Golden Circle, Silfra Snorkeling & Fridheimar Tomato Farm Lunch

This tour offers a compelling blend of Iceland’s natural wonders, from the underwater marvel of the Silfra Fissure to the iconic Gullfoss Waterfall, topped off with a farm-to-table lunch at Fridheimar. It’s a well-rounded day that balances adventure, scenery, and local flavor, all wrapped in a small-group setting.

What I especially appreciate about this experience is the inclusion of snorkeling in Silfra, where you get to float between two tectonic plates in crystal-clear water—an almost surreal experience. The other is the lunch at Fridheimar, a tomato farm powered by renewable energy, serving up home-baked bread and fresh tomato dishes that highlight Iceland’s sustainable spirit.

One potential downside? The day is packed, and at around 9.5 hours, it’s a full-on excursion. If you prefer a more leisurely pace or have limited mobility, you might find it a tad intense. But for those craving a comprehensive taste of Iceland’s natural and cultural highlights, this tour hits the mark.

Key Points About the Tour

• Small-group intimacy: With just 12 travelers max, you’ll enjoy a more personalized experience.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides like Gretar and Alex make the history and geology come alive.
• Unique snorkeling opportunity: The Silfra Fissure’s water is so clear, it’s almost otherworldly.
• Delicious farm-to-table lunch: The home-baked bread and tomato dishes at Fridheimar are a highlight.
• Balanced itinerary: You get to see geysers, waterfalls, and underground water in one day.
• Proactive photo service: Your guide will take photos throughout, so you don’t need your own camera.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Snorkeling in Silfra: Iceland’s Underwater Treasure

Starting the day with snorkeling in the Silfra Fissure is the highlight for many. Located between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, the water is astonishingly clear—something many reviews emphasize. One guest, rgoodman58, raved about the experience, noting Gretar’s wealth of information and the helpfulness of guides like Alex. The included wetsuit or drysuit ensures warmth, even in winter, which is crucial given how cold Iceland can get.

Expect roughly 45 minutes in the water, giving enough time for a close-up look at the underwater rock formations and fascinating fissures. The experience is said to be almost float-like and very photogenic, especially with guides capturing moments on camera. If you’re comfortable in the water, it’s a unique way to connect with Iceland’s geological drama directly.

Geysir and Strokkur: Eruption Watching in a Geothermal Wonderland

Next, the tour stops at Haukadalur valley, home to the famous geysers Geysir and Strokkur. You’ll stroll around this geothermal area, seeing bubbling hot springs and waiting for the eruptions, which happen roughly every 5-10 minutes. This site is perfect for a quick walk and some photos, and it’s the kind of place that makes you appreciate Iceland’s volcanic activity.

While the admission is free, it’s advisable to arrive early if you want good photos or avoid crowds. Many travelers appreciate the chance to see nature’s power up close, and the erupting geysers are a thrilling sight.

Gullfoss Waterfall: Power in Motion

A short drive takes you to Gullfoss, one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls. The Hvítá river crashes down in a two-tiered cascade, creating a thunderous spectacle that’s worth every minute spent gazing at it. The viewpoint offers sweeping vistas, regardless of season, as one reviewer noted that Gullfoss remains picturesque year-round.

Spending about 25 minutes here allows you to absorb the raw power of this natural wonder, and many visitors find that it’s a moment to pause and reflect on Iceland’s volcanic energy.

Fridheimar Tomato Farm: A Delicious Cultural Stop

The final stop is at Fridheimar, a working tomato greenhouse powered by renewable energy, where the lunch is a major highlight. You’ll be served tomato soup, ravioli, or grilled tortilla pizza—all featuring the farm’s fresh produce—and all complemented by home-baked bread you can eat as much as you like.

Many reviews praise this meal as one of the best parts of the day, with the added charm of possibly encountering the farm’s Icelandic horses. The farm’s unique setup offers a chance to taste Icelandic agriculture and sustainability firsthand. You can also purchase local desserts and drinks, including the famed Bloody Marys.

The Practical Side: What’s Included and What to Consider

The tour price of $299 covers all essential experiences: snorkeling equipment, guided tours, the Golden Circle attractions, and a hearty lunch. Pickup is available from various Reykjavik hotels, making logistics simple. The small group size ensures an intimate atmosphere, and the guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge.

However, you’ll need to bring your own swimwear and towel if you choose to wear a wetsuit, and if opting for a drysuit, you should bring thermal layers and appropriate clothing. Cameras aren’t included, but guides will take photos for you—an appreciated gesture from many travelers.

The tour’s duration (~9.5 hours) packs a lot into a single day. While this is ideal for maximizing sightseeing, it’s a long day, and some might prefer a more relaxed pace. Weather can also affect the experience—poor weather might lead to cancellations or changes, but the company offers full refunds or rescheduling options.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, action-packed day. If you’re interested in geology, geothermal activity, and Icelandic cuisine, this tour hits all those marks. It’s also ideal for those who enjoy small-group settings, as this tour caps at just 12 travelers, fostering a more personalized experience.

Adventurers who love water activities will especially appreciate the snorkeling in Silfra, often described as a once-in-a-lifetime moment. Nature lovers will enjoy the scenic stops at Geysir and Gullfoss, and foodies will relish the farm-to-table lunch that showcases Iceland’s agricultural ingenuity.

Price, Value, and Unique Selling Points

At $299, this tour offers a well-rounded package for a full day of sightseeing and adventure. The small group size and guided expertise add significant value, making the experience more engaging than larger bus tours. The included snorkeling gear, lunch, and photos help justify the cost, particularly considering the quality of the guides and the intimacy of the experience.

Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides like Gretar and Alex, who enhance the day with interesting facts and helpful tips. The photography service is another perk, alleviating the need for your own camera equipment and ensuring you have memorable images to take home.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Book This Tour?

If you’re in Reykjavik and want a deep dive into Iceland’s natural marvels combined with authentic local flavors, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s perfect for curious travelers, adventure seekers, and food lovers alike. The small-group size guarantees personalized attention, making it suitable even for those who might normally shy away from big tour buses.

This tour balances adventure, education, and cultural insight—a true sampler of Iceland’s essence. While it’s a full day, many find it worth every minute for the memories and photos you’ll take away.

FAQ

Is snorkeling in Silfra suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, as the tour provides wetsuits or drysuits. However, comfort in water and moderate physical activity are helpful. The guide will ensure everyone is suited up properly.

What should I bring for the snorkeling?
You should bring your own swimwear and a towel if you choose to wear a wetsuit. The drysuit option may require thermal layers and appropriate clothing underneath.

Are the water and weather conditions a concern?
Yes, the tour requires good weather, and poor conditions may lead to cancellations or rescheduling. The company offers full refunds if cancelled due to weather.

How long is the entire tour?
Approximately 9 hours and 30 minutes, including travel time, stops, and meals.

What’s included in the price?
All snorkeling equipment, guided snorkeling tour, sightseeing at Geysir and Gullfoss, a late lunch at Fridheimar, and photos taken by your guide.

Are there any food options besides the tomato farm lunch?
The tour includes a generous lunch with options like tomato soup, ravioli, or tortilla pizza, plus homemade bread. Additional desserts and drinks are available for purchase.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included from various downtown Reykjavik locations, making logistics straightforward.

How small is the group?
The tour caps at 12 travelers, ensuring a more personal and engaging experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. The company offers full refunds for cancellations due to weather or other issues.

This tour offers a well-balanced mix of Iceland’s geological wonders and local hospitality, making it a worthwhile choice for those eager to see key sights without feeling rushed. Whether it’s your first trip or a return visit, the experience provides both stunning visuals and authentic moments that capture Iceland’s rugged beauty and innovative spirit.