Golden Circle and Fridheimar Greenhouse Private Tour

Exploring Iceland’s Golden Circle is a must for anyone wanting to see some of the country’s most iconic natural wonders. This private tour by Reykjavik Private Tours offers a personalized 7-hour experience for up to 3 people, at a price of $1,067 per group. The tour combines visits to Geysir, Gullfoss, Þingvellir, and Kerið, with an additional stop at the innovative Friðheimar Greenhouse.

What makes this particular tour stand out is the private transportation and driver-guide, which offers flexibility and a tailored pace. A notable highlight is the visit to Friðheimar, where travelers get to see how Icelandic farms grow tomatoes sustainably, with the chance to taste their delicious homemade tomato soup. This mix of natural beauty and eco-friendly farming makes it a well-rounded experience, though travelers should be prepared for a full day of walking and outdoor exposure.

This tour is ideal for those seeking a personalized, comfortable experience with a focus on Iceland’s top sights and innovative local farming practices. It suits travelers who want a comprehensive look at the Golden Circle without rushing through, and who appreciate the chance to learn about Iceland’s geology, history, and sustainability in one trip.

Key Points

• Private guided experience lasting approximately 7 hours with flexible timing.
• Includes visits to Geysir, Gullfoss, Þingvellir, and Kerið volcanic crater lake.
• Visit to Friðheimar Greenhouse offers a glimpse into sustainable farming and a chance to try homemade tomato soup.
• Transportation and driver-guide are included, providing a comfortable and personalized journey.
• Admission to Kerið costs 600 ISK per person and is payable at the site, not included in the tour price.
• No meals included, but the greenhouse visit offers a tasty, local experience.

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Exploring the Icelandic Landscape at Þingvellir National Park

The tour begins at Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where the American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. Here, the drifting apart of the plates creates a landscape full of fissures and clear water. Visitors walk between the continents and learn about the area’s geological significance.

Beyond geology, Þingvellir holds historical importance as the site of Iceland’s ancient parliament. The combination of natural beauty and cultural history makes it a compelling first stop. The setting offers plenty of opportunities for photos and short walks. Expect some walking on uneven terrain, so comfortable shoes are advised.

Witnessing the Strokkur Geyser Erupts Every 4 to 8 Minutes

Next, the tour heads to the Geysir geothermal area, home to the famous Strokkur geyser. This geyser erupts roughly every 4 to 8 minutes, shooting boiling water up to 30 meters into the air in a spectacular display. Watching this natural fountain of water is a highlight, with the frequent eruptions providing plenty of chances to catch a good photo.

The geothermal region also features other bubbling hot springs and fumaroles, making it a lively showcase of Iceland’s volcanic activity. The proximity of the geyser and the interpretive signs help visitors understand how geothermal energy shapes the landscape. Since this stop is a key feature of the Golden Circle, it’s often busy, but the private tour allows for more relaxed viewing.

Admiring the Power of Gullfoss Waterfall

Following Geysir, the journey continues to Gullfoss, also called the “Golden Falls”. This impressive two-tiered waterfall plunges 32 meters into a deep canyon, creating a thunderous spray and a dramatic view. The sight of water rushing over the cliffs offers a powerful reminder of Iceland’s volcanic energy.

There are well-maintained paths and viewing platforms, so visitors can get close to the falls and take photos from different angles. The glistening spray and the surrounding landscape are especially stunning under different weather conditions. The low number of visitors in a private tour setting means more time to appreciate the raw force of nature.

Experiencing Sustainable Farming at Friðheimar Greenhouse

One of the unique features of this tour is the visit to Friðheimar Greenhouse, where Iceland’s innovative greenhouse farming takes center stage. Here, tomatoes are grown in a sustainable environment, using geothermal energy to heat the greenhouses.

Visitors have the chance to see the growing process firsthand and enjoy homemade tomato soup, which is made from freshly picked tomatoes. While meals are not included in the tour price, the greenhouse offers delicious, locally produced food that enhances the experience. The greenhouse’s eco-friendly approach demonstrates how Iceland is working to reduce its environmental footprint while maintaining food production.

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The Vibrant Blue of Kerið Crater Lake

The final stop on the tour is Kerið, a volcanic crater lake famed for its vivid blue waters and red volcanic rock. Located in the Grímsnes area, this natural wonder features a caldera approximately 55 meters deep with a brightly colored water-filled basin.

Visitors can walk around the rim, taking in panoramic views of the crater and the surrounding landscape. Admission costs 600 ISK per person, payable on-site, and is not included in the overall tour price. With its striking colors, Kerið is a favorite for photography and a fitting conclusion to the sightseeing day.

Logistics and Comfort: Private Transport and Expert Guidance

The entire experience is made smooth by private transportation and a driver-guide, who meet travelers directly at their accommodation in Reykjavik. This setup offers flexibility in timing and the comfort of traveling in a private vehicle, avoiding crowded buses.

The tour includes all stops except for Kerið, where an admission fee applies. The guide provides insightful commentary, making the stops educational as well as scenic. Travelers should wear comfortable shoes and warm clothing, as weather can be unpredictable and outdoor walking is involved.

How This Tour Compares to Other Golden Circle Experiences

This private tour distinguishes itself by offering a personalized experience tailored to the group’s pace. The inclusion of the Friðheimar Greenhouse adds a culinary and agricultural dimension not always present in standard Golden Circle trips.

While the price of $1,067 may seem high compared to group tours, the private nature means there is more flexibility and comfort. The tour’s focus on sustainable farming and the opportunity to enjoy homemade food also set it apart from more typical sightseeing excursions.

Considerations and Recommendations

This tour requires a full day of outdoor activity, so dressing in warm, layered clothing and wearing comfortable walking shoes is essential. The visit to Kerið involves a small admission fee, which is payable at the site.

Since food is not included, travelers interested in dining at Friðheimar should budget accordingly. The greenhouse offers a delicious, locally grown meal option, but availability may vary. As it is a private experience, groups should communicate any specific interests or pacing preferences with the guide.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most

Travelers who value personalized guidance, want to see Iceland’s highlights at a comfortable pace, and are interested in sustainable farming will find this tour especially rewarding. The combination of natural wonders and local agricultural practices provides a broader understanding of Icelandic culture and environment.

This tour is less suited for those with mobility challenges due to outdoor walking and uneven terrains at stops like Þingvellir and Kerið.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is designed for private groups and involves outdoor walking at multiple stops, so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with light physical activity.

Are meals included during the tour?
No, meals are not included. However, the Friðheimar Greenhouse offers homemade tomato soup you can purchase if desired.

How much does admission to Kerið cost?
Admission is 600 ISK per person and payable at the site, not included in the tour price.

Can I customize the timing of stops?
Since the tour is private, the driver-guide provides flexibility, but the overall schedule is structured around the main sights listed.

What should I bring for the tour?
Comfortable shoes and warm clothing are recommended due to outdoor exposure and Iceland’s variable weather conditions.

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