From Reykjavik- Golden Circle, Bruarfoss & Kerid Volcano Crater

When planning a day trip from Reykjavik, the Golden Circle remains a top priority for many visitors. This tour, offered by Troll Expeditions, takes you beyond the typical busloads of travelers, providing a personalized and comfortable experience at a reasonable price of just over $110 per person. For nearly 97% of travelers who recommend it, this 8-hour adventure covers the must-see sites like Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss Waterfall, and Geysir, along with lesser-known treasures like Bruarfoss Waterfall and Kerid Crater.

Two features genuinely stand out for us: the focus on hidden spots that most tours skip, and the expert guidance that enhances your understanding of Iceland’s landscape, history, and geology. Plus, the included pickup and the option to rent cold-weather gear make this even more convenient. A small caveat? The tour tends to be quite full (max 19 travelers), so if a more intimate experience matters, book early. This tour is perfect for those who want a rich, varied glimpse of Iceland’s natural beauty without the hassle of driving, especially if you’re keen on photography or simply soaking in stunning scenery.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Smaller group size means more interaction and tailored stops.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: Mix of well-known highlights and hidden gems, offering great value.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides like Bjorn or Max enhance your understanding of each site.
• Comfort & Convenience: Includes pick-up, Wi-Fi, and options to rent weather gear.
• Timing & Flexibility: Usually departs at 9 a.m. and returns around 5 p.m., with potential adjustments for weather.
• Value for Money: Cost includes transport, guiding, and several sites, making it a solid deal.

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

The Booking & Starting Point

For around $110, you get a full-day exploration of Iceland’s Golden Circle route, with pickup from designated stops in Reykjavik. The tour departs promptly at 9 a.m., making it easy to plan around your accommodation. The small group size (up to 19 travelers) helps ensure a more personal experience, compared to large bus tours that can feel rushed or impersonal.

Transportation & Comfort

The journey is on a comfortable minibus, equipped with Wi-Fi and Icelandic music, turning long drives into enjoyable parts of the adventure. Travelers consistently praise the safety and professionalism of guides like Max or Bjorn, who keep the atmosphere light and engaging even when weather conditions turn challenging.

The Itinerary Breakdown

1. Thingvellir National Park (40 minutes)
Our adventure kicks off at this UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for tectonic plate rift valley and Icelandic history. Here, you see the North American and Eurasian plates pulling apart visibly—an awe-inspiring spectacle. The park also hosts Iceland’s largest natural lake and countless bird and fish species. As one reviewer noted, “Few locations in the world provide a clearer perspective of this vast geographic activity.” It’s a prime spot for history buffs (since it’s where the Icelandic parliament was founded in 930 AD) and nature lovers alike.

2. Bruarfoss Waterfall (40 minutes)
Next, we visit Bruarfoss, often called “Iceland’s Bluest Waterfall,” and for good reason. Its stunning sapphire waters cascade over dark lava rocks, creating a scene that looks like it belongs in a fairy tale. It’s a hidden gem—fewer travelers, more tranquility. One reviewer shared, “Its smooth waters produce an ethereal image of the environment,” perfect for photography or simply soaking in Iceland’s unspoiled beauty.

3. Gullfoss Waterfall (30 minutes)
This is the Golden Waterfall, and it’s impossible not to be impressed. The water plunges into a deep canyon, often forming rainbows on clear days—a photographer’s dream. Watching the misted spray and hearing the roar of falling water makes it clear why Gullfoss is a cornerstone of the Golden Circle. As one traveler noted, “The mist creates a stunning rainbow effect,” reinforcing why this spot is so iconic.

4. Kerid Crater (30 minutes)
A highlight for many is Kerid, a 6,500-year-old volcanic crater with vibrant red slopes and a blue lake at the bottom. Walking along the crater’s edge, you get a sense of Iceland’s volcanic past and see how minerals give the water its striking color. The contrast of red volcanic rocks and green moss offers superb photo opportunities, making it a favorite stop for nature lovers and geology enthusiasts alike.

Additional Stops & Personal Touches

While most tours stick strictly to the main attractions, this trip adds lesser-known sites like Bruarfoss and Kerid, enriching your experience. Some reviews mention stops at a working dairy farm, where you meet cows and taste fresh ice cream—a delightful touch of local life.

The Guides & Atmosphere

Throughout the tour, guides like Bjorn or Max tend to receive high praise for their knowledge, humor, and ability to keep the group engaged. Comments like “Bjorn shared geography, history, and stories that brought the sites to life” underline how much a guide’s storytelling can elevate the trip. The guides also handle weather challenges (snow, rain, or wind) with professionalism, often making the difference between a good and an unforgettable day.

Practical Considerations

• The tour operates in all weather conditions, so dressing in layers and preparing for rain or snow is wise.
• Cold-weather gear, such as waterproof jackets and boots, can be rented, which is handy during Iceland’s unpredictable climate.
• Food and drinks are not included, so bringing snacks or a packed lunch means you won’t miss out on exploring each site at your own pace.
• The Timings are flexible enough to allow ample time at each stop, although some reviews mention the possibility of quick visits, so if photography or lingering is important, plan accordingly.

The Reviews Speak for Themselves

Most travelers rate this experience very highly, with comments praising stunning scenery, knowledgeable guides, and good value. For example, one review states, “Our guide Bjorn made the trip memorable with stories and humor.” Others appreciated the well-coordinated logistics and the opportunity to see both major sites and hidden gems.

What Could Be Better?

Some travelers noted that the guide’s explanations could be more detailed, especially at some stops. If you’re a history buff or someone who loves deep stories, you might find this tour somewhat surface-level, but the scenic beauty and the guide’s personality often compensate.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This Golden Circle tour is ideal for travelers who want a well-rounded day out that balances major sights and lesser-known spots. It’s perfect if you prefer not to drive and want an easy, comfortable way to see Iceland’s highlights with a knowledgeable guide. The small-group format ensures more interaction, and the inclusion of hidden gems like Bruarfoss and Kerid adds a special touch.

If you’re after stunning scenery, authentic experiences, and a value-conscious option, this tour hits the right notes. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate a personalized experience, enjoy photography, or simply want a day of natural wonder without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable in winter?
Yes, but be prepared for snow and ice. The tour operates in all weather, and cold-weather gear can be rented for comfort and safety.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers transportation, a professional guide, Wi-Fi, Icelandic music, and the stops listed. Food and drinks are not included.

Can I rent waterproof clothing?
Yes, waterproof jackets, pants, hats, gloves, and neck warmers are available for rent at additional costs.

What are the main highlights?
Key sights include Thingvellir National Park, Bruarfoss Waterfall, Gullfoss, and Kerid Crater—a good mix of geology, history, and scenery.

How long are the stops?
Each stop ranges from 30 to 40 minutes, enough for photos and brief exploration, but not long enough for extensive hikes.

Is it a small-group tour?
Yes, with a maximum of 19 travelers, offering a more intimate experience.

Will I have free time to explore?
Yes, each site allows for photos and brief walks, but the schedule is designed to cover all stops comfortably.

Are there pickup points outside Reykjavik?
Pickup is offered from designated bus stops in Reykjavik. Pickup from Keflavík or outside the greater capital area is not available.

What if the weather cancels the tour?
If the weather is poor enough to cancel, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

In The Sum Up

This guided Golden Circle tour from Reykjavik offers a fantastic balance of popular landmarks and secret spots. With expert guides, comfortable transport, and a well-planned itinerary, it provides excellent value for travelers seeking a comprehensive Icelandic experience without the stress of driving. Whether you’re a first-timer eager to see the iconic waterfalls and geysers or a seasoned traveler looking for unique photo ops, this tour delivers.

While it might not satisfy those craving intense historical narratives, it compensates with breathtaking scenery and friendly, knowledgeable guides. It’s a great choice for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and curious explorers alike. For an authentic, well-organized day of Iceland’s natural wonders, this tour is a smart pick.