Top Akureyri Outdoor Activities

Sometimes whale watching cruises on huge boats make it hard to be able to actually see the ocean life unless you board first and claim the best spots. This whale watching tour from Husavik is on board an RIB boat limited to just 12 passengers, so you’re never in competition for the best vantage points. Plus, its easy to stay warm and safe with an included warm suit and life jacket.

Travel into the Austurdalur wilderness and pit your paddling skills against the surging torrents of the East Glacial River on this 6-hour white-water rafting adventure from Hafgrímsstaðir. Pull on your drysuit at the base in Hafgrímsstaðir, then grab your paddle and hit the waves. Navigate the choppy waters of the grade IIII–listed river and see why it consistently tops Iceland’s white-water rafting rankings. Tackle challenging rapids such as ‘Alarm Clock’ and ‘Deep Fry’ with your guide, and end your trip with a cliff jump into the glacial waters.

The Icelandic horse is known for its unique gait called tölt. The breed is only truly Icelandic when it is on the island, so don't miss the chance to ride one while you are here. This horseback riding tour takes you into the countryside and is suitable for all levels, whether or not you have ridden before.

Maximize your chances of seeing humpback whales on this Eyjafjord whale watching cruise from Akureyri. Iceland’s longest fjord is known for attracting these massive mammals for summer feeding. Board a high-speed, specially adapted ship capable of covering all the likely viewing areas, and watch for whales from the viewing platforms and decks. Choose from several departures, including a late-night cruise (June to August), with use of thermal coveralls, raincoats, or blankets included.

Splash through the Icelandic wilderness and enjoy family-friendly adventure on this 3.5-hour rafting trip on the West Glacial River from Hafgrímsstaðir. Climb into your drysuit at the rafting base in Hafgrímsstaðir. Then, travel onward by bus to the banks of the choppy but gentle West Glacial River. With your paddle in hand, hop aboard your raft and follow the current downstream. Navigate the course with your guide and enjoy breathtaking views over the rolling riverbanks. Finish your adventure with a cliff jump and a swim in the glacial waters.

Discover Iceland’s most iconic wildlife with a 2.5-hour whale and puffin tour from Húsavík on an RIB speedboat. Enjoy views of the Skjálfandi Bay as you skim along the coast, covering an expansive territory in the high-powered craft. Watch for massive blue whales and acrobatic humpbacks, and learn about life beneath the surface from your experienced guide. During the breeding season of mid-April through mid-August, visit ‘Puffin Island’ to find a thriving colony of brightly-colored birds before returning to Húsavík.

Realize your dreams of watching humpback whales and orcas in their natural environment on a 3-hour Original Whale Watching tour from Húsavik, capital of whale watching in Iceland. After selecting a departure time to suit your schedule, climb aboard a traditional Icelandic oak ship and set sail for a prime whale-watching destination on the icy ocean. With luck, marvel at the majestic mammals as they dive and plunge before your eyes, listening to informative commentary from your guide as you observe.

Float over class 2 and 3 rapids in the West Glacial River on this guided rafting tour. After getting outfitted in the included wetsuits and helmets, enter the canyon on a raft with your onboard and experienced guide. Make your way down the river, enjoying views of the high canyon walls and unique geology.

Watch for nimble humpbacks and massive blue whales on this whale watching adventure from Húsavík on a traditional Icelandic oak boat. Enjoy stunning views of the Skjálfandi Bay and Vík mountains as you explore the coastline, a thriving pilgrimage place for marine mammals in the summer season. Learn about Iceland’s wildlife and culture with live commentary from your experienced guide, then finish the tour over a traditional snack of hot chocolate and Icelandic donuts.

Whale watching is a popular activity for visitors to Iceland, but it can be tricky for animal lovers to find a tour that is sustainable and non-invasive. This whale-watching cruise from Húsavík is the perfect choice – using low-sound, carbon-neutral boats to ensure minimal disturbance as you admire the whales in their natural environment.

Iceland’s north coast is one of the best places in Europe to see whales in their natural environment. This 2-hour whale watching cruise from Akureyri is limited to 12 passengers for a personalized experience, and offers the chance to spot humpback whales, mink whales, white-beaked dolphins, and more.

Come face to face with the world’s largest mammals on this half-day whale watching excursion from Akureyri, Iceland’s scenic northern port city. Listen to stories about the history and culture of the region from your guide. Then, enjoy comfortable, first-class amenities as you cruise through Torfunefsbryggja Harbor, including an on-site bar with hot and cold drinks for purchase.

On this exceptional “off-season” trip, you‘ll enjoy the diversity of the Icelandic landscape without the haste of the summertime. Our reliable and strong horses will carry you directly into nature´s tranquility and won’t mind frozen ground or scrunching snow. We ride along farmers’ trails and head for the impressive waterfall “Reykjafoss”. During wintertime, it‘s frozen and full of icicles. You will never forget the unique experience of exploring your surroundings on horseback – just like the Vikings did. Please let us know if you have any previous riding experience. This helps us choose the right horses for you. You can do this on the check out page.

North Iceland boasts many natural wonders, including lava formations, waterfalls, thermal pools, and more. This small-group tour from Akureyi covers the best in a convenient day trip, including an optional swim at Myvatn Nature Baths. Marvel at the waterfalls at Godafoss, Dettifoss, and Selfoss; view Lake Myvatn, hot springs, and the Dimmuborgir lava fields, and then choose to bathe in the naturally heated Myvtan baths. Hotel and airport pickup and drop-off are included.

Go in search of the Northern Lights on a nighttime tour from Akureyri. Travel by 4x4 Jeep outside of town to escape any light pollution, and watch the dark sky for one of Mother Nature’s most spectacular shows. This area of northern Iceland is one of the best places to see the lights, also known as Aurora Borealis, so don’t miss the chance while you’re here. Hot chocolate and an Icelandic doughnut will keep you warm and awake while you wait for the lights to appear.

Mount your Icelandic horse and set off with your small group to discover Skagafjörður’s striking landscape on this family-friendly riding tour, suitable for any level of experience. Soak up scenic views and benefit from your guide’s insider knowledge as you trot along ridges, rivers, and rolling trails, keeping warm with gear rental and a hot drink provided.

If you only have time for one day trip from Akureyri, make it a tour of the Diamond Circle, a circuit that takes in some of North Iceland’s most impressive natural wonders. This full-day small-group tour visits the Godafoss and Dettifoss waterfalls, the Hverir hot springs, Lake Mývatn, and the Víti crater. Hotel pickup and drop-off is included.

Explore the natural wonders of Northern Iceland on this full-day tour from Akureyri. Enjoy spectacular views of Godafoss waterfall, then visit Lake Myvatn and enjoy free time to soak in the Myvatn Nature Baths (entrance fees not included). Along the way, marvel at natural wonders including the Dimmuborgir Lava formations and Hverir mud pools, visit Grotcaja cave, and see filming sites from hit TV show Game of Thrones.

Experience the wild landscapes and rugged terrain of Iceland’s north—without disturbing the serene nature—on a guided horseback trek in Varmahlíð. Go with a guide who will lead you along a route tailored to your riding experience and move at a speed comfortable for you. A helmet is provided, as is rain gear if needed.

Hop a vintage fishing boat for an adventure-filled, half-day wildlife tour, as you set out on the trail of puffins and whales. Get up close and personal with Iceland’s most iconic wildlife species, and get detailed background on their behavior from your captain and guide. Tours include a visit to Lundey Island, home to one of Iceland’s largest puffin colonies, and a whale-watching excursion through Skjálfandi Bay.

Have you ever dreamed to spend a unforgettable moment with huskies surrounded by a incredible nature in North Iceland

Coastal Iceland is home to a spectacular range of native wildlife, but to see the best of it you have to take to the waves. With this tour, cruise out into Skjálfandi Bay by traditional wooden oak boat, and watch the waters for dolphins and whales in their natural habitat. Spot colorful puffins and other seabirds with live on-board commentary, and keep warm with a refreshing hot chocolate.

Experienced riders can enjoy a more intimate glimpse of rural Iceland on this small-group, horseback ride to Reykjafoss waterfall and the Héraðsvötn delta. Benefit from the insights of your guide as you trot along countryside trails, cross waterways, and admire sweeping views of the striking landscape, avoiding hidden costs with gear rental and a hot drink included in the price.

BAUGASEL TURF HOUSE: All day riding tour Adventurous? Then this is the tour for you. Ride through the breathtaking mountains and valleys to a traditional Icelandic cottage, try the local delicacies and enjoy the company of your horse and the wind in your hair. If you want to tölt your horse then this tour will let you try not only tölting but potentially all 5 gaits. You will try 2-3 of our horses for the Turf house tour. Food and refreshments will be supplied. SKILL LEVEL REQUIRED: Intermediate to expert riders AVAILABILITY: Summer (April-September); Saturdays at 10:00 am Wear long pants and close-toed shoes, ideally with a little heel; safety gear supplied by Stable Stop.