Cruising into Reykjavik port? Don’t miss the chance to explore Iceland’s famed Golden Circle. This 6-8 hour shore excursion packs a punch, taking you to jaw-dropping natural wonders like the thundering Gullfoss waterfall and the volatile Geysir geothermal area. You’ll also explore the country’s rich history at Thingvellir National Park. With competitive pricing and flexible cancellation, it’s an opportunity you won’t want to overlook. Just wait until you see what else this tour has in store.
Key Points
- This 6-8 hour shore excursion departs from Reykjavik Port and covers the highlights of the Golden Circle, including Gullfoss waterfall and the Geysir geothermal area.
- Guests will have the opportunity to experience the awe-inspiring Gullfoss waterfall, one of Europe’s largest and most powerful waterfalls.
- The tour includes a visit to the Geysir geothermal area, where travelers can witness the eruption of the iconic Strokkur geyser every 5-10 minutes.
- Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site with historical and geological significance, is also included in the itinerary.
- The tour may include additional stops, such as Icelandic horses and local cultural sites, as well as a refreshment break at a café.
Tour Overview and Details
The Golden Circle Shore Excursion from Reykjavik Port provides visitors with a comprehensive exploration of some of Iceland’s most renowned natural wonders.
Priced from $184.88 per person, the 6-8 hour tour includes pickup and drop-off at the port. Guests can reserve now and pay later, and enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
This small group tour offers a personalized experience led by a live English-speaking guide. The itinerary combines visits to Gullfoss Waterfall, Geysir Geothermal Area, and Thingvellir National Park, with possible stops for Icelandic horses and local cultural sites.
Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Reykjavik
Highlights of the Golden Circle
Visiting the Golden Circle‘s renowned attractions is the highlight of this shore excursion.
Travelers will witness the mighty Gullfoss Waterfall, Europe’s largest and most powerful waterfall. They’ll also experience the Geysir Geothermal Area, home to the famous Strokkur geyser, which erupts every 5-10 minutes.
The tour then continues to Thingvellir National Park, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet, creating a stunning continental rift valley.
Possible stops include:
-
Viewing Icelandic horses
-
Exploring local cultural sites
-
Enjoying a refreshment break at a café
-
Admiring the beautiful Icelandic landscapes.
Visiting Gullfoss Waterfall
Towering over 105 feet high, Gullfoss Waterfall is a breathtaking sight that leaves visitors in awe. As part of the Golden Circle excursion, travelers will witness the immense power of the Hvítá river as it cascades down the two-tiered waterfall. The sight and sound of the rushing water is truly mesmerizing.
| Gullfoss Waterfall | | |
|——————–|——————-|——————-|
| Height | 105 feet | |
| River | Hvítá | |
| Tiers | 2 | |
| Experience | Awe-inspiring | Mesmerizing |
The waterfall is a highlight of the Golden Circle tour, showcasing Iceland’s raw natural beauty and geological wonders.
Experiencing the Geysir Geothermal Area
After marveling at the powerful Gullfoss Waterfall, the Golden Circle tour takes visitors to the Geysir Geothermal Area. This active geothermal field is home to the iconic Great Geysir, from which the geyser phenomenon takes its name.
Visitors can witness the dramatic eruptions of Strokkur, which shoots boiling water up to 40 meters high every 5-10 minutes. The tour also includes:
-
Viewing the Geysir Hot Spring, once the largest geyser in the world
-
Exploring the Geysir Exhibition Center to learn about geothermal activity
-
Observing other smaller geysers and hot springs in the vibrant, otherworldly landscape
-
Photographing the dramatic natural spectacle.
Exploring Thingvellir National Park
The next stop on the Golden Circle tour is Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Iceland’s most significant historical and geological landmarks.
Here, travelers will witness the dramatic continental rift where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. They’ll walk along the Almannagja fault, where the plates are slowly drifting apart, and explore the picturesque lake and surrounding landscapes.
The national park’s rich history is also on display, as it was the site of the Icelandic parliament, Althingi, from 930 to 1798. Visitors will gain insights into Iceland’s remarkable natural and cultural heritage.
- Reykjavik Food Walk – Local Foodie Adventure in Iceland
- Silfra: Snorkeling Between Tectonic Plates – Meet on Location
- South Coast Adventure From Reykjavik
- Icelandic Horseback Riding Tour Including Pick up From Reykjavik
- Golden Circle With Kerid Volcanic Crater Day Trip From Reykjavik
- The Lava Tunnel Tour – Raufarhólshellir
Potential Additional Stops
Alongside the main attractions of the Golden Circle tour, guides may offer additional stops to further enhance the experience.
Guides may offer additional stops on the Golden Circle tour to further enhance the experience.
These potential stops may include:
-
Icelandic Horses: Visitors can take the opportunity to observe and interact with the iconic Icelandic horses, known for their hardy and friendly nature.
-
Local Cultural Sites: Guides may recommend visiting sites that showcase Icelandic heritage, such as traditional turf houses or historic farms, providing a deeper understanding of the country’s rich culture.
-
Scenic Viewpoints: The tour may include stops at scenic viewpoints, allowing guests to capture breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding landscapes.
-
Artisanal Workshops: Guests may have the chance to visit local artisanal workshops, where they can learn about traditional craftsmanship and purchase unique Icelandic souvenirs.
Customer Ratings and Feedback
Customers have overwhelmingly praised the Golden Circle Shore Excursion, with an impressive overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 61 reviews.
Travelers commended the knowledgeable and enthusiastic tour guides, who provided an informative and engaging experience. The transportation rating of 4.5/5 suggests generally positive feedback on the tour’s logistics.
Reviewers also found the tour to offer good value for money, with a 4.6/5 rating in this category. However, some complaints mentioned cramped bus conditions, indicating room for improvement in passenger comfort.
Important Information for Booking and Preparation
Booking the Golden Circle Shore Excursion requires a few important considerations.
First, ensure your cruise ship’s arrival and departure times align with the tour schedule.
Second, be prepared for potential changes to the itinerary due to weather or road conditions.
Bringing comfortable shoes, a camera, water, and weather-appropriate clothing is essential.
Plus, a refreshment break at a local restaurant or café is included, so you can recharge during the tour.
Lastly, return to the port at least one hour before your cruise’s departure to avoid any issues.
Following these guidelines will help you make the most of your Golden Circle shore excursion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Extend the Tour Beyond the 6-8 Hour Duration?
No, the tour duration is fixed at 6 to 8 hours. Extending the tour beyond this time frame isn’t an option. The tour itinerary and schedule are designed to fit within this established timeframe.
Is There a Way to Customize the Tour Itinerary?
While the tour offers a set itinerary, customers can’t customise it. However, they may be able to add or adjust stops within the 6-8 hour duration, subject to guide approval and availability. It’s best to discuss any requests directly with the tour operator.
What Type of Transportation Is Used for the Excursion?
The tour uses a small group bus for transportation. The buses are designed to provide a comfortable and personalized experience for guests during the excursion, allowing them to explore the Golden Circle’s highlights in an efficient manner.
Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Accommodations Available?
The tour provider does not explicitly mention any dietary restrictions or accommodations. However, they note that a refreshment break at a local restaurant or café is included, so they may be able to accommodate some dietary needs if requested in advance.
Can I Book the Tour Directly With the Guide or Operator?
Yes, customers can book the tour directly with the tour operator. The tour offers a reserve now and pay later option, and bookings can be made through the tour provider’s website or by contacting them directly.
The Sum Up
The Golden Circle Shore Excursion from Reykjavik Port offers a captivating exploration of Iceland’s natural wonders. Cruise passengers can marvel at the powerful Gullfoss Waterfall, witness the dramatic eruptions of the Strokkur geyser, and enjoy the historic Thingvellir National Park. With a reasonable price and flexible cancellation policy, this tour provides an unforgettable experience that showcases the country’s stunning landscapes and cultural heritage.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Private Tours in Reykjavik
- Reykjavik: Private Icelandic Viking Age Walking Tour
- Private Combo Tour from REY: Golden Circle and South Coast
- Private Reykjavík Tuk Tuk Extended Tour
- Reykjavik: The Icelandic Woman Private Walking Tour
- Reykjavik: Iceland’s role in WWII – Private Day Trip
- Reykjavík: Private LGBTQ+ Walking Tour with a Local Guide
More Tours in Reykjavik
- Iceland: 3-Day Tour with Golden Circle and South Coast
- Reykjavik: Glacier Lagoon, Boat Ride & Diamond Beach Tour
- Reykjavik: Golden Circle Tour & Laugarás Lagoon Entry
- South Coast Day Tour with Horse Riding(optional)
- From Reykjavik: Day Tour to Landmannalaugar in a 4X4
- Reykjavik: Highlands & South Coast Super Jeep Tour
More Tour Reviews in Reykjavik
- Iceland: 2-Day Ice Cave, Glacier Lagoon & Northern Lights
- Iceland: 3-Day Tour with Golden Circle and South Coast
- Reykjavik: Glacier Lagoon, Boat Ride & Diamond Beach Tour
- 7-Day Small Group Journey Around Iceland
- Reykjavik: Golden Circle Tour & Laugarás Lagoon Entry
- Iceland: 4-Day Ice Cave, Glacier Lagoon & Northern Lights
Still browsing? Here are more Reykjavik experiences we've covered recently
- Iceland: 2-Day Ice Cave, Glacier Lagoon & Northern Lights
- Iceland: 3-Day Tour with Golden Circle and South Coast
- Reykjavik: Glacier Lagoon, Boat Ride & Diamond Beach Tour
- 7-Day Small Group Journey Around Iceland
- Reykjavik: Golden Circle Tour & Laugarás Lagoon Entry
- Iceland: 4-Day Ice Cave, Glacier Lagoon & Northern Lights
- Reykjavík by the Shore, Coast, City & Hidden Trails by eBike
- South Coast Day Tour with Horse Riding(optional)
- Sólheimajökull: Guided Glacier Hike
- From Reykjavik: Day Tour to Landmannalaugar in a 4X4
- Reykjavik: Highlands & South Coast Super Jeep Tour
- Reykjavik: Silfra Snorkeling & Lava Tunnel Adventure Combo