Lava Waterfalls & Canyon Baths Tour
About this activity
Highlights
- Explore stunning lava waterfalls
- Relax in unique canyon baths
- Learn about Icelandic sagas
- Enjoy scenic landscapes
- Experience a small group tour
Full description
Included / Excluded
- Guided tour of lava waterfalls
- Visit to unique canyon baths
- Transportation from Reykjavik
- Meals and beverages
Itinerary
Your first stop is Bifröst in West Iceland, a name you might recognize from Norse mythology. Here you’ll visit the Glanni waterfall, which lends a mythic feel to what’s often described as the boundary between the human and the gods’ realms. The falls drop in several steps across the ancient lava fields of Grábrókarhraun. As you take in Glanni, you’ll also have a clear view of the three Grábrók volcanic craters rising above the surrounding fields.
Deildartunguhver is the first sight on the tour - the most powerful hot spring in Europe, which is so strong that it provides hot water and power for the locals for miles around. After spending some time walking amongst the steaming clouds of vapor at Deildartunguhver, we’ll move onto Hraunfossar, also known as the “Lava Waterfalls”.
Enjoy an unforgettable visit to the Sturlureykir Icelandic horse farm. You can get as close as you want to these beautiful friendly animals and then enjoy some home made "hot spring bread" called rugbraud in Icelandic with a nice cup of coffee or ice cool water.
Our last stop is at Reykholt, which used to be the medieval home of Snorri Sturluson, a famous Icelandic historian and chieftain. Here you’ll find Snorralaug (Snorri’s Pool), another traditional natural hot spring, where local people have bathed since the 12th century. From there, we will return you to the capital city, after a day of wonder and exploration in the wilds of West Iceland.
Hraunfossar are a majestic waterfalls that stretch for nearly a kilometer over ancient lava fields, with meltwater from the Langjokull glacier pouring into the Hvita river, seen from several viewing platforms.
Just a few yards away is Barnafoss, also known as “the waterfall of the children”, a name it was given when two local children tragically fell from a stone bridge into the waters here. The grieving mother had the bridge destroyed to save others from her sad fate.
Our next stop is Husafell, a breathtaking woodland oasis and a historical site with traditional turf houses and even some “elf huts” to delight the children too. You’ll also see intriguing works by local artists, as well as the famous “Lifting Stone of Husafell”. From Husafell, you’ll now be transported in 4WD cars further inland to the Deildargil Canyon, where you’ll see Langifoss, a towering two-tiered waterfall. Very few people know about Langifoss, as it’s not mentioned on many maps, so this is a special treat.
The best part of the tour comes next, as we take you to the Canyon Baths, an enchanting and exclusive experience, a traditional Icelandic hotpot found deep in the magnificent Hringsgil canyon. Three geothermally-heated stone pools of varying temperatures (30-41°C or 86-105°F), have been built here, along with a cold-water pot and a cooling waterfall, using traditional methods and materials. The Canyon Baths are an extremely peaceful and relaxing place too, as they allow no more than twenty visitors at a time. Sustainably built in a remote location, it’s a wonderful place in which to relax and unwind, imagining what it was like for the early settlers to bathe in the same way. The Canyon Bath are situated in a protected natural environment, so that means no soaps can be used in the showers, but guests are welcome to use the facilities at Husafell for free as well. Bathing shoes and towels are also provided for you.
Important information
Know before you book
- Tour operates in all weather conditions; cancellations are rare.
- Minimum group size may apply; contact for details.
- Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven terrain.
- Bring a swimsuit for the canyon baths.
- Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Accessibility
- Service Animals Allowed
Traveler reviews
Serene tour of lesser visited sites
This tour takes in some stunning but often overlooked sites. Firstly, a magnificent waterfall, with sunrise enhancing its beauty. Then an unhurried visit to a lovely Icelandic horse farm; and an opportunity to meander with them in the fields. Then to an even more astonishing set of waterfalls - lovely little walk around these to the various viewing platforms. And the day ended with a gorgeous afternoon bath in the canyon baths (which I had to myself - incredible) but even at peak only accept 20 people so never busy. Nestled in a deep canyon, these baths are small but stunning - and very civilised with changing rooms and a small bar for a glass of wine! This was my favourite tour in Iceland. It felt authentic, off the beaten track and I saw some of the most gorgeous scenery of all. Guide was educational but not overbearing - knew how to balance information with a bit of quiet time/music to enjoy the scenery. Loved it. Highly recommend
Try it.....
This was a small group which was really nice only 6 persons on this tour. Our guide Kristina was very personable and knowledgeable actually her voice was really soothing. The waterfalls were amazing as always Loved the horses and the dogs were a plus. I enjoyed the sweet rye with butter...yum. I love anything with butter. Anywho the topper was the Canyon thermal bath....A....mazing...totally relaxing way to end the day! Also when we went to the buffet the lamb stew was really good....thumbs up. Small group phenomenal guides, tasty food and thermal baths....a winner all around!!!!
Magnificent Hot Spring and a Great Guide!
Walter had great energy and the canyon baths were magnificent. I highly recommend jumping in the cold river at some point and also drink some of the river water! Delicious!
Great experience!
I had an amazing time, our tour guide Walter is very engaging and fun, the thermal bath in the canyon was very relaxing, would definitely recommend people I know to join this tour.
An interesting experience
Visiting Canyon Baths was an amazing experience! The place is peaceful, the water is warm, and the view is stunning. I really enjoyed it and definitely recommend it to anyone traveling in Iceland.