Private 10-Hour Natural Wonders Tour of Diamond Circle from Akureyri
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an unforgettable private tour around the Diamond Circle, where the power of nature has shaped Iceland's stunning scenery over time. This tour is perfect for those who want to explore the region's natural wonders and learn about its rich history and folklore.
The Diamond Circle is a popular sightseeing route encompassing some of Iceland's most spectacular natural wonders. The private tour is designed to take you on an adventure through the rugged landscape and discover the history and geology that shaped this beautiful country.
The journey starts from Akureyri, the capital of North Iceland, and proceeds towards the Godafoss waterfall, which translates to "waterfall of the gods." The waterfall is a significant historical site where Icelanders embraced Christianity in 1000 AD.
It's said that after his conversion to Christianity, the Icelandic leader Thorgeir Ljosvetningagodi threw his Norse gods' statues into the waterfall. Today, Godafoss is a stunning 39 feet (12 meters) waterfall with crystal clear waters.
After visiting Godafoss, the journey takes you to the valley of Reykjadalur and Skutustadir, where you'll see the pseudocraters, unique geological formations formed by steam explosions when hot lava flows over a wet surface.
Next, you’ll visit the stunning lava formations at Dimmuborgir, a labyrinth of dark lava pillars and sculptures created over 2300 years ago by a partly cooled lava lake. These formations are known for their unique shapes and have inspired Icelandic folklore for centuries.
After a short walk in Dimmuborgir, the journey continues to Grjotagja, which used to be a popular underground bathing cave until the volcanic eruptions at Krafla in the 1970s heated the water. The water in the cave is still warm, but it's too hot for bathing now.
You will then proceed through the Namaskard Pass and explore the Hverarond fumarole fields, a spectacular area showing the earth's inner power. Here you'll see mud pots, fumaroles, and steam vents that are still active and spewing steam and boiling water.
The next stop is Dettifoss, Europe's most powerful waterfall, where you'll take a walk and spend some time admiring the magnificent view. The waterfall is 328 feet (100 meters) wide and drops 144 feet (44 meters) into a canyon. Its immense power is awe-inspiring and makes it a must-see on any trip to Iceland.
The journey then proceeds to the Hljodaklettar area, where you'll make a short stop and explore the unique rock formations. The rocks here are famous for their unique basalt columns and unusual shapes.
You will then head to Asbyrgi, a horseshoe-shaped area thought to have been created by Odin's horse Sleipnir. The canyon is surrounded by cliffs up to 328 feet (100 meters) high and has a beautiful forest in the middle. The area is rich in history and folklore and perfect for a peaceful walk.
Finally, the journey heads back to Akureyri via Husavík, a charming fishing town known as the whale-watching capital of Iceland. If time and weather permit, the tour makes a few stops for pictures on the way back.
Join this incredible journey to explore the Diamond Circle and witness the beauty of Iceland's natural wonders on a private tour from Akureyri. Check availability now by choosing a date.
Included
Activities
What to bring
Good to know
If you are traveling in a wheelchair, please notify us. Please also note that some stops on this tour are not wheelchair accessible.
Please be ready 15 minutes before departure. Passengers without tickets risk being denied boarding.
We also pick up at Akureyri port in connection with cruise ships. Please inform us of the name of the ship in this case.
As a private tour, you will have the exclusive attention of the guide and the flexibility to ensure a personalized and intimate experience of Iceland's Diamond Circle.
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