From Reykjavik: Golden Circle and Northern Lights Combo

If you’re planning to visit Iceland and want a taste of both its iconic natural sights and the magical Northern Lights, a Golden Circle and Northern Lights combo tour might be just what you’re after. We’ve looked into this experience, offered by ICELANDIA, and gathered plenty of insights from travelers who’ve been there. It’s a popular choice and with good reason—seeing geysers, waterfalls, and tectonic plates during the day, then chasing the auroras at night, makes for a well-rounded Icelandic adventure.

What we really like about this tour is how it balances daytime sightseeing with that unforgettable night-time phenomenon. Plus, the incredible guide expertise shines through in reviews, making sure you get the most out of each visit. The price point, at just $146 per person, feels fair considering the array of sights and the experience of trying to spot the Northern Lights. One thing to keep in mind, though, is that Northern Lights sightings aren’t guaranteed—weather and solar activity play a significant role, so patience is key.

This tour is a solid pick for anyone who wants a comprehensive taste of Iceland’s natural beauty in a single day, especially if you’re pressed for time or prefer to keep your logistics simple. It suits travelers who are comfortable with cold weather, as outdoor stops require warm clothing, and who don’t mind a full day of bus travel. Families or travelers with a keen interest in geology and nature will find it particularly engaging.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary that combines daytime Golden Circle sights with an evening Northern Lights hunt.
• Knowledgeable guides who share detailed information about Iceland’s geology, history, and culture.
• Weather-dependent nature of the Northern Lights means sightings are not guaranteed, but re-joining is often an option.
• Good value for money—a comprehensive experience that covers several major Icelandic attractions.
• Comfortable transportation in spacious buses, with opportunities to get off and explore each site.
• Timing and pacing is well-organized, but be prepared for long hours and outdoor cold.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Golden Circle

The day begins with a proper Icelandic adventure, starting at the Geysir area in Haukadalur Valley, where you’ll see the famous Strokkur geyser erupting every few minutes. It’s a spectacle that’s worth witnessing at least once—boiling water shoots high into the air amidst a landscape of geothermal activity. The guides consistently receive praise for their in-depth commentary about Iceland’s geothermal features and volcanic history, making the experience both fascinating and educational.

Next, your group heads to Gullfoss, one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls. The sheer power of the water plunging into a deep canyon is striking, especially in winter when the surrounding area might be frosted over, adding a magical touch. Multiple reviews mention how the waterfall’s dramatic views and mist create perfect photo opportunities. One reviewer raved, “The cascades of Gullfoss are simply breathtaking, fed by the glacial Hvítá River.”

The third major stop is Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, you’ll see where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are pulling apart—an extraordinary geological setting. It’s an ideal spot for a leisurely walk and to appreciate the raw forces shaping Iceland. Reviewers highlight how the guide’s stories about Iceland’s history and geology make the visit even more engaging, with one saying, “We learned so much about Iceland’s formation and cultural roots in this beautiful park.”

What makes the Golden Circle stops valuable?

They’re easily accessible, packed with natural beauty, and offer diverse scenery—from geothermal geysers to powerful waterfalls and tectonic rifts. These sites are well-loved by travelers for their unique Icelandic character and photogenic qualities, making the Golden Circle a must-see during any trip.

Transitioning to Reykjavík & the Northern Lights Hunt

After the daytime adventures, the group returns to Reykjavík, giving travelers a few hours to relax, grab a bite, or rest before heading out again for the evening Northern Lights experience. The re-grouping process is smooth, with many reviews noting the efficient organization.

The Northern Lights tour departs after nightfall, heading into the dark countryside or near a parking lot close to scenic spots, aiming for the best chances of seeing the auroras. Here’s where patience and luck come into play. Weather and solar activity are key factors, and many reviews mention the unpredictability of sighting the lights. One traveler said, “We learned later that we could have guessed we wouldn’t see them due to low KP, high cloud cover, and a full moon, but they still went ahead with the tour rather than offering a refund.” Still, the option to rejoin for free if the lights don’t appear is reassuring.

Those who are lucky often describe the experience as unforgettable—a silent dance of shimmering green or multicolored lights swirling across the sky. Several reviews express satisfaction, with travelers mentioning that they saw the lights, sometimes right as they left the bus or after waiting patiently in the cold. “The Northern Lights really put on a show and were the highlight of my trip,” one reviewer shared.

Practical tips for the Northern Lights hunt:

• Dress warmly—layers, hats, gloves, and insulated boots are essential.
• Be prepared for long periods outside, often standing or sitting in the cold, waiting for the spectacle.
• Keep expectations realistic—weather can cancel or limit the viewing, but the experience of the chase is still enjoyable.

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The Experience Value

At $146, this combo tour offers a hefty amount of value. You get to visit three of Iceland’s highlights during the day—the geysers, the waterfall, and the national park—without the hassle of organizing multiple separate trips. The guides are praised for their enthusiasm and depth of knowledge, making the journey informative and lively. Several reviews celebrated the guides’ storytelling skills: “He did not stop offering information throughout the whole day and was very keen to engage with passengers,” one said.

The transportation is in a spacious bus, which makes the long hours more comfortable. The schedule is fairly tight but well-organized, with enough time at each stop to enjoy the scenery and take photos. Some travelers suggest starting earlier for more daylight, but overall, the timing seems balanced for most.

Regarding food, meals aren’t included, and there’s a mention of limited options at the BSI bus terminal—expect to plan ahead if you want something more than snacks. The tour’s flexibility—being able to cancel up to 24 hours in advance and reschedule the Northern Lights viewing if needed—is a bonus for those worried about weather or changing plans.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for first-timers wanting a comprehensive Icelandic day trip with a chance to see the Northern Lights. It suits travelers who don’t mind long bus rides and outdoor cold weather. If you’re interested in geology, waterfalls, and geysers, and are patient about the chance of not seeing the auroras, this tour can give you a memorable glimpse into Iceland’s natural wonders.

People looking for a cost-effective, all-in-one package will find this appealing. But if you’re very particular about seeing the Northern Lights or prefer a more relaxed pace, you might want to explore other options or extend your trip for more flexibility.

The Bottom Line

This Golden Circle and Northern Lights combo tour offers a solid, well-organized way to experience Iceland’s highlights in one day. The attractions visited during daylight are some of the most iconic and photogenic spots you can find, making it a worthwhile trip for those eager to see geysers, waterfalls, and tectonic plates firsthand.

While the Northern Lights are never guaranteed due to their natural nature, the option to rejoin the tour makes it less frustrating if the lights don’t appear immediately. The guides’ knowledge and enthusiasm are consistently praised, adding value beyond just the scenery.

This tour is an excellent choice for travelers who want a mix of adventure, education, and the thrill of chasing the auroras. It’s suited for those comfortable with outdoor winter conditions and long bus days, and who appreciate good value for money.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transportation is provided in a spacious bus for the entire duration of the tour, making the long day comfortable and convenient.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts about 9 hours, but check the specific starting times available during your booking.

Do I need to bring my own food?
Food and drinks are not included, so planning ahead for snacks or a meal is recommended. The stop at the BSI bus terminal has limited options.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if weather or plans change.

Are the Northern Lights sightings guaranteed?
No, sightings depend heavily on weather conditions and solar activity. If you don’t see the lights, you can join the tour again for free.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not explicitly marketed as a family tour, it’s generally suitable for travelers comfortable with outdoor cold conditions and a full day of sightseeing.

What should I wear?
Sturdy shoes and warm outdoor clothing are essential, especially for the Northern Lights hunt after dark.

What makes this tour good value?
It covers major highlights—geysers, waterfalls, tectonic plates—and offers a chance to see the auroras, all in one reasonably priced package.

How much time do we spend at each attraction?
Most reviews mention about an hour at each stop, which is enough for photos and quick explorations, though some wish for a bit more time.

If you’re looking to tick off Iceland’s big sights and take a shot at seeing the Northern Lights without overcomplicating your plans, this tour could be a good fit. Just keep your expectations realistic, dress warmly, and enjoy the journey through this incredible country.

You can check availability for your dates here: