Golden Circle with Kerid Volcanic Crater Day Trip from Reykjavik

The Golden Circle with Kerid Volcanic Crater Day Trip from Reykjavik is a popular way to see some of Iceland’s most iconic natural wonders in a single day. For $77 per person, you’ll get around 8.5 hours of sightseeing, with stops at Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss Waterfall, Strokkur Geyser, Kerid Crater, and an included lunch break. Guided by knowledgeable guides (like Ana or Jessica, based on reviews), this tour offers an easy, well-organized way to tick off the country’s highlights, especially suitable for first-timers or those short on time.

What we really love about this experience is how it combines stunning scenery with educational commentary—your guide will walk you through Iceland’s volcanic origins and tectonic movements, making each stop more meaningful. Plus, the all-inclusive fee covers entrance to all stops, so no hidden costs, which adds peace of mind.

One potential consideration is that the tour covers a lot of ground in a single day, which means busy schedules and some long hours on the bus—so it’s best suited for travelers eager to see Iceland’s essentials without worrying about planning. If you’re after a smooth, informative overview of Iceland’s natural beauty, this tour delivers excellent value, especially with the positive reviews praising guides and scenery.

This trip is ideal for anyone looking for a comprehensive introduction to Iceland’s volcanic landscape, whether it’s your first visit or you want a reliable snapshot of the country’s most famous sights. It’s also a good choice if you prefer guided tours with all logistics handled, so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.

Key Points

• All-inclusive price covers entrance fees and a guided experience.
• Stops at iconic sites like Thingvellir, Gullfoss, Geysir, and Kerid crater.
• Experienced guides enhance the trip with lively commentary and local insights.
• Comfortable transportation in a bus suitable for groups up to 65 travelers.
• Timing at each stop is generally well-balanced, with some reviews highlighting extra time for photos or exploration.
• Suitable for first-time visitors seeking a broad overview of Iceland’s natural wonders.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transport

You’ll meet in Reykjavik at Þórunnartún 1, and from there, the bus takes you on what is arguably Iceland’s most famous sightseeing route—the Golden Circle. The transportation is comfortable, and with a maximum group size of 65 travelers, you get a good balance of social atmosphere without feeling overcrowded.

The pickup service is a big plus, especially if you’re staying centrally. Reviews mention that the pickup process can be a bit time-consuming, with some guests noting it takes about an hour to get everyone on board, but once underway, the journey is smooth. A clean, modern bus with helpful guides ensures a relaxed vibe for the long day ahead.

Kerid Crater: A Volcanic Gem

Your first stop is the Kerid Crater, a striking volcanic crater lake famous for its vivid hues and volcanic history. At 55 meters deep, it’s a picture-perfect spot where the colors of the mineral-rich water contrast beautifully with the surrounding volcanic rock.

While Kerid isn’t included in tours departing after 12:00 (due to time constraints), those departing earlier have the chance to explore this natural marvel. Visitors love the photo opportunities here, with some commentating on how the vivid reds and greens make for stunning images. It’s a brief stop—about 20 minutes—but enough to walk around and soak in the scenery.

Strokkur Geyser: The Active Eruption

Next, you’ll visit Strokkur Geyser, an active hot spring that erupts roughly every 7 to 10 minutes, shooting water up to 20 meters in the air. It’s a highlight for many, with the ever-changing display providing ample photo opportunities.

Guests tend to find Strokkur captivating, and the stop typically lasts about 1.5 hours, giving you time to watch the geyser erupt, walk around the geothermal area, and perhaps grab a snack or purchase souvenirs. The tour includes lunch here, which is a convenient way to recharge before the next stops.

Gullfoss Waterfall: Iceland’s Powerhouse

After lunch, the tour proceeds to the Gullfoss, a mighty two-tiered waterfall plunging into a deep canyon. With over 100 cubic meters of water flowing each second, it’s a spectacle of raw power. The viewing platforms offer spectacular vantage points, and some reviews mention how close you can get for those dramatic photos.

Guests often remark on how impressive it is to witness the force of nature in such a setting, and the accessible paths make it a leisurely experience. The timing here is about 40 minutes, which many find sufficient to appreciate the grandeur of the falls.

Þingvellir National Park: A Tectonic Marvel

The last major stop is Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is where Iceland’s first parliament was founded in the late 900s, and it’s also the visible boundary between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates.

Walking through Almannagjá Gorge, you’ll see the cracks and fissures that tell the story of shifting plates, a fascinating geological feature that’s best appreciated with guides explaining the movements. Visitors love the balance of history and geology here, with about 40 minutes to explore and take photos.

Final Stop: The Unique Kerid Crater

For early departures, the tour includes a second visit to Kerid Crater, where the vivid colors and volcanic landscape provide a fitting finale. Guests frequently comment on how this stop offers a chance for some of the best photos of the day.

Returning to Reykjavik

After the last stop, the bus heads back to Reykjavik for drop-off, typically taking about 1 hour and 10 minutes. It’s a full, satisfying day, with plenty of scenic views along the way.

What Real Travelers Say

Guests consistently praise the guides for their knowledge and friendliness. One reviewer from Libya called their guide “fantastic and rich with information,” while others highlight how guides like Sunny or Bryndsi keep the tour engaging and fun. Many mention that the timing at each site feels just right, giving enough time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

The scenery itself receives high praise—“spectacular,” “breathtaking,” and “stunning” are common words. Gullfoss and Strokkur are the standout favorites for their impressive displays of nature’s raw power.

A few guests note that long bus rides and a busy schedule can make the day tiring, but most agree that the value for money and the opportunity to see so much in one day outweigh the inconveniences. Several reviewers also highlight the well-organized logistics and clean buses as major pluses.

Food and Comfort

Lunch is usually a quick 40-minute stop at Geysir, where you can buy food, making it convenient for those who prefer not to bring snacks. Some guests wish for more options or longer meal breaks, but overall, the included lunch is viewed as a big convenience.

Price and Value

At $77, this tour is considered very good value, especially with all admission fees included. Guests appreciate the comprehensive itinerary packed with Iceland’s most famous sites, guided commentary, and the comfort of organized transportation.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This tour suits travelers who want a full overview of Iceland’s most famous sights without the hassle of planning individual excursions. It’s perfect for first-timers and those with limited time who want a guided, hassle-free experience. If you’re comfortable with a full day on a bus and eager to see waterfalls, geysers, tectonic plates, and volcanic craters, this trip is a solid choice.

It also appeals to those who value local guides’ insights and want all entrance fees included, making budgeting easier. Keep in mind, if you prefer more flexibility or a less structured day, you might find this tour a bit packed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from Reykjavik, making it convenient to start your day without extra planning.

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts about 8.5 hours, including travel, stops, and lunch.

Are all entrance fees included?
Yes, all admission fees for Kerid Crater, Geysir, Gullfoss, and Þingvellir are included in the price.

Can I visit Kerid Crater if it’s after 12:00?
No, tours departing at 12:00 or later do not include Kerid due to time constraints.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but children must be accompanied by an adult.

What is the group size?
The tour can have up to 65 travelers, but reviews suggest it never feels too crowded, especially with smaller groups.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour relies on good weather; if canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

To sum it up, this Golden Circle tour from Reykjavik offers an excellent balance of value, scenery, and education. It’s perfect for travelers wanting to see Iceland’s highlights with expert guides, all without the stress of organizing individual tickets or transportation. If you enjoy learning about geology and history while taking in breathtaking views, this trip will likely be a highlight of your Iceland adventure.

For those who enjoy guided tours, want all-inclusive convenience, and are eager to experience Iceland’s natural wonders in a single day, this trip is hard to beat. It’s especially well-suited for first-time visitors, families, or anyone looking for a reliable, well-reviewed way to explore the Golden Circle with minimal fuss.