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Book Reykjavik To Golden Circle Tours
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- Join a Golden Circle day tour from Reykjavik with an expert guide and round-trip transfers from Reykjavik, with options for pickup from select locations.
- Explore the volcanic landscapes of Strokkur at Geysir, watch the steam rise to 30 meters in the air, and walk past bubbling mud pools.
- Continue to Gullfoss Falls where glacial water cascades into a 32-meter-deep crevice, and try to spot a rainbow!
- Spend the afternoon at Thingvellir National Park, the site of the world’s first parliament, surrounded by high cliffs and deep gorges.
- Upgrade to visit Kerio, a vibrant volcanic crater lake, and Bruarfoss, a captivating waterfall known for its mystical turquoise waters.
- Join a Golden Circle day tour from Reykjavik with an expert guide and round-trip transfers from Reykjavik, with options for pickup from select locations.
- Explore the volcanic landscapes of Strokkur at Geysir, watch the steam rise to 30 meters in the air, and walk past bubbling mud pools.
- Continue to Gullfoss Falls where glacial water cascades into a 32-meter-deep crevice, and try to spot a rainbow!
- Spend the afternoon at Thingvellir National Park, the site of the world’s first parliament, surrounded by high cliffs and deep gorges.
- Upgrade to visit Kerio, a vibrant volcanic crater lake, and Bruarfoss, a captivating waterfall known for its mystical turquoise waters.
Inclusions
- Full-day tour of the Icelandic Golden Circle
- English-speaking guide
- Entry to Thingvellir National Park
- Entry to Gullfoss Waterfall
- Entry to Geysir Geothermal Area
- Transport via AC bus
- Free Wi-Fi aboard bus
- Entry to Bruarfoss Waterfall (optional)
- Entry to Kerio Crater (optional)
- Audio guide in English, French, German, Dutch, Italian, Spanish, Chinese, Japanese, Korean and Finnish (optional)
- Round-trip transfers from select pickup locations (optional)
- Round-trip transfers from BSI Bus Terminal or Reykjavik Terminal (optional)
- Departure from Reykjavik
- Thingvellir National Park
- Geysir Geothermal Area
- Gullfoss Waterfall
- Bruarfoss Waterfall (if option selected)
- Kerio Crater (if option selected)
- Tip: At Thingvellir, walk on two continents along the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, a rift valley where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates meet.
- This experience is not recommended for guests under the age of 6 years.
- The order of visits to attractions and their opening times might change depending on the weather or limited daylight in winter.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Set out from Reykjavik, for Golden Circle’s attractions on a guided day tour with a search for the Northern Lights, with optional transfers.
- Feel the spray of Gullfoss Waterfall, and walk where tectonic plates diverge at Thingvellir National Park, an ancient Viking meeting point.
- Witness the awe-inspiring Strokkur geyser at Geysir Hot Springs, erupting water and steam skyward every few minutes.
- Fuel up and explore Reykjavik's vibrant streets, then embark on a thrilling quest for the elusive Northern Lights.
- Upgrade to add the Kerio Crater to your Golden Circle tour and cozy up with hot chocolate while hunting for the Northern Lights.
- Set out from Reykjavik, for Golden Circle’s attractions on a guided day tour with a search for the Northern Lights, with optional transfers.
- Feel the spray of Gullfoss Waterfall, and walk where tectonic plates diverge at Thingvellir National Park, an ancient Viking meeting point.
- Witness the awe-inspiring Strokkur geyser at Geysir Hot Springs, erupting water and steam skyward every few minutes.
- Fuel up and explore Reykjavik's vibrant streets, then embark on a thrilling quest for the elusive Northern Lights.
- Upgrade to add the Kerio Crater to your Golden Circle tour and cozy up with hot chocolate while hunting for the Northern Lights.
Inclusions
- Full-day tour of Golden Circle
- Northern Lights search tour
- Tour guide
- Free WiFi
- Hot chocolate and sweet treat during Northern Lights search (optional)
- Entry to Kerio Crater (optional)
- Transfers from select locations (optional)
- Tip: In your free time at Reykjavik, visit the Kolaportið flea market for unique Icelandic souvenirs, vintage finds, and local treats.
- You can avail of a free Northern Lights retry if you miss them the first time.
- The Kerio Crater and hot chocolate tour is restricted to children aged 7 and under.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Experience the best of Iceland's natural beauty, from the amazing Golden Circle to the soothing Blue Lagoon, all in one day.
- Get pampered with a silica mud mask, quench your thirst with a drink of your choice and enjoy free bus transfers with free onboard Wi-Fi.
- Don't miss out on witnessing the incredible Strokkur geyser's eruption, a rare natural show that will leave you spellbound.
- Choose between a tour with or without Blue Lagoon entry, or opt for a hotel/meeting point pick-up to start your day.
- Experience the best of Iceland's natural beauty, from the amazing Golden Circle to the soothing Blue Lagoon, all in one day.
- Get pampered with a silica mud mask, quench your thirst with a drink of your choice and enjoy free bus transfers with free onboard Wi-Fi.
- Don't miss out on witnessing the incredible Strokkur geyser's eruption, a rare natural show that will leave you spellbound.
- Choose between a tour with or without Blue Lagoon entry, or opt for a hotel/meeting point pick-up to start your day.
Inclusions
- Entry to the Blue Lagoon
- Professional live local guide in English in the Golden Circle
- Blue Lagoon return transfers
- Free Wi-Fi on the bus
- Meeting point pickup (optional)
- Hotel pickup (optional)
- Tour without entry to Blue Lagoon (optional)
Exclusions
- Swimsuit for use at the Blue Lagoon
- Tip: Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife at Thingvellir National Park. You might spot an Arctic fox or an Icelandic horse.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Explore Iceland's Golden Circle wonders, soak in the Blue Lagoon, and chase the Northern Lights on this 15-hour adventure with hotel transfers.
- See the stunning volcanic crater lake of Kerio with your expert guide, then head to Geysir, the dormant geyser that gave its name to all others.
- Witness the breathtaking 32-meter drop of the Gullfoss waterfall and visit the Thingvellir National Park, Iceland's former ancient parliament.
- Rejuvenate your skin in the Blue Lagoon's silica-rich waters known for their cleansing properties. Put on a face mask and sip on a drink as you relax.
- Leave the city behind to witness the Aurora Borealis painted across the night sky. Warm yourself with a cup of hot chocolate and a sweet treat while you wait!
- Explore Iceland's Golden Circle wonders, soak in the Blue Lagoon, and chase the Northern Lights on this 15-hour adventure with hotel transfers.
- See the stunning volcanic crater lake of Kerio with your expert guide, then head to Geysir, the dormant geyser that gave its name to all others.
- Witness the breathtaking 32-meter drop of the Gullfoss waterfall and visit the Thingvellir National Park, Iceland's former ancient parliament.
- Rejuvenate your skin in the Blue Lagoon's silica-rich waters known for their cleansing properties. Put on a face mask and sip on a drink as you relax.
- Leave the city behind to witness the Aurora Borealis painted across the night sky. Warm yourself with a cup of hot chocolate and a sweet treat while you wait!
Inclusions
- 15-hour Golden Circle & Blue Lagoon tour
- English-speaking tour guide
- Hotel transfers
- Entry to Kerio crater
- Entry to Blue Lagoon
- Towel, face mask, drink at in-lagoon bar
- Northern Lights search tour
- Hot chocolate and sweet treat
- Tip: Go diving between 2 continents. The Sifra Fissure at the Thingvellir National Park is filled with crystal-clear glacial meltwater.
- This experience is restricted for children aged 13 and under.
- If you don’t catch the Northern Lights on the tour, you can try again on another night at no cost within 3 years of booking.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
ReykjavikGolden Circle Tours
Top things to do in Reykjavik
Why take a day trip from Reykjavik to Golden Circle
- Natural wonders: Encounter breathtaking natural attractions like the majestic Gullfoss Waterfall or the Geysir Geothermal area.
- Geological marvels: Catch a glimpse of geological activity at Thingvellir National Park, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates drift apart.
- Historical significance: Thingvellir National Park was the site of Iceland's first parliament in 930 AD, the Althing, one of the oldest parliamentary institutions.
- Accessibility: The Golden Circle is conveniently located close to Reykjavik. Many tour operators offer day trips from Reykjavik, allowing you to explore the Golden Circle in a single day.
- Scenic beauty: The Golden Circle route offers stunning landscapes at every turn, from sweeping vistas of Icelandic countryside to bubbling hot springs and volcanic terrain.
Your Golden Circle ticket options explained
Day trips
- Join a Golden Circle day tour from Reykjavik with an expert guide and enjoy round-trip transfers.
- Explore the scenic landscapes at Geysir Geothermal Area, Gullfoss Waterfall, Thingvellir National Park, Kerio Crater, and Bruarfoss Waterfall.
- Choose between a tour with or without Blue Lagoon entry as per your preference.
Recommended tours:
Guided tours
- Explore Iceland's Golden Circle wonders, soak in the Blue Lagoon, and chase the Northern Lights on this guided tour with hotel transfers.
- Witness the volcanic crater lake of Kerid, the dormant Geysir, the 32-meter drop of the Gullfoss Waterfall, the Thingvellir National Park, Blue Lagoon's silica-rich waters, and the Aurora Borealis.
Recommended tours:
Combo tours
- Combine your Golden Circle tour with a trip to the Blue Lagoon, catch the Northern Lights, or even do both.
- To make the most of your tour, you can upgrade your tickets and take a Kerid crater and hot chocolate tour.
- You can choose your pick-up point from select locations for your optional transfers.
Recommended tours:
Cancellation policy: You can cancel your Golden Circle tours 24 hours before the experience for free and get a full refund.
Need to know:
- If you don’t catch the Northern Lights on your tour, you can try again on another night at no cost within 3 years of your booking.
- Some tours may not be suitable for children. Please check the ticket details before booking.
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Golden Circle attractions
Gullfoss Waterfall
The Golden Waterfall is a unique sight, its cascading shape extremely photogenic from every angle, no matter the season. It is fed by the Hvítá River, with an average of 100,000 liters of glacial water plunging 31 meters into the Gullfossgljúfur canyon every second. The cold water may spray you, so wear raincoats. On a sunny day, you'll be able to witness the stunning sight of rainbows rising above the two-tier waterfall!
Geysir
The geothermal area in Haukadalur is a unique place where you can witness active geysers up close. You can explore the Great Geysir, the Strokkur geyser, and various kinds of hot springs, steam vents, and sulfurous mud pots. While the Great Geysir seldom erupts (it shoots water out 170 meters in the air when active!), the smaller Strokkur geyser releases fountains of boiling water, reaching heights of 30 meters, every 8 to 10 minutes.
Thingvellir National Park
Thingvellir (Þingvellir) was the location of the Icelandic parliament Althingi from 930 AD until 1789. It is also home to the largest natural lake in Iceland. In 1944, Iceland declared its independence from Denmark here. Located atop the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, Thingvellir was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2004 due to its geological features. You can even go snorkeling between continents in the Silfra Fissure, the only place in the world where you can do so.
Brúarfoss Waterfall
Brúarfoss, Iceland's bluest waterfall, derives its name from the stone archway that once spanned the river, and means "bridge waterfall". The waterfall is formed by the Brúará River, which originates from Langjökull glacier's glacial melt. The river cascades 2-3 meters to form a U-shaped bend at the base of the waterfall, where it is channeled into a deep crevice that runs through dark volcanic rock formations at the center.
Kerið Crater
Kerið, a volcanic crater lake situated in the Grímsnes area of southern Iceland, is a picturesque geological wonder. This vibrant blue lake is part of the Western Volcanic Zone, which includes the Reykjanes peninsula and Langjökull Glacier. Kerið is one of the most recognizable volcanic craters in Iceland and is only 6,500 years old, making it a relatively young geological formation.
Blue Lagoon
The Blue Lagoon is not part of the Golden Circle but is a popular attraction often included in Golden Circle tours. This unique geothermal seawater is a marvel of nature, and it has been recognized as one of the 25 wonders of the world by National Geographic in 2012. The water is rich in silica, algae, and minerals that are beneficial for your skin and hair. You can indulge in cocktails, health products, delicious meals, and spa treatments here.
Book ticketsPlan your visit to the Golden Circle
Timings
Getting there
Facilities
- From Reykjavik: Golden Circle Full Day Guided Tour
Pick-up timings: 8am, 10am, 12:30pm
Duration: 6.5 hours - 8 hours - Golden Circle and Northern Lights Tour by Bus
Pick-up timings: 8am, 10am, 10:30am, 12pm, 12:30pm
Duration: 9 hours - 12.5 hours - Golden Circle Tour & Blue Lagoon Entry Tickets with Transfers
Pick-up timings: 10am
Duration: 10 hours - 13 hours - Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon & Northern Lights Tour by Bus
Pick-up timings: 8am, 9am
Duration: 15 hours
Best time to visit: June to August, and September to March.
Distance: The Golden Circle is approximately 72 kilometers from Reykjavik.
- By bus: Your Golden Circle tour from Reykjavik will pick you up from the selected pick-up location and take you around the Golden Circle.
- By car: Head west from Reykjavik to Route 49 and onto Þingvallavegur to get to Thingvellir. From there, head south on Þingvallavegur to Route 35 to get to Geysir. Head northeast on Route 35 from Geysir and turn right to reach Gullfoss Waterfall. You can either head southwest on Route 35 and get to Reykjavik via Biskupstungnabraut and Suðurlandsvegur/Þjóðvegur 1, or include other landmarks on your route.
- Round-trip transfer facilities (optional)
- English-speaking guide
- Transport via AC bus
- Free WiFi on bus
- Audio guide in English, French, German, Dutch, Italian, Spanish, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and Finnish (optional)
- Silica mud mask (only with Blue Lagoon tickets)
- Hot chocolate and sweet treats (only with Northern Lights tickets)
Things to do in the Golden Circle
Snorkeling
Experience the thrill of floating between the North American and Eurasian plates, which cut through Iceland at the Silfra Fissure. Take a snorkeling tour through the crystal-clear waters of Silfra and discover its main attractions, including the Big Crack, Silfra Hall, Silfra Cathedral, and the Silfra Lagoon. You'll also get to enjoy the stunning views of Lake Thingvallavatn.
Horseback riding
Discover Iceland's geothermal wonders on horseback. Ride along scenic trails, climb hills and mountain ridges, cross rivers, and explore charming towns. Take in breathtaking views of the sweeping landscape, featuring the gushing Varmá River, steaming valleys, and vast plains.
Rafting
Experience an exhilarating adventure as you raft through the gorges and rapids of the Gullfoss River Canyon. Witness the views of the Gullfoss Waterfall from a unique perspective as you float down the river for almost 4 miles. You'll be provided with a wetsuit to stay warm, and this incredible experience is suitable for people of all skill levels, including beginners.
Snowmobiling
Explore Iceland's Langjokull Glacier on a snowmobile and zip through the icy countryside surrounded by mountain peaks. Head out into the snowy and picturesque wilderness with your professional guide.
Frequently asked questions about tours from Reykjavik to Golden Circle
Where is the Golden Circle in Iceland?
The Golden Circle is located in southwestern Iceland, around 72 kilometers from the capital city of Reykjavík. The entire route is roughly 130 kilometers (80 miles) in total, making it an excellent choice for a pleasant day trip packed with history and natural beauty.
How long will my Golden Circle tour take?
The duration of your Golden Circle tour depends on the ticket you choose. The total distance from Reykjavik to the Golden Circle attractions and back is approximately 250 km (155 miles). A guided tour of the Golden Circle attractions from Reykjavik typically takes between 6.5 to 8 hours. However, if you opt for a combo ticket that includes the Blue Lagoon and the Northern Lights, it may take over 15 hours as it covers more distance. If you prefer driving through the Golden Circle route and include add-on activities such as snorkeling in the Silfra Fissure, it could take you an entire day.
Where is the pick-up point for the Golden Circle tour?
Many Golden Circle tours offer the convenience of selecting your preferred pick-up point. You can choose from a list of select hotels or opt to be picked up from either the BSI Bus Terminal or the Reykjavik Terminal. It's important to check if your hotel is on the list before booking your tickets.
Can I enjoy my day trip from Reykjavik to Golden Circle if the weather is bad?
Iceland can be visited all year round for an amazing experience, but it is important to be prepared for extreme weather conditions. It is recommended to bring waterproof clothing such as a jacket, wear light layers that can be easily removed or put back on, and sturdy waterproof shoes with good grip. Your guide will do their best to make your tour enjoyable, especially if you are adequately prepared.
Can I drive the Golden Circle route in the winter?
Yes, it is possible to drive on the route during winter. However, it is important to wear warm clothing, have appropriate winter tires, and wear sturdy hiking shoes with a good grip. You can purchase ice grips for your shoes at most gas stations in Iceland. It is also important to have experience driving in icy and snowy conditions. If you lack experience, choose a Golden Circle tour that will take you directly to the attractions without any difficulties.
Can I bring my children on a Golden Circle tour?
While you can bring your children on the Golden Circle tour, it is important to note that some attractions like Kerid Crater Lake are closed to children aged 7 years or under. The Golden Circle Full Day Guided Tour is restricted to children below 7 years and the Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon & Northern Lights Tour by Bus is restricted to children below 14 years. Avoid booking these tickets or attractions if you are traveling with family to avoid disappointment.
Is the Golden Circle tour disabled-friendly?
Most Golden Circle attractions are disabled-friendly and have specific routes for wheelchair users. The AC transport buses, however, may not always be wheelchair-friendly. Instead, opt to drive around the Golden Circle route in a car or book a wheelchair-friendly minivan.