Golden Circle and Kerid Volcanic Crater Small-Group Day Tour

The Golden Circle and Kerid Volcanic Crater Small-Group Day Tour offers an efficient way to see some of Iceland’s most iconic sights in just one day. Priced at $104 per person, this 8-hour tour provides a comprehensive experience with pickup and round-trip transportation included. The tour is highly rated with a perfect 5.0 out of 5 from over 770 reviews, making it a popular choice for visitors eager to cover the highlights of the area.

This tour caters to those who prefer a small group experience—with a maximum of 19 travelers—and values the convenience of hotel pickup. Although food and drinks are not included, the tour features multiple key stops, guided commentary, and the chance to see Kerid Crater, a site many visitors miss on standard routes. It’s ideal for first-time visitors or anyone short on time but eager to explore Iceland’s geological wonders.

Key Points

• All-in-one Golden Circle route covering Thingvellir, Geysir, Gullfoss, and Kerid Crater
• Expert-guided tour with engaging commentary and small group size for a personalized feel
• Pickup and drop-off included in Reykjavik, saving hassle and time
• Visit Kerid Crater, a volcanic crater often omitted from other tours
• Approximate 8-hour duration ensures a full day of sightseeing without rushing
• Most visitors book this tour 57 days in advance, reflecting its popularity

The Small-Group Tour Experience in Iceland’s Golden Circle

The Golden Circle and Kerid Crater Tour begins with a morning pickup at your Reykjavik hotel, making logistics straightforward. Traveling in a cozy, modern vehicle, the guide leads you through Iceland’s most famous sites, sharing insights and stories along the way. The small group size ensures plenty of room for comfortable sightseeing and personalized attention from the guide.

Being part of a small group of 19 or fewer travelers creates a more relaxed atmosphere compared to large coach tours. This setup allows the guide to engage more closely with guests, answer questions, and tailor the experience where possible. The round-trip transport means no need to worry about navigating unfamiliar roads or finding parking, allowing you to focus fully on the scenery.

Exploring the UNESCO-listed Thingvellir National Park

The first major stop is Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with both historical significance and stunning landscapes. Here, you get the chance to see the meeting point of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, a geological feature that creates dramatic rift valleys and clear fissures. The site also holds Iceland’s first parliament, which dates back to 930 AD.

Guides explain the significance of the location, combining natural beauty with cultural history. Visitors have about 45 minutes to walk around, take photos, and soak in the views. This stop is ideal for those interested in geology and Icelandic history, making it a meaningful start to the day.

Watching Geothermal Activity at Geysir

Next, the tour visits the Geysir geothermal area, famous worldwide for its active geysers. The site includes Strokkur, which erupts roughly every 10 minutes, shooting water up to 30 meters (98 feet) into the air. The bubbling springs and steaming vents create a lively, dynamic landscape, perfect for photography.

Guests have around 1 hour and 20 minutes at this site, with time to buy snacks or a quick lunch at the on-site restaurant or stalls. The guide often shares stories and facts about the geothermal activity, helping visitors appreciate the power of Iceland’s volcanic forces.

Marveling at Gullfoss Waterfall

The Gullfoss Waterfall, or the Golden Waterfall, is the next stop. This powerful waterfall drops 32 meters into a rugged canyon, offering breathtaking views and photo opportunities. Its raw energy and natural beauty make it one of the most-visited attractions in Iceland.

The group typically spends about 40 minutes here, giving ample time to stand close to the cascade and enjoy the scenery. The guides highlight the waterfall’s significance, explaining how its surroundings reflect Iceland’s volcanic landscape.

Visiting Kerid Crater: A Volcanic Masterpiece

A highlight of this tour is the visit to Kerid Crater, a 3,000-year-old volcanic crater that measures 55 meters deep and 886 meters across. Its striking red volcanic rocks contrast sharply with the deep blue crater lake, creating a surreal landscape.

This site is included as a 30-minute stop, allowing visitors to walk around the rim and gaze into the glittering lake. Many tours omit Kerid, but this tour emphasizes its importance as a geological feature and a photo-worthy stop that adds a unique perspective to the Golden Circle experience.

Additional Stops and Scenic Drives

On the return journey to Reykjavik, the tour passes through the Hveragerði geothermal area, famous for its greenhouses powered by renewable energy and local horse farms. Visitors also see the Hellisheiði Geothermal Power Plant, illustrating Iceland’s commitment to sustainable energy.

This scenic drive offers extra insight into Iceland’s geothermal industry and rural life. The drive time between stops is comfortably managed to maintain a relaxed pace without feeling rushed.

Practical Aspects and Tour Logistics

The tour departs at 9:00 am from Reykjavik, with a convenient pick-up process near your hotel or a nearby bus stop. The round-trip transportation makes it ideal for travelers who prefer guided convenience over self-driving.

The small group size, guided commentary, and hotel pickup are some of the tour’s biggest advantages. It operates in all weather conditions, so travelers should dress appropriately for Iceland’s variable climate.

Food and drinks are not included, but there are options available at Geysir and Gullfoss. The tour does not include a visit to the geothermal park with bread tasting or the second geyser, but these are optional add-ons.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Others

Unlike standard Golden Circle tours, this one includes a visit to Kerid Crater, offering a rare chance to see a volcanic crater often skipped in larger tours. The expert guides are praised for their knowledge and storytelling, and the small group setting helps make the experience more personal and engaging.

The value for money is notable, especially given the comprehensive itinerary, hotel pickup, and return transport. Many reviews highlight how smoothly the day runs, with timing well managed to include all stops without feeling rushed.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most

This tour is perfect for first-time visitors to Iceland who want to see the highlights efficiently. It suits those who appreciate guided experiences and small groups for a more intimate feel. If you’re interested in geology, volcanic landscapes, and waterfalls, this tour delivers all in one package.

Travelers who value local insights, picturesque scenery, and a balanced pace tend to leave with a satisfying impression. The flexible scheduling, professional guides, and well-organized itinerary make this a dependable choice.

Final Thoughts on the Golden Circle and Kerid Crater Tour

The Golden Circle and Kerid Crater Small-Group Day Tour offers a balanced, well-organized way to explore Iceland’s most famous sights in a single day. Its inclusion of Kerid Crater adds a unique element often missing from other tours, and the small group size fosters a friendly, personalized atmosphere.

This tour provides excellent value, especially considering the expert guidance and scenic stops. While it doesn’t include meals, the stops at Geysir and Gullfoss offer convenient options, and the timing and pacing are praised for not feeling rushed.

This tour suits adventurers eager to see Iceland’s natural wonders without the stress of self-driving. It’s a reliable, comprehensive, and enjoyable way to experience the highlights of the Golden Circle with minimum fuss.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes driver/guide, hotel pickup and drop-off in Reykjavik, and visits to Thingvellir, Geysir, Gullfoss, and Kerid Crater.

How long does the tour last?
The approximate duration is 8 hours, starting at 9:00 am and finishing back in Reykjavik later in the day.

Is food included?
No, food and drinks are not included. However, there are options for snacks and meals at the Geysir geothermal area and Gullfoss.

Can children join this tour?
Yes, children aged 5 and above can participate when accompanied by an adult.

What should I wear?
Since the tour operates in all weather conditions, it’s recommended to dress appropriately for Iceland’s climate, including warm layers, waterproof gear, and sturdy shoes.

What is Kerid Crater, and why is it special?
Kerid Crater is a 3000-year-old volcanic crater measuring 55 meters deep with a vivid crimson hue and a sparkling lake at its bottom, offering a unique volcanic landscape.

How many stops are included in the tour?
There are four primary stops: Þingvellir National Park, Geysir, Gullfoss, and Kerid Crater, with scenic drives in between.

Are the stops at Geysir and Gullfoss free of charge?
Yes, entry to the sites is free, but you can purchase snacks or souvenirs during your visit.

What makes this tour stand out from others?
The inclusion of Kerid Crater and the small group experience with expert guides make this tour particularly appealing and comprehensive.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there is free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour start time, with full refunds available if canceled early.