Reykjavik: Golden Circle, Kerid Crater, & Blue Lagoon Tour

Iceland’s natural wonders are a sight to behold, and the Reykjavik: Golden Circle, Kerid Crater, & Blue Lagoon Tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore these breathtaking landscapes. From the dramatic meeting of tectonic plates at Thingvellir National Park to the mesmerizing Strokkur geyser and the majestic Gullfoss waterfall, this tour promises a day filled with awe-inspiring natural beauty. But the journey doesn’t end there, as visitors will have the chance to marvel at the vibrant Kerid volcanic crater and indulge in the soothing waters of the renowned Blue Lagoon. With comfortable transportation and knowledgeable guides, this tour provides a comprehensive and unforgettable experience that will leave you wanting more.

Key Points

An 11-hour guided tour from Reykjavik showcasing Iceland’s natural wonders, including the Golden Circle, Kerid Crater, and the famous Blue Lagoon.
Explore the dramatic Thingvellir National Park, witness the eruption of the Strokkur geyser, and marvel at the Gullfoss waterfall.
Visit the captivating Kerid volcanic crater and enjoy the soothing geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon.
Flexible pickup and drop-off options to accommodate guests, with transportation provided throughout the tour.
Warm and waterproof clothing recommended, and guests should bring a swimsuit for the Blue Lagoon experience.

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Tour Overview

This 11-hour tour showcases the natural wonders and iconic sites of Iceland’s Golden Circle and the renowned Blue Lagoon.

You’ll explore Thingvellir National Park, where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates meet, witness the eruption of the Strokkur geyser, and marvel at the powerful Gullfoss waterfall.

The tour also takes you to the serene Kerid volcanic crater before relaxing in the geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon.

Throughout the journey, you’ll be accompanied by an English-speaking guide who’ll provide insights and commentary.

With comfortable transportation and admission to all the key sites, this comprehensive tour is the perfect way to experience the highlights of southwestern Iceland.

Pickup and Drop-off

Where the tour begins and ends is a key part of this experience. Pickup and drop-off services are available from hotels within Reykjavik, with the option to meet at the tour operator’s office if preferred.

To ensure a smooth start, pickup typically commences around 30 minutes before the tour’s scheduled departure time. However, in some areas, buses may not be allowed, so pickup may be from the nearest bus stop instead.

This flexibility allows the tour to accommodate guests’ needs and ensure everyone arrives at the starting point on time. Whether you choose hotel pickup or the tour operator’s office, this convenient transportation makes it easy to join the Golden Circle, Kerid Crater, and Blue Lagoon adventure.

Thingvellir National Park

Thingvellir National Park is the first stop on this captivating tour, where travelers can explore the unique geology and history of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Situated along the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, the park showcases the dramatic meeting of the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates, creating an awe-inspiring landscape of fissures, rifts, and lava fields.

As visitors wander through the park, they’ll discover:

The Almannagja fault, a massive rift valley separating the two continental plates
The Silfra fissure, where the crystal-clear waters of a glacial river flow between the plates
The remnants of Thingvellir’s historic parliament, one of the oldest democratic assemblies in the world

Breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and lake make it a truly unforgettable destination.

Geysir Hot Spring

Next, the tour ventures to the Geysir Hot Spring, home to the iconic Strokkur geyser. Erupting every 5-10 minutes, Strokkur dramatically shoots boiling water up to 100 feet into the air, captivating visitors with its powerful, natural display. The Geysir area showcases an array of other smaller hot springs and fumaroles, reminders of the region’s intense geothermal activity. Visitors can wander the boardwalks, snap photos, and marvel at this geologic wonder. To better understand the dynamic nature of the Geysir Hot Spring, consider the following table:

Metric	Value
Eruption Frequency	Every 5-10 minutes
Max Eruption Height	100 feet
Water Temperature	Boiling (212°F/100°C)
Geothermal Activity	Intense
Visitor Capacity	Hundreds at a time

Gullfoss Waterfall

From the Geysir Hot Spring, the tour continues on to the majestic Gullfoss Waterfall, where visitors are captivated by the sheer power and beauty of this natural wonder.

Cascading over two tiers, the waterfall plunges an impressive 105 feet into a deep canyon, creating a mesmerizing display of thunderous water and mist. Visitors can observe the waterfall from several viewpoints, each offering a unique perspective.

Some key features of Gullfoss include:

Dual-tiered structure: The waterfall features two distinct drops, creating a dramatic visual effect.
Sheer height: The total drop from top to bottom is an astounding 105 feet.
Roaring sound: The powerful flow of water generates a thunderous roar that fills the air.
Surrounding scenery: The waterfall is set amidst a breathtaking landscape of rugged cliffs and glacial rivers.

Kerid Volcanic Crater

A striking, crimson-hued caldera awaits visitors at the Kerid Volcanic Crater, a unique geological feature along the Golden Circle route.

This 3,000-year-old, bowl-shaped crater measures approximately 180 feet deep, 560 feet wide, and is surrounded by vibrant red rock walls that contrast dramatically with the aquamarine waters pooling at the bottom.

Descending into the crater provides a surreal, otherworldly experience, allowing visitors to appreciate the dramatic volcanic landscape up close.

The vivid colors and picturesque setting make Kerid Crater a popular stop, where guests can explore the rim, admire the views, and even take a refreshing dip in the geothermal waters, weather permitting.

This hidden gem is a fascinating addition to the Golden Circle adventure.

Blue Lagoon Experience

The Blue Lagoon, a renowned geothermal spa nestled in the volcanic landscape of Iceland, beckons visitors to enjoy its soothing, milky-blue waters.

After a day exploring the wonders of the Golden Circle, travelers can indulge in this unique experience, slathering their skin with the lagoon’s mineral-rich silica mud and relaxing as the warm waters soothe their muscles.

The Blue Lagoon offers:

A chance to unwind and rejuvenate in the otherworldly setting
Access to a range of amenities, including a restaurant, bar, and spa
The opportunity to absorb the lagoon’s health benefits, such as improved skin condition
An unforgettable photo op against the stunning backdrop of the Icelandic countryside.

Important Considerations

While the Blue Lagoon is a must-visit highlight, there are some important considerations travelers should keep in mind when planning their Iceland adventure.

First and foremost, the weather in Iceland can be unpredictable, so it’s crucial to pack warm, waterproof clothing and proper footwear.

Plus, visitors should bring a swimsuit, as time is allotted to enjoy the soothing geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon.

It’s worth noting that food and drinks aren’t included in the tour, but can be purchased on-site.

Finally, plan to spend around two hours at the Blue Lagoon, allowing ample time to fully immerse in the rejuvenating experience.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Book the Tour for a Different Day if the Weather Is Bad?

Yes, the tour operator generally allows customers to reschedule for a different day if the weather is poor on the originally booked date. This ensures travelers can enjoy the sights under ideal conditions.

Is There a Discount for Children or Seniors?

The tour operator offers discounted rates for children under 12 and seniors over 65. Families and older travelers can enjoy significant savings when booking this comprehensive 11-hour tour of Iceland’s top attractions.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks to the Blue Lagoon?

Guests are generally not allowed to bring their own food and drinks to the Blue Lagoon. However, there are several restaurants and cafes on-site where visitors can purchase refreshments to enjoy during their relaxing soak in the geothermal waters.

Is There Wi-Fi Available During the Tour?

There’s no mention of Wi-Fi availability during the tour in the provided information. Travelers should check with the tour operator for any updates on connectivity options while exploring Iceland’s natural wonders on this excursion.

Can I Leave the Tour Early at One of the Stops?

Yes, participants can typically leave the tour early at one of the stops if needed. However, the tour operator should be notified in advance, and guests may not receive a refund for the unused portion of the tour.

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