Reykjavík: Golden Circle, Bruarfoss, and Kerid Crater Tour

Reykjavík: Golden Circle, Bruarfoss, and Kerid Crater Tour — A Complete Review

If you’re after a taste of Iceland’s iconic landscapes without spending days on the road, this full-day tour from Reykjavík hits all the highlights — and then some. For just $108 per person, you’ll visit age-old sites like Gullfoss Waterfall and the Geysir geothermal area, along with lesser-known gems like Bruarfoss Waterfall and the Kerid volcanic crater. Led by knowledgeable guides, this trip offers a solid mix of natural beauty, fascinating geology, and Icelandic stories that stick with you long after the day ends.

What really makes this tour stand out are two features: First, the expert guides who bring Iceland’s landscapes to life with stories, facts, and humor — many reviews praise guides like Svenson, Heidi, and Elias for their knowledge and friendliness. Second, the stunning stops like Bruarfoss, with its sapphire-blue waters, and the vibrant colors of Kerid Crater, which provide perfect photo opportunities and unforgettable moments.

A possible consideration is the timing at each stop. Some travelers mention feeling a bit rushed, especially if you love to take your time snapping photos or soaking in the scenery. Also, food isn’t included, so packing snacks or planning for stops could enhance your experience.

This tour suits travelers who love a well-organized day with plenty of scenic variety. If you’re keen on learning about Icelandic culture and geology while enjoying comfortable transport, this could be a perfect fit. It’s especially ideal for those who appreciate compact tours that pack a punch in a single day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering major Golden Circle sights plus Bruarfoss and Kerid.
• Expert guides noted for their knowledge, humor, and friendliness.
• Stunning stops offering excellent photo opportunities, especially Bruarfoss and Kerid.
• Good value considering the price includes entrance fees for Kerid and Bruarfoss, WiFi, and Icelandic music.
• Flexible cancellation policy allows full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance.
• Size of group is not specified, but reviews suggest a comfortable experience with ample time at each site.

The Essentials of the Tour

We start bright and early with pickup from central Reykjavík, which makes this a super convenient way to see Iceland’s famous sights without the hassle of driving yourself. A comfortable bus whisks us off on a 1-hour journey to the Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO site and a place of great geological and historical importance. Here, we get about 45 minutes to walk around, take photos, and soak in the landscape that’s shaped by tectonic plates drifting apart.

Next, we head to Brúarfoss Waterfall, often called the sapphire jewel of Iceland. With just 20 minutes on site, it’s a quick but memorable stop to admire the silky waters and vibrant blue hues. Several reviews highlight how unique Bruarfoss is — “The waters are so blue it looks almost unreal,” wrote one traveler, and many agree that it’s a hidden paradise worth the detour.

Then onto Geysir, the geothermal area famous for Strokkur, which erupts hot water roughly every 8-10 minutes. This 75-minute stop offers plenty of time to watch the geyser in action, explore the surrounding bubbling mud pots, and browse local shops. Guides often share interesting facts about geothermal activity, making it more than just a photo op.

The Gullfoss Waterfall is next, a powerhouse of glacial water that plunges into a deep canyon. With about 40 minutes allotted, you can stand close enough to feel the spray and appreciate its raw power. Several reviews mention that this spot, with its dramatic vistas, is a highlight that justifies the trip.

After lunch or a quick snack (not included in the tour), we visit Kerid Crater, a volcanic caldera with a vivid red and green landscape, and often described as “the most vibrant” stop. Expect about 30 minutes here — enough time to walk around, take photos, and appreciate the contrast of colors.

Finally, the tour concludes with a visit to Bruarfoss, a breathtaking waterfall with striking blue waters. Many reviewers praise its beauty and serenity, calling it a “fabulous hidden paradise.” The 20-minute stop allows plenty of time for photos and just soaking in the peaceful surroundings.

The return trip takes about 50 minutes, and most travelers arrive back in Reykjavík around 6 PM — a full but rewarding day.

What We Love About This Tour

First, the guides. Review after review raves about the guides’ knowledge and friendliness. From Elias’s detailed explanations of Icelandic geological features to Heidi’s engaging storytelling, these guides turn a sightseeing trip into a learning experience. Their ability to answer questions and share amusing anecdotes adds depth that makes the stops memorable.

Second, the variety of stops. You get a nice balance of popular sights like Gullfoss and Geysir, paired with lesser-known treasures like Bruarfoss and Kerid. This mix offers a richer experience, letting you see the classic Icelandic sights while discovering some hidden gems that aren’t as crowded.

Other positives include the WiFi onboard, which makes sharing photos easy, and the scenic drive through the Icelandic countryside. The pace feels well-managed, so you’re not rushing from spot to spot, yet reviews mention some feeling a little hurried, especially if photography or exploring is your passion.

A few potential drawbacks? The limited time at each stop might leave some wishing for longer, especially at places like Gullfoss and Kerid. Also, meals aren’t included, so bringing snacks is wise, particularly if you want to make the most of your time.

In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

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Pickup and Early Morning Start

The tour begins with a pickup in central Reykjavík around 9:00 AM, with a process that usually takes about 30 minutes. This means you’ll want to be ready and waiting at your designated pickup point, which adds a little anticipation to the day’s adventure. The bus is described as comfortable, often a minivan, providing a cozy environment for the approximately 9-hour journey.

Þingvellir National Park

This site is a must-see, both for its geological significance — where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet — and its historical role as the site of Iceland’s ancient parliament. We appreciated the 45-minute window for walking, taking photos, and absorbing the sense of place. The reviews mention “walking around the area and soaking in the landscape,” which is exactly what you want here.

Bruarfoss Waterfall

A true highlight for many, Bruarfoss’s sapphire waters create a mesmerizing scene. The short 20-minute walk allows us to enjoy the view without feeling rushed. Reviewers highlight its ‘unreal’ beauty and tranquility, making it a favorite “hidden paradise” in Iceland’s landscape.

Geysir Geothermal Area

Here, the eruption of Strokkur every 8-10 minutes is a crowd-pleaser, and you’ll have plenty of time to catch the action. The area’s bubbling mud pots, steaming vents, and geothermal activity are fascinating and educational. Guides often share insights about how geothermal energy powers Iceland, adding extra value.

Gullfoss Waterfall

The “Golden Waterfalls” are awe-inspiring — a mighty cascade plunging into a deep canyon. The 40-minute stop is enough for close-up views and photos. Many reviewers mention that Gullfoss “justifies the entire trip” and is one of Iceland’s most potent waterfalls.

Kerid Crater

Brightly colored and visually striking, Kerid’s vivid red volcanic rocks contrast sharply with the blue sky. The 30-minute visit includes walking around the rim and down into the crater, offering an excellent photo opportunity and a sense of Iceland’s volcanic activity.

Bruarfoss Waterfall — The Hidden Gem

The tour’s last major stop, Bruarfoss, leaves a lasting impression. Reviewers consistently mention its beauty and serenity, and many call it a “fabulous hidden paradise.” It’s a peaceful spot, perfect for reflection after a day of sightseeing.

Overall Value and Experience

At $108, this tour offers a lot. Entrance fees for Kerid and Bruarfoss are included, and the comfort of transportation, along with WiFi and Icelandic music, adds to the overall experience. The guide’s expertise and storytelling turn just a series of stops into a coherent, engaging story of Iceland’s landscapes and geology.

While not the cheapest option available, the tour’s convenience, expert guiding, and inclusion of key sights make it a good investment for travelers who want to make the most of a single day. The feedback about guides being both knowledgeable and personable indicates you’re in good hands, making the experience more enriching.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a rundown of Iceland’s classic sights in a manageable day. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but still want authentic, scenic, and educational experiences. It also suits those who appreciate good storytelling and local insights, as many guides share fascinating facts and Icelandic stories throughout the day.

If you love stunning scenery, photo opportunities, and learning about geology and culture, you’ll find this tour rewarding. It’s especially good for travelers who enjoy small group experiences and want a balance of comfort and adventure.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included at selected locations in central Reykjavík, with the driver informing you of your closest pickup point.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 9 hours, starting around 9:00 AM and returning in the early evening. Exact times depend on the day and group.

What sites will we visit?
You’ll visit Þingvellir National Park, Bruarfoss Waterfall, Geysir geothermal area, Gullfoss Waterfall, Kerid Crater, and enjoy scenic drives between sites.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so bringing snacks or planning for lunch is recommended.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Most stops involve walking, but with limited time at each site, it’s generally suitable for most travelers. If you’re concerned about walking or stairs at Kerid or Bruarfoss, consider your comfort level.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Final Thoughts

For those eager to see Iceland’s most iconic sights on a well-organized, informative, and scenic day, this tour ticks all the boxes. The mix of popular attractions and hidden gems like Bruarfoss and Kerid provides a well-rounded experience that balances grandeur with intimacy. The guides’ ability to blend knowledge with humor and friendliness enhances the journey, turning a simple sightseeing trip into a memorable adventure.

While some may find the pace slightly brisk, especially for photography, the overall value, comfort, and diversity justify the expense. It’s especially fitting for travelers who want a taste of Iceland’s natural wonders without the hassle of planning multiple excursions or renting a vehicle.

If you’re looking for an authentic, engaging, and scenic day tour that delivers the highlights along with some surprises, this Golden Circle adventure from Reykjavík is an excellent choice.

You can check availability for your dates here: