Family-Friendly 2-Day Northern Lights Tour in Lake Myvatn with Transfer from Akureyri
Description
Summary
Description
Explore the incredible Lake Myvatn area in winter, focusing on finding the northern lights, by booking this incredible two-day guided excursion. Those eager to see unique natural sights and the aurora borealis should book this tour now.
Your tour starts when you arrive in Iceland, when your flight lands, your expert English-speaking guide will pick you up from Akureyri Airport.
You'll meet the other people on the tour, and your driver will take you out of Akureyri and away from the town's light pollution in the hope of seeing the northern lights.
The northern lights in Iceland are a magical natural phenomenon that draws visitors from around the world. Best seen from September to April, the lights appear as vivid streaks of green, pink, and purple across the night sky.
The country's dark, clear nights and minimal light pollution make it an ideal location for viewing. North Iceland is an excellent place to see them.
There is no guarantee that you will see the northern lights, but your guide has access to forecasts and information, so they can take you to the places where you will have the best chance to see them.
On the second day of your tour, you will start the day by driving along the Eyjafjordur fjord, one of the longest fjords in Iceland. The first stop of the day is Godafoss waterfall.
The cascade is known for its wide horseshoe shape, with water from the Skjalfandafljot river dropping around 39 feet (12 meters) into a rocky basin.
The name "Waterfall of the Gods" comes from an old Icelandic legend when pagan statues were thrown into the falls after the country converted to Christianity.
As you travel into the Lake Myvatn area, you'll stop at Grotagja cave, known for its geothermal hot spring inside.
Historically, the cave was used as a natural bathing spot by locals, but the water temperature has become unstable due to volcanic activity, making it unsafe for swimming. The cave gained popularity after appearing in a famous TV series, drawing more visitors.
Although bathing is no longer allowed, Grjotagja is still a fascinating spot to explore, with its blue water and rocky surroundings providing a unique experience for those traveling through the region.
Next, you'll have the opportunity for some much-needed relaxation at the Myvatn Nature Baths. Set in the scenic Myvatn area, the baths feature naturally heated pools with mineral-rich waters, known for their soothing effects.
The water temperature typically ranges from around 97-104°F (36-40°C), making it ideal for a relaxing soak while enjoying views of the surrounding lava fields and mountains. Facilities include showers, a café, and saunas, providing a comfortable experience for visitors.
The last stops on the way back are the Dimmuborgir lava formations, the Skutustadagigar pseudocrater area, and Eyjafjordur, where you can get incredible views over the fjord to Akureyri.
At the end of the tour, you will be taken back to Akureyri Airport in plenty of time to catch your flight home.
Enjoy this immersive two-day experience exploring the Lake Myvatn area, finding the northern lights, and bathing in hot springs. Check availability now by choosing a date.
Included
Activities
Daily itinerary
Day 1 - Arrival and Northern Lights Hunting
On the first day of your northern lights hunting tour in North Iceland, you will arrive in the country and search for the aurora borealis.
You will arrive at Akureyri Airport, where you will meet your expert English-speaking guide and the rest of the people on the tour. Your guide will have your flight information and will be there to pick you up, no matter when you arrive.
Make your way through passport control and customs and head outside the arrivals hall where your minibus will be waiting for you for a hassle-free journey from the airport to your accommodation in Akureyri.
An airport transfer gives you an easy and stress-free arrival for your vacation in Iceland. You don’t need to worry about navigating public transport or paying expensive taxi fares. Depending on the time you arrive, you may have time to relax in your hotel or explore the town.
Akureyri is a small North Iceland town known for its scenic location by the fjord of Eyjafjordur. The town has shops, cafes, and cultural attractions like the Akureyri Art Museum.
In the evening, you will be picked up from your accommodation for your northern lights tour. Your driver will take you out of the town and away from light pollution. Although the northern lights are a natural phenomenon, and there’s no guarantee that you will see them, your guide has access to forecasts and knows the best places to go.
North Iceland is one of the best places to see the northern lights, offering dark skies and ideal conditions during winter months. The aurora is most visible from September to April when the long nights increase your chances.
Towns like Akureyri and the surrounding countryside are popular spots for watching the lights, as they have minimal light pollution. Remember to dress warmly, as temperatures can drop significantly.
After the northern lights tour, you’ll be dropped off at your Akuyeyri accommodation. Get a good night’s sleep, ready for tomorrow’s tour in the Lake Myvatn area.
Day 2 - Lake Myvatn Sightseeing and Hot Spring Bathing
On the second day of your sightseeing and northern lights hunting tour in the Lake Myvatn area, you will visit waterfalls, caves, and hot springs.
Your guide will pick you up from your accommodation and drive along the Eyjafjordur fjord, one of the longest fjords in the country, on the way to the Lake Myvatn area.
The day's first stop is Godafoss waterfall. Godafoss waterfall, one of Iceland's most famous waterfalls, is located along the Skjalfandafljot river in North Iceland. The waterfall is around 39 feet (12 meters) high and 98 feet (30 meters) wide, making it an impressive sight.
Its name means "Waterfall of the Gods," linked to a story from Iceland's conversion to Christianity when pagan idols were said to be thrown into the falls. Godafoss waterfall is easily accessible from the main road and has viewing platforms on both sides.
Next, you'll arrive in the Lake Myvatn area. Lake Myvatn is known for its diverse landscapes shaped by volcanic activity. The area features geothermal fields, lava formations, and the distinctive pseudocraters at Skutustadir.
You'll briefly stop at Grjotagja cave, which contains a natural hot spring, before heading to Hverarond in Namaskard. Hverarond is known for its otherworldly landscape of bubbling mud pots, steaming fumaroles, and colorful sulfur deposits.
The pungent smell of sulfur and the hissing steam create a dramatic atmosphere, making it a unique stop for visitors exploring the region. The area offers walking paths that allow you to observe the geothermal activity up close safely.
You'll be ready for relaxation in the Myvatn Nature Baths by this time. Often compared to the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa but quieter, the baths are surrounded by stunning volcanic landscapes. The water is naturally heated and maintains a comfortable temperature between 96-104°F (36-40°C).
Soaking in the outdoor pools, you can enjoy views of the surrounding lava fields and mountains. The water's high mineral content is said to be beneficial for the skin, and the facility also offers steam baths and a café. It's a peaceful spot to unwind after exploring the nearby area.
On the way back, you'll stop at the Dimmuborgir lava field, the Skutustadagigar pseudocrater area, and Eyjafjordur to enjoy the spectacular views. At the end of the tour, your driver will take you back to your accommodation in Akureyri.
What to bring
Good to know
This tour depends on weather and road conditions, changes to the itinerary might happen with short notice.
The northern lights are a natural phenomenon and there is no guarantee you will see them. If you don't see them on the first night, you will have the opportunity to take another tour on the second night.
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