From Reykjavik: Golden Circle, Kerid, & Secret Lagoon Tour

An In-Depth Look at the Reykjavik Golden Circle and Secret Lagoon Tour

This full-day tour from Reykjavik costs $127 per person and spans approximately 10 hours, making it a rich and manageable way to see some of Iceland’s most iconic sights. The tour is operated by BusTravel Iceland and features hotel pickup from central Reykjavik, with a convenient end point at the same location. Key highlights include Gullfoss Waterfall, the Geysir geothermal area, Þingvellir National Park, the Kerið volcanic crater, and the Secret Lagoon hot springs.

What sets this tour apart is its balance of sightseeing and relaxation. You get ample time at each stop, including 1.5 hours in the Secret Lagoon, which is Iceland’s oldest swimming pool, offering a peaceful soak. The guide’s knowledge and friendly approach are frequently praised in reviews, making this a popular choice for those seeking both education and leisure.

While the tour offers great value and flexibility, note that the Secret Lagoon will be temporarily replaced by Laugarvatn Fontana spa from May 13th to 22nd for upgrades. The tour is best suited for those who want to see Iceland’s highlights while enjoying a relaxing thermal bath without the crowds of Blue Lagoon.

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Key Points

• Price and Duration: Full-day tour for $127, lasting about 10 hours.
• Stops and Highlights: Includes Gullfoss Waterfall, Geysir, Þingvellir National Park, Kerið crater, and the Secret Lagoon.
• Includes: Hotel pickup and drop-off, entry tickets to all major stops, Wi-Fi, and a guide.
• Tour Experience: Well-paced with timed stops and meaningful sightseeing.
• Reviews: Consistently high ratings (4.8/5 from over 5,189 reviews), with travelers appreciating knowledgeable guides and beautiful locations.
• Considerations: Food and drinks are not included, and travelers need to bring swimwear and towels (possibility to rent towels).

Meeting Point and Logistics in Reykjavik

The tour begins at Bus Stop 12, Höfðatorg, on Þórunnartún. Pickup starts at 8:00 AM and can take up to 30 minutes, so arriving promptly is advised. The tour concludes at the same meeting point, allowing for easy access to nearby hotels or transportation. Optional hotel pickup is available from select central Reykjavik hotels, making it convenient for travelers staying in the city.

Exploring the Stops: From Volcanoes to Waterfalls

Kerið Crater: An Imposing Volcanic Landmark

The tour kicks off with a visit to Kerið, a striking volcanic crater. Here, travelers can walk along the crater rim or descend to the lake at its bottom. The crater’s vivid red and green slopes create a dramatic landscape, perfect for photos. Its age and volcanic origin make it a must-see stop that showcases Iceland’s volcanic activity.

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Relaxing at the Secret Lagoon Hot Springs

Next, the group heads to the Secret Lagoon, the oldest swimming pool in Iceland. With 1.5 hours allocated, visitors have plenty of time to bathe in the warm thermal waters and enjoy the peaceful natural surroundings. The lagoon’s gentle hot springs provide a soothing break from the day’s sightseeing. Note that towels can be rented, and swimwear is recommended.

The Geysir Geothermal Area: Watching the Strokkur Erupt

At the Geysir geothermal area, the active Strokkur geyser erupts approximately every 8 minutes, shooting steaming water up to 30 meters high. This predictable display makes it easy to capture photos and marvel at Iceland’s geothermal forces. Surrounding geysers and bubbling mud pools add to the extraordinary volcanic landscape.

Gullfoss Waterfall: Iceland’s Powerful Cascade

The Gullfoss Waterfall delivers a spectacular sight, with the Hvítá River plunging 32 meters into a deep crevice. Visitors experience the roar of the water and the spray on their face, making it a memorable photo opportunity. The power and beauty of Gullfoss symbolize Iceland’s dynamic geology.

Þingvellir National Park: A UNESCO Heritage Site

The tour includes a stop at Þingvellir, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are slowly drifting apart, at a rate of a few centimeters each year. The park’s stunning landscapes and historical significance make it a highlight. Travelers can view the Almannagjá fault line and learn about Iceland’s early parliamentary history.

Kerið Crater Revisited for Photos

The second stop at Kerið allows visitors further time to explore and take photos of this volcanic crater. Its vivid colors and unique geology make it a favorite for capturing memorable images.

The Pacing and Flexibility of the Tour

The well-designed itinerary ensures enough time at each location without feeling rushed. The driver and guide coordinate to maximize sightseeing and relaxation, with timed stops to suit the group’s rhythm. The drive between stops is comfortable and smooth, according to reviews, with some guides adding informative commentary along the way.

Guides and Driver: Knowledge and Friendliness Matter

Reviews frequently highlight the expertise of guides, often praised for friendly, informative, and engaging storytelling. Guides like Siggi, Vik, Daniel, and others are noted for making the trip lively and educational. The driver’s skill, especially in challenging weather conditions, ensures a safe and pleasant journey.

The Value of This Tour Compared to Others

At $127, this tour offers excellent value, considering it covers multiple major sights, includes entry fees, and provides Wi-Fi onboard. Its length and the diversity of stops make it a comprehensive introduction to Iceland’s natural wonders. Reviews consistently underline the good balance of sightseeing and leisure, with many travelers saying it exceeded expectations.

Considerations for Travelers

While the tour does not include lunch or beverages, it allows for flexibility at stops to purchase food or snacks. Food is not included, so packing some snacks or planning for a quick meal during the day is advised. Also, children under 2 years are not suitable for this trip.

Why This Tour Is a Smart Choice for Iceland Visitors

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors wanting an organized, guided experience of the Golden Circle and surrounding attractions. The combination of natural beauty, geological features, and thermal relaxation offers a balanced day that provides both sightseeing and downtime. The high review ratings reflect consistent satisfaction from past travelers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are available from select central Reykjavik hotels, or you can meet at Bus Stop 12, Höfðatorg.

What should I bring for the Secret Lagoon?
Bring swimwear and a towel. Towels can be rented for a fee, but it’s often more convenient to bring your own.

Is food included?
No, food and drinks are not included. You will have opportunities to buy lunch during the day at designated stops.

What happens if the Secret Lagoon is temporarily closed?
From May 13th to 22nd, the visit to the Secret Lagoon is replaced with a trip to Laugarvatn Fontana spa.

How long are the stops at each location?
Most stops are designed for timed visits, including 1.5 hours at the Secret Lagoon and adequate time at waterfalls, geysers, and the national park.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 2 years are not suitable for this tour, but older children and families with appropriate clothing and expectations should find it enjoyable.

What languages are offered?
The tour is conducted in English.

How can I book this tour?
Booking can be made with flexible payment options, including reserve now, pay later. Cancellation is possible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This Golden Circle and Secret Lagoon tour from Reykjavik promises a rich day of natural wonders, enriched by knowledgeable guides and comfortable transport. It offers great value for travelers eager to explore Iceland’s iconic sights and relax in its thermal waters.

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