Godafoss Express - Shuttle Round Trip with Multiple Drop Off Choice in Akureyri
Round-trip shuttle from Akureyri to Goðafoss waterfall with short stops in Akureyri (Botanical Garden and downhill walk into downtown/port). Multiple drop-off choices in Akureyri available by arrangement with the driver. Entrance fees not included.
In Collaboration with Nortour Iceland ehf. Updated on February 22, 2026.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Nortour Iceland ehf, inspired by the tour Godafoss Express - Shuttle Round Trip with Multiple Drop Off Choice in Akureyri. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Visit Goðafoss (Waterfall of the Gods)
- Short stop at Akureyri Botanical Garden
- Downhill walk into Akureyri downtown / port with flexible drop-off
Explore all itineraries in Akureyri.
Itinerary
Day 1
Half-day express shuttle visiting Goðafoss with a short stop at Akureyri Botanical Garden and a downhill walk into Akureyri downtown or port for drop-off.
Depart Akureyri → Goðafoss (drive)
Board the shuttle in Akureyri and travel east toward Goðafoss waterfall. Vehicle and driver provide a short briefing en route.
Tips from local experts:
- Be ready at your confirmed pickup point 5–10 minutes before the scheduled start time to keep the schedule.
- Bring a lightweight windproof jacket — winds at river viewpoints are often stronger than in town.
- If you have mobility needs, inform the driver before departure so they can assist with boarding the front seat and stowing mobility aids in the vehicle trunk.
Visit Goðafoss Waterfall
Short scenic stop at Goðafoss to view the waterfall from designated viewpoints and take photos. Walks are on maintained paths; surfaces can be uneven and may be wet.
- MondayOpen 24 hours
- TuesdayOpen 24 hours
- WednesdayOpen 24 hours
- ThursdayOpen 24 hours
- FridayOpen 24 hours
- SaturdayOpen 24 hours
- SundayOpen 24 hours
Tips from local experts:
- Stick to the main viewing platforms and marked paths for the safest, most accessible viewpoints.
- Watch your step — surfaces near the falls can be wet and slippery; wear sturdy, non-slip shoes.
- There are no staffed facilities at the viewpoint; bring any needed medications and a small bottle of water.
Return to Akureyri → Akureyri Botanical Garden (drive + short visit)
Drive back to Akureyri and stop at the Akureyri Botanical Garden for a short, mostly level visit. The garden showcases native and hardy perennials and is located near the hillside above town.
- Monday8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Tuesday8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Wednesday8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Thursday8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Friday8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Saturday8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Sunday8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Tips from local experts:
- Allow a short stretch and restroom break before entering the garden; paths are generally flat but can be gravel.
- If you prefer to avoid downhill walking afterwards, ask the driver at pickup to arrange a downtown or port drop-off instead of the garden.
- The garden has limited shelter; if rain is forecast bring a compact umbrella or raincoat.
Downhill walk into Akureyri downtown / Port (optional end point)
A gentle downhill walk from the Botanical Garden leads toward Akureyri's town center and port area. Guests may visit nearby churches or the main pedestrian street; the driver can instead drop you directly in downtown or at the port on request.
Tips from local experts:
- If you have reduced mobility, request a direct drop-off in downtown or at the port when booking or speak with the driver before leaving the garden.
- Allow 10–25 minutes for the downhill walk depending on pace; choose comfortable footwear and take breaks on benches if needed.
- Nearby points of interest include Akureyrarkirkja (the Lutheran church) and pedestrian streets around Kaupvangsstræti — entrances to churches are free; museum visits require separate tickets.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 3 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Seniors |
| Transfers | 1 |
| Restaurants | - |
| Total Activities | 3 |
| Total Places | 3 |
| Activities Types | Transfer, Attraction, Neighborhood |
Akureyri in 1 Days - Visit Goðafoss (Waterfall of the Gods)
Why this experience
Goðafoss—the Waterfall of the Gods—is one of Iceland's most iconic natural wonders, and you don't need a rental car or hiking boots to reach it. This round-trip shuttle from Akureyri handles all the logistics: hotel pickup, transport to the waterfall, and stops in Akureyri's Botanical Garden and downtown area on the way back. You'll stand in front of two parallel waterfalls plunging 45 metres into a horseshoe canyon, with spray rising so high you'll feel the mist on your face. The drive is scenic—rolling Icelandic terrain that primes you for what's coming. The shuttle format means you can focus on photography, soaking in the landscape, and brief walks around the falls without worrying about navigating narrow roads. Perfect for families, solo travellers, and anyone who wants a half-day nature experience without the rental car commitment.
Before you go
- Best time: Summer (June–August) for clear skies and stable weather; winter visits are possible but roads may be icy. Spring and autumn offer fewer crowds and moody light.
- Budget: Budget-friendly sightseeing activity. Bring spending money for snacks or a café stop in Akureyri town.
- Difficulty: Easy. Short walks around the waterfall viewpoints; minimal climbing.
- What to bring: Waterproof jacket, sturdy footwear, sunscreen, and camera. The spray from the falls is real—protect electronics.
- Getting there: Your operator provides hotel pickup in Akureyri. Confirm your exact location and time when booking.
- Accessibility: Gravel paths and some uneven ground around the falls. Wheelchair access varies by operator—ask directly.
Frequently asked questions
How long is this tour? Typically 3–4 hours total, including hotel pickup, drive time, waterfall exploration, and stops in town or the Botanical Garden.
Can I visit the Botanical Garden too? Yes—many shuttles include a brief stop at Akureyri Botanical Garden (Lystigarðir Akraness), one of the northernmost botanical gardens in the world. You'll have 20–30 minutes to walk the grounds.
What's included in the tour? Transportation from your hotel, professional driver familiar with the site, and stops as outlined. Entrance fees to the Botanical Garden (if visited) may be separate. TheNextGuide connects you with reputable local operators who know the best vantage points at Goðafoss and the safest routes.
Is Goðafoss crowded? Yes, especially in summer. A guided shuttle often provides a better timing strategy than a rental car—operators know the least-crowded hours to visit.
Can I spend more time at the waterfall? Many operators offer extended versions or custom tours. Ask about options when booking.
Complete your trip in Akureyri
Pair this with a family-friendly rafting experience on the West Glacial River or spend an evening chasing the Northern Lights with a guided aurora tour. For more adventure, try husky sledding combined with aurora viewing.
Browse all Akureyri itineraries at TheNextGuide.
