Small Group Golden Circle Tour w/ Kerid & Tomato Farm Visit

Discover the Small Group Golden Circle Tour with Kerid & Tomato Farm Visit, offered at $115 per person for a full 8-hour journey through Iceland’s most iconic sights. This tour departs from Reykjavik and provides a personalized experience in a comfortable, air-conditioned minivan. With a focus on high-quality attractions and an insightful guide, it’s ideal for those wanting a balanced mix of natural beauty and unique Icelandic culture.

One of the standout features of this tour is the inclusion of the Fridheimar Tomato Farm, where you’ll see sustainable farming practices up close. The tour also takes you to Þingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area, Gullfoss waterfall, and the Kerid Crater. The small group setting enhances the experience, making it easier to ask questions and enjoy a relaxed pace.

A key consideration is that the tour does not include lunch, so planning ahead or bringing snacks is recommended. Some reviews mention a missed opportunity at the tomato farm, but overall, the tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of Iceland’s natural wonders combined with a touch of local agriculture.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: Just $115 per person for an 8-hour trip from Reykjavik.
• Small Group Experience: Travel in a comfortable minivan with a personalized atmosphere.
• Major Stops: Visit Þingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, Gullfoss waterfall, and Kerid Crater.
• Special Inclusion: Tour of the Fridheimar Tomato Farm demonstrating sustainable farming.
• Guide Quality: Known for knowledgeable guides who explain geological and historical features with humor.
• No Lunch Provided: It’s a walk-and-see tour, so bring your own snacks or plan to eat later.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering Þingvellir National Park and Its Tectonic Plates

The tour begins at Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its geological and historical significance. Here, visitors walk between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, visibly separated by a rift in the earth’s crust. The landscape features rugged cliffs, clear waters, and sprawling plains that tell stories of Iceland’s volcanic activity.

This site also hosts Iceland’s historic parliament, the Alþingi, where legislation was established centuries ago. The guide explains the significance of the park’s geological features and the cultural importance of the location, giving visitors a solid understanding of Iceland’s unique landscape.

The walk through Þingvellir offers a chance to enjoy stunning scenic views while learning about the country’s volcanic origins. Despite being a popular stop, the size of the group keeps the experience intimate and engaging.

Watching Geysir Eruptions and Exploring Hot Springs

Next, the tour moves to the Geysir geothermal area, home to bubbling springs and erupting hot springs. The highlight here is the Strokkur geyser, which erupts approximately every few minutes, shooting boiling water up to 30 meters into the air.

Visitors see the bubbling springs and learn how geothermal energy shapes this geothermal field. The guide describes how the hot springs operate and shares stories about Iceland’s use of geothermal energy. Observing Strokkur’s powerful eruptions is a highlight, providing excellent photo opportunities.

The geothermal area’s landscape is dotted with steam vents and colorful mineral deposits, creating an otherworldly scene. The group has time to walk around and enjoy the natural spectacle before heading to the next stop.

Experiencing the Majestic Gullfoss Waterfall

The Gullfoss waterfall is a dramatice cascade where the Hvítá River plunges into a deep canyon. The viewing paths allow for multiple perspectives, from higher vantage points to closer approaches near the water’s mist.

The guide points out the geological features of the two-tiered waterfall and explains how the glacial river carved the canyon over thousands of years. The sight of the water tumbling over rocks with force offers a powerful visual. Visitors can feel the mist on their faces and hear the roaring water.

This stop is perfect for capturing photo memories and appreciating Iceland’s raw natural energy. The walk around the area is straightforward, making it accessible for most visitors.

Visiting the Fridheimar Tomato Farm and Its Sustainable Practices

A unique feature of this tour is a visit to the Fridheimar Tomato Farm, where tomatoes are cultivated in a greenhouse using sustainable methods. The farm’s greenhouse is powered by geothermal energy, exemplifying Iceland’s innovative approach to farming.

While the tour includes a visit to the greenhouse, it does not feature a tour of the farm or a meal, but the opportunity to see how tomatoes grow in such an environment is engaging. The farm demonstrates Iceland’s adaptation to its climate, relying on renewable energy sources.

Travelers see the growing process and learn about sustainable farming practices, which are crucial for Iceland’s food supply. This stop offers a rare glimpse into local agriculture in a geothermal country.

More Great Tours Nearby

Exploring the Vibrant Kerid Crater and Its Vivid Colors

The Kerid Crater is an eye-catching volcanic crater lake with vivid red and orange slopes surrounding a serene blue lake. The crater’s rim offers panoramic views of the volcanic landscape, perfect for photos.

Visitors walk along the crater’s rim, enjoying views of the vividly colored slopes and the lake below. The guide explains the volcanic activity that created Kerid and describes its geological features. For those interested in geology and photography, Kerid offers plenty of striking visuals.

A descent into the crater provides a closer look at the colorful rocks and the calm water at the bottom. The walk is moderate but rewarding with unique scenery.

Transport, Group Size, and Comfort Features

The tour departs from Reykjavik with hotel pickup and drop-off, traveling in a comfortable, air-conditioned minivan. The small-group format ensures a more personalized experience compared to larger bus tours.

The group size is limited, which encourages interaction and makes navigation at each stop easier. The vehicle accommodates passengers with mobility needs, and the tour is wheelchair accessible.

This setup allows for a more relaxed pace and flexible timing at each attraction, giving visitors ample opportunity to explore and take photos.

Practical Tips: What to Bring and How to Prepare

Since the tour does not include lunch, visitors should bring comfortable shoes and warm clothing because Iceland’s weather can change quickly. Dressing in layers helps stay comfortable during outdoor walks and sightseeing.

A camera is essential for capturing the stunning landscapes. Given the moderate walking involved, wearing sturdy shoes ensures a smooth experience. Planning your snacks or meals ahead ensures you’re well-fueled for the day.

The Experience Guide and Its Informative Style

Reports highlight guide Anya and Svarvar as particularly knowledgeable, with a friendly and humorous approach. They explain geological features, history, and local customs clearly and engagingly, enhancing the overall experience.

The guides’ storytelling skills and ability to answer questions contribute significantly to the tour’s positive reputation. They also point out unexpected stops, such as a local ice cream spot, which adds a fun element to the trip.

Value and Considerations for Potential Participants

At $115, this tour offers excellent value considering the multiple major stops and the personalized small-group experience. The entrance fees are included, and hotel pickup adds convenience.

A minor drawback is that one review notes the tomato farm was not accessible on a particular day, but this does not detract from the overall quality of the experience.

Since lunch is not included, those wishing to eat during the day need to plan accordingly. The 8-hour duration fits well for a full day of sightseeing without feeling rushed.

Final Thoughts on the Small Group Golden Circle Tour

This tour provides a well-balanced overview of Iceland’s iconic Golden Circle sights, combined with an insightful visit to a geothermal tomato farm. The small group size, knowledgeable guides, and breathtaking stops make it a strong choice for travelers seeking a personalized and informative experience.

While the absence of lunch and occasional logistical hiccups are considerations, the overall value, comfort, and quality of sights make this tour appealing. It suits visitors who want to see the highlights without the crowds of larger tours and appreciate local innovations like geothermal farming.

In summary, this $115 adventure is a practical, engaging way to explore some of Iceland’s most famous natural features and gain insights into its sustainable practices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this tour include lunch?
No, lunch is not included, so plan to bring snacks or eat after the tour.

What stops are part of the Golden Circle?
The stops are Þingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, Gullfoss waterfall, Kerid Crater, and the Fridheimar Tomato Farm.

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours.

What should I wear?
Bring comfortable shoes and warm layered clothing due to Iceland’s variable weather.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees are covered in the price.

What is the group size like?
The tour operates in a small group setting, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Can I expect a knowledgeable guide?
Yes, guides like Anya and Svarvar are praised for their informative and friendly style.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby