Set out on a captivating journey through Iceland’s breathtaking natural wonders with the Golden Circle and Northern Lights tour from Reykjavik. Witness the dramatic rift valley of Thingvellir National Park, the mesmerizing Geysir geothermal area, and the cascading beauty of Gullfoss Waterfall – all showcasing the raw power and enchanting landscapes that make this Nordic nation a global marvel. But the true highlight awaits as you venture into the serene Icelandic wilderness, guided by an expert in Northern Lights viewing, in search of the elusive and awe-inspiring Aurora Borealis. This immersive 10-hour tour promises to leave you spellbound by Iceland’s unparalleled natural splendor.
Key Points
- This 10-hour tour from Reykjavik explores Iceland’s iconic Golden Circle and offers an opportunity to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights.
- The tour highlights the stunning natural wonders of Thingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and the majestic Gullfoss Waterfall.
- An expert Northern Lights guide leads the search for the Aurora Borealis in the serene Icelandic wilderness.
- The tour provides photography tips and a deeper understanding of the science behind the Northern Lights.
- Children aged 12-15 receive a 50% discount, while children 0-11 travel for free.
Tour Overview
This 2-part tour from Reykjavik allows travelers to explore Iceland’s famed Golden Circle during the day and hunt for the elusive Northern Lights in the evening, all within a convenient 10-hour timeframe.
Begin your adventure by delving into the stunning natural wonders of the Golden Circle, including the dramatic Thingvellir National Park, the erupting Geysir geothermal area, and the majestic Gullfoss Waterfall.
As the sun sets, your expert Northern Lights guide will whisk you away to the wilderness, where you’ll have the chance to witness the mesmerizing Aurora Borealis dancing across the night sky.
With hotel pickup and drop-off, specialized guides, and on-board amenities, this tour offers an unforgettable Icelandic experience.
Golden Circle Highlights
Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcases the dramatic rift where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are slowly drifting apart, allowing visitors to walk between the two continents.
Just a short drive from the park, the Geysir geothermal area features the iconic Geysir, which thunderously spouts scalding water up to 200 feet into the air.
Nearby, the mighty Gullfoss Waterfall cascades over two tiers, sending a thunderous roar and mist into the air.
Truly, the Golden Circle highlights Iceland’s stunning geological wonders, leaving travelers in awe of the country’s raw, natural beauty.
Exploring Thingvellir National Park
Visitors entering Thingvellir National Park are immediately struck by the dramatic landscape, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates dramatically drift apart, creating a rift valley that seems to split the earth itself.
This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a glimpse into Iceland’s fascinating geological history, as you stand atop the cliffs and gaze out over the azure-blue waters of the Þingvallavatn lake.
Wander along the Almannagja fault, where the ground has literally been torn apart, and imagine the ancient Viking parliament that once convened here. It’s an awe-inspiring experience that provides a profound connection to the raw, untamed power of Iceland’s stunning natural world.
Witnessing Geysir Geothermal Area
Next, guests arrive at the Geysir geothermal area, where they eagerly anticipate witnessing the iconic eruption of the hot spring known as Geysir itself.
This legendary geyser, after which all other geysers are named, dramatically spouts steaming hot water up to 230 feet (70 meters) into the air at irregular intervals.
Visitors are captivated by:
- The bursts of water and steam that erupt with a thunderous roar
- The vibrant hues of the surrounding silica terraces, ranging from brilliant white to deep orange
- The opportunity to learn about the geothermal forces that power this natural wonder and the unique ecosystem it supports
This one-of-a-kind experience leaves guests in awe of Iceland’s dynamic geological landscape.
Admiring Gullfoss Waterfall
After marveling at the geothermal wonders of Geysir, guests are whisked away to the awe-inspiring Gullfoss Waterfall, one of Iceland’s most iconic natural treasures.
Thundering down a two-tiered, 105-foot (32-meter) drop, the cascading waters of Gullfoss captivate onlookers with their raw power and mesmerizing beauty.
Plunging into a rugged, canyon-like ravine, the waterfall’s powerful flow creates an impressive mist that dances in the air, refracting sunlight into a captivating rainbow display.
Standing at the edge of the falls, visitors can feel the earth-shaking roar of the water as it crashes against the rocks below, leaving them in awe of Iceland’s untamed natural splendor.
Northern Lights Adventure
As the sun dips below the horizon, the tour group sets out on their quest to catch a glimpse of the elusive Northern Lights, guided by a specially-trained expert who knows the best vantage points to maximize their chances of success.
The search begins in the serene Icelandic wilderness, where the group waits in anticipation, bundled up against the crisp winter air.
When the first flutter of color appears across the sky, excitement fills the air. The group is enthralled as the lights dance and swirl, painting the night sky in shimmering hues of green, purple, and blue.
With the help of their guide’s photography tips, they capture stunning images to remember this magical experience.
Specialized Northern Lights Guide
A highly specialized Northern Lights guide leads the tour group, drawing on extensive knowledge and experience to maximize their chances of witnessing the ethereal Aurora Borealis.
This expert guide knows the Icelandic wilderness like the back of their hand, guiding the group to the ideal viewing locations based on real-time weather conditions and aurora forecasts.
With a keen eye for the first signs of the Northern Lights, the guide provides detailed explanations of the science behind this natural phenomenon, ensuring everyone has a deeper appreciation for the mesmerizing dance of colors across the night sky.
Thanks to the guide’s expertise, the group has the best possible opportunity to capture the magic of the Aurora Borealis.
Important Tour Information
With the specialized Northern Lights guide leading the way, the tour provides important information that ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience for all participants.
Departure times vary based on the season, allowing the group to maximize their chances of witnessing the captivating Aurora Borealis during the winter months when it’s most active.
To ensure a comfortable and memorable tour, the following guidance is provided:
- Warm, waterproof clothing is highly recommended to combat the Icelandic chill.
- The total travel time is around 10 hours, including stops, so participants should plan accordingly.
Children aged 12-15 are entitled to a 50% discount, while children 0-11 travel for free, making it a great family-friendly adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Camera Equipment on the Tour?
Absolutely! Guests are encouraged to bring their own camera equipment to capture the stunning natural beauty of Iceland’s Golden Circle and the mesmerizing Northern Lights. The tour guides will even provide tips on how to photograph the Aurora Borealis.
What Happens if the Northern Lights Are Not Visible?
If the northern lights are not visible, the tour company will offer a refund or reschedule the northern lights portion of the tour for another evening. They guarantee a chance to see the aurora borealis or your money back.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
There’s no option to extend the tour duration, but the tour provider offers flexibility. If the northern lights aren’t visible, the tour can be rescheduled or refunded, ensuring customers have a memorable experience despite unpredictable weather conditions.
Is There a Discount for Group Bookings?
Yes, there are group discounts available for this tour. The more people in your group, the greater the savings. Booking as a group is a great way to experience Iceland’s natural wonders and Northern Lights together at a discounted rate.
Can I Request a Specific Pick-Up Location?
Yes, customers can request a specific pickup location for the Golden Circle and Northern Lights tour. The tour provider is happy to accommodate such requests and will pick up guests from their preferred location in Reykjavik.
Recap
Exploring Iceland’s natural wonders on this comprehensive tour provides an unforgettable experience.
From the awe-inspiring landscapes of the Golden Circle to the mesmerizing display of the Northern Lights, this tour offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and geological marvels.
With expert guidance, travelers can enjoy Iceland’s captivating essence, creating lasting memories of this enchanting destination.
