Akureyri, Iceland

[Gail Boertzel]

Trying to decide between these two tours. Neither is a true Diamond Circle tour. I have looked at private tours, but either the time constraints of the time in port or it being a large coach bus (trying to avoid) or the expensive cost of a truly private tour make them unworkable. I realize the ship tours will be on a big bus. So based on the difference in the sites, any preferences for one tour over the other? Iceland has so many beautiful natural attractions. I hate to eliminate any, but have come to realize that choices must be made. Thanks for any help!

 

Tour #1: Explore the Diamond Circle and see the region’s natural attractions during a full-day excursion.

Meet your guide and embark on a scenic drive to the Dimmuborgir lava fields, known for their dramatic rock formations, with some reaching up to 65 feet high. Continue to Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall, and admire its cascade of water as it tumbles into the Jökulsárgljúfur. At the Hljóðaklettar—or Whispering Cliffs—marvel at the craters and basalt columns, formed by the flood waves of the Vatnajökull ice cap. After a delicious two-course lunch, head to Húsavík on the shores of Skjálfandi. This charming fishing town, a popular sight for whale watching, was the backdrop of the 2020 movie Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga, starring Will Ferrell and Rachel McAdams. After your tour, return to your awaiting ship.

 

OR

Tour #2:

Discover the stunning landscape and natural treasures of northern Iceland.

Travel by motor coach along the coast of Eyjafjördur—Iceland’s longest fjord—and take in stunning views of Akureyri and the surrounding mountains. Journey through the Fnjóskadalur Valley to the majestic Godafoss waterfall, named after a pagan priest and chieftain who threw the statues of the pagan gods he once worshipped after converting to Christianity in the year 1000 AD. Your next stop is the Mývatn volcanic lake area, pausing by the impressive craters at Skútustadir along the way. You will also visit the towering lava castles and grottoes of the Dimmuborgir lava labyrinth, and experience the geothermal wonder of hot sulfuric mud springs and gurgling sulphur cauldrons at Námaskard. After a wonderful day in nature, return to your awaiting ship.

[janetcbl]

For Icelandic nature and geological features, definitely #2. If the Eurovision Song Contest is your thing, #1.

Edited January 23 by janetcbl

[edinburgher]

On 1/22/2024 at 3:12 PM, Gail Boertzel said:

Iceland has so many beautiful natural attractions.

And some of the best will be seen on option #2.    For the views of others, read some of the past threads. this one being a good example. (Ignore the subject line and the first few posts as it soon morphs into a discussion of the best tours and tour companies)

https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2910739-akureyri-activities/#comment-64715461

 

 

 

Edited January 26 by edinburgher