Golden Circle, Sky Lagoon and Kerid Crater Tour from Reykjavik

The Golden Circle, Sky Lagoon, and Kerid Crater Tour from Reykjavik offers an all-in-one experience that combines Iceland’s most famous natural sights with luxurious relaxation. For $209 per person, this approximately 10-hour trip takes you through highlights like Thingvellir National Park, Geysir, and Gullfoss waterfalls, culminating with a visit to Sky Lagoon’s geothermal spa. This tour is perfect for travelers who want to see the best of Iceland’s landscape and unwind in style, all in a well-organized, small-group setting with up to 19 participants. The tour is highly rated, with 5.0 out of 5 stars based on 360 reviews, and 99% recommend it.

It departs at 9:00 am from Reykjavik, with pickup included, and provides free Wi-Fi and USB chargers on the bus for added convenience. While lunch is not included, scheduled stops allow for snacks or meals, and towels are provided for the Sky Lagoon’s spa experience. The combination of sightseeing, guide commentary, and relaxation makes this tour an appealing choice for those eager to maximize their day in Iceland.

Key Points

• All-in-One Tour: Visits Thingvellir, Geysir, Gullfoss, Kerid Crater, and Sky Lagoon in just one day
• Affordable Price: At $209 per person, including transportation, entry fees, and towels
• Expert Guides: Guides like Mika, Oli, and Vlad receive praise for their knowledge and energy
• Comfort & Connectivity: Wi-Fi and USB chargers are available during the trip
• Relaxing Finish: A two-hour visit to Sky Lagoon offers a unique geothermal spa experience
• Well-Paced Stops: Stops are timed to give plenty of time to explore each site without feeling rushed

The Golden Circle Route with Iconic Stops

This tour begins early with a pickup from your Reykjavik hotel or designated meeting point. The first stop is Thingvellir National Park, where you observe the dramatic separation of continental plates along the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. Here, the historic parliament once met, and the visual of one foot in North America and the other in Europe highlights Iceland’s geological uniqueness. The 40-minute visit provides ample time to appreciate the rift valley and learn about its cultural significance.

Next on the route is Geysir, a geothermal area famous for its bubbling hot springs. The Great Geysir is currently dormant, but the lively Strokkur erupts every few minutes, sending boiling water high into the air. The 1 hour 30-minute stop allows visitors to witness these eruptions up close, smell the sulfur, and enjoy the vibrant geothermal landscape that earned the area its name.

Gullfoss Waterfall: Iceland’s Iconic Cascade

Following Geysir, the tour proceeds to Gullfoss, also known as the Golden Falls. This two-tier waterfall plunges 30 meters into a deep ravine, creating a stunning display of power and mist. On sunny days, visitors often see rainbows shimmering in the spray. The 40-minute stop offers a chance to get close to the falls—though be prepared to get a little wet if you venture near the spray.

The views of Gullfoss are especially dramatic, with the glacier-fed waters from nearby Langjokull contributing to its volume. The area offers excellent photo opportunities, and guides often share stories about the waterfall’s formation and history.

Kerid Crater: Vibrant volcanic landscape

Traveling southward, the tour visits Kerid, a brightly colored volcanic crater formed just a few thousand years ago. The iron deposits in the rocks give the caldera its vivid red and orange hues, contrasting with the lush green moss covering parts of the rim. Inside the crater lies a shallow turquoise lake, adding to its striking appearance. The 30-minute visit offers a chance to walk along the rim and take in the vivid colors, which make Kerid one of the most eye-catching sights in Iceland.

Sky Lagoon: Iceland’s Newest Geothermal Spa

The finale of this tour is the Sky Lagoon, Iceland’s newest spa experience. Located near Reykjavik, the two-hour visit includes entry to the enormous infinity pool that offers unobstructed ocean views. Visitors have the opportunity to participate in a seven-step hotpot ritual based on Icelandic traditions, which involves alternating warm and cold waters, complemented by fresh air.

The lagoon also features a swim-up cave bar, saunas, and a café, providing plenty of options for relaxation. The towels are provided, but guests should bring their own bathing suits. Many reviews highlight this as a perfect way to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing.

Practical Transport and Group Size

The tour is conducted in a Wi-Fi-equipped minibus with USB chargers next to every seat, ensuring connectivity and comfort during transit. The group size is limited to 19 travelers, which helps facilitate a more personalized experience and easier interaction with guides. The round-trip transportation from Reykjavik includes pickup and drop-off, simplifying logistics for visitors.

Travelers should note that the meeting point is at a designated bus stop, not the hotel—it’s important to check the contact details and confirm pickup arrangements after booking. The most travelers book this tour about 55 days in advance, indicating its popularity.

Guides, Commentary, and Overall Experience

Guests consistently praise the guides for their knowledge, energy, and friendly demeanor. Guides like Mika, Oli, Pavel, Vlad, and Walter are recognized for their storytelling skills, humor, and ability to make the day engaging. Multiple reviews mention that guides often go above and beyond by adding extra stops or sharing personal stories that enhance the experience.

The pacing of the stops is generally well-received, with enough time at each location to explore and take photos. The small group size promotes a more intimate feel, with guides able to tailor commentary and assist with questions.

Value for Money and Booking Tips

At $209 per person, this tour provides excellent value, especially considering the entry fees included for Kerid Crater and Sky Lagoon, along with transportation and guide services. While lunch is not included**, scheduled stops allow for shopping or eating at local cafes, giving flexibility without rushing.

Travelers are encouraged to book at least 55 days in advance for better availability. It’s also advisable to confirm pickup details after booking, to avoid confusion about meeting points.

Final Thoughts on the Golden Circle, Sky Lagoon, and Kerid Crater Tour

This full-day Iceland adventure offers an excellent mix of natural wonders and relaxation. The itinerary covers classic sights like Thingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss, with the additional highlight of visiting the colorful Kerid crater. The two hours at Sky Lagoon provide a luxurious ending that many reviews describe as the perfect finale.

The tour is especially suited for travelers who want to maximize their sightseeing time and enjoy a luxurious spa without the hassle of organizing separate bookings. With experienced guides and positive reviews, this trip delivers a balanced day of exploration and downtime.

While the pacing is generally good, travelers should be prepared for some walking at stops and variable weather conditions. The small group size ensures a personable experience, making it ideal for those who prefer a more intimate tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, the tour includes round-trip transportation in a Wi-Fi-equipped minibus from Reykjavik, with pickup and drop-off.

What is the duration of the tour?
The full experience lasts approximately 10 hours, starting at 9:00 am and ending after the Sky Lagoon visit.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included. Scheduled stops allow guests to purchase snacks or meals at local cafes.

What should I bring for the Sky Lagoon?
Guests should bring their own bathing suits. Towels are provided, and towels are included in the package.

How crowded is this tour?
The group size is limited to 19 travelers, offering a more personalized experience and easier interaction with guides.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

What do reviews say about the guides?
Guides like Mika, Oli, Vlad, and Walter are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and engaging storytelling.

Is this tour suitable in bad weather?
Yes, it is, though weather conditions may affect some stops. If canceled due to poor weather, a full refund or alternative date is offered.

How much time is spent at each stop?
Stop times vary from 30 to 40 minutes for Kerid and Gullfoss, 40 minutes at Thingvellir, and 1 hour 30 minutes at Geysir, with two hours at Sky Lagoon.

Will I have enough time to see everything?
Yes, the schedule is designed to balance sightseeing and relaxation, giving sufficient time at each location without feeling rushed.

This tour combines Iceland’s most celebrated sights with the comfort of a guided experience, making it a great choice for those eager to explore and unwind in a single day.