From Reykjavik: Golden Circle and Northern Lights Tour

From Reykjavik: Golden Circle and Northern Lights Tour
Location: Southern Region, Iceland
Country: Iceland
Rating: 4.2/5 (575 reviews)
Price: $136 per person
Duration: Approximately 10 hours

What could be better than spending a day exploring Iceland’s most famous natural wonders and ending the day with a chance to see the Northern Lights? This combined tour, priced at $136, takes you from Reykjavik to the Þingvellir National Park, Gullfoss Waterfall, and the Geysir geothermal area, then transitions into an evening hunt for the elusive Aurora Borealis.

Two aspects stand out: First, the flexibility of visiting three iconic sites in a single day, and second, the guided Northern Lights hunt with expert advice on camera settings—perfect for those wanting both natural beauty and a touch of Icelandic magic at night.

However, be prepared for the possibility of weather-related cancellations, especially for the Northern Lights viewing, which depends heavily on clear skies. This tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate structured days packed with scenery, and who are okay with the unpredictable Icelandic weather that can influence Aurora sightings.

Who will love this? If you’re eager to tick off Iceland’s must-see spots and don’t want to rent a car, or if you’re hoping for guidance on capturing the Northern Lights, this tour offers good value and an authentic experience.

Key Points

• Iconic Sites in One Day: The Golden Circle covers Þingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss, giving you a taste of Iceland’s geological and natural wonders.
• Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable guides help you appreciate the landscape and teach camera tips for Aurora viewing.
• Flexible Schedule: With a long break for dinner and a 3-6 hour window for Northern Lights hunting, it balances sightseeing and evening adventure.
• Weather Dependent: Aurora sightings rely on clear skies; cloud cover can mean cancellations or missed chances.
• Comfortable Transportation: Modern buses with Wi-Fi, USB chargers, and in-bus audio guides keep you connected and entertained.
• Authentic Experiences: Authentic stops with photo opportunities, informative commentary, and chances to explore at your own pace.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Visiting Iceland’s Top Natural Attractions

This tour begins early in the morning, departing from Reykjavik and heading into the Southern Iceland landscape, where some of the most famous natural sights are concentrated. It’s a good choice if you’re eager to see what makes Iceland special without the hassle of self-driving.

The first stop, Þingvellir National Park, is more than just a scenic spot—it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, you can walk between two tectonic plates, the North American and Eurasian, which are drifting apart right before your eyes. Many reviewers find this stop particularly fascinating, with one noting, “We loved the way our guide explained the geological significance of the rift.” It’s a place that invites quiet reflection, especially if you enjoy history and geology in one.

Next, the Geysir geothermal area offers a lively display of bubbling hot springs and erupting geysers. The highlight is Stókkur, which erupts approximately every 6-8 minutes, shooting water 20-30 meters into the air. Tour guides often share stories of Icelandic folklore and explain how geothermal activity shapes the landscape—adding a layer of understanding to the spectacle.

Finally, the Gullfoss Waterfall provides a powerful visual punch. The glacial river cascades 32 meters into a rugged canyon, creating a thunderous sound that is impossible to ignore. Many travelers mention how the view of Gullfoss is unforgettable, often commenting on the clarity of the landscape and the photo opportunities it offers.

The Midday Break and Personal Time

After the Golden Circle, the tour includes a break, allowing time for lunch or a quick exploration. Some reviews highlight the importance of this pause—enabling travelers to stretch, recharge, and savor Icelandic snacks or refreshments. It’s a thoughtful touch, especially since the day involves a fair amount of walking and sightseeing.

Transition to Evening Northern Lights Hunting

Following the morning’s adventure, the coach returns to Reykjavik for a 3 to 6-hour break. This is your chance to enjoy dinner at your leisure, perhaps exploring local eateries or grabbing a snack at one of the cafés around the city. Some reviews mention that this break is well-timed, giving travelers enough downtime without feeling rushed.

As night falls, the second part of the tour kicks in—aimed at seeing the Northern Lights. Your guide will take you out into the countryside, away from city lights, to maximize your chances. The guide not only shares tips on how to photograph the Aurora but also helps interpret the lights’ movement and colors, making the experience more meaningful.

Weather is critical, and many reviews note that the sighting of Aurora depends on clear skies. Some travelers have their plans changed or canceled if clouds obscure the view, but guides are often proactive in rescheduling or offering options. One reviewer shared, “We waited for about two hours and, just as we were about to leave, the lights appeared—amazing moment!”

Comfort, Convenience, and Value

The tour’s transportation is praised for being modern and comfortable, with Wi-Fi and USB chargers on board. This keeps you connected and can be handy when sharing photos or just passing the time between stops. The multilingual audio guide is a thoughtful addition, catering to international travelers.

Cost-wise, many consider $136 to be reasonable given the number of sites visited and the inclusions, especially when you factor in the guidance and transportation. The reviews frequently highlight the guides’ knowledge and friendly demeanor as a key part of the experience, making the day not just about scenery but about learning and remembering.

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Authenticity and Realism

Several travelers mention how their guides made the experience personal and engaging. For example, one guide sang an Icelandic lullaby while gazing at the landscape, which added a special touch to the journey. Others appreciated the insider tips on photographing the Aurora, which can turn a fleeting natural phenomenon into stunning memories.

Of course, some reviews mention the unpredictability of the Northern Lights, with a few trips being canceled due to weather or cloud cover. This is an inherent part of aurora chasing, and guides generally do their best to keep you informed and flexible.

Final Thoughts on the Experience

This tour offers a balanced combination of Icelandic natural wonders and the chance to see a once-in-a-lifetime night sky display. The itinerary is well-structured, with enough time at each stop to absorb the sights without feeling rushed. The guides receive high praise for their knowledge, friendliness, and efforts to make the experience memorable.

It’s perfect for travelers who want to see the highlights without renting a car or navigating the logistics themselves. If you’re flexible with the weather and aware that Aurora sightings are never guaranteed, this tour can deliver a meaningful Icelandic adventure—day and night.

If you’re someone who appreciates well-organized trips that combine iconic scenery with expert guidance, you’ll find this full-day tour rewarding. It’s especially good for first-timers, families, or travelers on a tight schedule who want a comprehensive taste of Iceland’s highlights. The evening Aurora hunt appeals to those eager to witness the Northern Lights without venturing out alone.

However, if you’re a very seasoned traveler or renting a car is part of your plan, you might prefer more independent exploration. Also, keep in mind that Aurora sightings depend on weather conditions—so patience and flexibility are key.

Is hotel pickup included?
Pickup is available from most hotels, hostels, and guesthouses in Reykjavik if you select the optional pickup service. Be ready 30 minutes before departure and look for a green Smartbus.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This gives peace of mind if weather or plans change.

Are children allowed?
Yes, children aged 0-11 can travel for free, and those 12-15 receive a 50% discount. It’s suitable for families with kids who enjoy outdoor adventures.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly and waterproof, as the weather can change quickly. Waterproof jackets, pants, gloves, and good outdoor shoes are recommended.

Will I see the Northern Lights every night?
Not necessarily. Aurora visibility depends heavily on weather conditions, especially clear skies. Guides will do their best to find the best spot.

How long is the total tour?
Approximately 10 hours, including sightseeing, breaks, and the Northern Lights hunt.

What language is the tour guide in?
The guide speaks English, with an in-bus audio guide available in ten languages, including Spanish, Chinese, French, German, and more.

What’s included in the price?
Hotel pickup and drop-off (if selected), guided tours at key sites, expert Northern Lights guide, camera tips, Wi-Fi, USB chargers, and audio commentary.

Is food included?
No, meals and drinks are not included. There are opportunities to buy food and snacks during breaks.

In summary, this tour from Reykjavik offers an approachable way to experience Iceland’s Golden Circle’s natural wonders and chase the Northern Lights under expert guidance. With comfortable transportation, engaging guides, and the chance to see some of nature’s most stunning phenomena, it’s an experience that balances sightseeing with authentic storytelling. Perfect for those who want a well-rounded, value-packed day that captures Iceland’s essence—daylight and starlight included.

You can check availability for your dates here: