From Akureyri: Goðafoss Waterfall & Santa Claus House Tour

Discovering Iceland’s Natural and Holiday Charm: The Godafoss & Santa Claus House Tour

This tour from Akureyri offers a wonderful snapshot of Iceland’s rugged landscapes combined with a sprinkle of Christmas magic. For just $108, you get to stand beneath the thundering waters of Godafoss, the so-called “Waterfall of the Gods,” and then step into the festive world of the Christmas House in Akureyri. It’s a perfect blend of natural spectacle and holiday cheer, ideal for travelers short on time but eager for authentic Icelandic experiences.

What I particularly like about this tour is how it balances breathtaking scenery with cultural storytelling—your guide will share the legend behind Godafoss, making the visit more meaningful. Plus, the Christmas House is a year-round attraction, filled with local crafts, decorations, and a warm, festive atmosphere, no matter the season. That said, a note to consider is that the tour duration is only three hours, so it’s best suited if you’re looking for a quick but rich experience rather than a deep dive into Iceland’s many attractions.

A small drawback mentioned in reviews is the group size and vehicle capacity—some guests felt the vehicle was a tad crowded, with eight permitted seats but sometimes accommodating more. If comfort and space matter a lot to you, it’s worth arriving early or asking about the current vehicle situation. Still, the value for the sights and stories packed into this short trip remains quite good, especially considering hotels are included in the pickup and drop-off.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Natural Wonder of Godafoss: An iconic waterfall steeped in legend, easily accessible with several vantage points.
• Year-Round Festive Spirit: The Christmas House offers a surprising holiday atmosphere in any season, packed with Icelandic crafts.
• Historical Legend: Learn about the story of Þorgeir Ljósvetningagoði and the Christianization of Iceland, linked directly to the waterfall’s name.
• Convenient Logistics: Hotel pickup and drop-off make this a hassle-free way to see two highlights without renting a car.
• Limited Time, Rich Content: In just three hours, you experience Iceland’s natural beauty, folklore, and holiday cheer.
• Tour Group Size: Be aware of potential crowdedness, as some reviews mention the vehicle being over capacity despite official limits.

Entering the Land of Waterfalls and Legends

When I first read about this tour, I was immediately drawn in by Godafoss’s storied history and its reputation as one of Iceland’s most spectacular waterfalls. Located in the north, it’s a short drive from Akureyri, making it a perfect stop for travelers who want to see a major natural attraction without a long day on the road. The waterfall cascades over a 12-meter height and stretches 30 meters wide, creating a thunderous roar that’s as impressive as the legends surrounding it.

The story behind the name Godafoss is fascinating—it’s tied to Iceland’s shift from Norse paganism to Christianity in the 10th century. According to legend, Þorgeir Ljósvetningagoði, the lawspeaker, threw statues of Norse gods into the waterfall as he declared Christianity the official religion. This tale adds a layer of significance to the natural spectacle, making it more than just a pretty view. The well-marked parking lot and the 1.8-mile trail around the waterfall mean you’ll have multiple vantage points for photos and a chance to really take in the raw power of the flowing water.

After soaking in the scenery, the tour heads to Akureyri’s Christmas House, a charming attraction that offers a festive escape — even in summer. It’s a treasure trove of decorations, local crafts, and holiday-themed items. I love how the staff are well-versed in Icelandic folklore and happy to share stories, making the visit educational as well as fun. The building complex includes a tower with what might be the world’s largest advent calendar and a Christmas Garden with a tiny turf church replica, evoking Iceland’s unique holiday traditions.

The Experience: From the Waterfall to Winter Wonderland

The tour lasts about three hours, which means your guide will efficiently balance time at each site to maximize your experience. Expect to be picked up from your hotel in Akureyri roughly 10 minutes before your scheduled departure. The drive to Godafoss is smooth, and the vehicle typically seats up to eight passengers, though a few guests have noted it sometimes feels crowded. Be prepared for a lively group and a friendly guide ready to share stories and tips about Iceland’s history, geology, and folklore.

At Godafoss, I love how accessible it is—there are well-marked paths, and the views are stunning from multiple angles. Standing near the roaring cascade, you can almost hear the echoes of the ancient stories, with the mist rising like a whisper of Iceland’s pagan past. The landscape is raw and wild, with volcanic rocks and lush mosses, giving you that quintessential Icelandic rugged beauty.

Next, the Christmas House is a delightful contrast—bright, colorful, and filled with the aroma of cinnamon and ginger. It’s open year-round, meaning you can enjoy this festive environment anytime you visit. You’ll find Icelandic-made ornaments, artworks, and toys, along with explanations of local holiday traditions. The Wishing Well of Unborn Children is a touching feature, inviting visitors to make wishes for the future—a small but meaningful moment of reflection.

Practical Details and Tips for Making the Most of Your Tour

The ticket price of $108 is quite reasonable for the combination of sights and the convenience of included hotel transport. Since food and drinks aren’t included, you might want to bring a snack or plan a quick meal before or after the tour, especially if you’re hungry after the outdoor stop. The tour’s short duration makes it ideal for travelers with limited time but wanting a well-rounded experience.

The tour is conducted in English, and the guide is likely to be knowledgeable and engaging. However, some reviews mention the possibility of overcrowding in the vehicle, so if you prefer more space, consider arriving early or checking the vehicle capacity beforehand.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy a mix of nature, history, and local culture but don’t have the luxury to spend an entire day exploring. It’s especially great for families, couples, or solo travelers wanting a snapshot of Iceland’s legendary sights and festive spirit.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour offers excellent value for those eager to see Godafoss and experience some Icelandic holiday magic in a brief but meaningful trip. If you’re interested in Iceland’s folklore, stunning waterfalls, and year-round Christmas cheer, this package is a good fit. Be aware that the vehicle can get crowded, so if spacious comfort is a priority, consider arriving early or asking about current conditions.

It’s a perfect option for visitors with limited time, families, or anyone wanting a snapshot of Iceland’s natural beauty paired with local traditions. You won’t get a deep dive into every corner of Iceland, but you’ll walk away with memorable sights, stories, and maybe a few Christmas wishes of your own.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Akureyri, making it very convenient and hassle-free.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is about three hours, so it’s a quick but comprehensive taste of the area’s highlights.

What’s the cost of the tour?
It costs $108 per person, which covers transportation, guide services, and entrance to the Christmas House.

Are food and drinks included?
No, they’re not included, so it’s a good idea to bring a snack or plan to eat before or after.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, families can enjoy it, especially since it combines outdoor scenery with a festive indoor environment.

How accessible is Godafoss?
Godafoss is easily accessible with marked paths and multiple viewpoints, ideal for most visitors.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing some flexibility in your trip planning.

This tour from Akureyri strikes a nice balance of natural beauty, history, and holiday spirit, offering a memorable slice of Icelandic culture. It’s a practical choice for travelers wanting a taste of everything without a lengthy commitment, making it perfect for a short visit or a quick afternoon outing.