Private Secret Spots of Iceland Full day Tour with Photography by Luke

Exploring Iceland’s Hidden Corners with Luke’s Private Tour

If you’re looking to go beyond the typical tourist trail in Iceland, this Private Secret Spots of Iceland Full Day Tour with Photography by Luke offers an intimate, personalized experience that uncovers some of the country’s best-kept secrets. Priced at $2,300 per group (up to 7 travelers), this 8-hour journey takes you to breathtaking landscapes like the Reykjanes Peninsula, Fagradalsfjall volcano, and lesser-known geothermal sites, all with the benefit of pickup at your hotel or Reykjavik airport.

What really makes this tour stand out is the chance to enjoy small-group intimacy—which means more flexibility and personal attention—and the unique opportunity to have Luke, a skilled photographer, capture your memories in stunning natural settings. We especially love how the guide’s local knowledge makes each stop not just beautiful but also meaningful. Plus, the photo sharing service with professionally retouched images is a thoughtful touch that elevates the experience.

One potential consideration is the price, which might seem steep for some travelers, but when you factor in the all-inclusive transportation, expert guidance, access to secret spots, and professional photos, the value becomes clearer. This tour is ideal for travelers who appreciate personalized experiences, want off-the-beaten-path views, and are keen on capturing their Iceland adventure with top-quality photos. It’s perfect for those who prefer a relaxed, curated day rather than self-driving or joining large groups.

Key Points

• Intimate small-group experience for more personalized attention.
• Access to lesser-known sites like Valahnukamol, Brimketill, and Fagradalsfjall.
• Professional photographer guide to enhance your memories with high-quality photos.
• All-inclusive transport removing the hassle of driving.
• Flexible and tailored to your wishes, with stops and rest breaks as needed.
• Suitable for travelers seeking authentic, off-the-radar Icelandic scenery.

A Deep Dive into the Secrets of Iceland

When you choose a tour like Luke’s private adventure, you’re signing up for more than just sightseeing—you’re stepping into a curated experience centered around hidden gems that most visitors never see. The itinerary is specially designed to showcase diverse landscapes, from rugged coastlines to steaming geothermal fields, but it’s the personal touch and expert guidance that truly make this tour a cut above.

Valahnukamol: A Secluded Cliff with Views to Remember

Your journey begins at Valahnukamol, a striking cliff that’s less crowded than Iceland’s popular spots. The cliff stretches for several dozen meters and rises just over 10 meters above the sea, providing a perfect vantage point for panoramic photos. At its base, a beach filled with smooth, rounded stones and boulders adds a scenic foreground. The crashing waves here create an energetic scene that photographers love.

This stop is about 30 minutes, which is ample time to soak in the views and shoot some memorable pictures. While admission isn’t included—which means you might want to bring your own camera gear and sturdy shoes—many travelers find this quiet spot a rewarding start, especially with Luke’s helpful tips.

Brimketill: Nature’s Own Infinity Pool

Next, you’ll visit Brimketill, a natural lava rock pool shaped by relentless waves pounding against the coast. It’s one of those places where you can feel the force of nature up close. In summer, it’s a peaceful retreat, but winter transforms it into a dramatic tableau of crashing surf and swirling water.

You’ll spend about 30 minutes here, standing at the edge of the cliffs, watching the water swirl into the pool. It’s free to visit, making it a striking yet budget-friendly highlight. Many guests comment on how Luke’s storytelling makes the experience even more vivid—sharing the history of how the pool was formed.

Reykjanes Lighthouse: A Beacon of Iceland’s Coastal History

Your tour includes a stop at Reykjanes Lighthouse, a historic beacon first built in 1878. Although damaged during a major earthquake in 1907, the lighthouse was rebuilt in the early 20th century and has since remained largely unchanged. It stands as a symbol of Iceland’s maritime resilience.

At this 30-minute stop, you can take in panoramic views of the rugged coastline and learn about Iceland’s seafaring past. Free to visit, the lighthouse is a perfect spot for wide-angle shots of the Atlantic and lighthouse architecture—another excellent photo opportunity.

Krýsuvík: A Colorful Geothermal Wonderland

One of the real highlights of the tour is the Krýsuvík geothermal area, where steaming vents and bubbling hot springs create a landscape that feels almost otherworldly. The multi-colored hills and sulfurous fumes make it a photographer’s dream.

Spending about an hour here allows us to wander the boardwalks and really take in the senses of geothermal activity. The free access to this landscape means you can explore at your own pace, and Luke’s insights help make sense of the boiling vents and mineral-rich terrain.

Grænavatn: The Green Lake’s Volcanic Colors

Just a few kilometers south of Seltún, the Grænavatn or Green Lake, is a small volcanic crater lake famous for its bright green hue, created by high sulfur content. It’s a quick 30-minute stop, but the surreal color makes it hard to forget.

Many travelers say the lake’s striking appearance is a highlight, with one reviewer calling it “a volcanic crater that got its name from its unusual green color.” It’s an accessible, easy-to-photograph site that adds a splash of color to the day’s landscape.

Kleifarvatn: Iceland’s Deepest Lake

Driving further south, you arrive at Kleifarvatn, the largest lake on the Reykjanes Peninsula. Covering over 9 square kilometers and plunging to 97 meters deep, it’s a quiet, expansive water body with plenty of photographic potential.

Spending about an hour here, you’ll get a sense of Iceland’s vastness. The lake’s remote nature and the peaceful surroundings make it a perfect place to reflect—and snap some wide, sweeping shots. Since admission isn’t included, you might want to bring your camera gear to capture the serene landscape.

Fagradalsfjall Volcano: A Recent Eruption’s Hike

The highlight for many is the Fagradalsfjall volcano, which erupted in the recent past. The tour includes a 1-hour hike that offers close-up views of the volcanic landscape, with lava fields and craters that tell a story of Iceland’s ongoing geological activity.

This part of the tour lasts around 1.5 hours, providing an active and immersive experience. Many reviews mention how Luke’s knowledge and guiding skills add depth to the hike, making it accessible and engaging. The free access allows for fantastic photos of the volcanic terrain—an experience you won’t forget.

Authentic, Well-Rounded Experience

This tour’s strength is not just in the destinations but in the personalized approach. Having a guide like Luke, who is described as knowledgeable, friendly, and willing to go the extra mile—even helping with proposals—makes the day feel special. The photo service is a bonus, especially if you want high-quality images of your trip.

The small-group setting ensures everyone has room to breathe, ask questions, and get personalized suggestions. The 8-hour duration strikes a balance—long enough to see many sites without feeling rushed, yet flexible enough to include rest stops and spontaneous detours.

While the price may seem high, the value is clear for those craving an intimate, photo-rich adventure that covers secret spots and offers expert guidance. It’s especially appealing for travelers who prefer curated experiences over self-driving, or those who want professional photos as keepsakes.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a photography enthusiast, you’ll appreciate Luke’s skill behind the camera and the chance to capture unique Icelandic landscapes. Couples celebrating a special moment, like a proposal, will find the tour’s flexibility and personal attention particularly meaningful. Adventure-seekers who want to see active volcanoes and geothermal sites will find this tour a perfect fit.

This experience is less suited for travelers on a tight budget, or those who prefer large group tours or self-driven adventures. However, for those who enjoy personalized, off-the-beaten-path explorations, this tour offers a memorable and deeply authentic Iceland experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price?
The tour covers round-trip transportation, the guidance of Luke, and professional photography with images shared afterward. Admission to sites is generally free, except where noted.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 10:00 am from Hallgrimskirkja and returning to the same spot.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
The hike at Fagradalsfjall lasts about an hour and is considered manageable for most, but travelers should be comfortable walking on uneven volcanic terrain.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, layered clothing, and a camera or smartphone for photos. Since some sites are natural, be prepared for weather changes.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

Is this tour good for photography?
Absolutely. Luke specializes in photography, and the landscape offers numerous opportunities for stunning shots—especially with the professional retouched photos provided afterward.

Are meals or snacks included?
The tour does not include meals, but given the duration, you might want to bring water and snacks.

What kind of vehicle is used?
While not specified, the transportation is private and included, ensuring comfort and flexibility.

Final Thoughts

This Private Secret Spots of Iceland Tour offers a rare chance to explore Iceland’s lesser-known landscapes with a knowledgeable guide and a personal touch. It’s perfect for photographers, couples, and curious travelers eager to see raw, untouched Icelandic beauty without the crowds. The added benefit of professional photos makes it especially appealing for memories that last a lifetime.

While the cost may be higher than other tours, the combination of intimate access, expert guidance, and stunning scenery provides a level of value that’s difficult to match. It’s a great choice for those wanting a personalized, authentic slice of Icelandic nature—a day spent not just sightseeing but truly experiencing the land’s wild, beautiful spirit.

If you’re ready to step off the usual path and see Iceland through a lens of discovery and photography, this tour promises a memorable adventure you’ll cherish long after you leave.