Recently, a friend of ours mentioned that they were looking at Iceland excursions for a cruise with several stops in Iceland. They asked for some suggestions as to where they should take excursions to. So, here is some of the advice we gave them.
From Akureyri, Iceland
Akureyri is a port at the end of a deep fjord on the north central coast of Iceland. I’m not sure, but I imagine that visits there would involve tendering in. On our visit to Akureyri, we spent an afternoon whale watching. While there was a fog bank involved, we had several very close encounters with whales.
Heading east, out of Akureyri, we took Hwy 1 to visit Godafoss, Myvatn Lake, and Dettifoss. I would imagine that all three of these are available on an excursion out of Akureyri.
Godafoss
A wonderful experience, and an easy hike, the waterfall is located near Fossholl, about 30 minutes east of Akureyri. From the parking area, the falls are easily reached by an improved trail. We traveled on the east side of the water. There were some more challenging trails down to the water’s edge that provided a nice perspective as well.
The name Goðafoss goes back to an 11th century legend. An Iceland leader, Porgeir decided that his people should adopt Christianity. To prove that the old gods have no power, he threw their images into this waterfall, and was thus the waterfall of the gods.
Myvatn Lake
Myvatn Lake is about 40 minutes down the road from Godafoss. The area features beautiful views of volcanic landscapes, and thermal springs. We saw plenty of birds on the many trails. As you explore some of trails, opportunities abound for some beautiful pictures of the lake and distant mountains. If you look carefully, you can see the steam rising from geothermal features in the distance.
Dettifoss
Dettifoss is another impressive waterfall in Vatnajokull National Park. About 45 minutes past Myvatn Lake, it is reputed to be the second most powerful waterfall in Europe 
While the falls are a bit of a hike from the parking area, the effort is well worth it. You cross a vast expanse of volcanic detritus, completely void of any trees. Suddenly, the source of the pounding noise is before you.
The water is loader with glacial sediments and cascades over the falls with a roar. The drop is about the same as Niagara Falls, but the water falls nearly uninterrupted to the bottom, while Niagara has a significant buildup of collapsed rock remains. The local trails offer a variety of up close and panoramic views. Bring your camera for this sight!
From Reykjavik
From Reykjavik the best option for a daytrip is the golden circle. We thought the best sights on the drive were the falls at Gullfoss, the hot springs at Geysir, and the national park at Þingvellir.
Gullfoss
Gullfoss is an impressive waterfall that offers easy access. We hiked right to the edge for an incredible experience and to the hills overlooking the area where we had an amazing view. The cascade, comprised of multiple tiers, can be seen up close and from the surrounding hills.
Geysir
Geysir is a very miniature version of Yellowstone National Park located in Haukadalur Valley. The valley boasts hot springs, mud springs and geysers, including the powerful Strokkur, Smiður and Litli-Strokkur.
Strokkur is, arguably, the country’s most famous hot spring, shooting vast jets of boiling water from 20-40 meters (65-130 feet). Don’t worry about missing this incredible spectacle of nature, as Strokkur erupts every five to ten minutes; just make sure to have your camera ready.
Þingvellir
One of the last stops on the golden circle route is Þingvellir. This is where the North America and Europe tectonic plates drift apart, the crevasses being visible in Almannagjá canyon as well as in Silfra. We walked along a trail below the cliff of the North American plate and up to the top. From there we had an expansive view of the gap leading to the European plate. Beautiful area.
Iceland is a beautiful country. Regardless of where you visit, you’re going to find awesome sights and interesting advenures.