Diamond Circle Day Tour from Akureyri — Dettifoss, Mývatn & GeoSea Baths
A full-day loop from Akureyri that stitches together Dettifoss’s thunder, the lunar fields of Mývatn, basalt sculptures and coastal puffin cliffs—finished with an optional soak in the GeoSea open‑air baths. Practical, scenic and geology-forward.
The Experience
Before You Go
Dress in layers
Weather shifts rapidly; a windproof waterproof shell plus insulating mid-layers keeps you comfortable at windy viewpoints and near spray from waterfalls.
Bring cash or card for GeoSea
GeoSea entrance is optional and not included—have payment ready if you plan to soak after the tour.
Protect camera batteries
Cold drains batteries quickly—carry spares in an inner pocket to keep them warm between shots.
Wear grippy footwear
Walks to viewpoints are short but often wet, muddy or on loose rock—sturdy hiking shoes are recommended.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Hljóðaklettar’s lesser-used rock ledges for quieter echoes away from the main viewpoint
- •Skjálfandi Bay viewpoint by GeoSea for unobstructed sea and whale-sighting potential before the baths
Wildlife
- •Atlantic puffin
- •Arctic fox (rare sightings)
Conservation Note
The area’s fragile moss and geothermal crust recover slowly; staying on marked paths and minimizing waste helps protect these slow‑growing soils and the bird colonies on coastal cliffs.
This corridor records repeated cycles of volcanism and glacial floods; large-scale jökulhlaups after eruptions carved canyons such as Ásbyrgi centuries ago, and local settlements grew around fisheries and geothermal springs.
Photographer's Notes
- • Dettifoss west bank for wide canyon shots
- • Hljóðaklettar basalt columns for texture and scale
- • GeoSea baths overlook for sea-and-bather compositions
What to Bring
Waterproof shellEssential
Protects against spray at waterfalls and sudden rain or wind on the open highlands.
Sturdy hiking shoesEssential
Provide traction on muddy viewpoints and basalt rock steps.
Daypack with water and snacksEssential
Keeps essentials handy during stops; food and water are limited along the route.
Extra camera batteries / power bank
Cold and frequent shooting will deplete batteries—spares keep the camera working all day.
Common Questions
How long is the tour and what time does it start?
The tour lasts about 8–10 hours; pickup is typically 30 minutes before departure from Akureyri hotels or designated meeting points—confirm exact times with the operator.
Is GeoSea admission included?
No, the GeoSea Geothermal Sea Bath entrance fee is optional and paid locally if you choose to use the baths in Húsavík.
Are short walks on this tour difficult?
Walks are short (usually under 1 km) but can be uneven, wet and windy—comfortable mobility is enough; hiking poles can help if you balance poorly on slick rock.
When can I see puffins?
Puffins nest on coastal cliffs from late May through August; the best chance is in June and July when colonies are most active.
Are restrooms and food stops available?
Facilities are sporadic—small cafes and restrooms exist in towns like Húsavík and Mývatn, but it’s wise to bring snacks and water for the day.
What is the cancellation policy?
Full refund is available if you cancel at least 24 hours before departure; the operator may cancel for bad weather or insufficient participants and will issue refunds accordingly.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
8–10 hours
Location
Akureyri, Northeastern Region
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; you should be comfortable standing and walking short uneven trails and handling a long day on a coach.
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