From Reykjavik: Best of Golden Circle Afternoon Tour

The From Reykjavik: Best of Golden Circle Afternoon Tour offers a comprehensive glimpse into southwest Iceland’s stunning natural wonders. Priced to include visits to Geysir, Gullfoss waterfall, and Þingvellir National Park, this 8-hour trip is perfect for travelers seeking a well-paced, informative experience without a full-day commitment. The tour departs from central Reykjavik, with pick-up available at various hotel and bus stop locations, making it accessible and convenient.

What sets this tour apart is the focus on Iceland’s most iconic sights, with the added bonus of learning about tectonic activity at Þingvellir. The guide-led commentary is frequently praised for being both knowledgeable and engaging, making the journey as educational as it is breathtaking. While the tour features ample sightseeing stops, some travelers note that the time at each location is designed to balance exploration with the need to see multiple sites within a single day.

Key Points

• Duration: 7 to 8.5 hours, starting around 10:30 AM with pickup options in Reykjavik
• Highlights: Geysir geothermal area, Strokkur geyser, Gullfoss waterfall, and Þingvellir National Park
• Includes: Bus transportation, a knowledgeable English-speaking guide, and multiple photo stops
• Stops: Also features the Kerid Crater and a quick break at Hveragerdi
• Accessible: Pickup available at official bus stops and hotels in Reykjavik, with flexible booking policies

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point and Pickup Options in Reykjavik

The tour begins with a pickup at Bus Stop 12, Höfðatorg, located at Þórunnartún 6 in Reykjavík. Guests are advised to be ready by 10:30 AM, as pickup can take up to 30 minutes. Pickup is available from selected hotels and official bus stops across Reykjavik, making it simple to join the trip regardless of where you stay in the city center.

Since parts of the city center are inaccessible by bus due to city regulations, travelers are redirected to designated stops, ensuring smooth and timely collection. The meeting point is marked by a blue/magenta sign and is conveniently located across from the Storm Hotel.

Exploring the Golden Circle: Geysir and Strokkur

The geothermal area of Geysir is one of the tour’s highlights, with Strokkur geyser actively erupting every 8 minutes, shooting steaming water up to 30 meters into the air. The stop at Geysir allows around 70 minutes for sightseeing and photos, giving enough time to witness the geyser’s spectacular eruptions and explore the surrounding geothermal landscape.

A restaurant at Geysir offers food options, but reviews mention that prices here are very expensive, so travelers might want to plan accordingly. The geothermal area is lively and full of steaming vents, bubbling hot springs, and the iconic geyser, making it a fascinating spot for geology enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Gullfoss Waterfall: Power and Beauty

Next, the tour visits Gullfoss, known as the Golden Falls. The 32-meter-deep waterfall plunges with dramatic force into a rugged crevice, creating a mist that often results in rainbows on sunny days. The 40-minute stop here provides plenty of opportunity for photos and to feel the spray from the cascading waters.

Many reviews highlight Gullfoss as one of the most breathtaking sights on the tour, praising its sheer power and the vivid contrast of water, rock, and sky. The accessible viewing areas make it easy to get close to the falls, ensuring that visitors leave with memorable images.

Þingvellir National Park: Tectonic Plates and Cultural Heritage

The UNESCO-listed Þingvellir National Park is a key highlight, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are pulling apart at a rate of a few centimeters per year. The 40-minute stop at this site allows visitors to walk through the landscape where Iceland’s historic parliament was established in 930 AD.

Travelers appreciate how guides explain the geological processes at work, along with sharing insights about Iceland’s cultural history. The park’s dramatic rift valley, combined with its significance as a cultural site, makes it a meaningful stop that blends natural beauty with Iceland’s historic identity.

More Great Tours Nearby

Kerid Crater: Volcanic Landscape and Scenic Views

The tour includes a 30-minute visit to Kerid Crater, a striking volcanic crater lake characterized by its vivid red and orange slopes. The crater’s water has a striking turquoise hue, making it a popular photographic spot.

Visitors can walk around the rim and enjoy views of the lake below. This stop adds variety to the tour, giving travelers a chance to experience Iceland’s volcanic activity in a landscape that is both colorful and impressive.

Break at Hveragerdi and Local Scenery

A brief 15-minute break at Hveragerdi offers a chance to stretch and perhaps grab a quick snack or drink. This town is known for its geothermal activity and greenhouses that thrive using geothermal heat. The drive through Icelandic farms provides a glimpse into local life and agriculture.

The short stop is enough for a quick refresh before continuing the journey through scenic countryside and volcanic terrain.

Reliable Transportation and Group Size

The tour is operated by BusTravel Iceland, using a comfortable coach with large windows for optimal sightseeing. Many reviews mention the driver and guide team as being professional, knowledgeable, and friendly. The bus offers enough space for tall individuals, and the schedule allows adequate time at each stop.

Group sizes are not specified, but the positive feedback suggests a well-managed, organized experience where passengers can enjoy the sights without feeling rushed.

Timing, Pacing, and Practical Tips

Starting around 10:30 AM, the tour lasts approximately 7 to 8.5 hours, with a flexible schedule that includes several photo stops. The timing at each site is designed to balance exploration with movement, ensuring visitors see all highlights without long waits.

Reviews mention that some stops could benefit from longer durations, especially at waterfalls and geysers, but overall, the pace keeps the day engaging. Travelers should be prepared for variable weather, which may affect visibility and comfort, but the tour guides are praised for their professionalism and ability to adapt.

Value and Booking Flexibility

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility for travelers’ plans. The inclusive nature of the trip—covering transportation, guiding, and multiple iconic sights—makes it a good value for those wanting an organized overview of the Golden Circle.

Despite the high praise from reviews, travelers should note that the trip is quite full, and some report that the bus can get crowded, especially during peak seasons.

Final Thoughts on the Golden Circle Afternoon Tour

This Golden Circle tour from Reykjavik delivers a satisfying mix of natural beauty, geological marvels, and Icelandic culture. It’s ideal for visitors who want to see the highlights efficiently, with expert guides explaining the significance of each site. The hot springs, waterfalls, and tectonic rifts are all included, making it a comprehensive introduction to Iceland’s southwest.

While some may wish for more time at each stop, the schedule strikes a good balance for a full day of sightseeing. The professional guides and comfortable transport are consistently praised, and the tour’s flexibility with booking adds peace of mind. It’s a reliable option for travelers eager to experience Iceland’s most famous sights without the hassle of driving or planning.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 7 to 8.5 hours, starting around 10:30 AM with pickup in Reykjavik.

Where does the tour depart from?
The main pickup point is Bus Stop 12, Höfðatorg in Reykjavik, with options at selected hotels and bus stops.

What are the main sights visited?
The tour includes Geysir geothermal area, Strokkur geyser, Gullfoss waterfall, Þingvellir National Park, and Kerid Crater.

Is food included?
No, food is not included. There is a restaurant at Geysir where prices are high, so bringing snacks is recommended.

What is the guide’s language?
The tour is led by an English-speaking guide.

Are breaks provided during the tour?
Yes, there is a 15-minute break at Hveragerdi and plenty of time at each main stop for sightseeing and photos.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, full refund is available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

Are children under 2 allowed?
No, the tour is not suitable for children under 2 years.

What about weather conditions?
Weather can vary, and some reviews note that poor weather might affect visibility. Guides are experienced in managing the schedule accordingly.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the coach is described as comfortable with large windows, suitable for sightseeing and accommodating taller passengers.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby