Reykjavík: Golden Circle, Bruarfoss, and Kerid Crater Tour

Exploring Iceland’s famed Golden Circle is a must-do for any visitor, and this tour from Reykjavík offers a well-rounded experience that blends iconic sights with lesser-known marvels. For around $108, you get a comprehensive 9-hour journey led by knowledgeable guides who bring each stop to life. From majestic waterfalls to bubbling geysers and volcanic craters, this trip promises both awe-inspiring views and engaging stories.

Two features I especially appreciate are the inclusion of Bruarfoss Waterfall, often considered one of Iceland’s hidden treasures, and the vivid colors of Kerid Crater, which is not always part of the standard Golden Circle route. These stops feel like discovering secret pockets of natural beauty, well worth the extra effort to see. The tour also highlights the informative guides, such as Svenson, Elias, and Heidi, who receive high praise for their friendliness and deep knowledge.

One possible consideration is the timing of each stop—with only about 20-45 minutes at each site, you might find yourself wishing for a bit more time to explore or take photos. Plus, since food and drinks are not included, bringing snacks or planning a meal on your own is advised to keep energy levels high. Despite that, the overall value for seeing such a diverse range of sights in one day makes this tour a solid choice for travelers who want a hassle-free, immersive Iceland experience.

Key points / Takeaways

• Includes both famous and lesser-known sights, offering a more complete Icelandic experience
• Expert guides like Svenson, Heidi, and Elias are praised for their storytelling, knowledge, and personable approach
• Comfortable transportation and amenities like WiFi and Icelandic music make the long day more enjoyable
• The tour’s timing at each stop provides enough time for photos and quick explorations, but some may wish for slightly longer
• Value for money is high considering the diverse attractions and guided insight included in the price
• Unique stops like Bruarfoss and Kerid make this tour stand out from standard Golden Circle trips

Discovering Iceland’s Golden Highlights

The Golden Circle is a staple for visitors to Iceland, and for a good reason. This tour hits all the well-known icons, but it also dares to go beyond the usual, adding Bruarfoss Waterfall and Kerid Crater to the itinerary. These lesser-visited spots are some of the most striking in their own right—Bruarfoss’s sapphire-blue waters and Kerid’s vivid red volcanic walls make for unforgettable photos. If you’re someone who loves discovering hidden gems, this trip will satisfy that curiosity.

The Perfect Blend of Famous and Hidden Sights

What sets this tour apart is its ability to balance the iconic and the obscure. The Geysir geothermal area, home of the lively Strokkur geyser, is a must-see, and the Gullfoss waterfall truly earns its nickname as the “Golden Waterfalls” because of its majestic power and sweeping views. But the tour’s real treasures are the less crowded stops — Bruarfoss, with its silky waters and mesmerizing hue, offers a peaceful, almost magical experience, and Kerid Crater’s vibrant colors deepen the visual palette of your day.

The Benefits of a Guided Experience

Many reviews highlight the knowledge and enthusiasm of the guides. Svenson, Heidi, and Elias seem to go above and beyond, sharing fun facts, local insights, and cultural tidbits that make each stop more meaningful. One reviewer noted Elias’s impressive command of English and his ability to weave stories about Icelandic words, culture, and geological features. That kind of storytelling turns a sightseeing trip into a mini-lesson about Iceland’s natural history, which I find enhances the overall experience.

Logistics and Comfort

The tour uses a comfortable minibus with WiFi and Icelandic music, making long stretches between sites more pleasant. Pickup is included, starting early around 9:00 AM, and the entire day is well-paced, with enough time at each stop to take photos, stretch your legs, and soak in the scenery. While some reviews mention feeling rushed at certain sites, the 20-45 minute window usually offers a good balance between sightseeing and travel.

Price and Value

At just over $100, this experience provides excellent value considering the number of sights visited and the guided expertise. Entrance fees for Bruarfoss and Kerid are included, so there’s no surprise additional cost for these highlights. Keep in mind, food and drinks are not included, so packing snacks or planning to buy at stops is a smart move.

Why This Tour is a Smart Choice

This tour suits travelers eager to see a wide range of Iceland’s natural beauty without the hassle of organizing transportation or individual site tickets. It’s particularly good for those who appreciate guides with local knowledge and want a balanced day of sightseeing—covering major waterfalls, geysers, and volcanic craters. If you’re traveling with family or in a group, the small group size and friendly guides also make for a more intimate experience.

However, if you’re a photography enthusiast wanting hours at a single site or someone with mobility issues, the limited time at each spot might be frustrating. Also, those seeking a culinary experience should note that food isn’t included, but the tour’s focus on scenery and storytelling makes up for that.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a driver/guide, fees for Bruarfoss and Kerid, WiFi, and Icelandic music onboard.

How long is the tour?
It lasts around 9 hours, with a typical starting time around 9:00 AM.

Do I need to bring anything?
Since food and drinks are not included, bringing snacks is recommended. If rain is expected, consider renting waterproof clothing, although it’s available on-site.

Are the sites accessible for all?
Most stops are walkable and suitable for average mobility, but with only about 20 minutes at some sites, it might be rushed for those needing more time.

Can I customize the experience?
The tour is guided with a set itinerary, but guides often adapt slightly based on weather and group needs.

What’s the best time to take this tour?
Check the availability since starting times vary, but full-day tours typically run from spring through fall.

Is this a good value for the cost?
Yes, considering the inclusions, guided insights, and multiple stunning sites visited in one day.

What should I know about Bruarfoss?
It’s a less crowded, sapphire-blue waterfall that often surprises visitors with its vibrant color—definitely worth the quick stop.

Will I get enough time at each site?
Most reviews say yes; 20-45 minutes allows for photos and brief walks, though some wish for more time at certain stops.

In short, this Golden Circle tour from Reykjavík offers a well-curated mix of Iceland’s highlights and secret gems, guided by engaging storytellers. It’s perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive day of sightseeing with ease and expert insight. Just pack some snacks, and don’t forget your camera—each stop promises a picture-worthy moment.