2 days Private tour: Golden circle and South coast

Key Points

• Private 2-day tour with a small group of up to 4 ensures personalized attention
• Includes major highlights like Þingvellir, Geysir, Gullfoss, Seljalandfoss, Skogafoss, and Reynisfjara
• Comfortable transportation with all entrance tickets and fees covered
• Experience local culture, including a visit to Friðheimar tomato farm and Icelandic horses
• Tour departs from Reykjavik, with flexible start times and the option to reserve now and pay later

You can check availability for your dates here:

Explore Iceland’s Golden Circle with a Local Guide

This 2-day private tour from Red Planet Adventure offers an in-depth look at Iceland’s most famous sights. Priced at $2,826 per group, it’s designed for up to four participants, making it a very personal way to see the country’s highlights. The tour combines the iconic Golden Circle route with the stunning South Coast, giving a rundown of Iceland’s natural and cultural treasures.

The trip starts with the Golden Circle, where you visit Þingvellir National Park—a site of profound historical significance. Here, you’ll stand between two tectonic plates and learn about Iceland’s formation and the first parliamentary gathering. Later, a visit to a hot spring bakery demonstrates Iceland’s geothermal power by baking traditional rye bread naturally in the earth.

Discover Þingvellir National Park’s Historic and Geological Wonders

The Þingvellir National Park is the first stop of the tour, highlighting both geological and historical importance. This site marks where Iceland’s geological formation as an island began and is also where the first Alþingi (parliament) was held. Visitors can see the rift valley between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, a breathtaking natural feature.

The park offers a glimpse into Icelandic history, including Viking decisions to convert to Christianity and the country’s declaration of independence. The tour guides explain these stories, making the visit both educational and scenic. This stop provides a perfect balance of nature, history, and culture in one location.

Witness the Power of Geysir and Strokkur in the Geyser Area

Next, the tour visits the Geysir Geothermal Area in the Haukadalur Valley. The original Geysir, which gave all geysers their name, is present but now rarely erupts. More reliably, the Strokkur geyser erupts approximately every 8-10 minutes, shooting boiling water up to 30 meters into the air.

This stop offers dramatic eruptions and bubbling hot springs, showcasing Iceland’s geothermal activity. The guides share insights into how these natural features are formed and their significance to Icelandic energy sources. It’s an exhilarating experience that combines powerful natural displays with educational commentary.

Experience the Majesty of Gullfoss Waterfall

The Gullfoss waterfall is a highlight of the Golden Circle. Known as the Golden Falls, it features a two-tiered cascade that plunges into a rugged canyon. Visitors stand at safe observation points to feel the raw energy and spray of this impressive waterfall.

The tour allows ample time to appreciate the scale and force of Gullfoss, often cited as one of Iceland’s most majestic waterfalls. The guide discusses the history of the site and its significance in Icelandic culture, adding depth to the visual spectacle.

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Taste Iceland’s Geothermal Baked Bread at Friðheimar Tomato Farm

A unique aspect of this tour is a visit to Friðheimar, a greenhouse farm powered by geothermal heat. Here, you’ll see rows of tomato plants thriving inside a lush greenhouse. The guide explains sustainable farming practices that make this possible.

Guests can enjoy fresh, delicious tomatoes, often right off the vine, and learn about the farm’s eco-friendly approach. The fragrance of ripe tomatoes fills the air, making this stop both fragrant and flavorful. It’s an inviting glimpse into Icelandic agriculture.

Meet and Feed the Iconic Icelandic Horses

On the way to the South Coast, the tour makes a stop to meet and feed Icelandic horses. These small, friendly horses are a symbol of rural Iceland and known for their gentle manner and unique tölt gait.

Visitors have the chance to pet and interact with these charming animals, gaining insight into their role in Icelandic life. The stop offers a break from the scenery to enjoy some close-up moments with these beloved creatures.

Journey Along the South Coast to Waterfalls and Glaciers

The second day focuses on Iceland’s dramatic South Coast. The tour visits Seljalandsfoss, a waterfall you can walk behind, providing a unique perspective of the cascading water and rainbows that often form in the spray.

Next, Skógafoss impresses with its powerful cascade, with an optional climb up the stairway to vantage points. Then, the group walks between volcanoes to reach Sólheimajökull Glacier, where ancient ice formations and volcanic landscapes coexist.

This part of the trip offers a range of scenic vistas, from lush waterfalls to icy glaciers, all with comfortable transportation and flexible pacing.

Visit Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach and Dyrhólaey

The tour concludes at Reynisfjara, famous for its black sand, towering sea stacks called Trolls Fingers, and the roaring Atlantic Ocean. The striking landscape is often viewed at sunset, enhancing its dramatic appeal.

If weather permits, the group ventures to Dyrhólaey, a promontory offering panoramic views of Iceland’s rugged coastline. The combination of volcanic formations, crashing waves, and vast ocean vistas makes this a memorable end to the journey.

Practical Details and Logistics of the Tour

This small-group tour is led by a professional private guide who provides personalized attention throughout both days. The tour includes comfortable transportation, with all entrance tickets and parking fees covered, simplifying the experience.

The tour departs from Reykjavik, with flexible start times available. Guests are picked up and dropped off at their accommodation, making it easy to join without extra arrangements. The tour is not suitable for children under 10, mobility-impaired individuals, or wheelchair users due to the nature of some stops and walking terrain.

A Well-Rounded Experience with Flexibility and Personal Touches

This tour balances key highlights with opportunities for up-close encounters with Icelandic culture and nature. The inclusion of local farms, historic sites, and scenic landscapes ensures a rounded experience of Iceland.

Offering entrance tickets and a dedicated private guide, the tour provides value and convenience. The 2-day pace allows for thorough exploration without feeling rushed, perfect for those wanting a comprehensive Iceland experience in just two days.

Unique Aspects and Considerations of This Tour

What sets this experience apart is the combination of the Golden Circle and South Coast in one private package. The small group size guarantees a more intimate journey, with the flexibility to enjoy each stop at your own pace.

A potential consideration is the cost of $2,826 for the group, which reflects the private nature and included features. It’s best suited for travelers seeking a personalized, in-depth tour rather than a large group experience.

Final Thoughts on the 2-Day Golden Circle and South Coast Tour

This private two-day trip from Reykjavik offers a satisfying balance of nature, history, and Icelandic culture. The tour’s focus on major sights, local farms, and scenic landscapes makes it ideal for those who want to see the best without sacrificing comfort or personalization.

While the price is higher than group tours, the private guide and flexible schedule add significant value. Those interested in a comprehensive Iceland adventure with a personal touch will find this tour well worth considering.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of the tour?
The price includes a professional private guide, comfortable transportation, entrance tickets, and parking and road fees.

Are meals provided during the tour?
No, food is not included, but there are stops where you can purchase or enjoy local food, such as at Friðheimar.

What are the start and end locations?
The tour departs from and returns to Reykjavik, with pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it is not suitable for children under 10 years old.

Can I join the tour at a specific time?
Yes, availability depends on the schedule, and you can check starting times when booking.

Is the tour accessible for travelers with mobility issues?
No, it is not suitable for people with mobility impairments, wheelchair users, or hearing-impaired individuals.

How flexible is the itinerary?
Since it is a private tour, there is some flexibility to enjoy destinations at your own pace, within the itinerary.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You can also reserve now and pay later for added flexibility.

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