Explore the captivating natural wonders and rich cultural heritage of Iceland on the Golden Circle Complete & Perlan Museum Tour. This comprehensive 10-hour excursion offers an unforgettable journey through the country’s iconic landscapes, from the otherworldly Kerid Crater to the majestic Gullfoss Waterfall and the geothermal wonder of Geysir. But the adventure doesn’t end there – explore the interactive exhibits, ice cave, and planetarium at the cutting-edge Perlan Museum, where you’ll uncover the fascinating geology, history, and diverse ecosystems that make Iceland a truly unique destination. With convenient pickups and knowledgeable guides, this tour promises an engaging and seamless exploration of Iceland’s most remarkable sights.
Key Points
- Comprehensive tour combining the iconic Golden Circle sights with the interactive exhibits and experiences of the Perlan Museum.
- Explore Iceland’s natural wonders, including the Kerid Crater, Gullfoss Waterfall, and Geysir hot spring, with a knowledgeable guide.
- Convenient pickups from multiple locations in Reykjavik, with comfortable transportation and no need to worry about navigation or parking.
- Discover the geological history and volcanic activity of Iceland at the Perlan Museum, including an immersive ice cave and planetarium.
- Enjoy a balanced itinerary that allows for both outdoor exploration and indoor learning, providing a comprehensive understanding of Iceland’s natural and cultural heritage.
Tour Overview
This all-encompassing tour seamlessly combines the natural wonders of the Golden Circle and the captivating Perlan Museum, offering visitors a comprehensive exploration of Iceland’s incredible landscapes and cultural heritage.
Over the course of 10 hours, the tour whisks you away to some of the country’s most iconic sights, including the Kerid Crater, Gullfoss Waterfall, and Geysir hot spring.
At the Perlan Museum, you’ll explore the country’s natural history through interactive exhibits, an awe-inspiring ice cave, and a state-of-the-art planetarium.
With convenient pickups from 28 locations in Reykjavík and a knowledgeable guide to bring the experience to life, this tour is the perfect way to discover the best of Iceland’s natural and cultural wonders.
Itinerary Highlights
The tour begins with a 15-minute break in Hveragerdi, a charming town famous for its geothermal activity and hot spring-fed greenhouses.
Travelers then venture to the captivating Kerid Volcanic Crater, a 55-meter-deep basin surrounded by vibrant red and green slopes, where they’ll enjoy a 30-minute photo stop.
Next, the awe-inspiring Gullfoss Waterfall, one of Iceland’s most renowned natural wonders, beckons visitors for a 45-minute visit to witness its thunderous cascades.
The tour then takes guests to the Geysir geothermal area, where they’ll have 80 minutes to explore the iconic Geysir hot spring, grab lunch, and walk among the steaming vents and bubbling mud pools.
Pickup and Dropoff
Conveniently, the tour offers pickup from 28 designated locations across Reykjavik, ensuring a seamless start to the day’s adventure.
After being whisked away from your accommodation, you’ll be transported in comfort to the day’s first stop.
No need to worry about navigating or finding parking – the tour takes care of all the logistics.
The pickup service is a thoughtful touch that allows you to fully immerse yourself in the experience, without the hassle of getting there.
Sit back, relax, and let the journey begin!
The tour concludes at the Perlan Museum, where you’re free to explore at your own pace before making your own way back.
Kerid Volcanic Crater
After taking in the picturesque Gullfoss Waterfall, the tour heads to the mesmerizing Kerid Volcanic Crater, where visitors can’t help but marvel at the striking red and blue hues of the crater walls and shimmering lake below.
This 3,000-year-old volcanic crater is a true natural wonder, formed when the magma chamber collapsed after an eruption. Visitors can descend into the crater itself, providing a unique perspective on its geological features.
The contrast between the vibrant colors and the serene lake makes for an unforgettable photo opportunity. Whether you’re a geology enthusiast or simply appreciate the beauty of Iceland’s landscape, the Kerid Crater is a must-see stop on the Golden Circle tour.
Gullfoss Waterfall
Cascading down a deep crevice, the majestic Gullfoss Waterfall captivates visitors with its sheer power and grandeur. Tumbling over two tiers, the thundering torrent of water creates a mesmerizing display, sending up a dazzling spray that glistens in the sunlight.
Travelers stand in awe, transfixed by the waterfall’s raw, untamed beauty as it carves its way through the rugged Icelandic landscape.
The Gullfoss Waterfall is a true highlight of the Golden Circle tour:
- Witness the waterfall’s impressive drop of 32 meters (105 feet) as it plunges into a deep, narrow canyon.
- Enjoy the opportunity to photograph the stunning natural wonder from various angles and viewpoints.
- Marvel at the sheer force of the water as it rushes and crashes over the rocky ledges.
Geysir Hot Spring
From the majestic Gullfoss Waterfall, the tour moves on to the iconic Geysir hot spring, where visitors are treated to a mesmerizing display of nature’s raw power.
Geysir, the geothermal feature that gave all other geysers their name, erupts dramatically every few minutes, shooting a towering plume of steaming water high into the air.
Guests can walk around the bubbling mud pots and sizzling fumaroles, marveling at the volcanic activity just beneath their feet.
The Geysir area also features the equally impressive Strokkur geyser, which erupts even more frequently, creating a thrilling and unforgettable spectacle.
With its otherworldly landscape and captivating geological wonders, the Geysir hot spring is a true highlight of the Golden Circle tour.
Thingvellir National Park
Next, the tour ventures to the historic Thingvellir National Park, where visitors can marvel at the dramatic rifts and fissures created by the gradual drifting apart of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.
This UNESCO World Heritage site, once the site of Iceland’s Parliament, now showcases the serene beauty of Iceland’s natural landscapes, with tranquil lakes, lush green meadows, and towering cliffs. Guests can explore the park’s walking trails, gaining a deeper appreciation for the country’s extraordinary geological history and the awe-inspiring forces that shaped its terrain over millennia.
Some of the highlights of Thingvellir National Park include:
- Witnessing the dramatic tectonic plate boundaries
- Exploring the tranquil Thingvallavatn, Iceland’s largest natural lake
- Discovering the historic site of the Althing, Iceland’s parliament.
Perlan Museum Exhibits
One of the highlights of the Perlan Museum is the captivating ice cave exhibit, which transports visitors into a mesmerizing frozen underground world. Guests can wander through the simulated ice tunnels, marveling at the intricate icy formations and experiencing the chilling ambiance that evokes the awe-inspiring glacial landscapes of Iceland.
The museum’s state-of-the-art planetarium offers immersive and educational journeys through the cosmos, allowing visitors to explore the wonders of the night sky and learn about the celestial phenomena that shape our universe.
The natural history exhibits also provide a deeper understanding of Iceland’s diverse and dynamic ecosystems, from the volcanic landscapes to the marine life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Modify the Itinerary to Spend More Time at Specific Sites?
Yes, the tour itinerary can be modified to allow more time at specific sites. Customers can work with the tour operator to customize the schedule and allocate additional time at locations of particular interest to them.
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but travelers should dress comfortably for a full day outdoors. Warm, moisture-wicking layers and sturdy walking shoes are recommended to ensure enjoyment of the natural wonders on the itinerary.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?
For this tour, students and seniors can typically enjoy discounted rates. Contact the tour operator directly to inquire about any available student or senior discounts that may apply to this excursion and make your experience more affordable.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Bus?
Passengers are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the bus, though the tour operator may have specific policies. It’s best to check with them beforehand to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
What Happens in Case of Inclement Weather During the Tour?
If the weather is poor, the tour guide adapts the itinerary accordingly. They may spend more time at indoor locations like the Perlan Museum or adjust the duration of outdoor stops. The safety and comfort of guests are the top priorities.
Recap
Enjoy Iceland’s captivating natural wonders and rich cultural heritage on this comprehensive 10-hour tour.
From the dramatic landscapes of the Golden Circle to the interactive exhibits at the Perlan Museum, this excursion offers an unforgettable exploration of the country’s diverse ecosystems and geological marvels.
With knowledgeable guides, convenient pickups, and seamless logistics, you’re sure to have an engaging and memorable experience discovering the best of Iceland.
