Golden Circle and Northern Lights Combo Small Group Tour

The Golden Circle and Northern Lights Combo Small Group Tour offers a comprehensive day exploring some of Iceland’s most iconic landscapes, starting from Reykjavik. Priced at $172.86 per person, this tour spans approximately 11 hours and includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it a convenient way to see the country’s natural wonders without the hassle of organizing transport. The tour features visits to Þingvellir National Park, Gullfoss Waterfall, and the Geysir geothermal area, followed by a separate evening trip to hunt for the elusive Northern Lights.

While the tour covers a lot of ground, it’s designed for those who want a well-rounded experience in a single day, with guided insights at each stop. An added bonus is the chance to see the Aurora Borealis in the evening, weather permitting. The tour operates in all weather conditions, but travelers should dress warmly and appropriately for Iceland’s variable climate. It’s especially suitable for visitors who enjoy natural scenery and are eager to maximize their daylight hours exploring Iceland’s highlights, combined with an evening of aurora hunting.

Key Points

• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Reykjavik for maximum convenience
• Visits Þingvellir National Park, Gullfoss, and Geysir within an approximately 11-hour day
• Combine daytime sightseeing with a Northern Lights search, weather dependent
• Small group size (up to 18 travelers) offers a more personal experience
• Guided commentary at each stop provides insight into Iceland’s geology and history
• Not including food and drinks, so plan accordingly for meals in Reykjavik

Exploring the Golden Circle: Þingvellir National Park

The tour begins with a pick-up at 12:00 pm from select Reykjavik hotels, leading you to Þingvellir National Park after about 40 minutes of travel. This UNESCO World Heritage site is notable for its dramatic rift valley, where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates pull apart visibly. Visitors get to see the Althing, Iceland’s historic parliament, founded here in 930 AD, and marvel at geological features like the Silfra Fissure and Almannagjá. The park blends natural beauty with cultural significance, and 45 minutes allows enough time for photographs and short walks.

This stop is perfect for observing Iceland’s volcanic activity and understanding its geological history, especially since the landscape constantly shifts due to tectonic movements. The backdrop of Þingvallavatn lake adds a tranquil touch. The stop is free of admission fees, making it an accessible highlight of the day.

Marveling at Gullfoss Waterfall

Following Þingvellir, the tour heads to Gullfoss, or the “Golden Waterfall,” situated at the edge of the Highlands. This two-tiered waterfall plunges 32 meters into a canyon carved by the Hvíta River, fed by the Langjökull glacier. The view of the rushing waters beneath a wide, expansive sky showcases Iceland’s raw power and natural beauty.

Travelers get 45 minutes at Gullfoss to soak in the sights, take photos, and appreciate the sheer force of nature. Its unique position and seasonal beauty make it a must-see; no matter the time of year, Gullfoss impresses with its grandeur and roar. The site is free to visit, offering an accessible yet awe-inspiring experience.

Watching Geysir Eruptions in the Geothermal Field

Next, the group visits the Geysir geothermal area, where bubbling springs, steaming vents, and erupting geysers create a lively geothermal landscape. The area is home to Strokkur, the most active geyser in Iceland, erupting every 4 to 10 minutes with spectacular water jets. Although Geysir itself remains dormant, it historically held the record as the tallest geyser at 122 meters.

Visitors can wander among the geothermal features, observing the mesmerizing eruptions of Strokkur and the bubbling pools around it. This stop lasts an hour, providing plenty of opportunities for photos and exploration. The area is free of charge and offers insight into Iceland’s volcanic activity, a key part of the country’s natural identity.

Free Time in Reykjavik Before Evening Aurora Search

After completing the Golden Circle circuit, the tour returns to Reykjavik, where there’s about 2 hours of free time. This interval allows for dinner, rest, or a quick walk through the city’s streets and shops before the evening’s Northern Lights expedition. The group is picked up again from the same location later in the evening, with pickup times varying by season—20:30 PM from October 1 to February 28, and 21:30 PM from September 1 to September 30 and March 1 to April 15.

This flexible window offers an opportunity to enjoy local cuisine or relax before heading out for the aurora hunt, which is weather dependent but typically guided by experienced aurora hunters. The tour visits some of the best countryside spots away from city light pollution, improving the chances of a visible display.

Northern Lights Hunting: Off the Beaten Path

The evening part of this tour takes you to the countryside, where guides evaluate weather conditions and aurora forecasts to find the best viewing spots. The guides aim to increase the chances of seeing the lights, which appear as shimmering, jewel-bright colors in the night sky. Expect to see green, yellow, white, blue, violet, purple, or rose hues.

While the northern lights are a natural phenomenon and cannot be guaranteed, the tour’s focus on knowledgeable guides and weather evaluation enhances the likelihood of witnessing this magical display. The group stays at the selected location for approximately 4 hours, with the opportunity to take photos and enjoy the quiet beauty of Iceland’s night landscape.

Practical Details and Group Size

This tour is operated by Arctic Adventures and accommodates a maximum of 18 travelers, creating a more intimate experience compared to larger bus tours. The transportation is via a minibus, and a professional guide leads the entire journey, providing commentary on the sites and the natural phenomena observed.

Travelers should dress warmly, as Iceland’s weather can be cold and unpredictable, especially during the northern lights hunt. Recommended attire includes warm layers, weatherproof outerwear, headwear, gloves, scarves, and sturdy shoes. In icy conditions, wearing spikes on boots can be advantageous.

Considerations and Customer Feedback

While the tour offers convenience and a variety of highlights, some reviews mention challenges such as confusion about pickup and drop-off locations and concerns about the driving in snowy conditions. One review notes that the guide for the Golden Circle seemed less engaging and appeared annoyed during the trip. However, other travelers appreciate the well-organized itinerary and the opportunity to see multiple Icelandic landmarks in one day.

It’s important to note that food and drinks are not included, so guests should plan for their own meals during the free time in Reykjavik. The tour operates rain or shine, meaning all weather conditions are managed, but travelers should be prepared for cold, wind, or snow.

Final Thoughts on the Golden Circle and Northern Lights Tour

This small group tour offers a practical way to cover Iceland’s key sights—Þingvellir, Gullfoss, and Geysir—in one day, with the added bonus of a Northern Lights search at night. The guided commentary enriches the experience, making it suitable for those interested in geological and cultural insights.

The value lies in the combination of daytime sightseeing and an evening aurora hunt, especially given the hotel pickup and drop-off included. Travelers who prefer a more personal experience with fewer participants might find the small group size appealing, although some may experience confusion around logistics or variable guide engagement.

The tour serves well for visitors aiming to see Iceland’s iconic landscapes and seek the Northern Lights with the guidance of local experts, provided they are prepared for the weather and understand that the aurora cannot be guaranteed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation via minibus, and a professional guide. It covers visits to Þingvellir, Gullfoss, Geysir, and the Northern Lights hunt.

Are meals provided during the tour?
No, food and drinks are not included, so travelers should plan to buy dinner during the free time in Reykjavik.

What is the duration of the day tour?
The entire tour lasts approximately 11 hours, starting around 12:00 pm with the Golden Circle and ending after the Northern Lights hunt, around midnight depending on the season.

Where does the Northern Lights hunt take place?
The guides take travelers to hidden countryside spots away from city lights, aiming to improve the chance of seeing the Aurora Borealis.

Is the Northern Lights guaranteed?
No, the aurora borealis is a natural phenomenon, so sightings depend on weather conditions and aurora activity, which guides monitor to maximize the chances.

What should I wear for this tour?
Dress in warm layers, including a weatherproof top layer, headwear, gloves, scarf, and sturdy shoes. In icy conditions, spikes for boots are recommended.

What is the maximum group size?
This tour accommodates up to 18 travelers, providing a more intimate experience.

Can children join the tour?
Yes, the minimum age is 6 years old, and children must be accompanied by an adult.

What if the weather cancels the Northern Lights hunt?
If poor weather prevents the Aurora viewing, travelers will be offered a different date or a full refund.

How do I book this tour?
Bookings can be made through the provider’s platform, with confirmation received immediately upon booking. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

Who operates this tour?
The tour is offered by Arctic Adventures, a reputable provider specializing in Icelandic excursions.