Iceland Stopover: The Golden Circle Tour

Iceland’s Golden Circle tour is a must for any traveler seeking to enjoy the country’s stunning natural wonders. From the tectonic plates of Þingvellir to the awe-inspiring Gullfoss waterfall, this 8-hour journey promises an unforgettable experience. With convenient transportation and a knowledgeable guide, the tour offers an effortless way to explore Iceland’s rich history and dramatic landscapes. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned adventurer, the Golden Circle tour is sure to leave you captivated and eager to discover more.

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Key Points

An 8-hour guided tour exploring Iceland’s renowned natural wonders, including Þingvellir National Park, Strokkur geyser, and Gullfoss waterfall.
Priced from $126.16 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, with pickup and drop-off from central Reykjavík locations.
Highlights include experiencing the unique geography of the Þingvellir National Park, witnessing the dramatic eruptions of the Strokkur geyser, and admiring the Gullfoss waterfall.
The tour provides an opportunity to learn about Iceland’s history and geology from a live English and Swedish-speaking guide.
Itineraries are subject to change, but typically include approximately 1 hour at each major location and 2 hours of scenic driving.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Iceland Stopover: The Golden Circle Tour is a popular sightseeing excursion that takes visitors on an 8-hour journey to explore some of Iceland’s most iconic natural wonders.

Priced from $126.16 per person, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Highlights include visiting Þingvellir National Park, witnessing the erupting Strokkur geyser, and admiring the majestic Gullfoss waterfall.

Pickup and drop-off are provided from 40 locations in central Reykjavík, and a live English and Swedish-speaking guide accompanies the group.

The tour isn’t recommended for children under 2 years old, and itineraries may be subject to change.

Looking for more options in Southern Region Iceland? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Itinerary Highlights

Visitors to the Golden Circle Tour in Iceland will first explore Þingvellir National Park, a site of immense historical significance. Here, they will walk between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, which slowly drift apart, and learn about the founding of Iceland’s parliament in 930 AD. Next, they’ll marvel at the Geysir Geothermal Area, where the famous Strokkur geyser erupts every five minutes. Finally, they’ll admire the iconic Gullfoss Waterfall, its golden hue cascading 32 meters down the Hvitá river.

| Itinerary Highlights | Duration |

|——————–|———-|

| Þingvellir National Park | 1 hour |

| Geysir Geothermal Area | 1.5 hours |

| Gullfoss Waterfall | 1 hour |

| Scenic Drives | 2 hours |

Þingvellir National Park

Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, holds immense historical significance for Iceland.

It’s here that the country’s parliament, the Alþingi, was founded in 930 AD, making it one of the oldest continuously running parliamentary institutions in the world.

Visitors can walk along paths that run between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, a truly unique experience.

The park’s diverse landscapes, including mountainous terrain, glacial rivers, and lush vegetation, offer breathtaking scenery.

Spending an hour exploring Þingvellir’s rich history and natural wonders is an essential part of the Golden Circle tour.

Geysir Geothermal Area

After exploring the historical significance of Þingvellir National Park, the Golden Circle tour takes visitors to the Geysir Geothermal Area, where they can witness the mesmerizing eruptions of the famous Strokkur geyser.

This active hot spring erupts every 5 to 10 minutes, shooting a column of boiling water up to 40 meters high. Visitors can also observe other smaller hot springs bubbling and steaming in the surroundings.

The area provides a fascinating glimpse into the powerful geothermal forces that shape Iceland’s unique landscape.

The key highlights of the Geysir Geothermal Area include:

Witnessing the dramatic eruptions of Strokkur geyser.
Observing the various smaller hot springs and bubbling mud pots.
Learning about the geothermal activity that drives this dynamic natural wonder.

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Gullfoss Waterfall

The Golden Circle tour continues onwards to the iconic Gullfoss Waterfall, one of Iceland’s most renowned natural wonders.

Plunging 32 meters over two tiers, the golden-hued waterfall cascades powerfully through the Hvitá river. Visitors can walk to the edge of the falls and peer down at the thundering torrent.

On a sunny day, rainbows often appear in the mist, adding to the waterfall’s majestic beauty. Guests have an hour to explore Gullfoss and snap photos from various viewpoints.

The dramatic landscape leaves a lasting impression and is a highlight of the Golden Circle sightseeing experience.

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Scenic Drives

While the tour moves between the renowned sites of the Golden Circle, visitors can enjoy the scenic drives that connect them. The routes showcase Iceland’s breathtaking landscapes, from rolling hills and lush meadows to dramatic rock formations and distant snow-capped peaks.

Passengers can:

Gaze out the window at the expansive, ever-changing vistas that unfold before them.
Snap photos of the captivating scenery, capturing the essence of Iceland’s natural beauty.
Relax and take in the tranquility of the Icelandic countryside during the transitions between destinations.

These scenic drives offer a visual treat that complements the iconic stops along the Golden Circle tour.

Pickup and Drop-off Information

Pickup and drop-off locations are provided throughout central Reykjavík, with over 40 designated stops available. This ensures convenient access for travelers to join and exit the tour.

While not all hotels have direct pickup, the guide can advise the nearest bus stop to meet at. At the end of the tour, drop-off is offered at the same 40 locations, including major hotels and bus stops.

This flexibility allows participants to easily continue their journey after the tour. With comprehensive pickup and drop-off options, the Golden Circle tour provides a seamless experience for visitors exploring Iceland’s stunning sights.

Tour Features and Important Notes

A live tour guide is available throughout the Golden Circle tour, providing commentary in both English and Swedish. The tour is guided by friendly and professional staff, ensuring an engaging and informative experience.

Additionally:

Warm clothing is recommended, as the tour takes place in Iceland’s variable climate.
The tour isn’t suitable for children under 2 years of age.
While the itinerary is typically followed, it’s subject to change based on unforeseen circumstances.

Ultimately, this comprehensive tour offers an immersive glimpse into Iceland’s geological wonders and cultural heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t specify a maximum group size. However, it’s a guided tour, so the group size is likely small enough to provide a personalized experience for participants. The tour operator likely limits the group size for comfort and manageability.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

The tour provider doesn’t offer any student or senior discounts. The price is a flat rate of $126.16 per person, regardless of age or student status. Group size details aren’t specified, but the tour is available for booking.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Passengers can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour provider encourages bringing snacks and water to stay hydrated during the day. However, they don’t provide any on-site catering services.

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The tour is not explicitly stated as wheelchair accessible. However, the stops at Þingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss Waterfall generally have accessible paths, though some uneven terrain may be present. It’s best to check with the tour provider for specific accessibility details.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Camera Equipment?

You don’t need to bring your own camera equipment. The tour allows you to capture the sights along the way with your own camera or phone. The scenery is quite photogenic, so you’ll want to have a way to document your experience.

The Sum Up

The Iceland Stopover: The Golden Circle Tour is an excellent way to take in Iceland’s natural wonders. With its diverse itinerary, knowledgeable guides, and convenient transportation, this tour offers an unforgettable experience for those seeking to explore the country’s stunning landscapes, from the tectonic plates of Þingvellir to the majestic Gullfoss waterfall. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this tour is sure to leave a lasting impression.

You can check availability for your dates here: