Golden Circle Tales, Tomato Farm & Kerid! Small Group Adventure

Experience the Icelandic Golden Circle with a Twist – Small Group, Stories, and Surprises

If you’re looking to see Iceland’s most iconic sights without the hassle of planning or navigating yourself, the Golden Circle Tales, Tomato Farm & Kerid tour from Reykjavik is a fantastic option. For around $137, you get a roughly nine-hour adventure packed with stunning waterfalls, geothermal activity, and volcanic landscapes, plus some lesser-known surprises like a tomato farm and Icelandic horses. Led by personable guides like Einar and Leroy, this tour promises a deeper, more local encounter with Iceland’s natural beauty.

What we love most about this tour are two things: First, the small group setting—with a maximum of 19 travelers—you get more personal attention and richer conversations. Second, the unique stops that go beyond the typical Golden Circle itinerary, especially the tomato farm and Kerid volcanic crater. These add a layer of authenticity and fun that larger tours often miss.

A potential consideration is the full day commitment and weather dependence—it’s an outdoor adventure in a place where the weather can change quickly. Pack your layers! This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of natural wonders and local flavor, craving not just the highlights but some behind-the-scenes stories and tastings.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience covering the main Golden Circle sights plus special stops like a tomato farm and Kerid crater
• Expert guides like Einar and Leroy bring Iceland’s stories to life with enthusiasm and knowledge
• Hassle-free logistics with hotel pickup, drop-off, WiFi on board, and all fees included
• Authentic experiences such as petting Icelandic horses and sampling homemade ice cream and tomato soup
• Balanced pace with enough time at each site to enjoy without feeling rushed
• Great value for the price, especially considering the diverse stops and small group setting

A Deep Dive into the Golden Circle Tales, Tomato Farm & Kerid Tour

What’s the core appeal of this tour?

This isn’t just a checklist of Iceland’s biggest sights—it’s a thoughtfully curated experience that balances iconic landmarks with local flavor. At $136.71 per person, the value lies in the small group size, expert guiding, and the inclusion of stops most tours overlook. The reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and authentic, engaging stories that turn a sightseeing day into a memorable journey.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Thingvellir National Park – The Geological and Historical Heart

We start at Thingvellir, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its tectonic rift where the North American and Eurasian plates meet. It’s also where Iceland’s parliament was founded in 930 AD, making it a place of both natural wonder and deep history. We loved the slow pace and the chance to explore the rugged landscape, with 35 minutes being enough to soak in the significance and snap some photos.
One reviewer, Stephanie_P, called it “an interesting location… where Iceland’s parliament was founded in 930 A.D.”

Oxararfoss Waterfall – A Beloved Icelandic Landmark

A short walk from the main park, this smaller waterfall charms visitors with its picturesque setting and historical significance. While not the biggest waterfall in Iceland, it’s a favorite among locals and travelers alike, thanks to its convenient location and scenic beauty. You’ll spend about 15 minutes here, enough to appreciate the roar and take some photos.

Efstidalur Dairy Farm – A Taste of Rural Iceland

Next, we visit the Efstidalur dairy farm—a delightful stop for ice cream and farm visits. Guests often praise the friendly Icelandic cows and the homemade ice cream, which many say is a perfect refreshment after a morning of sightseeing.
Wendy_F mentioned, “The bread at the tomato stop was amazing,” highlighting how food features prominently in this experience.

Geysir Geothermal Area – Witnessing Geysers in Action

No Iceland tour is complete without Geysir, where Strokkur erupts every five minutes. Standing close as the geyser shoots boiling water skyward makes for an unforgettable moment. With about 45 minutes allotted, we loved the interactive nature of this site—you can see, hear, and feel the geothermal power firsthand.

Gullfoss Waterfall – The Power of Nature

A highlight for many: Gullfoss, the “Golden Falls,” is a double-tiered waterfall that thunders and sparkles in the sunlight. The 40-minute stop allows plenty of time to take in the raw power and beauty of this natural wonder, perfect for photos and quiet moments of awe.
Most reviews, including Stephen_o’s, called Gullfoss “powerful” and “hypnotizing,” emphasizing its status as a must-see.

Fridheimar Tomato Farm & Icelandic Horses – A Unique Blend of Agriculture and Culture

This stop is what we love about this tour. At Fridheimar, you'll see how greenhouses grow tomatoes in Iceland’s challenging climate. It’s a fascinating glimpse into local innovation. The short talk on greenhouse horticulture is informative, and many guests enjoy petting the Icelandic horses—a special, hands-on experience.
Guests often praise the lunch (not included), especially the fresh tomato soup—a favorite among reviewers like Amit_K, who said it was “some of the best I’ve had.” The opportunity to see and pet horses adds a memorable, personal touch.

Kerid Crater – The Visual Grand Finale

Ending at Kerid, a volcanic crater lake with a striking caldera, offers a visual feast. The 30-minute stop allows for a walk around the rim and some breathtaking views.
Reviewers appreciated this less-frequented site: “it has the most visually recognizable caldera still intact,” noted one guest, appreciating the geological significance and colors of the crater.

What the Tours Mean for You

The small group size (max 19 travelers) truly enhances the experience. As multiple reviews attest, guides like Leroy, Gonalou, and Einar are praised for their enthusiasm, knowledge, and genuine care. That personal touch makes the day feel less like a checklist and more like a shared adventure.

The logistics are thoughtfully handled: hotel pickup and drop-off, WiFi on the bus, all taxes included, and a set start time of 9:00 am ensure you can relax and focus on enjoying each stop. The duration of 9 hours** might seem long but is well balanced with enough time to experience each site without feeling rushed.

The Food and Drink Factor

While lunch is not included, the stops for ice cream at Efstidalur and tomato soup at Fridheimar are frequently praised. The bread at the tomato farm is another highlight, with guests raving about how it complements the fresh produce. These stops provide a tasty, authentic taste of Iceland that many tours overlook.

The Review Highlights

Guests often mention the knowledgeable guides—with Leroy, Einar, and Goncalo receiving special shout-outs—and how their enthusiasm enhances the sightseeing. The diverse stops create a more complete picture of Iceland’s natural and cultural landscape. Many appreciate the balance of major sights and hidden gems, making this tour feel like a well-rounded introduction.

Final Thoughts

Who is this tour best suited for?
If you’re after a comprehensive, value-packed day that combines classic Icelandic sights with unexpected stops and local stories, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for small groups who enjoy personal attention and want a more authentic experience. Those who appreciate good food, engaging guides, and nature’s drama will find it especially rewarding.

The main benefits are the expert guides’ storytelling, the diversity of stops, and the small group intimacy. The price reflects this quality — providing much more than just transportation and sightseeing. It’s a great way to make the most of your day in Iceland without the stress of planning each step yourself.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s included in the tour price?
The price includes driver/guide, local guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, all taxes and fees, and WiFi on board.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but there are excellent stops for ice cream at Efstidalur and tomato soup at Fridheimar.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, starting around 9:00 am and returning in the evening.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but children must be accompanied by an adult.

Does the tour operate in bad weather?
Yes, it does. If weather conditions cause cancellations, you're offered an alternative date or a full refund.

What should I wear?
Dress in layers—the Icelandic weather can change quickly. Bring waterproof gear if rain is forecasted.

In summary, this tour offers a well-rounded, authentic look at the Golden Circle with extra touches that make your experience more memorable. With knowledgeable guides, a small-group setting, and stops that showcase both natural marvels and local ingenuity, it’s an excellent choice for those who want a deeper connection with Iceland’s landscape and culture. Whether you’re a first-timer or returning for more, it’s a day well spent exploring Iceland’s highlights—and some surprises along the way.