AKUREYERI AND THE NORTHERN GEMS

In a nutshell

An impressive excursion between active volcanoes and the natural works of art created when the lava meets the icy waters.

Main stops

• Godafoss, the "Waterfall of the gods"
• Myvatn lake, Hverfell
• Pseudocraters at Skútustadir and the Dimmuborgir lava maze
• Mount Namafjall, geothermal area

The programme

• We will then leave Akureyri and move towards Godafoss, the "Waterfall of the gods". The story says that pagan idols were thrown into its waters when, around the year 1000, chief Thorgeir had to decide which cult was to become the official religion of his nation. He chose Christianity with a public announcement and a demonstration that included the destruction of the idols.
• Afterwards, we will visit lake Mývatn,one of Iceland's natural treasures and a true marvel of nature that covers 37 square km
• On its banks, we will admire the astonishing lava formations created by the incandescent flows coming into contact with the icy water and which, in some areas, formed structures that are over ten metres high and are known as "black castles" or mazes that form paths delving deep into this extreme nature.
• A sleeping volcano, Hverfell is located on its eastern bank, while a protected nesting area in the north-west is home to dozens of breeds of duck that crowd the lake waters.
• The surrounding area is of incredible geological value - we will visit the pseudocraters at Skútustadir before heading towards Dimmuborgir, the so-called "Dark Fortress", where lava created weird formations, columns and archways.
• The next stop on our excursion is the geothermal area near mount Námafjall,sprinkled with mud volcanoes, fumaroles, sulphur deposits and hyperthermal springs.
• Once through the town of Reykjahlíd, we will continue alongside the Mývatn banks and head back to Akureyri.

Good to know

• Places on this excursion are limited. We recommend booking early.