Golden circle Iceland

Explore Iceland’s Iconic Sites on a Private Golden Circle Tour

This private tour in Iceland offers a personalized way to explore the famous Golden Circle at your own pace. Priced at $415.04 per person, it spans approximately 6 to 8 hours and includes pickup from Reykjavik, making it a smooth day trip. The tour covers four major stops: Kerid Crater, Geysir, Gullfoss Waterfall, and Thingvellir National Park, all led by a dedicated guide and driver. With Wi-Fi onboard and complimentary coffee or tea, this experience prioritizes comfort, flexibility, and quality.

What makes this tour stand out is its private arrangement, allowing your group to avoid crowded buses and rigid schedules. You get to enjoy each site at your own pace, with admission tickets included at every location. The tour’s flexibility, combined with practical amenities like bottled water and parking fees covered, makes it an appealing choice for those seeking a relaxed yet comprehensive adventure around Iceland’s most celebrated landmarks.

Key Points

• Private, flexible experience with no sharing group
• All major stops including Kerid Crater, Geysir, Gullfoss, and Thingvellir
• Admission tickets included for all four sites
• Comfortable transportation with Wi-Fi and bottled water
• Pickup and drop-off from Reykjavik’s Harpa Concert Hall
• Tour duration of 6 to 8 hours, ideal for a full day exploration

Starting from Reykjavik: Convenient Pickup and Drop-off

This private Golden Circle tour begins at Harpa Concert Hall, centrally located in Reykjavik, simplifying the start of your adventure. The tour ends back at the same meeting point, providing a seamless experience. The private transportation ensures your group’s comfort, and parking fees are already included, avoiding surprise costs.

The pick-up service is punctual, and the vehicle features Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing you to share photos or check your travel plans during the drive. This setup is especially beneficial for travelers staying in Reykjavik who prefer a hassle-free start and finish to their day.

Visiting Kerid Crater: Walking on a Volcanic Caldera

The first stop is Kerid Crater, where a 1-hour walk takes you around the rim of this striking volcanic caldera. The admission ticket is included, and the highlight is the scenic walk around the crater’s edge, with the opportunity to admire its vivid red slopes and the lake formed inside.

This stop offers a close look at Iceland’s volcanic landscape. The walk is manageable, making it suitable for most physical levels, but travelers should be prepared for uneven terrain. The unique colors and geological features make Kerid a memorable introduction to Iceland’s volcanic activity.

Witnessing the Geysir Eruption and Hot Springs

Next, the tour proceeds to the Haukadalur valley, home to one of the five geyser fields in the world. Here, the famous Great Geyser and Strokkur erupt regularly, with jets reaching up to 30 meters high every 10 minutes. The hot springs surrounding the geysers create a landscape filled with steam and bubbling waters.

This stop lasts around 1 hour, and admission is free. Travelers can enjoy the natural spectacle of erupting geysers and the crisp Icelandic scenery. After exploring, there’s an option to try traditional Icelandic lamb meat soup (kjötsúpa), offering a taste of local cuisine amid the geothermal activity.

Experiencing the Power of Gullfoss Waterfall

The Gullfoss Waterfall is the highlight of the tour, where the 32-meter falls cascade in two stages down a mountain cliff. The natural observation deck provides a panoramic view of the powerful flow of water as it plunges into the rugged canyon below.

The 1-hour visit gives ample time to feel the raw energy of the falls and snap photos of the blue-tinted waters. This site is a favorite for its impressive size and the titanic roar of the water, offering a visceral sense of Iceland’s natural force.

Exploring the Historic and Geophysical Marvel of Thingvellir

The final stop is Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, you can observe spectacular landscapes created by the diverging North American and Eurasian tectonic plates—notable rifts and cracks visible throughout the park.

In the 10th century, this site hosted the world’s oldest parliament, Althing, and historically, it was the center of Icelandic culture and decision-making. The 1-hour visit allows for a walk through the lush scenery and a chance to learn about Iceland’s history and geology.

Practical Amenities Enhancing Your Day

Throughout the tour, bottled water is provided, and Wi-Fi on board keeps you connected during transit. The private transportation means you can control your schedule—spending more or less time at each site—without feeling rushed.

Coffee and tea are offered to keep you energized, and parking fees are included in the price, simplifying logistics. The tour’s flexible pace and personalized service are highly praised in reviews, especially for those who prefer a more intimate experience without the constraints of larger group tours.

Who Should Consider This Private Golden Circle Tour?

This private experience suits travelers who value comfort, flexibility, and personalized attention. It’s ideal for those who want to avoid crowded bus tours and enjoy a more relaxed exploration of Iceland’s most renowned sites. The tour is accessible for most, with most travelers able to participate, and service animals are allowed.

Be aware that this tour does not include brunch, so plan your meals accordingly. It’s especially appealing for visitors who want a customized day with a knowledgeable guide leading the way, making it easier to ask questions and tailor the experience to personal interests.

The Sum Up: A Well-Rounded Private Tour of Iceland’s Golden Circle

This private Golden Circle tour combines convenience, comfort, and a thorough itinerary that covers Kerid Crater, Geysir, Gullfoss, and Thingvellir—the four pillars of Iceland’s natural and historical charm. The all-inclusive pricing and amenities like Wi-Fi, bottled water, and parking fees add to its appeal.

While it offers a relaxed pace and the ability to spend more time at favorite sites, it remains a practical choice for those who prefer an intimate, guided experience without the crowds. The positive reviews highlight knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery, making this tour a reliable option for anyone seeking a comprehensive visit to the Icelandic countryside.

Ultimately, this tour is best suited for travelers prioritizing comfort and customization. It delivers Iceland’s highlights with a personal touch, creating a memorable day that balances natural beauty and cultural history.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of this tour?
The tour costs $415.04 per person.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 6 to 8 hours.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at Harpa Concert Hall in Reykjavik.

Are tickets to sites included?
Yes, admission tickets are included for all four stops: Kerid Crater, Geysir, Gullfoss, and Thingvellir.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour features private transportation with Wi-Fi and parking fees are covered.

Can I customize the schedule?
Being a private tour, you can spend more or less time at each site as you prefer.

Is this tour suitable for most travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed.

What should I bring?
It’s recommended to wear comfortable walking shoes, bring water, and prepare for Icelandic weather.

Are meals included?
No, brunch is not included, but coffee and tea are provided during the day.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you will be offered a reschedule or full refund.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.