The Godafoss Waterfall, Akureyri, and Christmas' House
Shore excursion from port of Akureyri, Iceland
- Duration 4h
- Activity level low
What you'll do
Upon arrival of your cruise, you will be picked up at the port by our guide, identified with the Shore2Shore sign.
We will begin our excursion towards Godafoss waterfall. The "Waterfall of the Gods" is located in northern Iceland near Akureyri and is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the country—not because of its height, which is 12 meters, but because of its beauty. According to legend, Godafoss is a “magical” place where the tribal chief declared Iceland's conversion to Christianity, throwing the images of the pagan gods into the waterfall's waters to mark the occasion. The waterfall is shaped like a horseshoe, split in the center by a rock, with water cascading down each side. The color of its waters, its location, and shape make Godafoss a must-see for anyone visiting Iceland. We will stop here to admire the waterfall, the river, and to take photographs of this magnificent landscape.
Our excursion will continue through the Vaðlaheiði tunnel toward Christmas House in Hrafnagil, about 10 minutes from Akureyri, inside the fjord. Open year-round, this magical house looks like it came straight out of a fairy tale. Upon entering the Christmas House, you’ll be greeted by the warmth of a wood-burning fireplace and the sounds and scents of the Christmas season.
On the way back to Akureyri, we will make a final stop at the botanical garden, which—together with the one in Finland—is the northernmost botanical garden in the world. Despite its northern latitude, the garden offers a representation of all the flora native to Iceland, along with many other species that thrive thanks to Akureyri's microclimate. The garden was founded in 1912 as a recreational area for Akureyri’s residents and was the first public park in Iceland. Initially run by a group of housewives known as the “park society,” it has been managed by the municipality of Akureyri since 1953.
At the end of the excursion, return to the port for farewell.
Details
GENERAL INFORMATION
- SPANISH-SPEAKING GUIDE
- DURATION: BUS AND GUIDE AVAILABLE FOR UP TO 4 HOURS.
- The botanical garden is open every day of the year. Admission is free. Entry to the Christmas house is free.
NOTES
- Easy level/Panoramic/Cultural
- Comfortable footwear is recommended.
- This excursion is not recommended for people with reduced mobility, those who require the use of a wheelchair, or those traveling with baby strollers, due to the uneven terrain.