Description
Summary
Description
Discover Iceland’s Golden Circle from Reykjavik on a private day tour that combines the classic highlights with unique, off-the-beaten-path stops. On the 8-hour Golden Circle tour, you’ll explore volcanic craters, turquoise waterfalls, geothermal wonders, and even sample farm-fresh flavors along the way.
With a private tour, you’ll enjoy a flexible pace with no rush. The tour is led in English, with eight other options listed in the language section. Simply note your preference when booking.
Pickup is included from hotels and bus stops across Reykjavik, as well as locations within 31 miles (50 kilometers) of the city center. This makes your journey convenient from start to finish.
After your guide picks you up, you’ll head to Thingvellir National Park, the first stop on your Golden Circle tour. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is where dramatic rift valleys reveal the divide between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates.
Here, you’ll walk in the footsteps of Viking settlers at the site of Iceland’s first parliament, then follow the Almannagja Rift between two tectonic plates. Along the way, pause at the beautiful Oxararfoss Waterfall and take in sweeping views over Thingvallavatn, Iceland’s largest lake.
Fans of Game of Thrones may also recognize filming locations in the park, including the trail near Oxararfoss that appeared as the Bloody Gate.
Next on your Golden Circle tour is the powerful Gullfoss Waterfall. Here, the Hvita River crashes down in two mighty tiers into a deep canyon, creating powerful mist and rainbows on sunny days. Standing at the viewing platforms, it can look as though the river simply disappears into the earth.
In the early 1900s, Gullfoss was nearly lost to hydroelectric development. It was preserved thanks to the efforts of Solveig Tómasdóttir, the farmer’s daughter who fought to protect it for future generations.
Afterward, you’ll head to the Geysir Geothermal Area, a landscape alive with bubbling pools and steaming ground. The famous Geysir is mostly inactive today, but nearby Strokkur erupts every few minutes, shooting boiling water up to 98 feet (30 meters) high in a spectacular display.
This private Golden Circle tour also includes stops that most travelers miss. At Efstidalur Dairy Farm, taste homemade ice cream and farm-to-table dishes (at your own expense) while meeting friendly animals in the countryside.
Another off-the-beaten-track stop you’ll visit is Bruarfoss, a small but stunning waterfall known for its bright blue color. The water rushes through a narrow gap in dark rock, creating a beautiful contrast that makes it one of the most memorable sights on the route.
Continuing your journey, you’ll visit Kerid Crater Lake, a striking natural wonder in Iceland’s Western Volcanic Zone. The bright red volcanic slopes, caused by iron-rich soil, create a beautiful contrast against the deep blue water below.
After exploring the Golden Circle, you’ll enjoy a comfortable drive back to Reykjavik, where your day ends with lasting memories.
Join this private Golden Circle tour to explore Iceland’s most breathtaking natural wonders, along with hidden off-the-beaten-path stops. Check availability now by choosing a date.
