Reykjavik: Private Golden Circle with Northern Lights

Reykjavik: Private Golden Circle with Northern Lights offers a seamless way to explore Iceland’s most iconic sights in comfort and style. For $1,475 per group (up to 7 people), you’ll spend about 7 hours with a private driver and guide, visiting famous landmarks like Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall. Then, as evening falls, you’ll head out again for a Northern Lights adventure, making this a full-day, all-in-one Icelandic experience.

What we love most about this tour is the personalized touch it offers — with a private guide, you won’t be stuck in a large bus, and your experience can be tailored a bit depending on weather and your interests. Plus, the inclusion of admission fees, snacks, and WiFi on board means fewer hidden costs and more time enjoying the scenery. The downside? Since the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, their visibility depends on weather conditions, which means some flexibility is a must.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want to maximize a single day in Iceland without sacrificing comfort or authenticity. If you’re eager to tick off the Golden Circle’s must-see sights with a personal touch, and if waiting for nature’s show — the Aurora Borealis — doesn’t bother you, then this adventure offers fantastic value and a smooth experience.

Key Points

• Private Group Experience: Up to 7 travelers enjoy a personalized, comfortable journey.
• All-Inclusive Pricing: Admission fees, snacks, hot tea, WiFi, and a tomato soup stop are covered.
• Flexibility: Pickup from your hotel and a flexible schedule help make this a stress-free day.
• Iconic Stops: Includes Thingvellir, Geysir, Gullfoss, Kerid Crater, and Fridheimar Tomato Farm.
• Evening Northern Lights: A separate, optional tour to witness the Aurora Borealis, weather permitting.
• Value for Money: Combining multiple attractions and added amenities in one package.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Golden Circle and Beyond: A Deep Dive

A Relaxed Start with Hotel Pickup

The tour kicks off with a convenient pickup from your Reykjavík accommodation, making it easy to start your day without pre-dawn stress. The private van, with WiFi and bottled water, is comfortable for up to 7 people — a group size that balances intimacy with enough camaraderie to share the experience. We appreciated the onboard snacks and hot tea, which keep you cozy in Iceland’s ever-changing weather.

First Stop: Thingvellir National Park

Your first destination is Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you stand on the rift valley where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are pulling apart. The landscape is dramatic, with fissures and volcanic scenery. Our guide, Emma, pointed out that the site is also historically significant as the site of Iceland’s first parliament, established around 930 AD.

Expect about 45 minutes here, enough to stroll around, take photos, and appreciate the geological marvels. One traveler remarked, “We loved the way Emma explained the geological activity — it made the landscape come alive.” It’s a place that combines natural beauty with a sense of standing in the middle of Earth’s history.

Geysir Geothermal Area

Next, you’ll visit the Geysir geothermal area, home to the famous Strokkur geyser, which erupts roughly every 8-10 minutes, shooting boiling water up to 20 meters in the air. It’s an active display of Iceland’s volcanic activity, and your guide will share insights into the geothermal forces shaping the island.

You’ll spend about 30-40 minutes here, plenty of time to witness multiple eruptions and explore the bubbling mud pots and steaming vents. Many visitors find this one of the most exciting stops, with a chance for great photos and a real sense of Iceland’s volcanic power.

More Great Tours Nearby

Gullfoss Waterfall: Nature’s Power

The Gullfoss waterfall is often called the “Golden Falls,” and it’s easy to see why. The mighty Hvítá River plunges in two tiers into a rugged canyon, creating a roaring spectacle. We loved the way the viewpoint offers a panoramic shot of the falls — even in winter, the spray and roar are awe-inspiring.

Spending about 30 minutes here, you can get close to the waterfall’s edge or enjoy the view from above. The site can be busy in peak season, but with a private tour, you can take your time to soak in the natural grandeur.

Kerid Crater and Fridheimar Tomato Farm

The tour then continues with a visit to Kerid, a volcanic crater lake famous for its vivid red slopes and turquoise water. It’s a dramatic setting — a perfect photo stop, and about 40 minutes give you enough time to walk around and take in the contrast of colors.

Later, you’ll stop at Fridheimar Tomato Farm, where the highlight is the delicious tomato soup served in a unique setting — a greenhouse where tomatoes are grown year-round. Many travelers appreciated the chance to enjoy a warm, hearty meal and see Iceland’s innovative agricultural methods. The farm also offers a glimpse into sustainable farming practices in a cold climate.

Hassle-Free Return and Optional Northern Lights Tour

Returning to Reykjavík after the daytime visits, you’ll have the afternoon free or relax until your evening Northern Lights tour. The night tour is optional but highly recommended if conditions are favorable. The guide, David, will drive to the best spots based on weather forecasts, but keep in mind that aurora visibility depends on weather and solar activity. Some travelers mention that they saw the lights, while others only captured them on camera — patience and a bit of luck are part of the game.

Why This Tour Works

This tour packs a lot into one day but does so thoughtfully. The private guide ensures a more personalized experience; you can ask questions and move at your own pace. The admission fees are included, so no surprises there, and the stops at top sights like Thingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss are all must-sees for first-time visitors.

The inclusion of WiFi and snacks makes the day more comfortable, especially if you’re eager to share photos or check in with loved ones. Plus, the Tomato Farm stop adds a charming local flavor — literally. The evening northern lights excursion, although weather-dependent, offers a magical way to end your Iceland adventure.

Considering the Price

While $1,475 for a private tour might seem steep, it’s important to factor in the value of comfort, flexibility, and inclusivity. Private tours tend to cost more than group excursions, but they offer a more relaxed pace and tailored experience. The all-inclusive nature minimizes extra costs and stress, especially important when traveling in a foreign country.

Who This Tour Is Best For

If you’re someone who appreciates comfort, personalized service, and a well-rounded itinerary, this tour is a strong choice. It’s particularly suitable for families, couples, or small groups who want to cover the highlights without the hassle of large tour buses or multiple bookings. Also, if seeing the Northern Lights is on your bucket list, this tour offers a good chance, provided the weather cooperates.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the private nature and comfortable van make it accessible for most ages, but always consider the physical activity involved at stops like Kerid Crater.

Do I need to pay extra for the Northern Lights tour?
No, the Northern Lights tour is included if you choose to go in the evening — it’s part of the package.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and a hat are recommended, especially since Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable.

Can I join the Northern Lights tour without the daytime Golden Circle?
This package combines both, but if you only want the Northern Lights experience, you might find dedicated tours for that.

How flexible is the schedule?
Pickup and departure times are available depending on your booking, and the guide can adjust the itinerary based on conditions.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, but the Tomato Farm stop provides a hearty meal option, and snacks are available onboard.

Is WiFi available during the tour?
Yes, WiFi is provided on board the vehicle, helping you stay connected or share your experience instantly.

What happens if weather prevents the Northern Lights tour?
The Aurora visibility depends on weather and solar activity. If conditions aren’t favorable, the guide may suggest alternative activities or reschedule if possible.

Final Thoughts

This private Golden Circle tour combined with a Northern Lights excursion offers an excellent way to see Iceland’s top sights comfortably and efficiently. Its focus on personalized service, all-inclusive pricing, and a mix of natural wonders and local flavor makes it suitable for travelers who value quality and ease.

If you’re after a detailed, flexible day exploring iconic landscapes, and if witnessing the Aurora Borealis is important to you, this tour balances those interests beautifully. It’s especially good for small groups who prefer a more intimate experience that allows for questions, relaxed sightseeing, and a chance to connect with Iceland’s landscape on a deeper level.

While it requires some patience and a bit of luck for the Northern Lights, the convenience and coverage of this tour make it a compelling choice for your Iceland adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: