Private Golden Circle and Secret Lagoon Tour from Reykjavik

The Private Golden Circle and Secret Lagoon Tour from Reykjavik offers a tailored way to explore Iceland’s iconic sights without the crowds. For $330 per person, this 6 to 10-hour journey includes stops at Þingvellir National Park, Gullfoss Waterfall, Geysir geothermal area, and the Kerid Crater. The highlight is the opportunity to relax at the Secret Lagoon, a geothermal bath that often outshines other baths in the country. With hotel pickup from Reykjavik or the cruise terminal, the tour is designed for those who want a flexible, private experience.

This tour receives a perfect 5.0 out of 5 from 59 reviews, with 100% recommendation, reflecting its popularity and quality. Guides like Andres earn praise for their knowledge, friendliness, and flexibility, making for an engaging and personalized day. The tour’s private setup, combined with ample time at each stop, makes it especially suitable for travelers seeking a relaxed pace. However, potential guests should be aware that food, drinks, and souvenirs are extra, and physical fitness should be moderate to enjoy some activities like hiking down into Kerid Crater.

Key Points

• Private, tailor-made experience with your own guide and driver
• Includes hotel or cruise terminal pickup in Reykjavik
• Covers Þingvellir, Gullfoss, Geysir, Kerid, and the Secret Lagoon
• Flexible timing and ample relaxation time at each location
• Tour duration ranges from 6 to 10 hours, depending on stops
• Cost is $330 per person, with optional extras like food and souvenirs

The Private Guide and Vehicle Make a Difference

This private tour is led by an experienced guide who ensures the day flows smoothly, adjusting timing to suit your interests and schedule. The transport is exclusively for your group, avoiding crowded buses, allowing for a more intimate and relaxed experience. The driver and guide serve as your personal Iceland experts, offering insights and stories about each stop. Being private means you can spend more time at highlights such as Þingvellir or the Secret Lagoon, without feeling rushed.

The guides are known for their knowledge, friendliness, and sense of humor. They are eager to tailor the experience, whether it’s taking extra time at a location or adjusting start times for cruise ship schedules. The personalized approach is frequently praised in reviews, making this tour stand out from larger group excursions.

Exploring Þingvellir National Park’s Unique Landscape

The first stop, Þingvellir, is a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its geological and historical significance. Walk between the American and Eurasian tectonic plates, which are slowly drifting apart here. Visitors also see the original Icelandic parliament building, where the country’s governance began. Expect a one-hour visit where the guide offers insights into Iceland’s history and volcanic activity.

This stop combines natural beauty with cultural importance. You can take photos of waterfalls and the rift valley, and learn about the tectonic processes shaping Iceland. The admission ticket is included, so no extra costs here.

Gullfoss Waterfall and Its Spectacular Views

Next, the tour heads to Gullfoss, one of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls. The frozen roar of the falls and the chance to see rainbows on sunny days make it a visual highlight. Visitors have around 45 minutes to admire the double cascade, take photos, and explore the surrounding paths.

Nearby, there are options to shop for souvenirs or grab a coffee or snack. The admission is free, and the location is perfect for capturing the power of Icelandic nature. The guide can suggest the best spots for photos or share stories about the history of Gullfoss.

Kerid Crater: A Photographer’s Dream

The Kerid Crater is the most eastern stop in this tour, featuring a blue volcanic lake at the bottom of a red volcanic caldera. Visitors can walk around the rim for sweeping views or, if feeling adventurous, hike down into the crater. The 30-minute visit is ideal for taking stunning photos.

While admission is not included, many travelers enjoy the dramatic landscape and the opportunity to capture unique shots. The hike down adds a bit of physical activity, suitable for those with a moderate fitness level.

Relaxing at the Secret Lagoon in Fludir

The Secret Lagoon, also known as Gamla Laugin, is a standout feature of this tour. Located in Fludir Village, it offers a warm geothermal bath with fewer crowds than other thermal pools in Iceland. The 1-hour stop allows for relaxation and rejuvenation amid natural surroundings.

Guests can swim in the thermal waters, enjoy the steam vents, and unwind after a day of sightseeing. The admission fee is included, making this a peaceful, restorative moment during your adventures. Bring a towel, swimming wear, and a rain jacket for comfort.

Timing and Flexibility: Designed for Cruise Guests and First-Timers

The tour’s start time at 10:00 am and flexible scheduling make it suitable for cruise passengers with strict schedules or first-time visitors wanting a comprehensive experience. Many reviews highlight the ability of the guide to adjust start times or modify stops to match specific needs. The duration varies from 6 to 10 hours, depending on how long you wish to spend at each stop.

This flexibility ensures that guests can opt for more time at favorite sites or skip less-interesting stops, making the experience truly personalized.

Practical Details and What’s Included

Hotel pickup and drop-off in Reykjavik, as well as port pickup, are included in the tour. The transportation is by private vehicle, ensuring comfort and convenience. The driver-guide takes care of all driving, navigation, and explanations.

Food, drinks, and souvenirs are not included, but options are available for purchase at stops like Gullfoss and the Secret Lagoon. Travelers should bring rain jackets, towels, and swimming wear for the geothermal bath. The tour is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness and service animals are allowed.

The Value and Booking Experience

The high demand—with bookings made about 75 days in advance on average—reflects the tour’s popularity and strong reputation. The reviews consistently praise Andres and other guides for their knowledge, friendliness, and flexibility. Guests appreciate the personalized attention and time spent at each site.

The tour’s price of $330 per person is justified by the private, customizable experience and the inclusion of key highlights. The option for discounts exists for groups, and the mobile ticket makes booking convenient.

Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

This private Golden Circle tour is ideal for travelers seeking a more relaxed, in-depth exploration of Iceland’s most famous sights. It suits first-time visitors, cruise passengers, or anyone wanting a personal touch. The expert guides like Andres make the experience engaging and educational, often adding personal anecdotes and local insights.

While the cost may seem higher than larger group tours, the personalized pace, flexibility, and intimate setting often justify the expense. The relaxing stop at Secret Lagoon provides a perfect balance to the sightseeing, making this tour stand out.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price of $330?
The price covers private transportation, guide services, hotel or port pickup and drop-off, and admission to Þingvellir and the Secret Lagoon.

How long does the tour last?
The duration ranges from 6 to 10 hours depending on stops and pacing preferences.

Is food and drinks included?
No, food, drinks, and souvenirs are extra, though options are available at stops like Gullfoss and the Secret Lagoon.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the private nature of the tour allows for adjustments based on your interests and schedule.

What should I bring?
Guests should bring rain jackets, towels, and swimming wear for the Secret Lagoon experience. Moderate physical fitness is recommended.

Is this tour suitable for cruise ship schedules?
Absolutely, the timing flexibility and shorter options cater well to cruise passengers who need to return to the ship on time.

Are guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews consistently praise guides like Andres for their expertise, friendliness, and storytelling skills.

How do I book this tour?
You can reserve directly through the provider, Mercury Grail, with confirmation received immediately, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Is this tour accessible for people with limited mobility?
Guests should have moderate physical fitness; some stops like Kerid Crater involve hiking which may not suit everyone.

What makes this tour stand out from other Golden Circle options?
The private, customizable experience with ample time at each site and the relaxing stop at Secret Lagoon offer a more personal, stress-free alternative to crowded bus tours.

Can I bring my service animal?
Yes, service animals are allowed on this tour.

This Private Golden Circle and Secret Lagoon Tour from Reykjavik combines personalized service, key Icelandic sights, and relaxation, making it a compelling choice for those who want a balanced and flexible day exploring the land of fire and ice.