From Reykjavik: Golden Circle and Northern Lights Tour

The From Reykjavik: Golden Circle and Northern Lights Tour offers a compelling way to see some of Iceland’s most iconic natural sites in one day. Priced at $136 per person and lasting approximately 10 hours, this tour combines the daytime exploration of the Golden Circle with an evening hunt for the Northern Lights. It departs from Reykjavik and includes visits to Þingvellir National Park, Gullfoss Waterfall, and the Geysir geothermal area, making it ideal for travelers eager to experience Iceland’s stunning scenery with guided insights.

A standout feature is the specialized Northern Lights guide who helps you understand how to capture the Aurora Borealis on camera and increases your chances of witnessing this elusive natural phenomenon. While the tour is quite packed, with stops spaced out to maximize sightseeing, the opportunity to see the Northern Lights depends on weather and visibility conditions, which is an important consideration.

Key Points

• Price & Duration: For $136, enjoy a full 10-hour tour that covers Iceland’s top sights and Northern Lights hunting.
• Highlights: Visit Þingvellir National Park, Gullfoss Waterfall, Geysir geothermal area, and hunt for the Aurora Borealis with a specialist guide.
• Transportation & Guides: Travel in a comfortable bus with Wi-Fi, USB chargers, and a multi-language audio guide in 10 languages.
• Optimal Timing: Starts at a flexible time depending on availability; Northern Lights viewing is scheduled during winter months, with variations based on weather.
• Value & Convenience: Includes hotel pickup and drop-off (if selected), with ample time at each attraction and a break for dinner before the Northern Lights trip.
• Weather Preparedness: Dress warmly and waterproof, especially for the evening Northern Lights hunt where temperatures can plummet.

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Exploring the Golden Circle: Þingvellir National Park

The tour begins with a transfer from Reykjavík to Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, guides lead you through the tectonic rift, where the North American and Eurasian plates are pulling apart. Expect a 45-minute stop for photos and walking through this historic landscape, which is also the site of the ancient Icelandic parliament.

Next, the drive continues to the Geysir geothermal area, where Stókkur erupts about every 6-8 minutes, shooting hot water high into the sky. This stop lasts about an hour, giving ample time to witness the geyser’s bursts, explore bubbling hot pools, and learn about Iceland’s geothermal activity.

The Gullfoss Waterfall rounds out the Golden Circle. This spectacular cascade plunges 32 meters into a canyon, creating a thunderous roar and a mist that often forms rainbows. Visitors spend approximately an hour here, capturing photographs of the powerful falls and enjoying the scenery.

The Comfort of a Fully Guided Day

This tour’s transportation is in a comfortable coach equipped with Wi-Fi and USB chargers, making it easy to stay connected. The local guide provides commentary in English and 9 other languages, ensuring that you grasp the significance of each site. Many reviews highlight the friendly and knowledgeable guides, who keep the pace lively and informative.

The itinerary allows enough time at each stop without feeling rushed, thanks to well-planned breaks. After the sightseeing, travelers get a 3 to 6-hour break for dinner and rest before heading out for the Northern Lights.

Northern Lights Chase: Watching Iceland’s Night Sky

After returning to Reykjavík around 5 p.m., travelers have a free evening to relax or explore the city before the Northern Lights hunt begins. Typically starting between 8:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m., the specialized guide takes you into the Icelandic countryside, away from city lights, to maximize your chance of seeing the Aurora Borealis.

Guides are trained to spot the Lights and will explain how to set up your camera for outdoor night sky photography. The Northern Lights are only visible during winter months, and the weather conditions greatly influence visibility. Many reviews mention that, even if the Lights are elusive on certain nights, guides are proactive in rescheduling or providing alternative options, including a second night or a sea viewing experience.

How the Schedule Unfolds

The tour features a detailed itinerary with several stops:
– Pickup from Reykjavik begins about 30 minutes before departure.
– The drive to Þingvellir takes around 45 minutes.
– The stop at Þingvellir lasts 45 minutes, where you can walk through the fissures and learn about Iceland’s history.
– Visiting Geysir follows with a 1-hour break, perfect for photos and exploring.
– Gullfoss Waterfall is visited next for 1 hour, allowing visitors to experience the sheer power of the cascade.
– The coach then spends about 2.5 hours traveling back to Reykjavík for dinner and rest.
– The evening Northern Lights tour is around 3 hours, with guides eager to help you see the Aurora if conditions are favorable.

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Practical Details and Booking Flexibility

This tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from most locations in Reykjavik, though not from private Airbnbs. It begins at Skógarhlíð 10 and requires guests to arrive 15 minutes early. The activity is fully cancellable up to 24 hours in advance, offering peace of mind for travelers uncertain about weather or schedule.

Participants are advised to dress warmly and waterproof, especially for the Northern Lights hunt where exposure to cold and wind can be intense. Since food and drinks are not included, bringing snacks or planning dinner before the trip is recommended.

Overall Experience and Who Will Enjoy It

Many reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and the well-organized nature of this combined tour. The Golden Circle part is consistently described as spectacular, with stunning waterfalls, geysers, and tectonic sites. The Northern Lights hunt often results in spectacular sightings or at least a memorable experience, especially with the guides’ assistance in photography and visibility tips.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive day of sightseeing with minimal planning, and those eager to maximize their chances of seeing the Aurora Borealis during the winter months. It’s particularly good for visitors who prefer guided tours rather than renting a car, and in comfortable coach transportation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children aged 0-11 travel free, and those aged 12-15 enjoy a 50% discount, making it family-friendly.

What should I wear for the Northern Lights hunt?
Dress warmly and waterproof with outdoor shoes, as temperatures can fall below -17°C in winter. Bringing headwear and gloves is advised.

Can I see the Northern Lights every night?
No, the Aurora Borealis visibility depends on weather and cloud cover. Guides monitor conditions closely and will try to reschedule if necessary.

What is included in the price?
The price covers hotel pickup and drop-off (if selected), the guided tours at each site, Wi-Fi, USB chargers, and in-bus audio guides in 10 languages.

How long is the entire tour?
The entire experience lasts about 10 hours, including sightseeing, breaks, dinner, and the Northern Lights hunting.

Are there any specific physical requirements?
The stops involve walking and standing outdoors, sometimes in cold weather, so comfortable walking shoes and warm clothes are essential.

This From Reykjavik: Golden Circle and Northern Lights Tour offers an excellent way to see Iceland’s top natural wonders paired with the magical experience of the Aurora Borealis, all with the convenience of guided transport and expert insight.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby