Discover the natural wonders that make Iceland’s Golden Circle an iconic destination with Reykjavik’s premier full-day sightseeing tour. Explore the tectonic rifts of Thingvellir National Park, marvel at the cascading Gullfoss waterfall, and witness the explosive power of the Geysir hot springs. But the tour’s hidden gem? The breathtaking Kerid crater, where a vivid cerulean pool contrasts against the stark red and gray slopes. With hassle-free transportation and an experienced guide, you’ll uncover the stories behind these geological marvels – and be left hungry to discover what else this otherworldly island has to offer.
Key Points
- An 8-hour guided tour from Reykjavik that explores Iceland’s natural wonders, including Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss waterfall, and the Geysir hot springs area.
- Visit the picturesque Kerid crater lake, with its striking crimson walls and serene azure-hued waters.
- Enjoy hassle-free transportation with pickup and drop-off service from central Reykjavik locations.
- Experience the raw power and beauty of Gullfoss waterfall, one of Iceland’s most iconic natural attractions.
- Discover the geothermal activity of the Geysir hot springs area, home to the famous Strokkur geyser.
Tour Overview
This 8-hour Golden Circle Plus tour from Reykjavik takes visitors on a comprehensive exploration of Iceland’s iconic natural wonders and historic sites.
Throughout the day, travelers will discover the geologic and historic importance of Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. They’ll marvel at the breathtaking Gullfoss waterfall, one of the country’s most famous natural attractions, and witness the spouting Strokkur geyser and bubbling mud pots at the Geysir hot springs area.
The tour also includes a visit to the picturesque Kerid crater lake, offering a stunning visual contrast to the surrounding landscape.
With small-group guaranteed and comfortable transportation, this immersive experience showcases the very best of Iceland’s renowned Golden Circle.
Stops and Attractions
Along the Golden Circle route, travelers first stop in the geothermal town of Hveragerdi, known for its natural hot springs and greenhouse horticulture.
Next, they’ll gaze upon the Kerid volcanic crater lake, a vivid cerulean pool nestled within the striking red and gray slopes of the ancient caldera.
Continuing on, the group marvels at the Gullfoss waterfall, Iceland’s most famous and powerful cascade, where the mighty Hvítá river plunges 105 feet into a dramatic canyon.
The tour then heads to the Geysir Hot Spring Area, home to the iconic Strokkur geyser, which spectacularly erupts every 5-10 minutes, as well as bubbling mud pits and other geothermal wonders.
Lastly, the group explores the historic Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its unique geology and cultural significance.
Pickup and Drop-off
The tour kicks off with pickup from central Reykjavik locations, ensuring a hassle-free start to the adventure.
After a scenic drive through the countryside, the group will be dropped off back in the city at the end of the 8-hour excursion.
This means you won’t have to worry about transportation, allowing you to fully learn about the natural wonders of the Golden Circle.
The included pickup and drop-off service makes it a breeze to join the tour, so you can focus on enjoying the stunning landscapes, iconic waterfalls, and geothermal marvels without any logistical headaches.
It’s the perfect way to experience the highlights of Iceland’s famous Golden Circle in a seamless, stress-free manner.
Certified Guide
Guiding the tour with expertise, a certified professional accompanies guests throughout the Golden Circle excursion. Leveraging their deep knowledge of Iceland’s natural wonders and rich history, the guide provides captivating commentary that enhances the overall experience. Whether explaining the geological formation of the Kerid crater or sharing insights into the cultural significance of Thingvellir National Park, their engaging narrative brings the tour to life in an informative and enthralling manner.
The guide’s expertise is showcased through:
- Detailed explanations of geothermal activity at the Geysir Hot Spring Area
- Insightful historical anecdotes about the ancient Althing parliament at Thingvellir
Vivid descriptions of the stunning Gullfoss waterfall and its powerful cascading flow.
Captivating stories that bring the unique landscape and Icelandic culture to life.
Golden Circle Sightseeing
Spanning across the heart of Iceland, the Golden Circle route unlocks a treasure trove of the country’s most captivating natural wonders, from the thundering cascade of Gullfoss waterfall to the steaming geysers and bubbling mud pots of the Geysir hot spring area. Travelers are awestruck by the raw power and beauty of these iconic sites, which showcase Iceland’s dramatic volcanic landscapes.
At Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, visitors stand in wonder at the dramatic rift valley where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates meet.
The Kerid crater lake, with its striking crimson walls, offers a breathtaking finale to this unforgettable journey through Iceland’s geological marvels.
Kerid Volcanic Crater
Capping off the Golden Circle tour is the striking Kerid volcanic crater, a breathtaking natural wonder that draws visitors in with its vibrant, crimson-colored walls and serene, azure-hued lake at the center. Formed over 6,500 years ago, this 55-meter deep crater offers a unique and captivating sight.
Visitors can:
- Gaze in awe at the striking contrast between the bright red volcanic rock and the mesmerizing blue waters.
- Explore the crater’s rim, which affords stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
- Descend into the crater’s bowl for a closer look at the striking geological formations.
- Snap unforgettable photos that showcase the crater’s striking beauty and vibrant colors.
Gullfoss Waterfall
Plunging down a two-tiered ravine, the mighty Gullfoss waterfall, Iceland’s most famous and powerful cascade, roars with tremendous force, captivating visitors with its sheer scale and grandeur.
As one of the highlights of the Golden Circle tour, this thundering natural wonder drops an impressive 105 feet (32 meters) in two stages, creating a mesmerizing display of power and beauty.
Watching the milky-white, glacier-fed water crash into the rugged canyon below is truly a sight to behold. Standing at the viewing platforms, you’ll feel the mist against your face and hear the deafening roar of the falls, an unforgettable experience that showcases Iceland’s raw, untamed natural splendor.
Geysir Hot Spring Area
The Geysir Hot Spring Area enchants visitors with its bubbling mud pits and spouting geysers, a mesmerizing display of Iceland’s geothermal activity. At the heart of this otherworldly landscape lies the great Geysir, the namesake of all geysers, whose powerful eruptions can reach heights of up to 200 feet (60 meters).
Nearby, the ever-reliable Strokkur geyser puts on a spectacular show every few minutes, delighting onlookers as it propels steaming water up to 130 feet (40 meters) into the air.
Other highlights include:
- Steaming fumaroles releasing plumes of hot vapor
- Colorful hot springs bubbling with mineral-rich waters
- Thermal mud pots gurgling and splashing
- The sulfurous scent of the active geothermal area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Lunch Break During the Tour?
The tour does not include a scheduled lunch break, so travelers will need to bring their own food or plan to purchase something during the stops along the way. However, there are plenty of opportunities to grab a bite during the 8-hour excursion.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
Guests are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the Golden Circle tour. However, no meals or snacks are provided, so travelers should plan accordingly to ensure they have sustenance throughout the 8-hour excursion.
Is the Tour Vehicle Wheelchair Accessible?
The tour vehicle is wheelchair accessible, allowing guests with mobility needs to fully enjoy the stunning sights along the Golden Circle route. The small group size ensures a personalized and comfortable experience for all participants.
Can I Make Stops Along the Way for Photography?
Absolutely! The Golden Circle tour offers ample opportunities for photography. Guests are encouraged to make stops along the way to capture the stunning Icelandic landscapes, including the Gullfoss waterfall, Geysir hot springs, and the picturesque Kerid volcanic crater.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
Yes, travelers can extend the tour duration. Many operators offer an 8-10 hour Golden Circle tour that includes additional stops, providing more time for photography and exploration of Iceland’s stunning natural landscapes.
Recap
The Golden Circle Full-Day Trip from Reykjavík offers an unforgettable exploration of Iceland’s natural wonders.
Visitors will be captivated by the dramatic landscapes, from the striking Kerid crater to the mighty Gullfoss waterfall.
With hassle-free transportation and an expert guide, this tour is the perfect way to discover the geographic and historic highlights of the Golden Circle region.
It’s an experience not to be missed for anyone visiting Reykjavík.
