Golden Circle

The Golden Circle is a renowned tourist route in Iceland that showcases the country’s stunning natural wonders. This 8-hour journey takes visitors to Þingvellir National Park, the erupting Strokkur geyser, and the majestic Gullfoss waterfall. Travelers can also explore the scenic Brúarhlöð Canyon, making it an ideal experience for nature enthusiasts. With convenient amenities and flexible booking options, the Golden Circle tour offers an opportunity to take in Iceland’s captivating landscapes.

Key Points

• The Golden Circle is an 8-hour tour from Reykjavík showcasing Iceland’s iconic natural wonders, including Þingvellir National Park, Geysir, and Gullfoss waterfall.

• Þingvellir National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with historical significance as the site of the first democratic parliament and geological importance as the meeting point of tectonic plates.

• Geysir, home to the famous Strokkur geyser, offers a captivating display of geothermal activity, with eruptions every 5-10 minutes.

• Gullfoss, a majestic two-stage waterfall on the Hvítá river, showcases the natural beauty of Iceland and its glacial origins.

• Brúarhlöð Canyon, a less-touristy area, provides a peaceful respite with its scenic river and rugged canyon walls.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

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

Priced from $267.46 per person, the tour offers a private or small-group experience with a live guide available in Italian.

Highlights include the UNESCO-listed Þingvellir National Park, the geothermal Geysir area, the majestic Gullfoss waterfall, and a break at the less-crowded Brúarhlöð Canyon.

Travelers can also enjoy a relaxing soak in a natural thermal spring before returning to Reykjavík.

The tour includes pickup, parking fees, and all necessary tickets, and offers a flexible booking policy with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Þingvellir National Park

Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, holds immense historical and geological significance.

Visitors can explore:

Visitors can explore the first democratic parliament, tectonic plates, Iceland’s largest natural lake, hiking trails, and diving between continents.

• The first democratic parliament in 930 AD, marking the birthplace of Iceland’s parliament.

• Tectonic plates, visibly separating the Eurasian and North American continental plates.

• Lake Þingvallavatn, the largest natural lake in Iceland, fed by underground springs.

• Hiking trails along the rift valley, offering breathtaking views of the rugged landscape.

• Opportunities to snorkel or dive between the continents in the crystal-clear waters.

This remarkable park provides a window into Iceland’s past and present, captivating all who visit.

Geysir

Geysir, the geothermal area that houses the iconic hot spring of the same name, has been captivating visitors for centuries.

The Geysir geothermal area is home to Strokkur, a geyser that erupts every 5-10 minutes, shooting a plume of steaming water up to 40 meters high. The area was formed by seismic events approximately 10,000 years ago.

Guests can witness the dramatic eruptions and explore the surrounding hot springs and fumaroles. The tour includes 1.5 hours at Geysir, which also provides an opportunity for lunch, allowing visitors to fully enjoy this remarkable natural phenomenon.

Gullfoss Waterfall

Situated along the Hvitá river, Gullfoss Waterfall plunges 32 meters over two stages, creating a mesmerizing display of cascading water. The waterfall is sourced from the Langjökull glacier, showcasing Iceland’s raw, natural beauty.

Visitors can:

• Gaze in awe at the powerful torrent of water crashing down the rocky canyon

• Breathe in the refreshing mist that dances in the air

• Appreciate the waterfall’s historical significance, as it was once threatened by hydroelectric development until environmental protests saved it

• Capture the stunning scenery with camera in hand

• Bask in the serene ambiance, surrounded by the rugged Icelandic landscape.

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Brúarhlöð Canyon

The Brúarhlöð Canyon, situated on the banks of the Ölfusá river, offers a less touristy break during the Golden Circle tour. Visitors spend 1.5 hours exploring this scenic canyon, which provides an ideal spot for lunch. The canyon’s rugged walls and tranquil river create a serene atmosphere, allowing guests to relax and take in the natural beauty before continuing the journey.

| Feature | Description | Duration |

| — | — | — |

| Location | On the banks of Ölfusá river | – |

| Ideal for | Lunch break | 1.5 hours |

| Atmosphere | Scenic, serene, less touristy | – |

The Brúarhlöð Canyon is a highlight of the Golden Circle tour, offering a peaceful respite amidst the stunning Icelandic landscape.

Natural Thermal Spring

One of the final stops on the Golden Circle tour is a unique experience at a less touristy natural swimming pool.

This natural thermal spring offers:

• Relaxation after a day of sightseeing

• Refreshing dip in the geothermal waters

• Escape from the crowds at more popular sites

• Chance to unwind before returning to Reykjavík

• Opportunity to immerse in Iceland’s natural beauty

The natural spring provides a tranquil conclusion to the Golden Circle adventure, allowing travelers to rejuvenate and appreciate the country’s geothermal wonders in a serene setting before their journey back to the city.

Inclusions and Important Information

The Golden Circle tour includes a comprehensive package that ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience for travelers.

The tour offers pickup and drop-off services, as well as covers parking fees, entry tickets, gasoline, and transportation. Travelers will have the guidance of a professional tour guide and driver throughout the journey.

However, certain items aren’t allowed, such as smoking in the vehicle, littering, unaccompanied minors, and food/drinks inside the vehicle.

Hikers should be prepared with warm clothing, swimwear, towels, and hiking shoes. The longest hike on the tour is approximately 60 minutes.

Customer Reviews

Although the Golden Circle tour is relatively new, it has already garnered a stellar 5/5 rating based on one review.

The lone reviewer, Virginia from Ireland, praised the tour and the guide Ilaria, highlighting exceptional customer service from the owner Michele.

The review paints a picture of a well-run operation:

• Exceptional guide and driver

• Professional and knowledgeable staff

• Seamless pickup and drop-off

• Flexibility to accommodate needs

• Overall excellent experience

While limited, this review suggests the Golden Circle tour delivers on its promises and provides a high-quality experience for visitors.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No, food and drinks are not allowed in the vehicle. The tour includes pickup and drop-off, parking fees, entry tickets, and transportation, but passengers shouldn’t bring their own food or drinks on the tour.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

No, the tour does not offer an option to extend the duration. The tour is a fixed 8-hour itinerary, and bringing your own food and drinks is not allowed in the vehicle. The tour does not provide flexibility to customize the length of the experience.

Do You Offer Discounts for Families or Large Groups?

Yes, the tour operator offers discounts for families and large groups. Customers can inquire about group rates when booking the Golden Circle tour. The discounts may vary depending on the group size and the time of booking.

Can the Tour Accommodate Dietary Restrictions or Special Needs?

The tour can accommodate dietary restrictions and special needs with advance notice. Travelers should contact the tour operator to discuss any requirements, and the staff will work to ensure a comfortable experience for all participants.

What Are the COVID-19 Safety Protocols for the Tour?

The tour follows all local COVID-19 safety protocols, including mask requirements, social distancing, and sanitization of vehicles. Guests must complete a health screening prior to boarding. The operator prioritizes the safety and comfort of all participants.

The Sum Up

The Golden Circle tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Iceland’s natural wonders. Visitors can experience the geological significance of Þingvellir National Park, witness the dramatic eruptions of the Strokkur geyser, marvel at the powerful Gullfoss waterfall, and discover the scenic Brúarhlöð Canyon. With convenient amenities and flexible booking options, the tour provides an ideal way for nature enthusiasts to enjoy Iceland’s remarkable landscapes.

You can check availability for your dates here: