Reykjavik: Golden Circle Full-Day Tour with Kerid Crater

The Reykjavik: Golden Circle Full-Day Tour with Kerid Crater offers an affordable way to explore some of Iceland’s most iconic natural wonders. Priced at $79 per person and lasting approximately 7 to 8.5 hours, this guided bus tour covers the Geysir geothermal area, the majestic Gullfoss waterfall, and the UNESCO-listed Þingvellir National Park. Notably, it also includes a stop at the Kerið volcanic crater, though this is not available for departures after 12:00 pm.

The tour departs from Höfðatorg in Reykjavik, with pickup options at selected hotels and bus stops. It features a professional guide who shares detailed insights about each location and Icelandic history, making it particularly suitable for first-time visitors or those wanting a rundown of the Golden Circle in a single day. While the trip is packed and offers plenty of stops, travelers should be aware that food and drinks are not included and may want to bring snacks.

Key Points

• Affordable full-day tour: Priced at $79 with a duration of 7 to 8.5 hours.
• Major attractions covered: Geysir, Gullfoss, Þingvellir National Park, and Kerið Crater (except after 12:00 pm departures).
• Expert guides and safe transport: Guides are knowledgeable and the bus is air-conditioned, ensuring comfort and engaging commentary.
• Stops include Icelandic farms, geothermal areas, and scenic waterfalls: Each location offers ample time for photos and short walks.
• Highly rated experience: With a 4.7 out of 5 rating from over 20,000 reviews, the tour is praised for its informative guides and stunning sights.

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The Golden Circle: Iceland’s Natural Highlights in One Day

This tour covers Iceland’s most famous sights within a single day, making it ideal for travelers with limited time or those wanting an introduction to the country’s natural beauty. The Geysir geothermal area impresses with Strokkur, an active hot spring that spouts steaming water up to 30 meters every 8 minutes, creating a lively spectacle. Close by, the Gullfoss Waterfall offers a powerful display as icy waters plunge into a deep crevice, with plenty of time to stand close and feel the spray.

The Þingvellir National Park introduces visitors to the geological phenomena of tectonic plate separation between the North American and Eurasian plates, which pull apart at a rate of just a few centimeters annually. This UNESCO World Heritage Site also features the historic Rock of Law, where the first Viking parliament was held. Visitors can walk along the rift valley and appreciate the dramatic landscape.

Visiting Kerið Crater: A Volcanic Gem

A highlight of the tour is the Kerið volcanic crater, a striking red volcanic caldera filled with a vivid blue lake. This photo stop lasts about 20 minutes, providing a chance to capture the crater’s unique colors and dramatic scenery. Note that for departures after 12:00 pm, the tour skips this stop, so earlier bookings are recommended if Kerið is a must-see.

The crater’s striking appearance is thanks to its red volcanic rocks and the crystal-clear lake at its base, making it one of Iceland’s most photogenic natural features. This stop offers a quick, scenic break with opportunities for photos and exploration along the crater’s rim.

Scenic Stops and Cultural Insights at Þingvellir

At Þingvellir National Park, the guide leads a 45-minute walk through the stunning landscapes. Beyond its geological importance, it’s also a site of cultural significance—home to the first Viking parliament and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2004. Visitors can stand in the rift valley, observe the shifting tectonic plates, and learn about Icelandic history and Viking traditions.

The park’s rock formations and lakes add to the scenic appeal, making it a favorite stop for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. The guide provides insights into the area’s formation and its importance in Iceland’s cultural identity.

Gullfoss Waterfall: Power and Spray

The Gullfoss Waterfall is a 32-meter cascade that plunges into a crevice, creating a spectacular and powerful sight. With a 45-minute stop, visitors have time to walk along designated paths and feel the mist on their faces. The waterfall’s raw natural power and icy surroundings make it a highlight of the tour.

The guide explains the geology behind the falls and shares stories about Iceland’s history. Travelers should be prepared for the spray—appropriate clothing helps make the experience comfortable and enjoyable.

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Geysir Geothermal Area: Active Hot Springs and Lunch Break

The tour includes a longer stop of about 80 minutes at the Geysir geothermal area, home to the active geyser Strokkur. Every 8 minutes, Strokkur erupts, sending steaming water up to 30 meters into the air, which is a captivating sight. The area is dotted with bubbling hot springs and fumaroles, showcasing Iceland’s geothermal activity.

Lunch is typically incorporated into this break, giving time to relax and enjoy the surroundings. While food and drinks are not included in the tour price, the stop offers options for purchasing local snacks or bringing your own.

Transportation and Group Experience

The tour uses air-conditioned buses with modern amenities, ensuring comfort during the long day of sightseeing. Guided by a live English-speaking guide, the group is kept engaged with interesting facts and stories about each location. The driver maintains a steady, safe pace, and the schedule allows for enough time at each site without feeling rushed.

Pickup and drop-off are available at select hotels and official bus stops in Reykjavik, making the logistics straightforward. The tour concludes back at the initial meeting point, with up to 23 drop-off locations across the city for convenience.

The Role of Guides and Customer Feedback

Reviews highlight the guides’ knowledge and storytelling abilities as major strengths, with several praising guides like Daniel and Jessica for their engaging explanations. Travelers appreciate the well-organized itinerary and the ample time at each stop, especially at the waterfalls and Þingvellir.

Many reviews mention the comfort of the bus, safety, and the entertaining, humorous commentary as factors that enhance the experience. A few note minor issues, such as the absence of charging ports inside the bus or wishing for more time at certain locations like Þingvellir, but overall, the tour earns high marks for its value and quality.

Suitable for First-Time Visitors and Nature Enthusiasts

This tour is ideal for those wanting a rundown of Iceland’s Golden Circle in a single day. The combination of geothermal activity, waterfalls, geological marvels, and cultural sites provides a well-rounded experience. It’s also a good choice for travelers who prefer guided transportation rather than self-driving.

While the tour is accessible and well-paced, it involves a full day of sightseeing, so visitors should be prepared for a busy schedule with multiple stops. It’s less suited for those seeking extended exploration or wanting to spend more time at each location.

Final Thoughts on the Golden Circle Full-Day Tour

This tour from BusTravel Iceland delivers great value for money, especially given its high customer ratings. The expert guides and comfortable transport make it a reliable choice for anyone eager to see Geysir, Gullfoss, Þingvellir, and Kerið Crater within a manageable timeframe.

While the itinerary is quite full, the stops are thoughtfully selected to showcase Iceland’s natural and cultural highlights. The limited inclusion of food and drinks means travelers should come prepared, but the overall experience offers a rich, engaging overview of the Golden Circle’s best features.

For first-time visitors or those with limited time, this tour strikes a balance between affordability and quality, providing a memorable snapshot of Iceland’s stunning landscapes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include pickup and drop-off?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are available at selected hotels and bus stops in Reykjavik if you choose the appropriate option.

Is Kerið Crater included in the tour?
Yes, the Kerið volcanic crater is included as a stop, offering about 20 minutes for photos and exploration. However, this stop is not available for departures after 12:00 pm.

What is the guide’s language?
The tour is led by an English-speaking guide, who provides detailed commentary at each site.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included. There is a lunch break at Geysir, where options are available, but travelers should bring their own snacks if desired.

How long does the tour last?
The duration is approximately 7 to 8.5 hours, depending on traffic and the specific schedule for the day.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is not suitable for children under 2 years, but older children are generally welcome, especially those interested in nature and geology.

This Golden Circle tour offers a straightforward way to see Iceland’s most famous landmarks with expert guides and comfortable transport. It’s a reliable, well-rated choice for anyone eager to explore Geysir, Gullfoss, Þingvellir, and more, all within a single memorable day.

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