Reykjavik: Silver Circle of West Iceland Day Tour

Imagine a day where breathtaking waterfalls, historic landmarks, and authentic Icelandic culture all come together in one smooth journey. For $192 per person, you can spend about 10 hours discovering the hidden gems of West Iceland, from a historic lighthouse to powerful hot springs and charming villages. Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour offers a well-rounded taste of Iceland’s natural beauty and cultural heritage without the hassle of planning or driving yourself.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it balances scenic beauty with cultural insights. You’ll get to climb the Akranesviti Lighthouse for panoramic views—trust us, that view of the Atlantic is worth every step. Then, exploring the Settlement Center in Borgarnes gives you a window into Iceland’s early settlers, making history feel alive. The visit to Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls is truly a highlight—crystal-clear waters spilling over lava rocks create a scene that sticks with you long after you leave. Plus, the option to relax in the Krauma baths or take scenic hikes means you can tailor the day to your mood and energy level.

One thing to consider: the tour involves several stops and walking, so good footwear and weather-appropriate clothing are essential. This makes it less ideal for travelers with mobility issues or those seeking a more relaxed, less active outing.

This tour suits those who love nature, history, and authentic local experiences—whether you’re a first-time visitor eager to see iconic sights or someone craving a deeper connection with Iceland’s landscape and culture.

Key Points

• Diverse Stops: A perfect mix of waterfalls, historic sites, and scenic viewpoints.
• Authentic Experiences: Climb the lighthouse, visit a horse farm, soak in geothermal baths.
• Flexible Options: Choose between relaxing at Krauma or hiking volcanic craters.
• Comprehensive Day: Covers both natural wonders and cultural heritage.
• Well-Organized: Included admission to key sites and local guidance.
• Active Element: Includes short hikes, so good shoes and weather gear are recommended.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Silver Circle Tour

This full-day adventure from Reykjavik is designed for travelers who want an immersive experience in West Iceland’s highlights without the challenges of self-driving. The journey kicks off with pickup from numerous central Reykjavik locations, making it easy to start your day. You’ll then hop into a comfortable coach driven by a local guide whose insights make each stop more meaningful.

Scenic Drive and First Stop: Akranesviti Lighthouse

The drive along the coast offers stunning views of the Atlantic, with mountains framing the scenery. Upon arriving at Akranes, a coastal town famed for its historic lighthouse, you’ll ascend the Akranesviti. Climbing the narrow stairs in the lighthouse is a highlight, providing sweeping views of the ocean and rugged coastline—an image that stays with many travelers long after the tour ends. The lighthouse is still active, adding to its charm as a working maritime beacon with a storied past.

Borgarnes and the Settlement Center

Next, you’ll head to Borgarnes, home to the Settlement Center. The museum is housed in two of the town’s oldest buildings, and offers a well-curated exhibition about Iceland’s settlers and Viking sagas. It’s a great place to get context about the land you’re exploring and understand the resilience of early Icelandic communities. Many visitors enjoy browsing the souvenir shop or grabbing a quick snack at the cozy café, making this a perfect break point.

Enchanting Waterfalls: Hraunfossar and Barnafoss

The Hraunfossar waterfalls are truly spectacular. The sight of crystal-clear waters trickling out from beneath the lava rocks into a vibrant blue river makes for incredible photos and a sense of Iceland’s raw geological power. Next door, Barnafoss offers a more dramatic scene with rushing water and a tragic legend behind its name, adding depth to the natural beauty. These sites are accessible and often praised for their “magical, fairy-tale feel” in reviews.

More Great Tours Nearby

Reykholt and Snorri Sturluson

In Reykholt, you’ll visit the historic home of Snorri Sturluson, a key figure in Icelandic literature and history. Snorralaug, the hot spring bath built by him, is a charming spot that connects visitors to Iceland’s geothermal past. Many comment on how visiting these sites makes the history tangible, especially when standing in the very places where early Icelandic sagas were written.

The Power of Deildartunguhver

No visit to West Iceland is complete without experiencing Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot spring. The steam and heat are impressive, and many travelers find it both relaxing and awe-inspiring. The sight of boiling water gushing out with such force feels primal and reminds us of how geothermal energy is woven into Iceland’s identity.

Optional Activities: Baths or Hikes

You’ll have a choice to relax at Krauma Spa, where geothermal baths fed by Deildartunguhver promise soothing warmth, or choose to go on short scenic hikes. The hikes include climbing Grábrók volcanic crater for panoramic views, or strolling to Glanni Waterfall, which offers peaceful scenery and folklore stories. Reviews praise Krauma for its calming geothermal pools—perfect for unwinding after a busy day.

Final Stops and Drop-off

After a leisurely afternoon, you’ll return to Reykjavík with a wealth of new sights and stories. The bus drops you off at your hotel or a convenient central location, ready to reflect on a day filled with natural beauty, history, and authentic Icelandic charm.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The value lies in the combination of diverse experiences—each stop offers something different, from the panoramic views atop the lighthouse to the geological spectacle of waterfalls. The guided aspect means you gain insights without the stress of driving or organizing, and the admission to key sites ensures you see the highlights without extra costs.

The option to relax at Krauma or hike the volcanic craters adds a layer of personalization. Many reviewers have lauded the friendly, knowledgeable guides who make the journey engaging and educational. The fact that the tour is carbon-neutral also appeals to environmentally conscious travelers, making it a responsible choice.

Practical Considerations

The tour’s 10-hour duration means you’ll want to be prepared for a full day of activity, including short hikes and potentially variable weather. Good sturdy shoes are recommended, especially if you choose the hikes, and packing warm, waterproof clothing is wise. The tour is not suitable for children under 6, so it’s best for families with older kids or adults seeking active exploration.

Value and Cost

At $192, the price is reasonable considering the number of sites visited, admissions included, and the guided service. For travelers wanting a comprehensive West Iceland experience, it’s a solid investment in both time and memory—especially since transport, guiding, and entry fees are covered.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you value natural beauty combined with cultural narratives, this tour is perfect. It’s ideal for those who don’t want to rent a car but still want to see a broad swath of West Iceland’s highlights. Travelers with a sense of adventure, appreciation for geothermal landscapes, and interest in Icelandic history will find it particularly rewarding. However, if you prefer more leisurely, less active outings or are traveling with very young children, some of the short hikes and walking might be less suitable.

The Sum Up

This Silver Circle of West Iceland Day Tour offers a well-rounded, engaging glimpse into Iceland’s dramatic landscapes and storied past. With its combination of spectacular waterfalls, historic sites, and the chance to soak in geothermal waters or hike volcanic craters, it appeals to a wide range of travelers seeking both adventure and cultural insight. The guided format, inclusive admissions, and flexible options mean you get a lot for your money—making it a practical choice for anyone wanting to maximize their day in Iceland.

The only caveat is the active nature of some stops, so pack your sturdy shoes and weather gear. Overall, it’s a fantastic way to see West Iceland’s most iconic sights without the stress of planning or navigating on your own. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast, a history buff, or someone simply craving Iceland’s raw natural beauty, this tour delivers a memorable, authentic experience.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 10 hours, including travel time, sightseeing, and optional activities.

What do I need to bring?
Warm clothing, gloves, a scarf, and sturdy shoes are recommended. Weather can change quickly, so waterproof gear is advised.

Is food included?
No, food and drinks are not included. You might want to bring snacks or plan to enjoy a meal at the café during the Borgarnes stop.

Can I choose between soaking or hiking?
Yes, at the end of the day, you can opt to relax at Krauma Spa or go on scenic hikes to Grábrók crater or Glanni Waterfall.

Are children allowed?
The tour isn’t suitable for children under 6 years old, mainly because of the active stops and walking involved.

What is the maximum group size?
While not specified, guided tours like this typically keep groups manageable for a more personal experience, with plenty of guidance.

Is this a good tour for photography?
Absolutely. Stops like the lighthouse, waterfalls, and volcanic craters offer fantastic photo opportunities, often praised in reviews.

How do I know where to meet?
Pickup locations are numerous throughout Reykjavik. Be sure to arrive 30 minutes early at your designated stop marked with the Reykjavik Excursions logo.

This tour strikes a balance between adventure, education, and relaxation. It’s a solid choice if you want to see West Iceland’s highlights without feeling rushed, all while enjoying a taste of Iceland’s natural and cultural richness.

You can check availability for your dates here: