From Reykjavik: Golden Circle and Northern Lights Combo

The From Reykjavik: Golden Circle and Northern Lights Combo offers a fascinating day-and-night exploration of Iceland’s natural wonders. Priced at $146 per person and lasting 9 hours, this tour from the main BSI bus terminal in Reykjavik combines a classic daytime Golden Circle trip with an evening search for the elusive Northern Lights.

This experience is ideal for travelers eager to see iconic Icelandic sights like Geysir, Gullfoss, and Þingvellir National Park, while also having a chance to witness the Aurora Borealis, weather permitting. While the Northern Lights tour depends heavily on weather conditions and sightings cannot be guaranteed, the tour’s flexibility allows for free rebooking if the lights are missed.

Key Points

• Two tours in one: a daytime Golden Circle visit combined with an evening Northern Lights chase
• Price of $146 covers transportation, a live guide, and both tour segments
• Meeting point at BSI bus terminal in Reykjavik, with no included pickup or drop-off
• Guides are highly praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and engaging storytelling
• Weather-dependent Aurora sightings mean chances vary, but rebooking is free if not seen
• Warm clothing and sturdy shoes recommended due to outdoor stops and cold weather

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The Golden Circle: Iconic Icelandic Landmarks in a Single Day

The tour begins with a departure from Reykjavik’s BSI bus terminal in the morning, taking you on a spacious coach to the famous Golden Circle route. The stops include Geysir, Strokkur, and Gullfoss, each showcasing Iceland’s geothermal activity and dramatic waterfalls.

At Geysir and Strokkur, you’ll see boiling water spout from the earth, an active geothermal area in the Haukadalur Valley. Here, Strokkur reliably erupts every 5-10 minutes, providing great photo opportunities. The Gullfoss waterfall impresses with its powerful cascade plunging into a 32-meter deep crevice, with different perspectives along the viewing paths.

Next, the tour moves to Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site where the tectonic plates of North America and Eurasia are pulling apart. Expect open landscapes and geological formations that highlight the Earth’s shifting crust. This stop offers a break from the bus and a chance for photos and fresh air.

The guided commentary enhances each stop, with guides sharing insights into Iceland’s geology, history, and culture. Several reviews highlight the guides’ expertise and engaging storytelling, making the stops more meaningful.

From the Old Town to the Geothermal Wonders of Geysir and Strokkur

The geothermal area of Geysir is one of Iceland’s most famous attractions. The active geyser erupts hot water high into the air at regular intervals, creating a spectacular display. The nearby Strokkur geyser erupts more frequently, making it easier to catch a burst during your visit.

The geyser field is lively and bubbling, with steaming vents and mineral deposits painting the landscape. The guide explains the geothermal activity and the science behind these natural phenomena, adding a layer of understanding to your visit.

The Power and Beauty of Gullfoss Waterfall

Gullfoss, meaning “Golden Falls,” is a highlight of the Golden Circle. The powerful water cascade plunges into a deep canyon, creating a thunderous sound that echoes across the area. The waterfall’s multiple viewing points allow for different angles, including a lower platform for a close-up view.

Several reviews mention that the scenery at Gullfoss is breathtaking, with the sheer force of the water and the surrounding rugged landscape making for memorable photos. The tour allows enough time here to soak in the beauty before moving on.

Exploring Þingvellir National Park’s Unique Landscape

The stop at Þingvellir provides a glimpse into Iceland’s geological and cultural history. The park’s vast, open space features rift valleys, clear lakes, and geological formations formed by the separation of tectonic plates.

Visitors can walk along paths that reveal the drifting of continents and the historical assembly site of Iceland’s parliament. Guides often share interesting anecdotes and explain the significance of this protected site, making it more than just a scenic stop.

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Returning to Reykjavik with a Short Break

After the Golden Circle, the tour returns to Reykjavik for a few hours of leisure. This break allows for a quick meal, some shopping, or simply relaxing before the evening’s Northern Lights adventure begins.

The Northern Lights tour departs after dark, with the guide leading a night-time coach out of the city. The goal is to find clear skies and the best vantage points to witness the aurora borealis, a natural phenomenon caused by solar particles interacting with Earth’s atmosphere.

The Northern Lights Chase: Nature’s Light Show

The aurora hunt is weather dependent, with success varying based on cloud cover, KP index, and moon phase. Reviews indicate that the guides are experienced in forecasting and adjusting plans accordingly; if the lights are missed, travelers can rejoin the tour free of charge.

Expect to be driven to a dark, open area, where the guides will point out the Northern Lights if they appear. Viewing conditions can be cold, so warm outdoor clothing and sturdy shoes are essential. Several reviews praise guides for their knowledge, friendliness, and efforts to maximize the chances of seeing the lights.

Transportation and Meeting Details

This tour departs from the BSI bus terminal in Reykjavik. Travelers are advised to arrive 15 minutes early for check-in, as the activity begins on time. The tour includes live guides and transportation but does not include food, drinks, or pickup and drop-off services.

The group size tends to be large, with multiple coaches used for the Northern Lights chase, emphasizing the importance of dressing warmly and bringing patience for the outdoor waiting periods.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Other Icelandic Excursions

This combo tour provides a balanced experience of Iceland’s most iconic landmarks and the chance to see the Northern Lights— a true highlight for many visitors. The guided commentary is a standout feature, with guides often praised for their knowledge and friendliness.

The flexible rebooking policy for the Northern Lights adds value, especially since Aurora sightings are weather-dependent. Many reviews mention that the guides carefully forecast the chances and make adjustments to improve the odds of seeing the lights.

However, the outdoor nature and long hours outside in cold weather are notable considerations. While the stops at Geysir, Gullfoss, and Þingvellir are well-paced, the outdoor waiting for the Aurora can be challenging for some.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

The From Reykjavik: Golden Circle and Northern Lights Combo offers an excellent introduction to Iceland’s natural beauty. The $146 price covers transportation, guides, and both tour segments, making it a good value for those wanting a comprehensive experience.

The guides’ expertise and the opportunity to see Geysir, Gullfoss, and Þingvellir, combined with the thrill of chasing the Northern Lights, make this tour suitable for first-time visitors and seasoned travelers alike. While Aurora sightings depend on weather, the possibility of rebooking without extra cost adds reassurance.

Travelers who enjoy outdoor exploration, natural phenomena, and scenic landscapes will find this tour well-organized and rewarding. Just remember to dress warmly, manage expectations for the Northern Lights, and plan your day accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this tour include pickup and drop-off services?
No, the tour begins and ends at the BSI bus terminal in Reykjavik. Travelers need to arrange their own transportation to and from the meeting point.

What is the best time of year to see the Northern Lights on this tour?
The tour runs in the evening, with the Northern Lights chase being weather-dependent. Sightings are most likely during dark, clear nights, typically from late September to early April.

Can I join the Northern Lights tour again if I don’t see the lights the first time?
Yes, if the Aurora is not visible due to weather or conditions, travelers are welcome to rebook the Northern Lights tour free of charge on another evening, subject to availability.

What should I wear for the tour?
Warm, sturdy outdoor clothing and shoes are recommended. Layers, hats, gloves, and thermal wear will help keep comfortable during outdoor stops, especially during the Northern Lights hunt.

How long is the break at Reykjavik between the two tours?
The break lasts a few hours, giving time for a quick meal or rest before heading out again for the Northern Lights in the evening.

Is this tour suitable for families or those with limited mobility?
While the stops involve outdoor walking and standing, the tour’s pace is generally manageable. However, mobility constraints should be considered, especially for the Northern Lights segment where outdoor waiting in cold weather is required.

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