Golden Circle | Private Tour | PRO Photo Package

Exploring Iceland’s Golden Circle with a Private Touch and Pro Photos

This detailed review centers around a highly rated private tour through Iceland’s iconic Golden Circle, offered by Icelandic Roamers. The experience is designed to give travelers a personalized, leisurely day with a dedicated guide, stunning scenery, and a special photography package that captures your moments. With a 5.0-star rating based on nine reviews, it’s clear that many travelers find this tour worth the investment, especially those who value expert guidance and authentic Icelandic sights.

Two features stand out for me: first, the personalized experience provided by a private tour that allows flexibility and intimate attention—you’re not just part of a crowd. Second, the PRO Photo Package, which includes 20 carefully curated images, means you’ll have professional-quality memories of this beautiful day. A possible consideration is the price point—at over $2,000 for up to four people, it’s an investment, but one that many reviewers say is justified by the guides’ expertise and the quality of the sights.

What might give some pause is the flexibility of timing at each stop, which is left to your preferences, but that also means you’ll want to communicate your interests clearly to get the most out of each location. Still, with the guide handling all logistics and providing extra surprises (like off-road photo shoots), you can relax and focus on the scenery and experience.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Private Tour for Personalized Attention: Only your group participates, with the flexibility to customize stop durations.
• Expert Guide, Miro or Michal: Highly praised for knowledge, friendliness, and storytelling that enrich the experience.
• Stunning and Varied Stops: From Thingvellir’s continental rift to the colorful Kerid Crater, each site offers unique photographic and scenic opportunities.
• Delicious Food Stop: The visit to Fridheimar Tomato Farm provides a memorable taste experience—try their renowned tomato soup.
• Pro Photo Package: 20 professionally taken photos, including landscapes and group shots, ensuring lasting memories.
• Comfort and Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off, plus the ability to avoid crowded group tours, enhance the value.

An In-depth Look at the Tour Itinerary

Starting the Day at Thingvellir National Park
Your journey begins with pickup from your hotel around 8:30 am, setting a relaxed tone for the day. The first stop, Thingvellir, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its geological significance—here you can walk between two continents, standing on the rift valley between North American and Eurasian plates. It’s a sight that’s as much about the earth’s restless nature as it is about the history of Icelandic independence. The tour allows about 1 hour and 20 minutes, plenty of time for a stroll and photos. Many reviews praise the guide’s insights, making this stop both educational and inspiring.

Mystical Bruarfoss Waterfall
Next is Bruarfoss, a waterfall celebrated for its vibrant, crystal-blue water and delicate cascade over a stone arch. It’s often called an “iconic” Icelandic waterfall and a favorite among landscape photographers. With just 30 minutes here, you get a chance to admire the water’s surreal hue and snap some incredible photos. This stop is free of charge, but its beauty makes it worth every minute.

Geysir Hot Springs
No trip to Iceland is complete without witnessing the Geysir geothermal area. Here, the original Geysir gave its name to all geysers worldwide. In about 30 minutes, you’ll see Strokkur erupting every few minutes, shooting boiling water high into the air amidst clouds of steam. The raw power of nature is on full display, and your guide will explain the science behind these bubbling hot springs. It’s a lively, energetic stop that leaves many visitors in awe.

Gullfoss: The Golden Waterfall
A short drive from Geysir is the Gullfoss Waterfall, often called Iceland’s “Golden Falls.” Over 45 minutes, you’ll have time to appreciate its roaring waters as they tumble down two tiers, creating a thunderous spectacle. The view of Gullfoss is so iconic that it appears in countless travel photos. Many guests comment on how majestic and powerful it feels—the perfect photo opportunity, especially with the professional photos included in your package.

A Tasty Break at Fridheimar Tomato Farm
Midday, you’ll visit Fridheimar, a family-run tomato farm and restaurant. Here, the highlight is their claim to serve “the best tomato soup in the world,” a perfect warm-up after a morning of sightseeing. You’ll also learn about their greenhouse operations, which use Iceland’s clean geothermal energy. The visit lasts about an hour, giving you time to relax, enjoy delicious local flavors, and perhaps chat with your guide about Iceland’s sustainable farming.

Kerid Crater: An Icelandic Geological Gem
On your way back to Reykjavik, you’ll stop at Kerid, a volcanic crater lake distinguished by its vivid blue-green water contrasted against deep-red slopes. The combination makes for striking photographs and a memorable landscape. With 30 minutes here, you can walk around the crater and soak in its unusual colors.

Bonus: Off-Road Photoshoot & Surprise
Before heading back, your guide may arrange an extra off-road drive that offers a chance to capture more dynamic shots. The guide’s attention to photography and storytelling helps turn this into a fun, memorable part of the day. Many reviews highlight the guide’s patience and skill in taking flattering pictures of the group against Iceland’s rugged scenery.

Returning to Reykjavik
The drive back takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, during which you can reflect on the day or review your photos. Being a private tour means you avoid the rush and crowds, feeling pampered and in control of your time.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

While the price of about $2,082 per group might seem steep, many travelers agree it’s a worthwhile investment. The private nature means more flexibility and fewer crowds, and the inclusion of 20 professional photos provides a tangible keepsake of your day. Plus, the local guides—like Miro or Michal—are clearly passionate about sharing their country’s wonders, making the experience both educational and fun.

The stops are well-chosen: each offers a different aspect of Icelandic nature—from tectonic rift valleys and waterfalls to geysers and volcanic craters. The visit to Fridheimar adds a charming local flavor, turning a sightseeing trip into a culinary and agricultural experience. The off-road photo stop is a fun bonus that many reviewers say enhances the adventure.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits travelers who want a personalized, relaxed experience with an expert guide. It’s ideal if you prefer to avoid crowded group tours and want the flexibility to spend extra time at the sites that fascinate you most. The inclusion of professional photos appeals to those who want high-quality souvenirs without the hassle of taking their own pictures. It’s especially suited for couples, families, or small groups looking for a memorable, stress-free day with plenty of opportunities to capture Iceland’s beauty.

Practical Considerations and Tips

While the tour is flexible, be sure to communicate your interests to your guide beforehand. The stops can be customized, but the overall schedule is about 9 hours, including travel time and breaks. Since food and drinks aren’t included, plan some snacks if you’re hungry before or after the tomato farm visit. The tour operates with hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics one less thing to worry about.

The tour runs rain or shine, but poor weather might affect some outdoor sights. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund—an important reassurance.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the drive from Reykjavik to the first stop?
It’s about 1 hour, giving you plenty of time to settle in and start your adventure comfortably.

Can I customize the stops or duration at each site?
Yes, the guide allows some flexibility, so you can spend extra time at places that excite you most, depending on your preferences.

Are food and drinks included?
No, but the visit to Fridheimar tomato farm includes a delicious tomato soup, which many find to be a highlight.

Is this a group or private tour?
It’s a private experience, meaning only your group participates, providing a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere.

What’s the photo package about?
You’ll receive 20 professionally taken photos, including landscapes, portraits, and group shots—ideal for memories or sharing with friends and family.

What if the weather is bad on the day?
The tour can be canceled if weather conditions are poor, and you’ll get a full refund or a chance to reschedule.

In the end, this private Golden Circle tour is a thoughtful way to see some of Iceland’s most famous sights with guides who care about your experience. The combination of stunning landscapes, delicious local food, and professional photography makes it a compelling option—especially if you’re eager for a more tailored adventure away from the crowds. Perfect for small groups or couples looking for a memorable, high-quality day in Iceland’s “northern wonderland.”