Golden Circle & Kerið Day Tour by Minibus from Reykjavik

A Complete Look at the Golden Circle & Kerið Day Tour from Reykjavik

If you’re dreaming of Iceland’s stunning natural sights, this Golden Circle & Kerið tour offers a well-rounded, hassle-free way to see the country’s most iconic spots. For just $135 per person, you’ll spend approximately 8 hours exploring Þingvellir National Park, the powerful Gullfoss waterfall, the erupting Geysir geothermal area, and the colorful Kerið Crater. Led by knowledgeable guides like Tómas or Anton, this tour keeps things intimate with a small-group experience (limited to 16 people), ensuring you get plenty of attention and time at each stop.

What we really love about this tour is how it blends famous highlights with some lesser-known gems, like a horse farm and a visit to a local greenhouse. Plus, the onboard Wi-Fi and USB charging ports make it easy to stay connected and share your photos in real time. For travelers who appreciate comfort, convenience, and local flavor, this trip hits the mark.

That said, a potential consideration is the long day—it’s packed with stops, which some might find tiring. Also, weather can be unpredictable, so packing waterproof clothing and sturdy walking shoes is a good idea. This tour is ideal for those who want a comprehensive, value-packed introduction to Iceland’s highlights without the hassle of self-driving or organizing multiple excursions.

If you enjoy guided tours with a friendly, engaging guide, and want to see Iceland’s natural beauty in one well-paced day, this experience is likely to satisfy.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures a more personalized experience and better access to guides.
• Variety of stops—from waterfalls to geothermal areas—offers a full sense of Iceland’s natural diversity.
• Expert guides like Tómas and Anton deepen your understanding with stories, humor, and local insights.
• Comfortable transportation in climate-controlled Mercedes Benz minibuses with Wi-Fi and USB ports enhances the trip.
• Authentic experiences, such as visiting a horse farm or a greenhouse, make the tour more engaging.
• Good value considering the number of major sights covered and the quality of guides and transportation.

An In-Depth Review of the Golden Circle & Kerið Tour

Starting Off: Convenient Pickup and Small Group Comfort

Your day begins with a pickup at select Reykjavik hotels or designated bus stops, making it straightforward to join the tour without the stress of navigating city streets. The Mercedes Benz minibuses are climate-controlled, ensuring comfort whether Iceland’s weather is crisp or rainy. With a maximum group size of 16, the atmosphere feels more intimate than a big bus tour, allowing guides to give more personalized attention and answer questions more freely. As one reviewer noted, the small group “kept it well paced,” which helps avoid feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

First Stop: Hveragerði and the Earthquake Museum

Your first stop is a quirky yet meaningful introduction to Iceland’s geology: the Earthquake Museum in Hveragerði, where you get a quick lesson on the 2008 earthquake. It’s a neat way to contextualize Iceland’s volcanic activity and adds a bit of local insight. Many travelers appreciated the free admission and the chance to learn about Iceland’s seismic activity firsthand. Plus, grabbing a freshly brewed coffee and Icelandic sweets at a local bakery adds a cozy touch to the morning.

Kerið Crater: A Colorful Volcanic Gem

Next, you’ll visit the Kerið Crater, a striking volcanic lake with vibrant red and green slopes. Walking around the rim gives you panoramic views, but the highlight is being able to touch the gleaming water surface or walk down to the shoreline. Tour reviews often mention how memorable this quick stop is, with one reviewer saying, “You can have a walk around the ridges or even go down and touch the water.” The admission fee is included, and the scenery here is unlike anything else you’ll see on the tour.

Greenhouse Visit at Fridheimar

A true Icelandic innovation, the Fridheimar Greenhouse showcases how Iceland grows vegetables in its chilly climate. The tour includes a 30-minute visit where you can see the lush growing areas and enjoy a taste of their famous tomato-based products, including the legendary tomato sorbet—an unexpected treat praised by travelers. It’s a delightful and educational stop that adds flavor and local charm.

Gullfoss: The Majestic Waterfall

No Iceland trip is complete without seeing Gullfoss, the “Golden Falls”. Many reviewers describe it as breathtaking, with powerful cascades dropping into a deep canyon. On a clear day, you might even catch rainbows dancing in the spray, which adds a fairy-tale touch. The tour allows about an hour here—ample time for photographs, a quick walk, and even shopping for souvenirs or enjoying traditional Icelandic soup—a cozy meal that keeps you warm for the rest of the day.

Brú Horse Farm: Icelandic Horses Up Close

The Icelandic horse is famous for its tölt, a smooth gait perfect for riding. A 10-minute visit to Brú Horse Farm gives you a chance to meet and learn about these charming animals. Travelers seem to love this stop, especially those curious about Iceland’s unique horse culture. It’s a short but sweet encounter that adds a personal touch to the tour.

Geysir Geothermal Area: Witness Eruptions and Steam

The Geysir geothermal area is a highlight, where the Strokkur geyser erupts roughly every 10 minutes, shooting hot water nearly 20 meters into the air. The area is alive with steam, bubbling hot springs, and volcanic activity, making it a true geological wonder. Many reviews mention standing in awe of the eruption and the steam clouds, which create a surreal landscape. It’s a must-see that appeals to all ages.

Efstidalur II: Homemade Ice Cream in a Barn

For a sweet break, the Efstidalur II restaurant offers homemade ice cream right in a barn setting. Travelers often rave about the delicious, creamy ice cream and the fun experience of eating in a farmhouse environment. It’s a quirky, cozy spot that adds a local flavor to the tour, and many comment on how it’s a perfect treat after a day of sightseeing.

Þingvellir National Park: Where Continents Meet

The last major stop is Þingvellir, the site of Europe’s oldest parliament and the dividing line between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. Walking through the Almannagjá canyon and around the historic battlegrounds, many visitors feel a sense of connection to Iceland’s history and geology. The scenery is dramatic, with rugged cliffs and clear waters, making it a photographer’s paradise. Several travelers appreciated the ample 40-minute stop, giving enough time to explore and soak in the surroundings.

A Balanced View: What Works Well and What to Consider

This tour excels in creating a comprehensive, well-paced experience of Iceland’s most iconic sights. The small group size and knowledgeable guides (like Tómas and Anton) earn frequent praise for their storytelling, humor, and local insights. The transportation in a comfortable minibus with Wi-Fi keeps the journey enjoyable, especially on a long day. The variety of stops, from waterfalls and geysers to farms and geothermal areas, ensures you get a well-rounded glimpse of Iceland’s natural beauty.

On the downside, some travelers mention that the day can feel long, especially if the weather turns or if you’re tired from previous travel days. Plus, weather unpredictability means packing waterproof gear and sturdy shoes is wise, particularly since outdoor stops like Kerið or Þingvellir involve walking on uneven terrain. A few reviews also noted some administrative hiccups, like the initial pickup confusion or Wi-Fi issues, but these seem minor compared to the overall positive experience.

Value for Money

At $135, this tour offers exceptional value considering the number of major sights visited, the inclusiveness of admission fees, and the personalized service of a small group. It’s especially attractive for travelers who prefer not to rent cars or deal with logistics, trusting experienced guides to navigate Iceland’s roads and sites.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you appreciate local stories, authentic stops (like a horse farm and greenhouse), and want a full-day overview of Iceland’s highlights without the hassle of planning, this tour is ideal. It’s also perfect for first-time visitors wanting to see the “must-see” spots in a manageable, friendly format.

The Sum Up

This Golden Circle & Kerið tour offers an excellent balance of natural beauty, cultural insight, and comfort. You’ll visit Iceland’s most famous waterfalls, geysers, and historic sites, all with the guidance of passionate local guides. The intimate group size, cozy transportation, and added experiences like the greenhouse and horse farm make it feel more personal and immersive than a large bus tour.

While the day is packed, many travelers find it well-paced and thoroughly enjoyable, especially given the value for money and the chance to see Iceland’s highlights in one day. It suits those who want an authentic, guided experience that combines natural wonders with local touches, all in a comfortable setting.

If you’re seeking a reliable, engaging, and comprehensive introduction to Iceland’s Golden Circle, this tour hits all the right notes—especially with guides like Tómas and Anton adding personality and insight to each stop.

FAQ

How early do I need to book this tour?
Most travelers book about 33 days in advance on average, which is recommended especially during peak seasons to secure your spot.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
Yes, pickup is offered at select Reykjavik hotels and bus stops, making it easy to start your day without extra transportation hassle.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. The tour makes stops at local restaurants or grocery shops where you can purchase food, or you can bring a packed lunch.

What should I bring for the outdoor stops?
Since weather can be unpredictable, packing a warm waterproof jacket and sturdy walking shoes is advised. The stops at Kerið and Þingvellir involve walking on uneven surfaces.

How long is the stop at Gullfoss?
You’ll have about 1 hour at Gullfoss, enough for photos, a walk, shopping, or to enjoy the Icelandic soup offered there.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 3 and up are welcome, but they must be accompanied by an adult. Child seats or boosters can be requested in advance.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is subject to weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or full refund.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum is 16 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience and easier access to guides’ attention.

This tour provides a fantastic snapshot of Iceland’s natural wonders and offers a comfy, friendly environment for first-timers or anyone eager to see the highlights without stress. Whether you’re into waterfalls, geothermal activity, or historic sites, you’ll find plenty to love on this carefully curated day trip.