Day Trips From Akureyri

Akureyri, often referred to as the Capital of North Iceland, serves as an excellent base for exploring the diverse and stunning landscapes of the region. This charming town, nestled at the head of Eyjafjörður fjord, offers visitors a wealth of day trip options that showcase Iceland’s natural beauty, rich history, and unique geological features.

One of the most popular day trips from Akureyri is a visit to the breathtaking Goðafoss waterfall, located about 45 minutes east of the town. Known as the “Waterfall of the Gods,” Goðafoss is not only a spectacular natural wonder but also holds significant historical importance. According to legend, when Iceland converted to Christianity around 1000 AD, the lawspeaker Þorgeir Ljósvetningagoði threw his pagan idols into the falls, symbolizing the country’s transition to the new faith. The horseshoe-shaped waterfall spans 30 meters wide and drops 12 meters into the glacial river Skjálfandafljót, creating a mesmerizing display of power and beauty. Visitors can view the falls from both sides, with well-maintained paths offering different perspectives of this awe-inspiring natural feature.

For those interested in exploring Iceland’s unique geothermal activity, a trip to the Mývatn area is a must. Located about an hour’s drive east of Akureyri, Lake Mývatn and its surroundings offer a diverse range of geological wonders. The lake itself, formed by a massive basaltic lava eruption over 2,000 years ago, is known for its rich birdlife and unusual volcanic landforms. Nearby, visitors can explore the otherworldly landscape of Dimmuborgir, often called the “Dark Castles,” where massive lava pillars and rock formations create a labyrinth of caves and arches. The area is steeped in folklore, with tales of hidden elves and trolls adding to its mystical atmosphere.

Continuing the geothermal theme, a visit to the Námaskarð pass, also near Lake Mývatn, offers a glimpse into Iceland’s bubbling, steaming earth. This area is characterized by its sulfurous mud springs, fumaroles, and colorful mineral deposits that paint the landscape in vibrant hues of orange, yellow, and red. The stark, lunar-like terrain provides a stark contrast to the lush greenery found in other parts of the region, showcasing the diverse and ever-changing nature of Iceland’s geology.

For those seeking relaxation, the Mývatn Nature Baths provide a perfect opportunity to unwind in naturally heated geothermal waters. Often considered a less crowded alternative to the famous Blue Lagoon near Reykjavik, these baths offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape while allowing visitors to soak in mineral-rich waters known for their healing properties.

Another popular day trip from Akureyri is a whale watching excursion in Húsavík, often called the whale watching capital of Europe. Located about an hour’s drive northeast of Akureyri, Húsavík offers some of the best opportunities to observe these majestic marine mammals in their natural habitat. The town’s location on Skjálfandi Bay provides ideal conditions for spotting various species, including humpback whales, blue whales, minke whales, and even the elusive orca. Many tour operators offer guided boat trips, combining the thrill of whale watching with informative commentary on the local marine ecosystem and the town’s whaling history.

For history enthusiasts, a visit to the turf houses at Laufás is a fascinating glimpse into Iceland’s past. Located just 30 minutes north of Akureyri, this former farming estate now serves as an open-air museum showcasing traditional Icelandic architecture and way of life. The well-preserved turf houses, with their grass-covered roofs and thick walls, offer insight into how Icelanders lived for centuries, adapting to the harsh climate and limited resources of the island.

Nature lovers and hikers will find plenty to explore in the Vatnajökull National Park, parts of which are accessible on a long day trip from Akureyri. While the park’s vast expanse cannot be fully explored in a single day, visitors can still experience some of its highlights, such as the powerful Dettifoss waterfall. Often considered the most powerful waterfall in Europe, Dettifoss drops 45 meters into the Jökulsárgljúfur canyon, creating a spectacular display of nature’s raw power. The surrounding area offers hiking trails of varying difficulty, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the rugged beauty of the Icelandic wilderness.

For those interested in Iceland’s volcanic activity, a trip to the Krafla volcanic area provides a fascinating look at the country’s geologic forces. Located near Lake Mývatn, Krafla is home to a caldera and a geothermal power station. Visitors can hike around the Víti crater, a stunning blue-green lake formed in an explosion crater, and observe the surrounding lava fields and steam vents. The area’s most recent eruption occurred between 1975 and 1984, serving as a reminder of Iceland’s ongoing volcanic activity.

A lesser-known but equally rewarding day trip from Akureyri is a visit to the small island of Hrísey, located in the middle of Eyjafjörður fjord. Often called “The Pearl of Eyjafjörður,” Hrísey offers a peaceful retreat from the bustle of mainland tourism. Visitors can take a short ferry ride from the village of Árskógssandur to reach the island, where they can enjoy scenic walks, birdwatching, and a glimpse into traditional island life. The island is known for its rich birdlife, especially its ptarmigan population, and offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and fjord.

For those willing to embark on a longer day trip, the Askja caldera in the highlands of Iceland presents a truly otherworldly experience. While the journey is challenging and requires a 4×4 vehicle, the rewards are immense. The massive Askja caldera, formed by a series of volcanic eruptions, contains the deep blue Öskjuvatn lake and the warm geothermal pool Víti. The lunar-like landscape of the surrounding area is so striking that it was used as a training ground for Apollo astronauts in the 1960s.

Closer to Akureyri, the Eyjafjörður fjord itself offers numerous opportunities for exploration. Scenic drives along the fjord’s shores reveal picturesque fishing villages, rolling farmlands, and stunning mountain vistas. Visitors can stop at local museums, such as the Herring Era Museum in Siglufjörður, which tells the fascinating story of Iceland’s herring boom in the early 20th century.

For those interested in Icelandic folklore and mythology, a visit to the Tröllaskagi peninsula, or “Troll Peninsula,” provides a backdrop for many local legends. The rugged, mountainous landscape of this area, with its deep fjords and towering peaks, is said to be home to trolls and other mythical creatures. While exploring the area’s hiking trails and scenic viewpoints, visitors can learn about the rich tapestry of stories that have shaped Icelandic culture for centuries.

Akureyri’s central location in North Iceland makes it an ideal base for exploring a wide range of natural wonders, historical sites, and cultural attractions. From powerful waterfalls and geothermal areas to whale watching excursions and peaceful island retreats, the region offers something for every type of traveler. These day trips not only showcase the diverse beauty of Iceland but also provide insight into the country’s unique geology, history, and culture. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a deeper understanding of Iceland’s natural and cultural heritage, the area surrounding Akureyri offers a wealth of experiences that will leave lasting memories of this remarkable island nation.