Set out on a captivating journey through Iceland’s renowned Golden Circle with this comprehensive day trip from Reykjavik. Witness the awe-inspiring Gullfoss waterfall, explore the Geysir geothermal area, and explore the historical significance of Thingvellir National Park. But the adventure doesn’t stop there – discover the innovative use of natural resources at a geothermal greenhouse, meet the friendly Icelandic horses, and indulge in the rejuvenating waters of the Sky Lagoon. This immersive experience promises to unveil the extraordinary geological features and unique way of life that make Iceland such a captivating destination.
Key Points
- This guided day trip from Reykjavik explores Iceland’s renowned Golden Circle, including Thingvellir National Park, Geysir, and Gullfoss waterfall.
- The tour offers a rejuvenating visit to the Sky Lagoon, a 7-step ritual for body and mind with stunning ocean views.
- Participants can enjoy a tour of the Fridheimar geothermally-heated greenhouse, taste locally-grown tomatoes, and witness a live horse show.
- The Kerid Crater, an ancient volcanic caldera, provides a dramatic photo opportunity with its red-hued walls and serene blue-green lake.
- The tour duration is approximately 10.5-11 hours and includes pickup from downtown Reykjavik, free WiFi, and a delicious lunch.
Tour Overview
This guided day trip from Reykjavik provides an opportunity to explore Iceland’s renowned Golden Circle and rejuvenate at the captivating Sky Lagoon.
Over the course of 10.5-11 hours, you’ll embark on a journey through the country’s stunning natural wonders.
Begin with a photo stop at the Kerid Crater, an ancient volcanic caldera.
Next, visit Fridheimar, a geothermally-heated greenhouse and horse farm, where you’ll enjoy a tour, taste locally-grown tomatoes, and witness a live horse show.
Venture to the iconic Geysir hot spring and the majestic Gullfoss waterfall before exploring the historical and geological significance of Thingvellir National Park.
The highlight of the day will be your 2-hour soak in the rejuvenating waters of the Sky Lagoon.
Itinerary Highlights
Let’s start with the Kerid Crater – a stunning volcanic caldera that formed over 1,000 years ago after a powerful eruption. Visitors can marvel at its vibrant red and green colors during a 25-minute photo stop.
Next, the tour heads to Fridheimar, a geothermally heated greenhouse and horse farm. Here, guests can enjoy a tasting of the farm’s delicious tomatoes, watch a horse show, and tour the greenhouse.
The Geysir hot spring area is another highlight, where travelers can witness the original geyser that gave all others their name.
Finally, the tour culminates at the stunning Gullfoss waterfall, where guests can admire the powerful cascading waters.
These awe-inspiring natural wonders showcase Iceland’s extraordinary geological features.
Thingvellir National Park
After exploring the otherworldly landscapes of the Kerid Crater and Fridheimar, the tour next ventures to Thingvellir National Park, a site of profound historical and geographical significance. Situated in a rift valley formed by the separation of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, Thingvellir serves as the symbolic heart of Iceland, having hosted the Althingi, the world’s oldest surviving parliament, since its hotel in 930 AD.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Geological Importance | Thingvellir lies along the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the North American and Eurasian plates are slowly drifting apart, creating a stunning landscape of fissures, rifts, and lava fields. |
| Cultural Significance | The Althingi parliament, founded at Thingvellir in 930 AD, is the oldest continuous parliamentary institution in the world, making it a crucial site for Iceland’s political and social history. |
| Outdoor Activities | Visitors can explore the park’s hiking trails, scuba dive in the crystal-clear waters of the Silfra fissure, and marvel at the picturesque Oxararfoss waterfall. |
Geysir and Geyser
The Geysir hot spring area, located along the Golden Circle route, is home to the original geyser from which all others derive their name.
Geysir, the majestic central feature of this geothermal wonderland, can shoot steaming water up to 230 feet into the air when it erupts, drawing awestruck visitors from around the world.
Alongside Geysir, the area boasts numerous other hot springs and smaller geysers, each with its own unique character and eruption patterns.
Visitors can observe the dramatic displays, learn about the geological processes that power them, and even witness the famous Strokkur geyser erupt every 5-10 minutes, providing an unforgettable glimpse into Iceland’s dynamic volcanic landscape.
Kerid Crater Formation
Kerid Crater’s dramatic formation dates back over 1,000 years, the result of an enormous volcanic eruption that left behind a striking caldera now filled with vibrant blue-green waters. This natural wonder is a must-see on any Golden Circle tour.
The crater’s steep, red-hued walls create a stunning contrast with the serene lake below, inviting visitors to stroll around the rim for breathtaking views. Geologists believe the eruption that formed Kerid was a particularly violent event, producing a massive explosion that blew out the volcano’s interior and leaving behind this remarkable geological feature.
The crater is approximately 55 meters (180 feet) deep, 170 meters (560 feet) wide, and 270 meters (885 feet) in diameter.
Kerid is part of the Grímsnes volcanic field, a collection of volcanic craters and calderas.
The lake within the crater is approximately 7-14 meters (23-46 feet) deep.
Visitors can walk around the rim of the crater or descend to the lake’s edge for a closer look.
Fridheimar Greenhouse and Farm
A visit to the Fridheimar greenhouse and horse farm provides an immersive experience into Iceland’s unique geothermal energy and agriculture.
Situated within the Golden Circle, this family-owned operation showcases how the island’s abundant geothermal resources enable year-round tomato cultivation and horse breeding in the country’s subarctic climate.
Guests are treated to a greenhouse tour, where they learn about the geothermal heating system that allows for the thriving tomato plants. They also enjoy a delicious lunch featuring Fridheimar’s signature tomato products and witness an entertaining horse show highlighting the farm’s well-cared-for Icelandic horses.
This stop offers a fascinating glimpse into the innovative ways Icelanders leverage their natural resources to sustain their unique way of life.
Sky Lagoon Experience
After exploring the historical and geological wonders of the Golden Circle, visitors can enjoy the rejuvenating experience of the Sky Lagoon.
Situated just a short drive from Reykjavik, this geothermal spa offers a unique 7-step ritual designed to renew and replenish both body and mind.
The ritual includes:
- A refreshing plunge into the steaming lagoon’s mineral-rich waters
- A cleansing scrub using volcanic salts and algae
- A serene sauna session to detoxify
- A revitalizing cold pool dip to stimulate the senses
With its stunning views of the ocean and the dramatic Icelandic landscape, the Sky Lagoon provides the perfect end to a day of adventure and discovery in Iceland.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The tour package includes a pickup from selected locations in downtown Reykjavik, free WiFi, entrance to the Kerid Crater, a tomato tasting and horse show at Fridheimar, a greenhouse tour, Sky Lagoon Pure Pass tickets, and a delicious lunch. However, the tour doesn’t include gratuities, and it’s not suitable for children under 12 years old.
| Inclusions | Exclusions |
|---|---|
| Pickup from downtown Reykjavik | Gratuities |
| Free WiFi | Not suitable for children under 12 |
| Kerid Crater entrance | – |
The tour’s comprehensive inclusions ensure a seamless and enriching experience, while the exclusions help set proper expectations for participants. With these details in mind, travelers can better prepare for their unforgettable journey exploring Iceland’s natural wonders.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks to the Tour?
No, bringing your own food and drinks is not allowed on this tour. Lunch at Fridheimar greenhouse is included, and you can purchase additional snacks and beverages during the stops. The tour provides a full-service experience without needing to bring your own items.
Is There a Dress Code for the Sky Lagoon Experience?
There is no formal dress code for the Sky Lagoon experience, though visitors should wear swimwear and bring a towel. Guests are encouraged to wear comfortable, casual clothing that can get wet. Bathing suits, robes, and slippers are provided.
Can I Visit Other Attractions on My Own During the Tour?
Guests can visit other attractions on their own during the tour, but the schedule is predetermined and focused on the key sites. Travelers have free time at each location to explore independently before rejoining the group.
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Sky Lagoon?
The Sky Lagoon has a minimum age requirement of 12 years old. Children under 12 are not permitted to enter the lagoon for safety and operational reasons. All guests must be at least 12 years of age to participate in the Sky Lagoon experience.
Can I Leave the Tour Group at Any Point During the Day?
Participants can generally leave the tour group at any point during the day, though it’s recommended to inform the guide beforehand. However, leaving the group may mean missing out on included activities or transportation back to Reykjavik.
Recap
This comprehensive day trip from Reykjavik provides an immersive exploration of Iceland’s renowned Golden Circle.
Guests will discover the country’s extraordinary geological features, innovative use of natural resources, and unique way of life.
From the dramatic Kerid Crater to the rejuvenating Sky Lagoon, this tour offers a captivating blend of natural wonders and cultural insights, leaving visitors with a deeper appreciation for Iceland’s remarkable landscape and people.
