Golden Circle, Silfra Snorkeling & Fridheimar Tomato Farm Lunch

Discover the Best of Iceland in One Day with the Golden Circle, Silfra Snorkeling & Fridheimar Tomato Farm Lunch

This $299 tour from Reykjavik offers a comprehensive taste of Iceland’s natural wonders and local flavors in just 9 hours 30 minutes. With a small group capped at 12 travelers, it promises an intimate experience, guided by knowledgeable professionals. Highlights include snorkeling in the Silfra Fissure, witnessing the famous Gullfoss Waterfall, and exploring the geothermal area of Geysir. The day concludes with a delicious, included lunch at Fridheimar, a renowned tomato farm powered by renewable energy.

This tour is ideal for those seeking a full-day adventure that combines nature, geology, and Icelandic cuisine. The tour’s flexible pickup options from downtown Reykjavik make it convenient for visitors staying in the city. While the tour provides all necessary snorkeling equipment, travelers should prepare for a day that involves some walking and exposure to outdoor elements.

Key Points

• Includes snorkeling gear and guided tour of Silfra Fissure between tectonic plates
• Visits Geysir geothermal valley with eruptions of Geysir and Strokkur
• Views of Gullfoss Waterfall, one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls
• Full lunch at Fridheimar Tomato Farm, featuring tomato soup, ravioli, or grilled tortilla pizza
• Small group size of only 12 people for a more personal experience
• Pickup in Reykjavik from multiple downtown locations

Starting Point: Reykjavik Pickup and Transportation

This tour begins with pickup from various locations around downtown Reykjavik, including many hotels, ensuring a smooth start. Once onboard, the group embarks on a roughly 4-hour drive that connects the stops while allowing time for sightseeing and photo opportunities. The transportation is comfortable, and the small group size ensures a more relaxed atmosphere, with ample opportunity to ask questions and enjoy the scenery.

Snorkeling in the Silfra Fissure: A Unique Underwater Experience

The first stop is Silfra, where snorkeling takes place in waters that flow between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. The admission ticket is included, and all necessary equipment is provided, including wetsuits or drysuits—your choice—to keep warm in the icy waters.

The 45-minute snorkeling tour showcases the crystal-clear waters of Silfra, famous for its visibility and otherworldly beauty. Guides will lead the group through this underwater marvel, explaining the geology and the significance of the fissure. We like how guides document the experience with photos, giving you lasting memories of this extraordinary dive.

Geysir Geothermal Area: Witness Eruptions and Hot Springs

Next, the tour visits Haukadalur, a geothermal active valley home to the famed Geysir and Strokkur geysers. Visitors have about 45 minutes at this stop, which allows time to walk around and observe Eruptions that shoot boiling water into the air—an impressive display of geothermal power.

While here, you can grab a coffee or light snack and use the restroom facilities. The admission is free, making this stop both educational and convenient. The landscape’s steaming vents and bubbling hot springs offer excellent photo opportunities, and guides often share fascinating insights into Iceland’s geothermal activity.

Gullfoss Waterfall: Iceland’s Iconic Cascade

The Gullfoss Waterfall is a highlight, with its powerful cascade rushing down the Hvítá river in a two-tiered fall. With about 25 minutes here, visitors get a chance to view and photograph one of Europe’s most celebrated waterfalls.

This picture-perfect setting is stunning in all seasons, from misty winter scenes to lush summer views. The fall’s raw energy and panoramic vistas make it a favorite stop, and guides typically share interesting facts about its formation and significance.

Tasting Lunch at Fridheimar Tomato Farm

The tour’s culinary highlight is the 1 hour 15-minute stop at Fridheimar, a greenhouse tomato farm powered by renewable energy. Here, visitors enjoy a late lunch included in the tour price, choosing from tomato soup, ravioli, or grilled tortilla pizza. The homemade bread served alongside is notably delicious and unlimited.

Chances are, you’ll also encounter Icelandic horses on the farm’s grounds, and you can purchase local desserts and drinks, including the famous Bloody Marys. The farm’s atmosphere combines scenic beauty with a chance to taste fresh, local produce in a warm, welcoming setting.

All-Inclusive Experience with Photos and Equipment

All snorkeling equipment — wetsuits or drysuits — are provided, making the experience accessible regardless of your experience level. Guides photograph the group during snorkeling and sightseeing, so no need to worry about bringing your camera.

The tour includes pickup and drop-off in Reykjavik, guidance in English, and photos taken by your guide. The all equipment and lunch ensure a seamless day.

Managing Expectations and Practical Tips

Since the tour involves outdoor stops and some walking, comfortable shoes and clothing are recommended. If you opt for a wetsuit, bringing swimwear and a towel is advised. For those choosing a drysuit, warm base layers or thermal underwear are helpful.

The maximum group size of 12 enhances the experience by fostering intimacy and personalized attention. The timing allows for a relaxed pace with sufficient time at each site, though the travel between stops extends over approximately 4 hours.

Weather and Cancellation Policies

Weather plays a role in this tour’s operation; poor weather may lead to cancellations, but full refunds or alternative dates are offered. Cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility and peace of mind.

Since this is a popular tour booked well in advance—usually 82 days ahead—early booking is recommended to secure a spot.

Final Thoughts: A Well-Rounded Iceland Adventure

This Golden Circle, Silfra Snorkeling & Fridheimar Lunch tour delivers a well-balanced day combining geological wonders, waterfalls, geothermal activity, and delicious local food. The small group setting and expert guides are key strengths, ensuring a more personal and engaging experience.

While the day involves some outdoor exposure and a fair amount of travel, the highlights—especially snorkeling in Silfra and tasting freshly grown tomatoes—make it worthwhile. It’s perfect for travelers eager to explore Iceland’s natural beauty and enjoy a memorable meal in a scenic farm setting.

This tour offers excellent value at $299, providing a complete snapshot of Iceland’s landscapes, geology, and flavors in a single day.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour price covers pickup and drop-off in Reykjavik, all snorkeling equipment, guided snorkeling tour, visits to Geysir and Gullfoss, lunch at Fridheimar, and photos taken during the day.

Do I need to bring my own swimwear or towel?
If you choose to wear a wetsuit, bringing a swimsuit and towel is recommended. For dry suits, warm base layers are advised.

How long is the travel time between stops?
The travel between the stops lasts about 4 hours or longer, giving ample time for sightseeing and comfort.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes, most travelers can participate. However, some walking is involved, and outdoor exposure is expected.

What should I wear for the sightseeing stops?
Comfortable, warm clothing and sturdy shoes are best, especially for walking around geothermal sites and waterfalls.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance, and full refunds are available if canceled within that window.

What makes this tour different from other Golden Circle excursions?
Its small group size, snorkeling in Silfra, and lunch at Fridheimar stand out, providing a more personal and diverse Iceland experience.

Is there a guide for the entire day?
Yes, an English-speaking guide leads the tour, providing commentary, taking photos, and ensuring a smooth experience from start to finish.