Golden Circle Tour Including Blue Lagoon Admission from Reykjavik

The Golden Circle Tour Including Blue Lagoon Admission from Reykjavik offers an efficient way to experience some of Iceland’s most iconic sights in one day. Priced at $249.91 per person, this 13-hour guided bus tour departs from Reykjavik and includes transport, entrance fees, and a refreshing soak in the Blue Lagoon. The tour is well-suited for those with limited time who want to see Thingvellir National Park, Geysir Hot Springs, and Gullfoss Waterfall, followed by relaxation in the mineral-rich waters of the Blue Lagoon.

While the tour covers major highlights, it has mixed reviews regarding organization and communication. Some guests praise knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery, while others note issues with timing, signage, and staff friendliness. Despite this, it remains a popular choice, especially for visitors looking for value and convenience.

Key Points

• Includes admission to the Blue Lagoon with ample free time to relax.
• Visits to Thingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss offer a comprehensive look at Iceland’s natural wonders.
• Tour duration is approximately 13 hours, with pickup included.
• Group size is limited to 60 travelers, maintaining a comfortable atmosphere.
• Reviews highlight knowledgeable guides and breathtaking sights, but note some organizational challenges.

Discovering the Golden Circle: Thingvellir National Park

The tour begins at Thingvellir National Park, an essential site in Icelandic history and geology. Located on the northern shore of Þingvallavatn, Iceland’s largest lake, Thingvellir is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s famous for being the location of the world’s oldest parliament, established in 930 AD.

At this stop, visitors walk through the park to see the Almannagjá canyon, a striking fissure marking the boundary between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. The site offers remarkable views of unique geology and natural beauty, making it a perfect first stop. Guests have about an hour here, with free admission.

Geysir Hot Spring Area: Watching Nature’s Eruption

Next, the tour visits the Geysir Hot Spring Area, a site active for over 1,000 years. The area features boiling mud pits and the famous Strokkur geyser, which erupts water up to 30 meters (100 feet) into the air every few minutes. This lively geothermal field has more than a dozen hot spring holes, with steam continuously rising from the surface, creating a dynamic landscape.

The Geysir Center offers facilities for restroom breaks and refreshments, including lunch options. Visitors typically spend about an hour here, enjoying the spectacle and learning about geothermal activity.

Gullfoss Waterfall: Iceland’s Iconic Cascade

Following Geysir, the tour stops at Gullfoss, one of Iceland’s most popular waterfalls. The Hvítá River rushes in three cascades into a deep canyon, producing a powerful roar and impressive spray. On clear days, the Langjökull glacier can be seen in the distance, adding to the scenery’s grandeur.

Guests have around an hour at Gullfoss, with restroom facilities and options to purchase food. The waterfall’s raw power and scenic setting make it a highlight of the tour.

Return to Reykjavik and Blue Lagoon Preparation

After the Golden Circle stops, the coach returns to Reykjavik for a 30-minute break. This pause allows for brief refreshments and preparations for the Blue Lagoon experience, if the add-on option is selected.

Relaxing in the Blue Lagoon’s Mineral Waters

The Blue Lagoon is the tour’s relaxing finale. Known for its milky-blue, mineral-rich waters, the lagoon offers a two-hour session where visitors can unwind and reflect on Iceland’s natural beauty. Guests enjoy free admission, along with a silica mud mask and a complimentary drink, making it a memorable way to end the day.

The lagoon’s thermal waters are reputed for their healing properties, providing a soothing experience after hours of sightseeing. Visitors often find this part of the tour especially restorative.

Logistics and Group Size

The tour departs from Reykjavik Terminal at Skógarhlíð 10 and ends back at the same location. The maximum group size is 60 travelers, helping maintain a comfortable environment. The tour offers pickup services, simplifying the logistics of meeting points.

Customer Feedback and Common Concerns

Reviews overall average a 4.0 out of 5, with some guests praising the expert guides and the stunning sights. A featured review commends the tour’s smooth organization, calling the geyser and waterfall visits incredible.

However, some guests highlight organizational issues, such as poor signage at pickup points, delays, and confusing transfer procedures. A few mention long bus rides and insufficient communication about timing, especially at Blue Lagoon arrival.

Critics also describe inconsistent staff friendliness and bus amenities as areas for improvement, including non-functional phone chargers and dirty seat nets. Yet, these drawbacks seem to be balanced by the value of seeing Iceland’s top sights in one day.

Comparing to Similar Tours

This tour offers a comprehensive, time-efficient option, especially suited for first-time visitors or those with limited days in Iceland. For those seeking smaller groups or more personalized experiences, alternative options such as small-group excursions are available.

The Sum Up: A Solid Choice with Some Caveats

The Golden Circle Tour with Blue Lagoon provides a well-rounded view of Iceland’s natural wonders at a reasonable price. It’s ideal for travelers eager to cover major sights without multiple days of planning. The inclusion of Blue Lagoon admission makes it a value-rich package.

While some aspects of organization and communication can be improved, the tour’s stunning scenery and knowledgeable guides deliver an authentic Icelandic experience. It suits those who are comfortable with long bus rides and group tours but want a reliable, straightforward way to see Gullfoss, Geysir, Þingvellir, and relax in the Blue Lagoon.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this tour include hotel pickup?
Yes, pickup is offered for convenient collection from Reykjavik.

How long is the total trip?
The entire tour lasts approximately 13 hours, including travel and sightseeing.

Is the Blue Lagoon admission included?
Yes, if the Blue Lagoon add-on is selected, admission, free time, a silica mud mask, and a drink are included.

What stops are part of the Golden Circle?
Guests visit Thingvellir National Park, Geysir Hot Spring Area, and Gullfoss Waterfall.

Are meals included in the tour?
No, meals are not included, but refreshments and lunch options are available at Geysir Center.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the tour start.

What should I expect at each stop?
At Thingvellir, walk through a UNESCO site with tectonic rifts; at Geysir, watch the erupting Strokkur; at Gullfoss, experience the roaring waterfall; and at Blue Lagoon, enjoy relaxing in warm mineral waters.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but specific age restrictions are not detailed.

How crowded can I expect the Blue Lagoon to be?
The Blue Lagoon can be busy, especially during peak times, and the short duration may limit time for reflection.

Are there any known issues with this tour?
Some reviews mention organizational challenges, delays, and communication lapses, particularly concerning bus transfers and timing.

Would you recommend this tour?
Yes, for visitors wanting to see Iceland’s highlights efficiently, despite some organizational hiccups, it remains a popular and worthwhile experience.