Golden Circle and Kerið Crater Small Group Tour

Exploring Iceland’s Golden Highlights: A Deep Dive into the Small Group Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Iceland and want to see some of the country’s most iconic sights, a Golden Circle and Kerið Crater small group tour might be just what you need. Based on countless positive reviews and a solid reputation, this tour promises a blend of natural wonders, interesting history, and manageable group sizes that make for a more personal experience.

What we really love about this trip is how it balances beautiful scenery with informative guidance. The tour takes you to Gullfoss Waterfall, the Þingvellir National Park, and the geyser area with Strokkur erupting in its full glory. Plus, the visit to Kerið Crater offers a colorful, volcanic spectacle that’s quite unlike anything else on the island. And because it’s a small group tour with no more than 19 people, you get a more relaxed, less rushed experience—ideal for those who want to enjoy each stop without feeling like they’re just part of a herd.

One thing to keep in mind is that, as with any outdoor adventure in Iceland, warm clothing and sturdy shoes are essential. The weather can be unpredictable, and you’ll want to be prepared for rain or cold, especially if you’re visiting in the shoulder seasons. Also, the price of $112 per person is quite reasonable considering the transportation, guided expertise, and access to these top sights, but food and drinks aren’t included—so plan for some snacks or meals on your own.

This tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate natural beauty, engaging guides, and a comfortably paced experience. Whether you’re solo, a couple, or part of a small group, you’ll find this trip offers value, memorable sights, and plenty of photo opportunities. It’s especially appealing if you’re looking to pack a lot into one day without the crowds that larger tours often attract.

Key Points

• Intimate group experience with no more than 19 participants.
• Comprehensive itinerary covering Gullfoss, Geysir, Þingvellir, and Kerið.
• Expert guides who add personal touches, making each stop more meaningful.
• Good value at $112, with all transportation and guide services included.
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
• Weather preparedness is important with warm clothing and hiking shoes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Pickup and Transport

The tour kicks off with hotel pickup in Reykjavik, which is a nice touch that saves you from figuring out how to get to the meeting point. Once on the bus, you’ll be traveling in a clean, modern vehicle equipped with free WiFi and USB chargers, so you can stay connected or keep your camera charged for all the stunning sights. The group size helps keep the trip relaxed, and guides often take the time to answer questions or point out interesting details along the way.

Þingvellir National Park

Your first major stop is the Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site that’s steeped in history and geological wonder. It’s here that the old Icelandic parliament was historically held, and you’ll get to walk through a landscape that literally marks the boundary between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. The rift valley offers dramatic scenery, and many visitors find themselves marveling at standing in a place that’s both culturally and physically significant.

Reviews highlight how guides make this stop engaging. One reviewer noted, “Siddi, our guide, was polite, professional and very informational,” which makes a difference when you’re trying to absorb a lot of info in a short time. The terrain can be uneven, so sturdy shoes are recommended, especially if you want to explore the fissures or walk along the trails.

Geysir and Strokkur

Next, the bubbling landscape of Geysir and the eruption of Strokkur are often the highlight for many travelers. Strokkur erupts every 5-10 minutes, shooting water up to 20-30 meters into the air—an impressive display of geothermal power. Guides usually give explanations about how these geysers work, but the real magic is witnessing their eruptions firsthand.

Reviews repeatedly mention how guides like Rahim or Elias add value by sharing stories and teaching about Iceland’s geothermal activity. One traveler said, “Every destination we stopped at was unbelievable, we were in awe,” capturing how memorable this stop can be, even if it’s crowded at times.

More Great Tours Nearby

Gullfoss Waterfall

A visit to Gullfoss is almost mandatory in Iceland’s Golden Circle. The powerful, multi-tiered waterfall plunges into a deep canyon, and on a clear day, you might get a rainbow arching over the mist—though weather can sometimes affect the visibility, as one review noted. The walk along the viewing platforms offers spectacular photo ops, and guides often find less crowded spots to enjoy the view.

Kerið Volcanic Crater

The Kerið Crater is a highlight for many. Its vivid aqua water contrasts sharply with the red volcanic rock, creating a scene that looks almost surreal. The stop at Kerið allows you to look into the caldera and take in the colorful landscape. It’s a shorter walk but highly photogenic.

Additional Surprises and Personal Touches

Several reviews mention guides who go above and beyond, adding stops not on the standard itinerary or sharing personal stories. For example, some guides played guitar during pauses, or took groups to local farms for ice cream or livestock interactions—a great way to customize the experience. One reviewer noted, “Nikola, our guide, played guitar during one of the stops, creating a magical atmosphere,” illustrating how guides can make the day special.

The Value of the Tour

At $112 per person, this tour offers a lot. It covers transportation, guiding, and access to all the major Golden Circle sights. Since food isn’t included, you’ll want to bring snacks or plan to eat after the tour, but that’s typical for most day trips. Considering the convenience of hotel pickup, a dedicated guide, and the ability to avoid the crowds at popular sites, many travelers find this to be a good deal.

The reviews speak volumes about the quality—“We loved the way guides found quieter spots and made the trip memorable,” or “The scenery was breathtaking, and the guide made sure we saw everything without feeling rushed.” Guides like Walter, Filip, and Kiki receive praise for their friendliness, humor, and knowledge, making the experience not just informative but genuinely enjoyable.

Travel with Confidence

If weather or cancellations are a concern, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, which adds peace of mind. The flexible booking options allow you to reserve your spot without immediate payment, perfect if your plans are still flexible.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This small group Golden Circle tour is ideal for travelers who want a personalized, engaging experience without the chaos of large coach tours. It suits those who appreciate natural beauty, informative guides, and comfortable transportation. If you’re traveling with family over 5 years old, you’ll find plenty of space and interesting stops, but always check for specific age restrictions or needs.

For adventure lovers, packing warm clothing and hiking shoes is a must, as you’ll be exploring varied terrains. The tour’s pace and structure make it suitable for first-time visitors and seasoned travelers alike, especially those who want to see Iceland’s highlights in a single day without the hassle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Reykjavik, making it convenient and saving you extra travel planning.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring warm clothing and hiking shoes. Iceland’s weather can change quickly, and comfortable footwear is essential for walking around sites like Þingvellir and Kerið.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 8 hours, with starting times available depending on your schedule. Check availability for exact timings.

Is food included?
No, food and drinks are not included. It’s recommended to bring snacks or plan for meals after the tour.

Can children participate?
The tour isn’t suitable for children under 5, so double-check the age restrictions if you’re traveling with little ones.

What makes this tour different from larger coach trips?
The small group size means less rushing, more personal attention, and the ability to find quieter spots at popular sites. Many reviews note guides’ extra stops and personal touches.

What if the weather is bad?
While Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable, the tour offers flexible cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Guides will do their best to adapt or reschedule if needed.

Is this tour suitable for photography?
Absolutely. The stops are photogenic, and guides often help find the best angles and less crowded viewpoints. Be sure to have your camera ready.

To sum it up, this Golden Circle and Kerið Crater small group tour offers a balanced, well-reviewed way to experience Iceland’s iconic natural sites. It’s perfect for travelers who want personal attention, expert guides, and a flexible pace. While you’ll need to bring your own snacks and be prepared for variable weather, the overall value, scenery, and guide quality make it a solid choice for your Icelandic adventures.

Whether it’s your first trip or your tenth, this tour allows you to tick off key sights with the comfort of a small group and the knowledge of local experts. If you’re seeking an authentic, memorable day exploring Iceland’s wonders, this might just be your best option.

You can check availability for your dates here: