2 days Private tour: Golden circle and South coast

Exploring Iceland’s Golden Circle and South Coast on a private two-day tour offers a fantastic way to see some of the island’s most iconic sights without the hassle of large group tours. This experience is tailored for those who want an up-close, flexible, and personal journey through Iceland’s rugged beauty. The tour combines renowned stops like Þingvellir National Park, Geysir, and Gullfoss with the dramatic waterfalls and black sand beaches of the South Coast, all while enjoying the comfort of private transportation and a dedicated guide.

One of my favorite aspects of this experience is the personalized pace it allows. Unlike big buses rushing from site to site, a private tour offers flexibility—giving you more time at each stop to really soak in the views, take photos, or just relax. Plus, the inclusion of a visit to Friðheimar’s tomato farm and a stop to meet Icelandic horses adds a charming local flavor that makes the trip stand out. On the flip side, the price tag—around $2,826 for up to four people—is certainly a consideration, but for travelers craving comfort and exclusivity, it often feels justified.

If you’re someone who values authentic experiences, scenic beauty, and expert guidance, this tour checks many boxes. Just keep in mind that it’s not suited for young children under 10 or travelers with mobility issues, given the nature of some stops and the walking involved. This tour offers a balanced, enriching look at Iceland’s natural and cultural highlights in a way that large group tours rarely do.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Private Tour Flexibility: The small group size (up to 4) means you can tailor the pace and spend more time at your favorite locations.
• Rich Cultural Stops: Þingvellir National Park is a highlight, where history and geology combine, and the visit to Friðheimar introduces sustainable farming practices.
• Stunning Natural Sightseeing: Expect impressive waterfalls like Gullfoss, Skogafoss, and Seljalandsfoss, plus the dramatic black sand beach at Reynisfjara.
• Expert Guidance: Led by a professional private guide, who likely provides insightful commentary—an invaluable aid in understanding Iceland’s sights.
• Convenient Transportation: Comfortable, private transport means no worries about navigating Iceland’s often challenging roads or timing.
• Cost-Effective for the Experience: While pricier than group tours, the combination of exclusivity, personalized service, and included entrance tickets offers good value for those wanting a tailored adventure.

Understanding the Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: The Golden Circle

Your journey begins with Þingvellir National Park, an awe-inspiring site where geology and history intersect. Standing between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, I loved the way this place visually represents Iceland’s land-shaping forces. It’s also the site of the first Icelandic parliament, giving it a sense of national pride that you can almost feel as you walk around.

Next, visiting the Hot Spring Bakery was a quirky highlight. Imagine rye bread baked using geothermal heat—yes, the earth’s natural warmth is used to craft a tasty, crusty loaf. It’s a delicious reminder of Iceland’s geothermal wonders and sustainable ingenuity.

The Geysir geothermal area is a must-see. Geysir itself is mostly dormant now, but Strokkur reliably erupts every 5-10 minutes, shooting boiling water as high as 30 meters. Watching it in action is both fascinating and fun, especially with a guide explaining the science behind it.

Gullfoss, the “Golden Falls,” is next—a mighty, two-tiered waterfall that thunders over the rocks with raw power. Standing nearby, I was struck by how such a vast force of nature can be so awe-inspiring and humbling.

The day ends with a visit to Friðheimar, where you’re welcomed into a lush greenhouse filled with tomato plants. Here, you can learn about sustainable farming practices, and if you’re lucky, sample some freshly picked tomatoes, which taste incredible—like a burst of summer even on a cold day. On the way, a friendly stop at Icelandic horses gives you a chance to pet these gentle creatures, a real treat for animal lovers.

Day 2: The South Coast

The next day shifts to Iceland’s dramatic South Coast. Starting at Seljalandsfoss, you can walk behind the curtain of water—a surreal experience. Be prepared to get a little wet, but the view from behind the falls is worth it. Nearby, Skógafoss is equally stunning, with a powerful cascade that often creates rainbows in its mist.

Then, a scenic walk takes you between volcanoes to Sólheimajökull Glacier, where ancient ice formations meet volcanic landscapes—spectacular for photography and feeling like you’re walking through a natural museum.

The highlight of the afternoon is Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, famous for its Reynisdrangar sea stacks and the Dyrhólaey peninsula. If weather permits, I recommend sticking around for sunset; the lighting on the black sand and sea stacks is breathtaking and makes for unforgettable photos.

Practical Details and Value

This tour offers a lot in just two days. Price-wise, at $2,826 for up to four people, it might seem steep compared to shared group tours, but it’s packed with value—private transportation, a dedicated guide, and all entrance fees included. The comfort and flexibility of traveling in a private vehicle mean you can spend more time at sites that resonate with you, avoiding the rush typical of larger groups.

The tour runs for two days with flexible starting times, and pickup/drop-off is included from Reykjavik—adding to the convenience. Keep in mind, it’s not suitable for children under 10 or those with mobility issues, due to walking and terrain at some stops.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re seeking an intimate, personalized experience with plenty of time at each stop, this tour is ideal. It’s perfect for couples, small groups of friends, or families with older children eager to explore Iceland comfortably. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate a deeper connection to the land and local culture, thanks to the stops like Friðheimar and the Icelandic horses.

The Experience Provider & Booking

Red Planet Adventure manages this tour, and according to reviews, guides are professional and engaging, with a good balance of informative commentary and friendly interaction. Booking is flexible, allowing you to reserve now and pay later, which is helpful if your travel plans are still fluid.

Final Thoughts

This two-day private tour delivers an impressive sampling of Iceland’s most iconic natural wonders and cultural sites while maintaining a personal touch that larger group tours cannot match. It’s a memorable way to see the highlights at your own pace, with enough comfort and exclusivity to justify the price for many travelers.

If you value stunning views, authentic experiences, and expert guidance, this tour will likely meet and exceed your expectations. It’s especially suitable if you’re traveling as a small group or couple and want to avoid the crowds while soaking in Iceland’s beauty.

FAQs

What’s included in the tour?
The tour includes a professional private guide, comfortable transportation, entrance tickets, parking, and road fees, plus pick-up and drop-off from Reykjavik.

Are meals included?
No, food is not included, so you should plan to bring snacks or eat at stops like Friðheimar, where you can try fresh tomatoes.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 10 due to walking and terrain considerations.

Can I customize the schedule?
The tour is flexible, allowing some customization of pacing, but the itinerary covers key sites efficiently.

How long are the driving times?
The tour is designed to maximize sightseeing while keeping driving manageable—exact timings depend on conditions and stops.

What should I wear?
Layered clothing, waterproof gear, and sturdy shoes are recommended given Iceland’s unpredictable weather and terrain.

Is it worth the price?
For travelers craving privacy, comfort, and in-depth exploration, many find the experience well worth the cost.

What if the weather is bad?
The itinerary may be adjusted due to weather, but most sites are spectacular even in mist or rain. Always check the weather forecast and dress accordingly.

This private tour offers a carefully curated taste of Iceland’s highlights in a relaxed, intimate setting. Whether you’re marveling at waterfalls, wandering black sand beaches, or exploring geysers, you’re sure to come away with unforgettable memories—ideally suited for those who want quality over quantity and a chance to connect more deeply with Iceland’s stunning landscapes.