Golden Circle Private Tour Tomato Soup Lunch and Secret Lagoon with Photography

If you’re heading to Reykjavik and want a personalized way to explore Iceland’s most iconic sights, this Golden Circle Private Tour offers an intimate, photo-friendly adventure that combines natural beauty with authentic local flavors. For around $800 per person, you get about 8 hours of expertly guided exploration, customized for small groups of up to four travelers. Expect to visit Thingvellir National Park, watch the geysers erupt at Strokkur, marvel at Gullfoss Falls, and soak in the warm waters of the Secret Lagoon—all while learning to capture the perfect photo with a professional photographer.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the small group size ensures personalized attention and flexibility. Second, the photography focus elevates your experience—your guide doesn’t just point out sights but helps you take stunning images. A potential consideration? The price is on the higher end, but the tailored experience and expert guidance add significant value. This tour suits travelers who want a blend of sightseeing, culture, and photography, especially those who appreciate a more intimate, less rushed day.

Key Points

• Private, small-group experience ensures personalized attention and flexibility.
• Expert photography guidance helps you capture Iceland’s stunning landscapes.
• Diverse highlights from historic sites to geothermal wonders and hot springs.
• Authentic local flavors with a warming tomato soup lunch on a farm.
• Includes transportation in a Jeep for off-the-beaten-path access.
• Ideal for photo enthusiasts and travelers seeking a curated, intimate adventure.

Discovering Iceland’s Golden Circle in Comfort and Style

When planning a trip to Iceland, the Golden Circle is often at the top of the must-see list. This private tour, led by a knowledgeable guide named Luke, offers a carefully curated experience that hits every major highlight, with some special touches that make it memorable. The tour costs $800 per person, lasts around 8 hours, and is designed for small groups of no more than four travelers—meaning a more relaxed, flexible day that’s tailored to your interests.

Two aspects we particularly appreciate are the personalized touch of a private guide and the focus on photography. Luke’s expertise isn’t just about the sites; he’s also skilled at helping you take pictures that truly do justice to the landscapes. Plus, visiting Thingvellir, the Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss with a small, dedicated group makes for a more intimate and less hurried experience.

A possible drawback? The tour’s price might seem steep, especially for travelers on a tighter budget, but the quality and customization can make it well worth the investment. This experience best suits those who value expert insights, great photos, and authentic Icelandic moments rather than just ticking off a checklist of sights.

Key Points

Private and intimate: Small groups ensure a personal experience.
Photographer guide: Helps you get professional-quality photos.
Diverse sites: From historic parliament to powerful waterfalls.
Local flavors: Tomato soup lunch at a farm adds a culinary highlight.
Hot springs experience: The Secret Lagoon offers a relaxing soak.
Perfect for photography lovers and those wanting a personalized adventure.

The Itinerary: What to Expect and Why It Matters

Stop 1: Thingvellir National Park

Our journey begins at Thingvellir, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with deep historical and geological significance. Here, you’ll walk through the site of the world’s first parliament, established in 930 AD, still active today. The rift valley is a living reminder of the tectonic plates pulling apart, offering stunning views of the volcanic landscape.

We loved how Luke pointed out the signs of tectonic activity just beneath our feet—this is a place where history and earth science collide. An hour here is enough to soak in the views and snap photos of the dramatic rift valleys and historic sites. For travelers interested in Iceland’s cultural roots and geological marvels, this stop is a must.

Stop 2: Geysir and Strokkur

Next, we visited the Geysir geothermal area, home to the now dormant Great Geysir and the ever-active Strokkur. Strokkur erupts roughly every 5 to 10 minutes, gushing water up to 20 meters into the air—a spectacle that delights photographers and spectators alike.

Our guide, Luke, was especially helpful in timing our photos to catch the erupting geyser, ensuring we didn’t miss the shot. The area’s bubbling mud pots, steaming vents, and colorful mineral deposits create a lively, almost surreal landscape. Visitors will appreciate the frequent eruptions and the chance to get dynamic shots of this geothermal activity.

Stop 3: Gullfoss Falls

The Gullfoss, or “Golden Falls,” is one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls. Originating from the Langjökull glacier, it tumbles in two steps, first 11 meters down a gentle slope, then plunging 21 meters into a deep canyon. The spray often creates a rainbow, which makes for unforgettable photos.

We loved the way Luke pointed out vantage points that let you capture the full power of the falls—its roar, mist, and rainbows all in one. An hour here gives enough time to enjoy the views and take some spectacular shots, especially on a sunny day.

Stop 4: Kerid Crater

A brief stop at Kerid, a volcanic crater lake, reveals a striking contrast of colors—the deep blue water, dark lava rocks, and maroon mineral sediments. This natural eye-popper offers fantastic photo opportunities, especially with the vibrant hues and stark landscape.

This stop is perfect for those who love geology and vibrant scenery. It’s a quick visit, about 30 minutes, but one that leaves a lasting impression.

Stop 5: Friðheimar Tomato Farm and Lunch

No trip to Iceland is complete without experiencing its local flavors. At Friðheimar, we enjoyed a delicious tomato soup lunch served buffet-style, with fresh bread, cucumber salsa, and herbs. The farm’s greenhouse setting offers a unique backdrop for a cozy, farm-to-table meal.

The reviews highlight this as a major highlight—“The tomato soup served on a buffet with sour cream, home-baked bread, cucumber salsa, butter and fresh herbs” was described as memorable and warming, especially after a chilly morning.

Stop 6: Secret Lagoon (Gamla Laugin)

Finally, we visited the Secret Lagoon, the oldest geothermal pool in Iceland, established in 1891. It’s a quiet, less-commercial alternative to the Blue Lagoon, with natural hot springs and bubbling pools. The warm waters are perfect for unwinding and taking in the geothermal landscape.

Most reviews praise the experience—“The Secret Lagoon… is a wonderful, authentic hot spring experience.” It’s a relaxing way to cap off the day and reflect on your adventure. Note: the entrance fee isn’t included, so plan for that.

Transportation and Overall Experience

Traveling in a Jeep adds a sense of adventure and allows access to some sites that larger buses might miss. The small group size means you can enjoy more flexibility—your guide can tailor moments to your interests, whether that’s stopping for extra photos or spending more time at a favorite site.

The 8-hour duration is well-balanced, giving enough time to explore without feeling rushed. The tour starts at 10:00 am from Hallgrimskirkja, and you’re returned there at the end, making logistics straightforward.

The price covers private transportation, entry tickets to Thingvellir and Kerid, and a guided, photographic experience. The lunch is included, which adds value, especially given the farm-to-table quality of the tomato soup. Entrance to the Secret Lagoon is extra, so budget accordingly.

Authenticity and Personal Touch

Guests consistently praise the deep knowledge and enthusiasm of Luke, the guide. One review mentions how Luke’s storytelling made the sites more meaningful, and others note his talent with a camera, helping travelers capture their best shots.

The small group dynamic fosters a more personal connection, allowing questions and photo tips to flow naturally. This isn’t a generic bus tour; it feels crafted just for you.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for photographers or anyone eager to learn how to take better photos of Iceland’s stunning landscapes. It’s perfect if you prefer a personalized, flexible experience with a knowledgeable guide who can share stories, local insights, and camera tips.

Travelers who enjoy culinary experiences will appreciate the farm-fresh tomato soup lunch. Those interested in history and geology will find the stops at Thingvellir and Kerid particularly enriching.

If you’re after a luxurious, private adventure that combines sightseeing, culture, and photography, this tour offers a high-value, memorable day out in Iceland.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
Transportation in a Jeep, guided photography assistance, entry tickets to Thingvellir and Kerid, and the tomato soup lunch are included. Entrance to the Secret Lagoon is not included.

How many people are in each group?
This private tour is designed for up to four travelers, ensuring a personal, flexible experience.

Can I take my own photos?
Absolutely. Your guide is also a professional photographer and will help you capture great shots, but you’re encouraged to bring your own camera or phone.

What about the timing at each stop?
Stops vary from about 30 minutes at Kerid to 2 hours at Geysir, with flexibility built in. The guide can adjust based on your interests or weather conditions.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a hearty tomato soup buffet at Friðheimar is part of the package.

Are there any additional costs?
The entrance to the Secret Lagoon is not included and costs extra. Budget for this if you wish to soak.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for changing weather and sturdy walking shoes are recommended, especially since some sites involve walking on uneven terrain.

Will the tour run in bad weather?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
While the experience is tailored for small groups and offers flexibility, the itinerary may be more appealing to adults or older children interested in photography and nature.

Final Thoughts

This Golden Circle Private Tour with Luke offers a well-rounded, personalized Icelandic experience that goes beyond the typical bus route. The combination of breathtaking scenery, authentic local food, and expert photography guidance makes it stand out. It’s ideal for travelers who want to capture Iceland’s beauty in photos, learn about its history, and enjoy a more intimate connection with the land.

For those seeking a respectful, relaxed, and richly detailed exploration of Iceland’s most famous sites, this tour provides excellent value. It’s particularly suited for small groups or couples who want to avoid the crowds and enjoy a truly customized adventure.

If you’re willing to invest a bit more for a day that blends sightseeing, cultural flavor, and photo opportunities, this tour is hard to beat. It’s not just a sightseeing trip—it’s a memorable way to experience Iceland through the eyes of a passionate guide and photographer.