Golden Circle and Kerid Crater Tour With Geothermal Lagoon Visit

Discover the wonders of Iceland’s Golden Circle with the perfect day tour from Reykjavik. Explore the striking landscapes of Thingvellir National Park, witness the iconic Strokkur geyser, and stand in awe of the magnificent Gullfoss Waterfall. Then, dive into the vibrant Kerid Crater before unwinding in a geothermal lagoon. This comprehensive tour offers an immersive experience of Iceland’s natural marvels, leaving you with unforgettable memories. The only question is, which lagoon will you choose?

Key Points

• This full-day tour from Reykjavik visits the iconic Golden Circle sites, including Thingvellir National Park, Geysir, and Gullfoss Waterfall.
• The tour also includes a stop at the Kerid Crater, a 3,000-year-old volcanic crater with a striking blue-green lake.
• After the Golden Circle exploration, the tour offers a choice between visiting the famous Blue Lagoon or the Hvammsvík Hot Spring for a relaxing soak.
• Knowledgeable guides provide insights into the history, geology, and natural wonders of the sites visited throughout the tour.
• The tour has a maximum group size of 19 and a high traveler recommendation rate, ensuring an intimate and immersive experience of Iceland’s landscapes.

Tour Overview

This full-day tour departs from Reykjavik, allowing visitors to explore some of Iceland’s most popular natural attractions.

The itinerary includes stops at the UNESCO-listed Thingvellir National Park, the geothermal wonderland of Geysir, the magnificent Gullfoss Waterfall, and the unique Kerid Crater.

The tour culminates with a relaxing soak in the geothermal waters of either the renowned Blue Lagoon or the less crowded Hvammsvík Hot Spring.

With a 97% traveler recommendation rate and a maximum group size of 19, this well-organized tour offers an intimate and immersive experience of Iceland’s stunning natural landscapes.

Thingvellir National Park

Thingvellir National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the mid-Atlantic ridge, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are slowly drifting apart.

Visitors can witness the dramatic rifts and faults caused by this geological movement. The park also holds great historical significance as the site of Iceland’s parliament, Althingi, which was established in 930 AD.

Travelers can explore the walking trails, admire the picturesque landscape, and learn about the country’s rich history and geology from the knowledgeable tour guide.

Thingvellir is an essential stop on the Golden Circle tour.

Geysir Geothermal Area

After visiting the dramatic landscape of Thingvellir National Park, the tour continues to the Geysir geothermal area, home to a variety of bubbling ponds and steam vents.

Guests can witness the famous Strokkur geyser, which erupts up to 98 feet (30 meters) every 5-10 minutes, providing a thrilling display.

The area boasts a rich history and unique geology, with the guide sharing insights into the formation and significance of these geothermal features.

Visitors can explore the steaming fumaroles and colorful hot springs, experiencing the raw power of Iceland’s volcanic landscape.

Gullfoss Waterfall

Leaving the Geysir geothermal area, the tour continues to the majestic Gullfoss Waterfall. This 105-foot (32-meter) cascade is a stunning sight to behold. Witness the powerful flow of water as it plunges into a rugged canyon. Observe the waterfall from multiple viewpoints, each offering a unique perspective.

Gullfoss Facts
Height	105 feet (32 meters)
Average Flow	36,000 liters per second
Formed	10,000 years ago
Meaning	"Golden Falls"

The roar of the falling water and the mist that rises up create an awe-inspiring experience. This natural wonder is a highlight of the Golden Circle tour.

Kerid Crater

The final stop on the tour is the Kerid Crater, a 3,000-year-old volcanic crater that stands out with its striking red-and-green hues.

Visitors can:

• Descend 180 feet (55 meters) into the crater’s vivid blue-green lake.
• Hike around the rim for panoramic views of the unique geological formation.
• Witness the contrast between the crater’s scarlet slopes and the lush, mossy walls.
• Snap photos of this natural wonder and learn about its volcanic origins from the knowledgeable guide.

With its captivating colors and dramatic landscape, the Kerid Crater provides a memorable finale to the Golden Circle tour.

Geothermal Lagoon Options

Where does the tour end? The tour culminates with a relaxing soak in geothermal waters.

Guests can choose between the famous Blue Lagoon or the lesser-known Hvammsvík Hot Spring. Both options provide a chance to unwind in mineral-rich, toasty waters.

The Blue Lagoon is a large, milky-blue lagoon surrounded by a lava field. Hvammsvík Hot Spring offers a smaller, more intimate setting.

Regardless of the choice, these natural hot springs are an ideal way to cap off a day of exploring Iceland’s stunning landscapes. Admission to these geothermal lagoons requires additional fees.

Tour Logistics

Round-trip transit from Reykjavik hotels is provided, with free pickup and drop-off services.

The tour operates in all weather conditions, so proper attire is essential. The group size is limited to a maximum of 19 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

A meeting point is available at the Nicetravel office for those not using hotel pickup.

• Free Wi-Fi on the bus
• Comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle for transportation
• Feedback indicates a well-organized itinerary with sufficient time allocated at each stop
• Professional guide provides insights on Iceland’s history, geology, and culture

Customer Feedback

What do the reviews highlight about this tour? Overwhelmingly positive feedback underscores the knowledgeable and friendly tour guides, the enjoyable pace, and the stunning natural sights.

Travelers praise the well-organized itinerary, allowing them to make the most of each stop. Many highlight the comfort of the air-conditioned transportation and the convenience of free Wi-Fi on the bus.

While some recommend avoiding the busy pickup locations, the overall consensus is that this tour provides an exceptional experience. Guests frequently recommend ensuring phone readiness to stay connected with the guide and tour group for a seamless experience.

Ask Away

Can I Bring My Own Food on the Tour?

Passengers can bring their own food on the tour. However, there are stops along the way where snacks and meals can be purchased. The tour guide can provide recommendations for the best places to buy food during the tour.

Are Pets Allowed on the Tour Bus?

Pets are not allowed on the tour bus. The tour is designed for a more comfortable and enjoyable experience for all passengers, so only service animals are permitted. Participants are advised to make alternative arrangements for their pets during the tour.

Is There a Discount for Senior Citizens?

The tour does not offer a specific senior citizen discount. However, the maximum group size of 19 travelers ensures a more intimate experience for all participants, including seniors. Guests are advised to inquire about any available discounts or special accommodations when booking the tour.

Can I Cancel My Tour Booking Free of Charge?

The tour company generally allows free cancellations up to 24 hours before the tour start time. However, it’s best to check the specific cancellation policy when booking, as policies may vary. Refunds or rescheduling are typically available for last-minute cancellations.

How Much Spending Money Should I Bring for the Day?

The amount of spending money needed depends on your personal preferences. The tour itself is covered, but you may want to budget for optional extras like lunch, snacks, or entrance fees at the geothermal lagoon, which have additional costs.

Final Words

This tour offers an unforgettable exploration of Iceland’s natural wonders. From the UNESCO-listed Thingvellir National Park to the iconic Gullfoss Waterfall, it showcases the country’s geological marvels. The option to visit either the renowned Blue Lagoon or the serene Hvammsvík Hot Spring adds a relaxing element to the day, making it a well-rounded experience for travelers seeking to enjoy Iceland’s breathtaking landscapes.