Golden Circle – Private Tour

Discover the Personalized Experience of the Golden Circle Private Tour

This Golden Circle – Private Tour offers an intimate way to explore Iceland’s top sights in about 6 hours. Priced at $514.78 per person, it stands out for its private small-group setting and the flexibility it provides—perfect for travelers who prefer a customized experience. The tour begins with the convenience of pickup from your Reykjavik hotel and includes drop-off at your preferred location, making logistics straightforward.

What truly sets this tour apart is the personalized attention from an English-speaking driver-guide. You’re not just riding along with a big group; instead, your driver offers tailored recommendations, adds stops based on your interests, and can even suggest places for lunch (at your own expense). The tour is designed for those who value comfort, flexibility, and a slower-paced visit to these iconic sites, avoiding the crowds often found on larger bus tours.

While the price may seem higher than group tours, the private nature and included admission fees—notably for Kerid Crater—make it a worthwhile choice for a more relaxed and personalized day. This tour suits most travelers, especially those eager to explore at their own pace and soak up the breathtaking Icelandic scenery without the rush.

Key Points

• Private, personalized tour with a driver-guide for tailored attention
• Includes admission to Kerid Crater, with other stops free of charge
• Pickup and drop-off from Reykjavik hotels or chosen location
• Visit Þingvellir National Park, Gullfoss Waterfall, Geysir, and Kerid Crater
• Flexible itinerary with optional stops and lunch recommendations
• Approximately 6 hours of sightseeing, ideal for a half-day adventure

Starting Point and Duration for a Seamless Experience

This private tour departs from Reykjavik with pickup included, providing a hassle-free start to the day. The entire excursion lasts around 6 hours, giving ample time to explore each site comfortably. The small-group format ensures that the pace remains relaxed, making it suitable for those who prefer a more personal, less rushed experience.

The driver-guide is available to suggest additional stops or sights along the way, based on your interests. This flexibility is a key feature, especially for travelers who enjoy customizing their sightseeing without being tied to a rigid schedule. The drop-off can be arranged at a location of your choice within Reykjavik, further enhancing convenience.

Exploring Þingvellir National Park: Historic and Geologic Wonders

The first stop on this private tour is Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a national symbol for Icelanders. The park is renowned for being the historic site of the Alþing (Icelandic Parliament) from the 10th to 18th centuries. Visitors can see the Þingvellir Church and the ruins of old stone shelters, which add to the site’s historical significance.

Geologically, Þingvellir sits in a rift valley caused by the separation of two tectonic plates, creating striking rocky cliffs and fissures, notably the Almannagjá fault. The admission is free, allowing you to spend as much time as you wish exploring this area’s natural beauty and historical landmarks.

This stop offers an excellent balance of nature, history, and geology. The 45-minute visit provides enough time to photograph the dramatic landscape, learn about Iceland’s past, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Witness the Power of Gullfoss Waterfall

Next, the tour takes you to Gullfoss Waterfall, one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls. Located in the canyon of the Hvítá River, this two-tiered waterfall creates a breathtaking spectacle. The water plunges into the deep canyon, producing a thunderous sound and mist that adds to the visual drama.

Spending 45 minutes at Gullfoss allows visitors to get close to the falls, take photos from different vantage points, and truly appreciate the force of nature. Access is straightforward, and the viewpoints provide excellent opportunities for capturing the waterfall’s splendor.

This site is free of charge, and its scenic grandeur makes it a highlight of the Golden Circle route. It’s perfect for those eager to see Iceland’s impressive waterfalls without feeling rushed.

The Geysir Area: Erupting Hot Springs and Snack Stops

The Geysir geothermal area is renowned worldwide for its erupting hot springs. The tour includes 45 minutes to witness Strokkur, the hot spring that erupts approximately every 3 to 10 minutes, sending water up to 30 meters into the air. This constant activity offers consistent photo opportunities and a sense of Iceland’s geothermal power.

Adjacent to Geysir is Gullfoss, making it a convenient stop. Visitors can also purchase lunch or snacks here, as the area has options for refreshments. The hot springs and bubbling vents create a lively, sensory-rich environment that vividly showcases Iceland’s volcanic activity.

The area’s lively geothermal features and opportunity to enjoy a quick meal make this stop both engaging and practical.

Kerid Crater: Volcanic Lake with Included Admission

The Kerid Crater is a volcanic crater lake in the Grímsnes area, distinguished by its vivid red slopes and azure water. The admission fee to Kerid is included in the tour price, making it a hassle-free visit. The short 20-minute stop lets you walk around the crater rim and admire its striking colors and geological formations.

The lake’s vibrant hues are a favorite for photography, and the crater itself offers insight into Iceland’s volcanic activity. This stop provides a scenic conclusion to the Golden Circle, with a manageable amount of time to explore and take photos.

Flexibility and Personalization: Stops and Lunch Options

One of the main advantages of this private tour is the ability to customize your experience. The driver-guide is happy to add extra stops or recommend places for lunch. Although lunch is at your own expense, the guide’s suggestions ensure you find a suitable spot.

The flexible scheduling means you can spend more time at sites that interest you most or skip others if desired. This tailored approach is ideal for travelers who want a slow pace and to avoid crowds often found on larger tours.

Accessibility and Booking Details

This private tour is suitable for most travelers, with no specific mention of physical requirements. The confirmation is received immediately upon booking, and the tour has a full cancellation policy—free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The average booking time of 92 days in advance indicates strong interest, so early reservations are recommended. The mobile ticket option simplifies access, and the small-group size ensures a comfortable, personalized experience.

Why Choose This Tour Over Larger Group Options

This private Golden Circle tour offers a level of personalization difficult to find in larger group excursions. The driver-guide’s expertise and flexibility create an experience tailored to your interests and pace. The inclusion of admission fees and pick-up/drop-off from your chosen location** adds to the overall convenience.

While the price of $514.78 per person is higher than standard group tours, many travelers find the personalized service and relaxed pace worth the extra cost. The positive reviews highlight the knowledgeable guide and memorable views, making this a dependable choice for a quality sightseeing day.

The Sum Up: A Personalized Day of Icelandic Wonders

The Golden Circle – Private Tour provides a comfortable, flexible, and informative way to see Iceland’s most famous sights. Its private setting and expert guide make it ideal for those who prefer a slow-paced, customized experience without the crowds. The inclusion of Kerid Crater’s admission and hotel pickup and drop-off further enhance its value.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate personalized attention, are willing to invest in a more exclusive experience, and want the freedom to modify stops or enjoy extra time at their favorite sites. The positive reviews speak to the quality of the guide and the stunning views, making it a reliable choice for exploring the Golden Circle.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers admission to Kerid Crater and the private guiding service. Pickup and drop-off from your Reykjavik hotel or location of choice are included.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 6 hours, allowing for a relaxed visit to each site.

Can I customize the stops or add extra sites?
Yes, the driver-guide is happy to add stops or suggest places for lunch based on your interests.

What are the main sites visited on this tour?
The tour includes Þingvellir National Park, Gullfoss Waterfall, Geysir geothermal area, and Kerid Crater.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
While no specific limitations are noted, the private, flexible format makes it suitable for most travelers, including those who prefer a less rushed pace.

How do I book this tour?
Bookings can be made in advance, with confirmation received immediately. Early reservations are recommended given the average booking window of 92 days.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge at least 24 hours before the scheduled start time for a full refund.

Is there a guide available during the tour?
Yes, an English-speaking driver-guide leads the tour, providing commentary, recommendations, and assistance throughout.

What makes this tour different from larger group options?
The private setting and personalized attention ensure a more relaxed, tailored experience, with flexibility to focus on your interests.