Perlan Ice Cave Admission & Golden Circle Tour in Reykjavik

A comprehensive Golden Circle and Ice Cave tour in Reykjavik offers an exciting way to discover some of Iceland’s most iconic natural sights. Priced at $127 per person, the tour lasts around 10 hours, making it a full-day adventure packed with diverse experiences. With pickup from various central Reykjavik locations and admission to key attractions, this guided tour simplifies logistics while providing insightful commentary. Although the tour rating stands at 3.5 out of 5 from three reviews, it remains a popular choice, especially considering that bookings are often made 66 days in advance.

One distinctive feature is the visit to a man-made ice cave at Perlan, where you can walk inside a glacier, and learn about Iceland’s icy landscapes. However, a note of caution: the weather can influence the experience, as windy or poor conditions might impact the enjoyment of certain stops. This tour best suits those eager to see the Golden Circle’s highlights without the hassle of renting a car, and who are comfortable with a busy schedule and outdoor activities.

Key Points

• Guided tour of Iceland’s Golden Circle including Gullfoss, Geysir, and Thingvellir National Park
• Visit to Kerid Crater with its striking turquoise lake at the bottom
• Walk-through of a man-made ice cave at Perlan Museum, simulating glacier interior experience
• Pickup from many Reykjavik central locations simplifies transportation
• Total duration of about 10 hours, with a flexible, guided experience
• Price of $127 per person, including entrance fees to Kerid Crater and Perlan Ice Cave

Reykjavik Pickup and Tour Duration

The tour departs from Þórunnartún 6 in Reykjavik at 9:00 am, with pickup from various city center locations. After a full day of exploring, the guide drops visitors off at the Perlan Museum, which is the final stop. It’s important to note that drop-off back in the city is not included in the booking, so arrangements for return transport should be made separately.

The tour spans approximately 10 hours, balancing travel time with time spent at each stop. This setup allows for an efficient visit to the main highlights of the Golden Circle and the unique experience of walking inside an ice cave.

Visiting the Golden Circle: Gullfoss, Geysir, and Thingvellir

The core of this tour revolves around the Golden Circle, Iceland’s most popular day trip route. It includes three major attractions:

• Gullfoss Waterfall: Known for its powerful, multi-tiered cascade, Gullfoss is fed by meltwater from the Langjökull glacier. Visitors can expect a dramatic display of nature’s force, with several large drops creating a stunning scene.

• Geysir Geothermal Area: Home to the famous Strokkur geyser, which erupts every few minutes, shooting water and steam up to 100 feet into the air. This area offers a lively demonstration of geothermal activity and is a highlight for many visitors.

• Thingvellir National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site that combines geological wonder with cultural significance. Visitors learn about the park’s unique tectonic features, including the rift between the North American and Eurasian plates.

Each stop lasts between 20 and 45 minutes, providing ample time to appreciate these iconic sites and capture photographs.

Exploring Kerid Crater’s Volcanic Power

A key highlight is the Kerid Crater, a volcanic caldera approximately 3,000 years old. Its steep sides enclose a vivid, turquoise lake at the bottom, created by volcanic activity. The 20-minute visit offers an up-close look at Iceland’s volcanic past, with the chance to walk around the rim and enjoy panoramic views.

The admission fee to Kerid Crater is included, making it a convenient stop for travelers who want to see a different kind of volcanic landscape compared to the geysers and waterfalls.

Inside the Geysir Geothermal Area

The Geysir geothermal area gets its name from the original geyser that inspired the term worldwide. The Strokkur geyser erupts roughly every few minutes, delivering impressive water blasts into the sky. Visitors can expect lively demonstrations of geothermal energy, with eruptions reaching up to 100 feet.

This stop is particularly engaging for those interested in Iceland’s geothermal phenomena, and the area is accessible for a wide range of visitors, with well-maintained paths and viewing platforms.

Gullfoss: Iceland’s Powerhouse Waterfall

The Gullfoss waterfall offers an awe-inspiring display of Icelandic nature’s might. Its multiple large drops and the surrounding rugged landscape make it a photographer’s paradise. The 45-minute visit allows ample time to observe the cascading water and learn about the glacier-fed river systems.

Weather conditions can affect visibility or comfort, so dressing appropriately is advised. Gullfoss remains a must-see for anyone on the Golden Circle route.

UNESCO’s Thingvellir National Park

Thingvellir is a site of profound historical and geological importance. The 45-minute stop lets visitors explore the rift valley where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are drifting apart. It’s also the location of Iceland’s historic assembly site, making it culturally significant.

The park’s distinctive landscapes include fissures, clear water, and rocky outcrops. It’s accessible and well-suited for a short walk, with plenty of informational displays to understand Iceland’s geological nature.

The Perlan Museum and the Man-Made Ice Cave

After the Golden Circle stops, the tour concludes at Perlan for a 1 hour 30 minutes visit to the Wonders of Iceland exhibit. Here, visitors walk through a man-made ice cave, which provides a simulated experience of entering a glacier.

This feature is a major highlight, offering insight into glacier formation and Iceland’s icy environment in a controlled setting. Admission to the ice cave and the Perlan Museum is included, making this a valuable educational stop.

Weather conditions can impact the ice cave experience, but the exhibit is designed to be engaging regardless.

Practicalities and Booking Details

The tour includes a driver-guide, national park fees, and admission to Kerid Crater and Perlan Ice Cave. However, drop-off in Reykjavik is not included, so travelers should plan their return transport accordingly. The tour operates in good weather, and if canceled due to poor conditions, visitors are offered an alternative date or a full refund.

The maximum group size is 61 travelers, ensuring a lively but manageable atmosphere. Most travelers can participate, with no specific physical requirements mentioned.

Perlan Ice Cave and Golden Circle: Who Should Consider This Tour

This tour suits visitors who want an organized, guided experience covering the main sights of the Golden Circle. It’s ideal for those who appreciate educational stops, like the ice cave at Perlan, and prefer convenient pickup from central Reykjavik.

However, weather-dependent elements mean the ice cave experience might vary in quality, especially on windy or poor weather days. The $127 price reflects both the transportation, guide, and entrance fees, offering a reasonable value for such a comprehensive day trip.

Travelers seeking more flexibility or customized itineraries might prefer private options, but for a reliable group tour, this provides a solid overview of Iceland’s highlights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include transportation back to Reykjavik?
No, the tour ends at Perlan, and drop-off in the city center is not included. Travelers need to arrange their own return transport.

What is the duration of the ice cave visit at Perlan?
The visit to the ice cave and Perlan Museum lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes.

What stops are included in this tour?
Stops include Kerid Crater, Geysir geothermal area, Gullfoss waterfall, and Thingvellir National Park.

Is the ice cave accessible in bad weather?
Weather can influence the ice cave experience; poor weather might impact accessibility or visibility of some features.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made 66 days in advance, reflecting its popularity.

What’s the cost of this tour?
The price is $127 per person, including entrance fees to Kerid and Perlan.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included in the tour price.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility concerns should consider the outdoor stops’ terrain and weather conditions.

What should I bring?
Weather-appropriate clothing, sturdy shoes, and a camera are recommended for the outdoor stops and ice cave.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, with a full refund.

This guided Golden Circle and Ice Cave tour offers a balanced mix of Iceland’s natural wonders and unique glacier experiences, making it a worthwhile choice for those seeking an informative and hassle-free day in Reykjavik.