Golden Circle and Fridheimar Greenhouse Private Tour

Exploring Iceland’s famous Golden Circle on a private tour offers a more relaxed, personalized way to soak in some of the country’s most iconic sights. This particular experience adds a special twist by including a visit to the Friðheimar greenhouse, where you can see Iceland’s innovative approach to sustainable farming firsthand. With a knowledgeable driver-guide at your side, you’ll visit geysers, waterfalls, a volcanic crater, and a UNESCO site—all in about seven hours.

Two things I especially like about this tour are the chance to witness the Strokkur geyser erupt every few minutes, creating a dramatic natural show, and the opportunity to enjoy a delicious homemade tomato soup at Friðheimar, made from their own ripe tomatoes. The personal touch of a private guide means you can tailor the experience a bit—more time at the waterfalls, or a quick stop for photos—making it feel truly customized.

One consideration is the price—$1,067 for a group of up to three—that might seem steep to some travelers. However, when you factor in private transportation, a dedicated guide, and visits to several top sights, the value for those wanting an intimate, flexible experience increases. Plus, the tour runs around seven hours, so it’s a full day of sightseeing without feeling rushed.

Key points / Takeaways

• Private Experience: Enjoy a personalized 7-hour tour with your own driver-guide, offering flexibility and comfort.
• Iconic Landmarks: See the Strokkur geyser erupt every 4-8 minutes, witness Gullfoss’ dramatic falls, and visit Þingvellir, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Unique Stop: Visit the Friðheimar greenhouse to learn about Icelandic sustainable farming and sample their famous homemade tomato soup.
• Natural Beauty: Marvel at the striking blue waters of Kerið volcanic crater lake and take in the rugged scenery of Þingvellir.
• Weather and Comfort: Dress in warm, comfortable shoes and clothing—weather can be unpredictable.
• Admission Costs: Kerið crater costs 600 ISK per person, payable on-site; meals at Friðheimar are not included.

Discovering Iceland’s Golden Circle and Friðheimar Greenhouse

This tour hits all the classic highlights of Iceland’s Golden Circle route, but it’s the private aspect that makes it stand out. When I think about Iceland’s natural wonders, I picture the bursts of water from Strokkur geyser, the roaring power of Gullfoss, and the rift between two continents at Þingvellir. Having a private driver-guide like Jón or Ásgeir who can tailor the stops and share little stories about each site makes this experience more meaningful and less rushed.

Starting at Þingvellir National Park, I love how you can walk between two tectonic plates—literally standing on the boundary of North America and Eurasia. The park’s significance as the site of Iceland’s historic parliament adds a layer of cultural depth. Your guide might point out the Almannagjá gorge and explain how this landscape shaped Icelandic identity.

Next is the Geysir geothermal area, home to the famous Strokkur geyser. Watching it erupt every few minutes is a thrill and a reminder of how geothermal activity shapes Iceland’s landscape. The eruptions are quite forceful, shooting water up to 30 meters, which makes for fantastic photos. As many reviewers note, this is a highlight that never gets old.

Gullfoss, or the “Golden Falls,” is a sight that takes your breath away. The sheer power of the water plunging 32 meters into a deep canyon is impressive, and the mist often creates rainbows on sunny days. Your guide will likely point out the best viewpoints and tell stories about the area’s history and geology.

The Friðheimar greenhouse offers a different, innovative view of Icelandic life. Here, you get a glimpse of how Icelanders are pushing sustainable farming practices, even in a land known for its harsh climate. The greenhouse is heated by geothermal energy, and the ripe tomatoes grown here are used to make a memorable homemade tomato soup. As one review says, “The soup was so good I’d go back just for that.” Remember, meals aren’t included, but you’ll probably want to take the opportunity to try the local delicacies.

Kerið Crater caps off the day with its vivid blue lake, contrasting sharply with the red volcanic rock. The crater’s unique color palette is striking, and it’s a fun spot to walk around and snap photos. Admission is 600 ISK per person, paid at the site.

What to Expect and How It Helps Your Trip

The 7-hour duration means you get ample time at each site, without feeling overwhelmed. The private guide ensures you can spend more time at a spot that captures your interest or skip a stop if you prefer. The transportation is comfortable, with a vehicle suited for Iceland’s sometimes unpredictable weather.

You’ll likely be picked up at your hotel in Reykjavik, with the guide sharing local insights along the way. The small group size—up to three people—keeps things intimate, more like a day out with a friend who knows the country well.

The cost of $1,067 covers the private transport and guide, making it a good value for travelers who prioritize comfort, flexibility, and a more personal experience. If you’re traveling with a small group or a couple, this can be a cost-effective way to see the highlights with lots of added personal touches.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This experience suits curious travelers who want a deeper, more tailored Iceland adventure. It’s ideal if you’re short on time but want to see the main sights without the crowds or rushed schedules. Those interested in sustainable farming and local innovations will find the Friðheimar stop particularly charming.

Because it’s private, it’s also a good choice for travelers with mobility in mind—though not wheelchair accessible—and for couples or small groups seeking a personalized, relaxed day.

Price and Logistics: Worth It?

At just over a thousand dollars for a private day trip, it might sound steep, but consider what’s included: private transportation, a guide, and visits to multiple top sights. When you balance this against the cost of separate entries, meals, and car rentals, it can be quite cost-effective—especially for small groups.

The flexibility of a private tour also means you can skip or linger at certain spots, making your experience more tailored. Plus, you won’t have to share the vehicle with strangers, which is sometimes refreshing when traveling in a foreign country.

Final Thoughts: Is This the Right Tour for You?

If you’re after a comfortable, personalized way to see Iceland’s Golden Circle, this tour delivers. It’s perfect for those who value flexibility, insightful guiding, and a chance to enjoy Iceland’s natural beauty without feeling like just another face in a large group. The inclusion of Friðheimar’s greenhouse adds a memorable twist—both visually and culinarily—that many travelers find charming.

While the price is on the higher side, the value lies in comfort, exclusivity, and the ability to truly customize your day. It’s well-suited for couples, small groups, or anyone who enjoys a more relaxed, in-depth experience with Iceland’s landscape and innovative farming practices.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
This tour is designed for small groups and involves a good amount of walking and outdoor exposure. It’s best suited for older children who can handle the outdoor elements and the walking at sites like Kerið.

What should I wear?
Bring warm, comfortable shoes and layered clothing. Iceland’s weather can change quickly, so being prepared with waterproof gear and a hat is wise.

How long is the total tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, including travel time and site visits, giving you a full but manageable day of sightseeing.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but you can buy the famous tomato soup at Friðheimar Greenhouse. Other food and drinks are on your own.

Is admission to Kerið crater included?
No, the 600 ISK entry fee is paid at the site, not included in the tour price.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The private nature of the tour allows some flexibility, so you can discuss with your guide if you’d like more time at specific sites or to skip others.

Is this tour accessible for wheelchair users?
No, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users due to walking and uneven surfaces at some sites.

This private Golden Circle tour with a stop at Friðheimar Greenhouse offers a well-rounded, personal way to experience Iceland’s most famous sights and innovative farming practices. It’s a worthwhile choice for those who value comfort, flexibility, and authentic insights into this incredible country.