Reykjavik’s Golden Circle is a must-see for visitors to Iceland. This day trip takes travelers on an unforgettable journey to explore the country’s natural wonders. From the stunning Kerið Crater to the captivating Icelandic horse shows at Friðheimar, each stop promises unique experiences. Capping off the adventure, the Sky Lagoon’s geothermal infinity pool and 7-Step Ritual offer a chance to unwind and soak in the breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. With so much to discover, this tour promises an unforgettable day in Iceland.
Key Points
- Set out on a 10.5-hour Golden Circle day trip from Reykjavik, exploring key landmarks like Kerið Crater, Friðheimar geothermal greenhouse, and Gullfoss Waterfall.
- Marvel at the blue-green waters and red volcanic rock of the Kerið Crater, formed by a volcanic eruption around 6,500 years ago.
- Experience Icelandic horse culture and learn about sustainable agriculture at the Friðheimar geothermal greenhouse, including a tomato tasting.
- Indulge in the 7-Step Ritual Experience at the Sky Lagoon, featuring a geothermal infinity pool with breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.
- Enjoy the flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours for a full refund and pickup from 28 locations in downtown Reykjavik.
Tour Overview and Pricing
This day trip from Reykjavik to Iceland’s Golden Circle costs from $217.51 per person and lasts 10.5 hours.
It includes free cancellation up to 24 hours for a full refund and a reserve now, pay later option.
Pickup is provided from 28 locations in downtown Reykjavik.
The tour covers Kerið Crater, Friðheimar greenhouse, Geysir, Gullfoss Waterfall, Thingvellir National Park, and Sky Lagoon.
Explore Iceland’s Golden Circle, including Kerið Crater, Friðheimar greenhouse, Geysir, Gullfoss Waterfall, Thingvellir National Park, and Sky Lagoon.
Travelers can enjoy the 7-step Ritual Experience at Sky Lagoon and a delicious lunch at Friðheimar as part of the package.
Looking for more options in Kopavogur? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Itinerary and Highlights
The day trip from Reykjavik to Iceland’s Golden Circle takes visitors on an immersive exploration of the country’s natural wonders.
First, travelers visit Kerið Crater, a striking volcanic formation perfect for photography.
Next is Friðheimar, a geothermal greenhouse offering a horse show and tomato tasting.
Then, the famous Geysir, home of the erupting Strokkur geyser, captivates with its periodic displays.
Gullfoss Waterfall’s powerful cascade follows, before exploring Thingvellir National Park’s UNESCO-listed continental rift.
The tour culminates at Sky Lagoon, where visitors can relax in the infinity pool and indulge in the 7-step Ritual Experience.
Kerið Crater
Kerið Crater, a striking volcanic formation, offers visitors unparalleled photo opportunities. This 55-meter deep, 170-meter wide crater boasts vibrant blue-green waters and red volcanic rock walls. Formed by an explosive volcanic eruption around 6,500 years ago, the crater is a testament to Iceland’s dramatic geological history.
| Features | Details |
| — | — |
| Depth | 55 meters |
| Diameter | 170 meters |
| Water Color | Blue-green |
| Rock Color | Red volcanic |
| Formation | 6,500 years ago |
Guests can explore the crater rim and descend to the water’s edge, capturing breathtaking images from various vantage points. Kerið Crater is a must-see stop on the Golden Circle tour, offering a unique and visually striking experience.
Friðheimar Geothermal Greenhouse and Experiences
After exploring the striking visual of Kerið Crater, visitors move on to Friðheimar, a captivating geothermal greenhouse experience.
At Friðheimar, guests can enjoy:
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A horse show highlighting the Icelandic horse breed
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Tomato tasting showcasing the greenhouse’s specialty crops
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An immersive 1.5-hour tour providing a glimpse into sustainable agriculture in Iceland
The Friðheimar stop offers a unique opportunity to learn about geothermal energy and its applications in food production.
Travelers appreciate the chance to savor local flavors and witness the skill of Icelandic horsemen during this well-rounded experience.
More Great Tours NearbyGeysir and the Strokkur Eruption
From Friðheimar, the tour continues on to Geysir, home of the iconic Strokkur geyser.
Strokkur erupts every 7-10 minutes, shooting a column of boiling water up to 40 meters high. Visitors have around 40 minutes to witness this spectacular natural display. The tour guide shares fascinating details about the geothermal activity and history of the area.
Travelers can snap photos of the eruptions from multiple angles around the geyser. With its regular and dramatic shows, Strokkur is a must-see highlight of the Golden Circle tour, providing an unforgettable geothermal experience.
Gullfoss Waterfall
The powerful Gullfoss Waterfall, or "Golden Falls," is the next captivating destination on the Golden Circle tour. This magnificent natural wonder cascades 105 feet (32 meters) down a rugged, two-tiered canyon on the Hvítá river.
Visitors are awestruck by the sheer power and beauty of the waterfall, which can be experienced from several viewpoints:
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Admire the thundering flow of water as it plunges into the deep gorge.
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Marvel at the rainbow that often appears in the mist.
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Feel the cool spray on your face as you approach the waterfall’s edge.
After this breathtaking experience, the tour continues to the historic Þingvellir National Park.
Thingvellir National Park
Why does Thingvellir National Park hold such historical significance on the Golden Circle tour?
This UNESCO World Heritage site is where Iceland’s parliament, the Alþingi, was established in 930 AD. It’s also where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are visibly splitting apart, creating a stunning rift valley.
Visitors can walk along the rifts and admire the dramatic landscapes. At Thingvellir, travelers will learn about Iceland’s rich history and get a first-hand look at the country’s unique geology.
With 45 minutes allotted, there’s ample time to explore this remarkable national park.
Sky Lagoon and the 7-Step Ritual
As part of the Golden Circle tour, visitors can access the Sky Lagoon, an iconic Icelandic geothermal infinity pool.
The highlight is the 7-Step Ritual Experience:
A restorative 7-step ritual to immerse, invigorate, and refresh the senses amidst the stunning Icelandic landscape.
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Immerse in the warm, mineral-rich waters of the lagoon.
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Indulge in a cold plunge pool to invigorate the senses.
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Relax in the sauna and steam room to cleanse the body.
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Enjoy breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean from the infinity pool.
After the ritual, travelers can indulge in a bite at the on-site restaurant before departing for the next destination on the Golden Circle tour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Minimum Number of Participants Required?
There is no minimum number of participants required for this tour. The tour operates daily and participants can book individually or in groups of any size.
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary or Schedule?
The tour has a set itinerary and schedule. While the order of stops may change for logistical reasons, participants can’t customize the itinerary or schedule. Flexibility is limited, as the tour is designed to maximize the experience within the set timeframe.
What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy?
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. Customers also have the option to reserve the tour and pay later if needed.
Are Professional Photos of the Tour Available for Purchase?
The tour does not offer professional photos for purchase. However, travelers can capture their own memorable photos at the various stops along the Golden Circle route, such as the Kerið Crater and the Gullfoss Waterfall.
Is There Storage Available for Luggage During the Tour?
The tour operator doesn’t provide luggage storage during the trip. Participants should make their own arrangements for any belongings they won’t need on the tour, as the tour coach doesn’t have dedicated luggage space.
The Sum Up
Set out on a captivating journey through Iceland’s stunning natural wonders. Explore the Golden Circle’s breathtaking landscapes, indulge in the Friðheimar greenhouse experience, and unwind at the Sky Lagoon’s geothermal infinity pool. This day trip from Reykjavik promises an unforgettable adventure, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, culture, and relaxation.
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