Reykjavik: Golden Circle, Kerid, and Fridheimar Minibus Tour

Reykjavik: Golden Circle, Kerid, and Fridheimar Minibus Tour offers travelers a chance to see some of Iceland’s most iconic natural wonders comfortably and affordably. For $118 per person, this guided nine-hour journey packs in impressive sights, from volcanic craters to powerful waterfalls, with a few special touches like tomato tastings and horse encounters. The reviews highlight that knowledgeable guides and well-paced stops make this tour stand out, but keep in mind the long day might be a bit tiring for some.

What I really like about this tour is its focus on authentic Icelandic experiences—not just the typical photo stops but also the chance to meet Icelandic horses and taste fresh produce at Friðheimar. The guides seem to make a real effort to share stories and make every stop memorable, which adds a personal touch that’s often missing in bigger group tours. Plus, the small-group vibe (via minibus) means more time for photos and less time waiting around.

A potential consideration is the timing—with nearly 9 hours packed full, you’ll want to be prepared for a long day on the road, especially if you’re not used to extensive sightseeing. Also, lunch isn’t included, so you’ll need to budget some time and money for a meal. However, the flexibility to buy local food at Friðheimar or bring your own makes this manageable.

This experience is a great value for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided look at the Golden Circle’s highlights with a few unique Icelandic touches. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate passionate guides, beautiful landscapes, and the chance to learn about local culture without feeling rushed.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Authentic Experiences: Visit a family-owned tomato farm and meet Icelandic horses, adding a personal and cultural dimension.
• Expert Guides: Multiple reviews praise guides like Siggi, Addi, and Tony for their engaging storytelling and local knowledge.
• Flexible, Small Group: The minibus allows for more intimate and efficient sightseeing, with extra stops sometimes included.
• Stunning Natural Wonders: Highlights include Gullfoss waterfall, Kerið crater, and Þingvellir, offering photo-worthy moments and geological insights.
• Value for Money: At $118, it covers transportation, entry fees, and special activities, making it good value compared to other options.
• Long but Rewarding Day: Expect about 9 hours of travel and sightseeing, with enough time at each stop for photos and brief walks.

Exploring Iceland’s Golden Circle: A Thorough Review

Introduction to the Tour

This guided tour of Iceland’s Golden Circle from Reykjavik stands out for its combination of natural beauty, cultural insights, and engaging stops. It’s curated by BusTravel Iceland and highly rated, with a 4.8 out of 5 from over 445 reviews, which says quite a lot about its consistency and appeal.

The tour visits some of the nation’s most famous spots—Gullfoss, Geysir, Thingvellir, Kerið, and a visit to Friðheimar Farm—but it’s the small details and personal touches that make it worth considering. From meeting Icelandic horses to tasting fresh tomatoes grown in heated greenhouses, this experience offers genuine moments of connection with Icelandic culture and landscape.

What You’ll Love About This Tour

One of the standout features is the expert guidance. Many reviewers, like Francesca and Shaun, mention guides like Siggi and Addi, whose passion and storytelling bring the stops to life. Siggi, in particular, seems to go above and beyond, sharing folk stories and extra info about Iceland that enrich your understanding.

Another plus is how well-paced the day is despite the long hours. You’re not just rushed from stop to stop; instead, you get enough time at each site for photos, short walks, and exploring. The inclusion of local experiences—such as the horse show and tomato tasting—adds distinctive Icelandic flavor that many larger tours lack.

A Slight Drawback to Consider

The main consideration is the length and intensity of the day. With a 9-hour schedule packed with sightseeing, you might find it tiring, especially if traveling with young children or those with limited stamina. Also, lunch isn’t included, so you’ll need to budget for your own meal at Friðheimar or elsewhere.

The Itinerary: From Reykjavik to Iceland’s Natural Wonders

The tour begins with pickup from over 20 convenient Reykjavik locations, making it easy to join without extra fuss. The first stop, Kerið crater, is a striking volcanic lake filled with milky, turquoise water and surrounded by red and black slopes. Many reviewers love this stop for its surreal, almost otherworldly landscape, perfect for photos.

Next, the group visits Friðheimar Farm. Here, you can enjoy a brief guided tour, meet Icelandic horses, and even catch a horse show. The tomato greenhouse is an unexpected highlight—fresh tomato soup and products are available for purchase, making this a tasty and memorable experience. Reviewers like Lee and Camille mention that this farm stop is a true highlight and a charming peek into Icelandic family farming.

After a quick transfer, the tour heads to Geysir, the famous bubbling hot springs where the geyser Strokkur erupts roughly every 8–10 minutes. You’ll have about 40 minutes here to watch the spectacle and walk around the geothermal area. Many find this stop engaging and scenic, with lots of photo opportunities.

The next highlight is Gullfoss, Iceland’s most iconic waterfall. With its powerful, double-tiered cascade plunging into a deep canyon, Gullfoss is often described as awe-inspiring. Reviews from Maxine and Lee emphasize how breathtaking and photogenic this site is, especially with the mist and glacial backdrop.

Finally, the tour visits Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. Many travelers, like Shaun and Monica, appreciate the geological significance and the sweeping views. The park also offers walking opportunities and a chance to learn about Iceland’s early legislative history.

Transport and Group Size: Making It Comfortable and Efficient

Traveling in a minibus makes this tour more intimate than larger coach trips, according to reviews. This small size means quicker stops, more personal interaction, and the flexibility to include additional scenic detours—sometimes even a visit to a hydroelectric power plant or a dairy farm, mentioned in some reviews.

Transport is comfortable, and pickup is straightforward, starting around the time indicated on your voucher. The buses are equipped for Icelandic weather, so waterproof shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are advisable.

Guides and Commentary: Bringing It All to Life

Several reviews highlight the guides’ enthusiasm and local knowledge. Addi, Tony, Siggi, and Josip are praised for their storytelling, humor, and ability to balance fun with facts. One reviewer notes that Addi even took photos of a traveler who had lost their phone, showing genuine care.

Guides often share folk stories, geological tidbits, and cultural insights that elevate the experience beyond just sightseeing. This personal touch helps you appreciate the landscapes and sites more deeply.

Cost-Effectiveness and Value

At $118, this tour offers excellent value considering it includes bus transportation, admission to Kerið, a Tomato tasting, and the horse show at Friðheimar. The additional stops and guided commentary add depth to what might seem like typical sightseeing.

While lunch is not included, the option to purchase local products at Friðheimar or bring your own makes it flexible. Many reviewers feel they got their money’s worth, especially with the small group size and the variety of sites.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a full, immersive day of Icelandic nature and culture without the hassle of organizing each stop. It’s ideal for first-timers and those who value expert guides and authentic experiences.

If you prefer a more relaxed pace or have young children under 8, you might find it a long day. However, most reviews indicate that the stops are well-balanced, with enough time to enjoy each site.

FAQ

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included. You can purchase food at Friðheimar Farm or bring your own. The farm offers a tomato-based menu which many find tasty and convenient.

How long is the total tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, with pickup starting at a specified time. Expect a full day with multiple scenic stops and activities.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Absolutely. Many reviews highlight guides like Siggi and Addi for their engaging storytelling, local insights, and friendly demeanor. They often go beyond basic facts, sharing folk stories and personal tips.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 8 years old, mainly because of the long duration and walking involved. For older kids, it can be a fun and educational experience.

What should I bring?
Weather-appropriate clothing and waterproof shoes are advisable. Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable, so layers and rain gear are smart choices.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making this a flexible booking option if your plans aren’t set in stone.

Final Thoughts

This Golden Circle tour offers a balanced mix of natural wonders and authentic Icelandic experiences at a reasonable price. The small-group setting and passionate guides make it a memorable way to see the highlights without feeling rushed or lost in a crowd. If you’re looking to tick off the main sights of Iceland’s famous route with some added local flavor, this tour is a smart choice.

It’s particularly well-suited for curious travelers who enjoy storytelling and cultural touches, as well as those who want to make the most of a limited timeframe. Be prepared for a full day, but rest assured that the stunning sights and personal touches will make it worth every minute.

Happy exploring, and may your Icelandic adventure be as breathtaking as the landscapes you’ll see!