Golden Circle and Kerid Crater Tour with Geothermal Lagoon Visit

Experience the Best of Iceland in One Day with the Golden Circle and Kerid Crater Tour

This full-day tour from Reykjavik offers a fantastic way to see some of Iceland’s most iconic sights without feeling rushed. Priced at $134 per person, it covers everything from the tectonic plates of Thingvellir National Park to the erupting geysers of Geysir and the powerful Gullfoss Waterfall. The tour also takes you off the beaten path at Kerid Crater, a vibrant volcanic lake, and wraps up with relaxing options in Blue Lagoon or Hvammsvík Hot Springs.

What we love most about this experience is how smoothly it combines impressive scenery with fascinating geology and culture, all in one manageable day. Plus, the small group size — capped at 19 travelers — means more personal attention and fewer crowds at each stop. The second highlight? The knowledgeable guides, like Siggi, who share stories and details that really bring the landscape to life.

One aspect to keep in mind is that some options, like the geothermal lagoon visits, are optional and require pre-booking and extra cost. If you’re eager for a relaxing soak at the Blue Lagoon, plan ahead so you don’t miss out. This tour is best suited for travelers who want a rundown of South Iceland’s highlights, especially those who appreciate good value and a relaxed pace.

Key Points

• All-inclusive day that covers major Golden Circle sights plus Kerid crater
• Comfortable transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off in Reykjavik
• Expert guides like Siggi enhance the experience with stories and local insights
• Optional hot springs visits at Hvammsvík or Blue Lagoon, pre-booking recommended
• Small group size ensures a more intimate, engaging experience
• Good balance of sightseeing and leisure with relaxed timing and plenty of photo opportunities

Exploring the Itinerary

Thingvellir National Park: Walking Between Continents

We start our day at Thingvellir, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous not just for its scenery but for its geological significance. Here, the Mid-Atlantic Ridge runs right through the park, and standing between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates is a surreal experience. As your guide tells stories about the area’s volcanic activity and history, you’ll get a vivid sense of how the land is constantly shifting. Expect about 45 minutes to explore and soak in the views of the rift valley and the historic Alþingi site, where Iceland’s parliament was founded in 930 AD.

Laugarvatn and the Geothermal Bakery

Next, we make a quick detour to Laugarvatn, a charming town next to a lake, where the geothermal activity is visibly hot. Local villagers bake rye bread underground in the warm earth — a tradition that’s both tasty and visually striking. This stop offers a taste of how Icelanders harness geothermal energy in everyday life, adding a layer of local authenticity.

The Geysir Geothermal Area: Watching Nature’s Show

The highlight at Geysir is the geyser Strokkur, which erupts roughly every 5 to 10 minutes, shooting water up to 98 feet (30 meters) in the air. As you walk around bubbling ponds and steaming vents, you’ll see the landscape’s raw power. Several reviews mention how fascinating it is to witness these eruptions. One traveler said, “the bubbling ponds and steam vents create a surreal landscape,” and another appreciated the time to linger and photograph the bubbling activity.

Gullfoss: The Golden Waterfall

Following Geysir, we arrive at Gullfoss, a stunning two-tiered waterfall with a thunderous roar as water plunges 105 feet into a deep canyon. It’s a perfect spot for photos and for feeling the sheer force of nature. Visitors often comment on the beauty of Gullfoss, describing it as “powerful and breathtaking,” and appreciating the viewing platforms that allow close-up views safely.

Kerid Crater: A Volcanic Masterpiece

After Gullfoss, we head to Kerid, a 3,000-year-old volcanic crater filled with a vivid blue lake. Its colorful slopes — red, green, and black — make it look like a scene from another planet. A short walk around the rim reveals the scale of the crater, and the contrast of the lake against the volcanic ash is striking. One review shared, “the lake and slopes are magical-looking,” emphasizing how this stop feels like stepping into a natural sculpture.

The Drive to the Blue Lagoon or Hvammsvík

As the day winds down, we begin the scenic drive along the Reykjanes Peninsula, with views of lava fields, cone volcanoes, and the Atlantic Ocean. Here, you have the option to visit either the Blue Lagoon or Hvammsvík Hot Springs — two very different experiences.

Blue Lagoon is famous worldwide for its milky blue waters and luxurious spa atmosphere. However, note that entrance tickets are not included and must be booked separately. Conversely, Hvammsvík offers a more natural, less crowded geothermal experience and is located by a whale fjord, with pools that blend seawater and geothermal water. Reviews highlight the relaxing atmosphere of Hvammsvík, describing it as “the perfect end to a busy day” with “spectacular views.”

Optional Hot Springs: Relax and Rejuvenate

Both options provide a well-earned chance to soak in warm, mineral-rich waters. The Hvammsvík Hot Springs, in particular, are praised for their unique blend of seawater and geothermal pools, as well as their breathtaking surroundings. Expect about two hours here, and remember that admission is extra.

Transportation and Logistics

This tour uses a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, making the long day enjoyable rather than exhausting. Pickup and drop-off are included in your hotel in Reykjavik, which is a big time saver and reduces hassle. Since the tour operates in all weather conditions, it’s practical to dress warmly and be prepared for Iceland’s unpredictable climate.

The group size, maxing out at 19 people, makes for a more intimate experience. Guides like Siggi, Mika, Christina, and others consistently receive praise for their knowledge, friendliness, and storytelling skills. One reviewer notes that their guide’s stories and facts “really brought the landscape to life,” demonstrating how a good guide can elevate an already impressive trip.

Timing and Pace

The itinerary is thoughtfully spaced so you’re not overwhelmed. You get about 45 minutes at Thingvellir, 1 hour 20 minutes at Geysir, and 40 minutes at Gullfoss. Kerid is about 30 minutes, giving enough time to walk around and take photos. The optional hot springs will add a couple more hours, but they are flexible based on your preferences.

What the Reviews Say

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the well-organized nature of the tour. Comments like “Siggi provided a wealth of useful information” and “the pace was perfect, never felt rushed” reflect the tour’s focus on quality experiences over quantity. Several mention how the tour’s route was thoughtfully planned to avoid crowds, allowing more relaxed visits to each site.

The scenery is often described as “spectacular,” from the rift valley to the waterfalls and volcanic slopes. Many travelers highlight specific stops, like the Kerid crater, as “magical,” and the geothermal baths as “a perfect way to unwind.” The small group size is also appreciated, creating a friendly environment for questions and photos.

One reviewer noted that the Blue Lagoon was closed during their trip, but the tour organizers managed to book them at Sky Lagoon, which they also enjoyed. This flexibility is a plus, especially if you prefer to relax in a renowned spa environment.

The Value of This Tour

At $134, this tour offers excellent value considering the inclusion of multiple major sights, hotel pickup, and the expertise of your guide. The attractions themselves are free to visit, but the guided experience ensures you get contextual stories, safe transportation, and time-efficient visits. The optional hot springs add a relaxing bonus, though they do cost extra if you want to indulge.

Given the number of positive reviews and the detailed itinerary, it’s clear this trip balances sightseeing with comfort, making it a solid choice for those who want a broad overview of Iceland’s highlights without sacrificing quality.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re visiting Iceland for just a few days and want to maximize your experience, this tour is ideal. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate natural beauty, geological marvels, and a relaxed pace. Families, small groups, and solo travelers alike will find this trip accessible and engaging, especially with guides who share stories and insights. The optional hot springs are a bonus for anyone seeking a peaceful end to a busy day of sightseeing.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off in the Reykjavik area, making logistics straightforward.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes approximately 11 hours, from pickup in the morning to return in the evening.

Are the Blue Lagoon or Hvammsvík Hot Springs included?
No, these are optional and require separate booking and additional payment.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, warm clothing, and swimwear if you plan to swim. Towels are not included unless specified.

Can children participate?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but children must be accompanied by an adult.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour operates in all weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

How many people are on the tour?
Maximum group size is 19, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Do I need to pre-book the hot springs?
Yes, if you want to visit Hvammsvík or Blue Lagoon, you need to pre-book separately.

Is there Wi-Fi on the bus?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is available onboard.

What makes this tour stand out?
Guides like Siggi and Mika are highly praised for their knowledge and friendly approach. The route is carefully planned to avoid crowds, and the scenery is breathtaking.

To sum it up, this Golden Circle tour offers a well-rounded, value-packed exploration of Iceland’s natural wonders. It’s ideal for travelers who want to see everything from tectonic plates to stunning waterfalls, with the added bonus of relaxing in geothermal waters at the end. Whether you’re a geology buff, nature lover, or just looking for a stress-free way to experience Iceland’s highlights, this trip delivers. With knowledgeable guides, comfortable transport, and thoughtful pacing, it’s a smart choice for making the most of your Iceland visit.