Small Group Golden Circle Tour w/ Kerid & Tomato Farm Visit

A Close-Up of Iceland’s Golden Circle with a Twist

This small-group tour offers a well-rounded look at some of Iceland’s most famous sights, all packed into roughly eight hours. For just $95, you get to visit Þingvellir National Park, witness the bubbling eruptions of Strokkur Geyser, marvel at Gullfoss Waterfall, explore the vivid Kerid Crater, and even peek inside the Fridheimar Tomato Farm — a true Icelandic success story in sustainable farming.

What I really appreciate about this experience are two key points. First, the personalized touch that comes with traveling in a small group, which means less time waiting and more time exploring at your own pace. Second, the expert guidance from knowledgeable guides, like the one praised by many reviewers for their humor and depth of information. On the flip side, a couple of travelers noted that the visit to the tomato farm was just a quick stop, so don’t expect a full farm tour or tasting included — it’s primarily a sightseeing visit.

One possible consideration is weather unpredictability in Iceland, especially if you’re planning to visit Kerid Crater or walk outside. Dress in layers, bring your camera, and prepare for a variety of weather conditions. But overall, this tour strikes a great balance between highlights and manageable travel time, making it ideal for those wanting an efficient yet authentic Iceland experience.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Small-group format ensures a more personalized and relaxed experience.
• Expert guides like David are praised for their knowledge and humor, making the day both educational and fun.
• Visit to Þingvellir offers the chance to stand between tectonic plates and learn about Iceland’s historic Alþingi parliament.
• Geysir area features frequent eruptions of Strokkur, providing plenty of photo opportunities.
• Gullfoss Waterfall delivers dramatic views of water plunging into a deep canyon, with scenic walkways for different perspectives.
• Kerid Crater’s vibrant slopes and tranquil lake showcase Iceland’s volcanic history vividly, with options to walk along the rim or descend into the crater.
• Fridheimar Tomato Farm offers insight into sustainable farming, though the visit is mainly observational, not a full tour or tasting.

Discovering Iceland’s Golden Circle: A Practical and Authentic Journey

If you’re planning to see Iceland’s Golden Circle, this tour provides a straightforward way to tick off the big sights without the hassle of self-driving or overly packed buses. For a reasonable $95 per person, you get a full-day adventure that covers Þingvellir, Geysir, Gullfoss, Kerid Crater, and a peek inside a renowned tomato farm — all in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle with a small group size.

The itinerary is thoughtfully designed. You start with Þingvellir, a UNESCO-listed site where the tension of tectonic plates creates a dramatic landscape and a special historical significance as the birthplace of Icelandic democracy. Walking between the North American and Eurasian plates is a real highlight, and the guide typically enriches this with stories about Iceland’s political history. One reviewer, Susan, appreciated her guide’s ability to explain the history and geography with a good sense of humor, making the experience both fun and educational.

The Geysir geothermal area is next, where Strokkur erupts roughly every few minutes, shooting hot water up to 30 meters. Watching the geyser erupt is a classic Iceland moment, and the area’s bubbling springs and steaming vents add to the otherworldly feeling. It’s a lively stop, perfect for snapping photos and feeling the raw power of the earth beneath your feet.

Then, it’s on to Gullfoss, arguably Iceland’s most iconic waterfall. The walkways allow different vantage points, and the sheer force of water plunging into the canyon makes it an awe-inspiring sight. Many reviews underscore how breathtaking this waterfall is, with one noting that the “mist of the Hvítá river adds to the drama.” You’ll love the views, especially if the weather is clear.

Visiting Kerid Crater — A Volcanic Masterpiece

The Kerid Crater is a volcanic crater lake with vibrant red and orange slopes contrasted by a vivid blue-green lake at the bottom. Walking along the rim offers sweeping vistas, and descending into the crater allows a closer look at the volcanic rocks and the serene water below. It’s one of those naturally colorful spots that sticks in your memory, especially for photography buffs.

Weather can be variable at Kerid, so dress in layers and good walking shoes, as the terrain can be uneven. The guide typically advises about moderate walking, which is manageable for most travelers. The crater’s striking appearance makes it clear why it’s a popular stop — a perfect spot to take a moment away from busy sightseeing and soak in Iceland’s volcanic legacy.

The Unexpected Highlight: Fridheimar Tomato Farm

After the major sights, the tour includes a visit to Fridheimar Tomato Farm, a family-run operation practicing sustainable farming inside a greenhouse. It’s a quick stop — mainly to look around and learn about their innovative methods, rather than a full tour or tasting. But many visitors appreciate the chance to see this success story of Icelandic agriculture firsthand.

Reviews highlight that the guide’s commentary made this stop more engaging. One traveler mentioned that the visit was brief but still worth it for the unique experience of seeing how tomatoes thrive in Iceland’s cool climate. Just don’t expect a lengthy farm tour; it’s more of an overview.

Practical Aspects and Value

This tour’s price of $95 delivers a lot of value. It includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation in a comfortable minivan, entrance fees, and a professional guide. The smaller group size means you won’t be lost in a crowd, and you’ll get more opportunity to ask questions or take photos.

The duration of about 8 hours** fits well into a day, leaving you time back in Reykjavik for dinner or additional exploring. The tour is also wheelchair accessible and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, adding a layer of flexibility for travelers with uncertain plans.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who want a rundown of the Golden Circle without the hassle of self-driving. If you enjoy learning from guides who mix facts with humor, and prefer small groups for a more intimate experience, this is an excellent choice. It’s also perfect for those who appreciate stunning landscapes and unique volcanic features like Kerid.

However, if you’re hoping for an in-depth farm experience or a full-fledged tasting at Fridheimar, you might find this stop somewhat brief. Also, be prepared for Iceland’s unpredictable weather; dressing warmly and comfortably is essential.

Final Thoughts

This small-group tour strikes a solid balance between quality and convenience. The highlights are well-chosen, and the guide’s ability to educate and entertain makes for a more engaging day. The inclusion of the Kerid Crater and the Tomato Farm adds layers of interest beyond the standard Golden Circle circuit, making it feel more authentic and memorable.

While it may not include gourmet meals or extended farm tours, the value for the price and the variety of sights visited are hard to beat. It’s suited for those who want to go beyond just snapping photos and prefer learning about Iceland’s geology, history, and innovative farming practices in a friendly setting.

In short, if you’re after a well-paced, informative, and scenic day trip from Reykjavik, this tour offers a fantastic introduction to Iceland’s natural beauty and ingenuity.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transport in a comfortable air-conditioned minivan, the services of a professional guide, entrance fees, and a visit to Fridheimar Tomato Farm.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, making it a full day of sightseeing without feeling rushed.

Is food included?
No, lunch is not included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to buy something during the stops.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly in layers and wear comfortable walking shoes, as weather conditions can change quickly and there is some moderate walking involved.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, but it’s always a good idea to check with the provider beforehand if you have specific needs.

Will I have enough time at each stop?
Yes, the itinerary is designed to give you sufficient time at each major site, including some optional walking around Kerid and Þingvellir, as confirmed by reviews.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Absolutely, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

This Golden Circle tour offers a balanced, engaging glimpse of Iceland’s most beloved sights, seasoned with stories, humor, and a few surprises. It’s a solid choice whether you’re new to Iceland or want a no-fuss day that covers the core attractions with a dash of local flavor.