From Reykjavik: Full Day Whale Watching & Golden Circle Tour

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Iceland with this full-day tour from Reykjavik. Set out on a thrilling whale watching adventure in Faxaflói Bay, followed by an exploration of the iconic Golden Circle. This 11.5-hour excursion promises an unforgettable journey, with the chance to witness majestic whales and explore natural wonders like Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss Waterfall, and the geothermal marvels of Geysir. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, this tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to learn about the stunning landscapes and captivating wildlife of Iceland.

Key Points

• This full-day tour from Reykjavik combines a 3-hour whale watching boat tour with the popular Golden Circle route, including visits to Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss, and Geysir.
• The tour has a 97% success rate for whale sightings, and a free repeat tour is offered if no whales are seen.
• Transportation is provided with 20 different pickup locations, and warm coveralls are supplied for the whale watching portion.
• The tour offers opportunities to spot diverse marine life, including dolphins, seals, and various whale species, as well as breathtaking natural wonders.
• The tour has an overall rating of 4.4 out of 5, with guests praising the knowledgeable guides and engaging experiences during both the whale watching and Golden Circle portions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The full-day Whale Watching & Golden Circle Tour from Reykjavik is priced from $205.55 per person and offers an 11.5-hour experience.

Customers can reserve now and pay later for flexibility. The tour includes a 3-hour whale watching boat tour in Faxaflói Bay with a 97% success rate for sightings, and a Golden Circle bus tour to visit Thingvellir National Park, Geysir, and Gullfoss Waterfall.

Warm coveralls are provided for the whale watching portion. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Itinerary and Highlights

The morning portion of the tour features a 3-hour Whale Watching Boat Tour in Faxaflói Bay.

The morning portion of the tour features a 3-hour Whale Watching Boat Tour in Faxaflói Bay.

This excursion boasts a 97% success rate for whale sightings, with the tour operator offering a free repeat tour if no whales are seen.

During the boat tour, visitors may spot dolphins, seals, and various whale species, taking in the rich marine life of the Reykjavík bay.

In the afternoon, the tour transitions to the iconic Golden Circle route.

Highlights include a visit to Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as witnessing the powerful Gullfoss Waterfall and the ever-erupting Geysir.

Transportation and Pickup Details

Pickup starts at 08:15 for the Whale Watching portion and 12:00 for the Golden Circle tour, with 20 different pickup locations available, including the Grand Hótel Reykjavík, Bus Stop #1 – Ráðhúsið, and others.

After the tour, guests will be dropped off at the same locations.

Warm coveralls are provided for the whale watching portion, ensuring comfort during the boat tour.

The seamless transportation and pickup process allow travelers to focus on the magnificent scenery and wildlife spotting, without the hassle of getting to and from the tour sites.

Wildlife and Scenic Views

As a highlight of the tour, the whale watching portion offers a chance to observe a variety of marine life, including dolphins, seals, and diverse whale species.

The rich marine life in Reykjavík bay is due to the abundant plankton and krill, providing ample food for these creatures.

During the bus tour, guests will be treated to scenic views and have opportunities to explore key locations on foot, such as Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area, and the powerful Gullfoss waterfall.

This tour promises breathtaking natural wonders and the possibility of exciting wildlife encounters.

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Customer Reviews and Ratings

Guests have shared overwhelmingly positive feedback on this tour, with an overall rating of 4.4 out of 5 based on 8 reviews.

Travelers praise the knowledgeable guides who provide an engaging experience. The whale watching excursion receives particular acclaim, with customers reporting sightings of various marine species.

The Golden Circle portion also earns positive reviews, highlighting the breathtaking natural scenery and historic sites visited. Reviewers range from couples to solo travelers, indicating the tour’s broad appeal.

Preparing for the Tour

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable tour experience, there are a few key considerations for guests to keep in mind when preparing for the Whale Watching & Golden Circle Tour.

Dress warmly, as the weather can be unpredictable, and bring extra layers. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for the walking portions of the tour.

Bring any necessary personal items, such as medication, snacks, and water. Arrive at the designated pickup location on time to avoid delays.

Be sure to pack any medications, snacks, and water you may need. Arrive at the meeting point on time to avoid delays.

Familiarize yourself with the itinerary to make the most of the tour. With a little preparation, guests can fully enjoy the stunning natural beauty of Iceland.

What to Expect on the Whale Watching Portion

The whale watching portion of the tour begins with a 3-hour boat excursion in Faxaflói Bay. Participants have a 97% chance of spotting whales, with the tour offering a free repeat if no sightings occur.

During the boat ride, visitors may see:

1. Dolphins playfully swimming alongside the vessel.

2. Seals basking on the rocky coastline.

3. Various whale species, including minke, humpback, and orca.

4. Abundant marine life drawn to the area’s plankton and krill-rich waters.

Warm coveralls are provided to ensure comfort during the journey.

The scenic views and chance to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat make this a truly unforgettable experience.

Exploring the Golden Circle Sights

After the exhilarating whale watching experience, the tour takes visitors on an exploration of the renowned Golden Circle.

The first stop is Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site where the American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet.

Next, the group witnesses the powerful Gullfoss Waterfall, fed by glacial rivers.

The tour then heads to the Geysir geothermal area, where the famous Geysir erupts every 5-10 minutes, putting on an impressive display.

Throughout the afternoon, travelers enjoy the scenic beauty of the Icelandic countryside and learn about the country’s rich geological and historical heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There Food and Drinks Available During the Tour?

The tour provides warm coveralls for the whale watching part, but there is no mention of food or drinks being available. Travelers may want to bring their own snacks and beverages for the 11.5-hour excursion.

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Water?

Yes, passengers are allowed to bring their own snacks and water on the tour. The tour does not provide any food or drinks, so bringing your own is recommended to stay refreshed during the long day.

What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Need to Reschedule?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. There’s also a reserve now & pay later option available, providing flexibility if the customer needs to reschedule their booking.

Are There Restroom Facilities Available During the Tour?

Yes, there are restroom facilities available during the tour. The tour includes stops at various locations like Thingvellir National Park and Gullfoss Waterfall, where travelers can use the restrooms.

Can I Purchase Souvenirs or Gifts During the Tour?

Yes, there are opportunities to purchase souvenirs and gifts during the tour. Travelers can browse local shops and markets at stops along the Golden Circle route to find Icelandic handicrafts, apparel, and other unique items.

The Sum Up

This full-day tour from Reykjavik offers an unbeatable combination of whale watching and the iconic Golden Circle. With a high probability of spotting majestic marine life and the chance to marvel at Iceland’s natural wonders, it’s an unforgettable way to experience the country’s stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking an adventure-filled day, this tour is sure to leave a lasting impression.

You can check availability for your dates here: