Golden Circle, Fridheimar Farm & Horses Small Group Tour from Reykjavik

Explore Iceland’s Golden Circle for $111 with a Small Group Tour from Reykjavik

This 9-hour small group tour from Reykjavik offers a comprehensive look at Iceland’s most famous natural attractions, all for $111 per person. It’s recommended by 95% of travelers and is typically booked 58 days in advance, highlighting its popularity. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from selected Reykjavik hotels, making it a convenient way to explore without the hassle of transportation planning.

What makes this experience stand out is its combination of iconic sights like the Geyser geothermal area, Gullfoss waterfall, and Thingvellir National Park, along with unique visits to a geothermal farm and an Icelandic horse farm. The small group size—up to 22 travelers—ensures a more intimate and flexible experience, praised by many for the friendliness of guides and personalized attention.

While the tour does not include lunch, it offers enough time at each stop to explore comfortably. Plus, the additional stops like the Kerid crater and the Strokkur geyser give a well-rounded view of Iceland’s natural beauty. This tour suits travelers seeking a balanced mix of sightseeing, cultural insight, and local flavor in a single day.

Key Points

• Full-day Golden Circle tour from Reykjavik, lasting approximately 9 hours
• Includes visits to Kerid crater, Geysir, Gulfoss waterfall, Thingvellir
• Visit a geothermal farm with a horse show and tomato greenhouse
• Hotel pickup and drop-off from select Reykjavik hotels
• Small group size for a more personalized experience
• Tour price of $111 makes it a good value for comprehensive sightseeing

Starting Point and Tour Duration in Reykjavik

The tour begins at 9:00 am with hotel pickup from selected hotels and official bus stops in central Reykjavik. The 9-hour itinerary is designed to cover all major stops at a relaxed pace, giving enough time to appreciate each site without feeling rushed. The Wi-Fi-equipped minibus ensures connectivity during the journey, adding comfort and convenience.

The tour operates in all weather conditions, so travelers should dress appropriately for Iceland’s often unpredictable climate. Its average booking window of 58 days in advance indicates strong interest, and the small group setting makes for a more engaging experience compared to larger bus tours.

Visiting the Kerid Crater: Iceland’s Iconic Volcanic Lake

The first major stop is Kerid, a 55-meter-deep volcanic crater filled with milky blue water. Its red and black rocks create striking contrasts, making it a favorite for photos. The 20-minute visit allows travelers to walk around the rim and take in the colorful landscape.

The admission is included in the tour, and many appreciate how this stop offers a quick yet immersive experience of Iceland’s volcanic activity. Its dramatic scenery provides a perfect start to the day’s exploration.

Exploring Fridheimar Tomato Farm and Icelandic Horses

At Fridheimar, visitors spend 1.5 hours learning about Icelandic horse breeding and the innovative geothermal greenhouse where tomatoes are grown year-round. The guided horse show highlights the unique traits of Icelandic horses, which many describe as a highlight of the tour.

The greenhouse visit includes a taste of fresh tomatoes, adding a tasty and educational element. The admission is included, and guests often comment on the friendly atmosphere and the knowledgeable guide leading the farm visit.

Witnessing Geysir and Strokkur Eruptions

The Geysir geothermal area features boiling mud pits and erupting geysers. The Strokkur geyser, which erupts every 7 to 10 minutes, is the star attraction, shooting water up to 20 meters into the air. The 45-minute stop at this site offers multiple chances to see the geyser in action.

Visitors can also purchase food here, making it a good spot for a snack before continuing. The raw power of the geothermal activity creates an unforgettable spectacle.

Admiring Gulfoss Waterfall’s Power

The Gullfoss waterfall stands as one of Iceland’s most stunning waterfalls, with its two-tiered cascade plunging 105 feet into a deep crevasse. The 45-minute stop allows visitors to get close to the falls and appreciate its raw energy.

Many reviews mention the breathtaking views and the photogenic quality of Gulfoss, making it a popular highlight. The free admission offers a chance to experience this natural wonder at no extra cost.

Discovering the Geologically Significant Thingvellir National Park

At Thingvellir, the tour explores both historic and geological wonders. This site is the location of Iceland’s first parliament founded in the late 900s and is the visible boundary between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates.

Spending 45 minutes here, visitors walk through rock formations, see geysers, and learn about Iceland’s volcanic activity. The admission is included, and many appreciate the opportunity to stand where the continents meet.

The Unique Experience at the Geothermal Geyser Area

The Strokkur geyser is active and erupts regularly, providing another chance to witness Iceland’s geothermal marvels. The stop lasts 40 minutes, giving ample time to observe eruptions and explore the geothermal landscape.

Visitors can also buy food here, making it a convenient meal stop. Many reviews highlight the entertaining eruptions and the informative guides who explain the geothermal processes.

Additional Highlights and Practical Details

The tour’s inclusion of a horse show and greenhouse visit adds local flavor often missing from standard Golden Circle trips. Many travelers praise the knowledgeable guides for their friendly demeanor and ability to share interesting facts without feeling scripted.

The small group size means more flexibility and personalized interactions, which many reviewers find a significant advantage. Food options are available at the greenhouse and geyser stops, but lunch is not included, so travelers should plan accordingly.

Booking, Cancellation, and Weather Considerations

Booking typically opens 58 days in advance, reflecting high demand. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure, with a full refund, which provides peace of mind. Since the tour operates in all weather, travelers should be prepared with appropriate clothing.

The minibus transportation ensures comfort, and the Wi-Fi adds a modern touch to the journey. The maximum group size of 22 keeps the experience intimate and engaging.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This tour appeals to those interested in a full-day exploration of Iceland’s most famous sights with the added bonus of local experiences like the horse show and tomato greenhouse. It’s ideal for first-time visitors wanting a well-rounded snapshot of Iceland’s natural and cultural highlights.

Travelers who appreciate small group tours for the personalized approach and guided commentary tend to rate this experience highly. It’s particularly suitable for those with moderate mobility, given the manageable walking at stops and the comfort of a small bus.

Final Thoughts on the Golden Circle, Fridheimar Farm & Horses Tour

This well-priced, comprehensive tour from Reykjavik offers an excellent balance of nature, culture, and Icelandic charm. The guides’ expertise and friendly approach shine through, making it a recommendation for anyone seeking an engaging full-day adventure.

While it doesn’t include lunch, the stops at Kerid, Geysir, Gulfoss, and Thingvellir are all highlights in their own right. The additional stops at the farm and greenhouse add a special touch that elevates the experience beyond a typical Golden Circle trip.

This tour provides a trustworthy, enjoyable way to see Iceland’s top sights with good value and personalized service. It’s suited best for travelers who want a relaxed, informative day with plenty of photo opportunities and local flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is lunch included in this tour?
No, lunch is not included, but food can be purchased at the geothermal farm and geyser stops.

What is the group size?
The tour has a maximum of 22 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

How long are stops at each location?
Stops range from 20 minutes at Kerid to 45 minutes at Gulfoss and Thingvellir, with additional time at Geysir and the horse farm.

What should I wear for the tour?
Dressing appropriately for Iceland’s weather is recommended, as the tour runs in all conditions.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is possible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Who is the tour provider?
The experience is operated by BusTravel Iceland.