Lake Myvatn - winter tour

This 8 hour winter tour to one of the most interesting spots in North Iceland focuses on the most attractive features of the Lake Myvatn area and its surroundings. The first stop is at Godafoss waterfall, not only famous for its breathtaking beauty but also for its significant historic value related to the Christianisation of Iceland. From Godafoss the tour continues through the valley of Reykjadalur to Skutustadir in the Lake Myvatn district. Next stop is at Dimmuborgir, a lava labyrinth formed around 2300 years ago when a partly cooled lava lake drained out and left magnificent basaltic pillars and sculptures. After a short walk in Dimmuborgir the tour continues through the lava field to Grjotagja, a popular underground bathing cave among the locals before the Krafla Fires (1975-1984) when the water became too hot to bathe in.

After a short stop by Grjotagja we drive east over the Namaskard mountain pass to the Krafla caldera. Along the way we pass a 60- MW geothermal power station that partly supplies the town of Akureyri with electricity. We visit the explosion crater of Viti (Hell) but its formation marked the beginning of the great Myvatn Fires in 1724. From Viti there is a good view to the geothermal zone of Leirhnjukur and the lava field formed in the Krafla Fires.

Next we explore the fumarole fields of Hverarond (Namaskard) where ground water is heated  by an underground magma intrusion. Sulphur deposits are brought to the surface and the area is characterized by a strong smell of sulphur. After a short walk around the fumaroles we head for the final destination of the tour, the Myvatn Nature Baths, where visitors get the chance to bathe in the silky smooth geothermal water. After the stop in the nature baths we drive back to Akureyri where estimated arrival time is around 17:00.

Departures from Airport:
Mon-Wed-Fri at 8:05 or upon arrival of flight NY112 from Reykjavik.
Departures from SBA Bus Terminal, Hafnarstræti 82: 
Mon-Wed-Fri at 8:15. 
Duration: 8 hours
Valid: 1/10 2012 - 31/5 2013

Included: Transportation and experienced local tour guide. 
Not included: Refreshments and entrance to the Myvatn Nature Baths.
Bring with you: Warm clothes to wear during the tour, swimsuits for the Nature baths. (If you don't have swimsuits it can be borrowed free of charge).
Note: The itinerary may be altered due to weather/road conditions. This may result in cancellation of the tour or delayed schedule.  

The Lake Myvatn Excursion is also available in summer. Click here for more