Golden Circle & Northern Lights Tour from Reykjavik

The Golden Circle & Northern Lights Tour from Reykjavik offers a comprehensive day and night experience for those eager to see Iceland’s natural wonders. Priced at $138 per person, this 12-hour 30-minute guided journey combines iconic sightseeing with an exciting hunt for the Northern Lights. Departing from a conveniently located pickup point in Reykjavik, the tour takes you to Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area, Gullfoss Waterfall, and Kerid Crater. Later, after returning to Reykjavik for a brief rest, the adventure continues with a four-hour Northern Lights search within a 90-minute radius of the city.

This tour is a popular choice, booked on average 51 days in advance, and it maintains high praise for its knowledgeable guides, comfortable transport, and the chance to witness the Aurora Borealis. While the tour offers extensive sightseeing and a well-organized schedule, weather conditions can influence the Northern Lights visibility, which is a common challenge. The tour suits travelers looking for a full-day Iceland experience that combines the best of daytime sights with evening Aurora hunting.

Key Points

• Comprehensive experience combining Golden Circle sights and Northern Lights hunting
• Price of $138, with flexible cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
• Round-trip transportation from Reykjavik with Wi-Fi, restroom, and guide
• Visits to Thingvellir National Park, Geysir, Gullfoss, and Kerid Crater
• Evening search for the Aurora Borealis with hot chocolate and snacks
• Tour duration of about 12.5 hours, with most stops including free admission

Pickup and Transport in Reykjavik

The tour departs from Bus Stop #12 Höfðatorg, Þórunnartún 6, 105 Reykjavík, making it easy to find without hassle. The air-conditioned vehicle comes equipped with Wi-Fi so you can stay connected throughout the day. The vehicle also has a restroom onboard, which adds comfort during the long drive between stops. The group size is limited to a maximum of 59 travelers, ensuring a comfortable and engaging experience.

Visit the Golden Circle’s Top Destinations

The Golden Circle route features three main stops: Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss Waterfall. These sites are some of Iceland’s most famous natural attractions, offering a mix of geological marvels and scenic beauty.

Thingvellir National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site

The tour starts with a 40-minute visit to Thingvellir National Park, recognized for its geological significance and cultural importance. This area showcases the rift between North American and Eurasian tectonic plates and holds historical significance as the site of Iceland’s ancient parliament. The park’s natural scenery provides excellent photo opportunities and insights into Iceland’s geological activity.

Geysir Geothermal Area: The Eruption of Strokkur

Next, the Geysir geothermal area is explored for 1 hour 10 minutes. The highlight here is Strokkur, the geyser that reliably erupts every 5-10 minutes, propelling water and steam up to 130 feet high. Visitors can observe this impressive natural display and experience the bubbling geothermal pools surrounding the geyser.

Gullfoss Waterfall: Iceland’s Golden Waterfall

The Gullfoss Waterfall visit lasts 40 minutes. It’s one of Iceland’s most powerful waterfalls, fed by a glacial river and tumbling over several drops into a canyon. The sight of the water crashing down in wintertime, often covered in snow or ice, offers breathtaking views perfect for photography.

Kerid Crater: Volcanic Remnant with a Lake

The Kerid Crater is included as a 30-minute stop. This volcanic crater, formed 6,500 years ago, features a lake fed by groundwater at its bottom. Visitors can walk along the top of the crater or descend steps to stand at the water’s edge, enjoying striking red volcanic rocks contrasting with the blue lake.

A Short Break in Hveragerdi

A 15-minute refreshment stop in Hveragerdi provides a quick chance to stretch legs and take in the local scenery. This small town is known for its geothermal activity and lush surroundings, offering a moment of calm before returning to Reykjavík.

Free Time in Reykjavik

Back in Reykjavik, the tour allocates 2 hours for guests to relax, explore the city, or grab dinner. This period is perfect for freshening up, purchasing souvenirs, or enjoying a meal in the city’s vibrant dining scene before heading out again for the Northern Lights.

Northern Lights Search: An Evening Adventure

The second part of the tour involves a four-hour chase for the Aurora Borealis. The guides study aurora forecasts and cloud cover charts to find clear skies within a 90-minute radius of Reykjavik. The search includes stopping at various countryside locations where the opportunity to see the colorful lights is highest.

Experience the Night Sky with Comfort

Traveling in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, guests are offered snacks like hot chocolate and candy as they wait for the Northern Lights to appear. The guides’ extensive knowledge and experience significantly increase the chances of a sighting, though weather conditions can still affect visibility, as noted in reviews where clouds sometimes obscure the sky.

Weather and Aurora Visibility

While the guides do their best to find a clear view, weather remains a key factor. Some tours report no lights due to clouds, but the overall experience remains enjoyable thanks to the effort and atmosphere created in the vehicle. Many guests appreciate the chance to warm up with hot beverages while the sky is tested for Aurora activity.

Practical Tips for the Tour

Guests are advised to dress warmly, especially for the Northern Lights portion, where temperatures can drop significantly. Comfortable shoes are recommended, and snow spikes can be helpful if icy conditions are present. The tour includes a full itinerary with plenty of restroom stops and free admission to all sites.

The Guides and Overall Experience

The tour is praised extensively for its knowledgeable guides, including Richie, Sunny, Victoria, and Micheal, who make the visits engaging and informative. Many reviews highlight the guides’ enthusiasm, storytelling skills, and ability to keep the group entertained despite challenging weather conditions. The driver’s skill in navigating icy roads is also frequently appreciated.

While weather can sometimes prevent the Northern Lights from appearing, the effort and organization behind the tour are clear. Guests consistently note the professionalism and warmth of the guides and drivers, making the long day both enjoyable and educational.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This tour is ideal for travelers with limited time in Iceland seeking a full-day experience that covers major sights. It suits those interested in geology, waterfalls, and geothermal activity, combined with the thrill of chasing the Northern Lights. It’s best for adventurers prepared for weather variability and comfortable with a long day of sightseeing and evening travel.

Final Thoughts on the Golden Circle & Northern Lights Tour

This well-organized, engaging tour offers a solid mix of Iceland’s most famous daytime attractions and an evening Aurora hunt within a manageable budget. The expert guides and comfortable transport significantly enhance the experience, even when the Northern Lights are shy.

While weather can impact the Aurora viewing, the diverse stops and overall professionalism make this a valuable option for those wanting a comprehensive Iceland adventure. Travelers who enjoy natural beauty and geological wonders will find this tour both informative and visually stunning.

For anyone planning a trip to Reykjavik with limited time, this tour provides a balanced, reliable way to see Iceland’s highlights while leaving room for the magic of the Northern Lights, weather permitting.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The $138 fee covers all transportation, Wi-Fi on board, restroom facilities, an experienced local guide, and all site admissions except for lunch.

What stops are included in the Golden Circle?
You visit Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area, Gullfoss Waterfall, and Kerid Crater.

How long is the Northern Lights search?
The Aurora hunt lasts around 4 hours, conducted within a 90-minute radius of Reykjavik, depending on weather conditions.

Is food provided?
No, lunch is not included, but hot chocolate, candy, and snacks are provided during the Aurora search.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made more than 24 hours in advance, with a full refund. Cancellations or changes less than 24 hours before are not refunded.

Are there any physical requirements?
Guests should dress warmly, especially for the Northern Lights portion, and wear comfortable shoes, with snow spikes recommended in icy conditions.

How many people are in each tour group?
The maximum group size is 59 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience.

What guides lead the tour?
Guides like Richie, Sunny, Victoria, and Captain Thor are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and professionalism.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While most travelers of all ages participate, the long hours and outdoor conditions suggest it’s best suited for teenagers and older comfortable with winter weather.

What if the Northern Lights are not visible?
The guides do their utmost to find clear skies, but if the lights are absent due to weather, the experience still offers spectacular daytime sights and a well-organized search effort, with options to reschedule or receive a refund if canceled.

This tour from BusTravel Iceland provides a balanced and reliable way to explore Iceland’s iconic sights and experience its famous Aurora Borealis, making it a solid choice for those seeking a full-day adventure with the chance of witnessing one of nature’s most spectacular displays.