in a Side by side ATV ( Buggy ) The aim of this tour is to be both an exploration of interesting, natural and historical locations as well as an adventurous way to explore, off the beaten track. We start the tour at our Farm basecamp at "hella Farm" https://goo.gl/maps/MYhNpYQqsoHPAgeg7 There you will receive a Helmet and an overall( if weather is cold) along with instructions how to drive. From the Farm, we head out for an exploration, We drive in a formation both on normal roads as well as offroad ( expect up to 10min drive on paved roads) The location of the tours depend on weather and conditions as we have learned that every day is different in Iceland. We promise that whichever track we take, it will be interesting, it will be beautiful and it will be FUN :) There are so many things to do in North Iceland, Why take An ATV tour ? - Every farmer located around Mývatn nature reserve has an ATV and for a good reason! There are numerous places, forests, lakes, historical ruins, craters, volcanoes, deserts and more, Just around the corner from Lake Mývatn. However most of those locations are only accessible by an Offroad vehicle in summer, and a Snowmobile in Winter. - Our side by side ATV's or Buggies are perfect for the job, very easy to drive, comfortable and safe.

Akureyri: Lake Mývatn and Godafoss Waterfall Landscapes Tour

8. Akureyri: Lake Mývatn and Godafoss Waterfall Landscapes Tour

Embark on a captivating roundtrip excursion from Akureyri Port to Iceland's enchanting Lake Mývatn area. Visit a kaleidoscope of natural wonders and cultural gems on a tour showcasing some of Iceland's most breathtaking landscapes and geological marvels, including Hverir, Dimmuborgir, and Godafoss. Your adventure begins with a scenic drive through the Icelandic countryside, offering panoramic vistas of snow-capped mountains, rolling hills, and sprawling meadows. As you approach your first highlight, the atmosphere brims with anticipation, and your eyes are drawn to the thunderous cascade of Godafoss Waterfall. Godafoss Waterfall, also known as the Waterfall of the Gods, boasts an awe-inspiring display of raw power as the Skjálfandafljót River plunges dramatically into a rugged gorge. The sheer force and pristine beauty of this natural wonder make it a must-see sight for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. Next, travel to another world at the mesmerizing Dimmuborgir lava fields. This otherworldly landscape is a labyrinth of ancient lava formations. Feel as if you've stepped into a fantastical realm of mythical creatures and hidden secrets as you navigate through twisted lava pillars and arches. Continue to the captivating Hverir mud pools, located within the Krafla volcanic area. Witness the geothermal activity that characterizes Iceland. The bubbling mud pots and steaming fumaroles create a unique and otherworldly atmosphere. Throughout the trip, your guide will share stories and insights about the geological forces that have shaped this land and the mythical folklore that has flourished in its wake. Learn about the volcanic history of the region and the cultural significance of the landmarks you encounter. As you approach the end of your journey, take in views of Lake Mývatn, a serene oasis nestled amidst the stark Icelandic landscape. The tranquil waters and surrounding wetlands offer a sanctuary for diverse birdlife, making it a paradise for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. At the end of the trip, retrace your steps back to Akureyri Port. From the thundering Godafoss Waterfall to the mystical Hverir Mud Pools, this journey through Iceland's natural wonders is an unforgettable experience that will leave you in awe of the Earth's beauty.

Varmahlíð: East Glacial River Whitewater Rafting

9. Varmahlíð: East Glacial River Whitewater Rafting

Get your thirst for adventure quenched in Iceland on a whitewater rafting tour in The East Glacial River Gorge. Embark on an action-packed and exciting rafting tour filled with deep canyon scenery and heart-pumping whitewater. Take a day and meeting your guide a remote single-day rafting trip. Take on the whitewater adventure and go on an unforgettable journey into the untamed beauty of Iceland's river wilderness. Get your adrenaline fix, that's strong enough to satisfy the most powerful cravings. Don't worry about your experience level, discover for yourself why the East Glacial River has become an Icelandic signature for whitewater rafting. Feel at east with experienced professionals, so you don't have to be.

Reykjavik: 8-Day Small Group Circle of Iceland Tour

10. Reykjavik: 8-Day Small Group Circle of Iceland Tour

Your 8-day Icelandic adventure begins with pickup from Reykjavik, then sets out along the Golden Circle, passing by Gullfoss Waterfall, Geysir, and Þingvellir National Park. As you admire the hot water spouting from the earth, learn about the history of Iceland from your expert guides. On day 2, visit the waterfalls of Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss where you can walk behind the cascades, and hike on an ancient glacier. The highlight of the day is a trip to the world-famous black sand beach at Reynisfjara. Explore Skaftafell National Park on day 3 and marvel at the white sheets of ice as they contrast against the stark black sand. Afterward, explore an Ice Cave and blocks of ice floating in the glacier lagoon of Jökulsárlon. Spend the evening looking out for the stunning Northern Lights, a truly once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. On day 4, follow your guides through the East Fjords in search of native wildlife such as wild reindeer. As you pass by Lake Lagarfljót, where a monster is said to live, learn about the culture and way of life in the nearby small villages. After a cozy night’s stay in a sleepy Icelandic village, explore the geothermal region of Lake Mývatn and see the lava pillars of Dimmuborgir. Then continue to the Námaskarð Pass where the earth boils and bubbles in front of your eyes. On day 6, visit the fjord of Eyjafjörður, spend some time getting to know local farmers at Kaffi Kú, and stop by Hauganes for a Whale Watching Tour. Try some Icelandic delicacies if you fancy it, then stay overnight in Borgarnes. On day 7, explore the capital of the north at your own leisure, before heading out to the Saga Trail to visit Reykholt where the medieval poet Snorri Sturluson lived. On day 8, see the incredible Snæfellsjökull glacier on Snæfellsnes Peninsula and marvel at the breathtaking scenery that surrounds you. Enjoy an optional underground tour of the Vatnshellir Lava Cave. In the evening, you’ll return back to Reykjavik, where your 8-day adventure ends.

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Things to do in
North Iceland

North Iceland
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What people are saying about North Iceland

Overall rating

4.4 / 5

based on 647 reviews

My guide, Hinrik from Troll Expeditions made the trip so fun and memorable. Despite bad weather and him falling sick, he always found something to make up for it and keeping us all safe. o definitely recommend this tour if you want adventure and seeing most of Iceland.

The trip was great, although in hindsight we have reservations. There was a whale that was circled by 3 boats, whether that is environmentally conscious and likes the whale we now dare to doubt. But the boat, the crew and the guide are waiting great.

So so cool! We saw about 20 whales on our visit and one was a super close encounter. Great amenities on board the ship including food, drinks and overalls. Highly recommend!

Order responsible punctual incredible beautiful everything thanks for the beautiful experience

It was really great to watch the whales. I recommend