If you’re craving a comprehensive taste of Iceland’s natural wonders without spending days on the road, this tour might be just what you need. It promises to pack in some of the country’s most iconic sights—Thingvellir National Park, Geysir, Gullfoss, Kerid Crater, and the Blue Lagoon—all in about 11 hours. Since it’s highly rated (a 4.9 out of 5 from thousands of reviews), it’s garnered praise for its well-organized itinerary, knowledgeable guides, and great value.
What really draws us in is how smoothly this tour connects major attractions that might otherwise take multiple trips to see. Plus, the chance to unwind at the Blue Lagoon at the end makes it feel like a full, satisfying day. That said, it’s a long ride—roughly 11 hours—and some travelers might find the schedule a bit tight, especially if they want extra time at each stop. Still, if you’re short on time and want an efficient way to experience Iceland’s highlights, this tour could be a perfect fit.
This experience suits travelers who appreciate a well-organized and informative trip, enjoy seeing the natural landscape in comfort, and are okay with a packed day. If you’re traveling with family, or simply want a straightforward way to tick off Iceland’s must-see sites in one go, it’s worth considering. Just remember, children under 5 aren’t suitable for this tour, and you’ll want to bring your walking shoes and swimwear.
Key Points
- All-in-one experience: Combines the Golden Circle, Kerid Crater, and the Blue Lagoon in one day.
- Comfortable transport: Minibus with Wi-Fi, convenient pickup and drop-off in Reykjavik.
- Expert guides: Multiple reviews praise the guides’ knowledge, humor, and storytelling.
- Time at each site: Enough time to explore each location without feeling rushed.
- Value for money: For $259, you get entry tickets, towels, and a full day of sightseeing.
- Long but rewarding day: About 11 hours, so be prepared for a full itinerary.
An Honest Look at the Experience
When we think about what makes a good day trip from Reykjavik, ease and quality of experience are at the top. This tour checks those boxes with its organized itinerary, comfort, and a focus on Iceland’s signature sights. You’ll be picked up from your accommodation, so no fuss there, and the entire day revolves around seeing as much as possible.
The Golden Circle: Thingvellir, Geysir, Gullfoss
Starting from Reykjavik, the first stop is Thingvellir National Park. Here, you walk between the Eurasian and American tectonic plates, seeing the cracks in the earth that are slowly pulling apart. The reviews mention the site’s breathtaking views and historical significance, as it was the location of Iceland’s ancient parliament. One reviewer appreciated how their guide shared engaging stories, making the history come alive.
Next, you visit Geysir, home to the famous hot springs and the lively Strokkur geyser that erupts every few minutes, shooting water up to 100 feet. Travelers often find these geothermal features mesmerizing, with many quoting the eruption as a highlight. One reviewer said, “Watching Strokkur erupt was incredible, so powerful and mesmerizing.”
Gullfoss is your next stop—a massive waterfall that plunges over 100 feet into a rugged canyon. The sight of the water roaring down is something many visitors find awe-inspiring. Multiple reviews describe it as “breathtaking” and note that the views are perfect for photos.
Kerid Crater: A Unique Volcanic Feature
After the Golden Circle, your journey leads to Kerid Crater, a volcanic caldera filled with deep blue water and surrounded by vibrant red volcanic rock. The vivid colors make it a standout stop. Travelers mention that the crater’s scenery is “unreal,” with some appreciating the opportunity to walk around the rim and snap photos. It’s a quick stop but one that feels like stepping into a different world.
Relaxation at the Blue Lagoon
The day ends at the Blue Lagoon, one of Iceland’s most famous attractions. With its warm, mineral-rich waters, it’s the perfect way to unwind after a day of touring. The tour includes admission, a towel, and a silica mud mask—everyone raves about how luxurious and calming the experience is. Many reviewers have praised the Blue Lagoon as a “blissful” and “otherworldly” ending to their trip.
While the two hours allocated might feel a little rushed for some, most agree that it’s enough time to relax, enjoy the healing waters, and even indulge in a drink or a mask. One reviewer said, “The Blue Lagoon was the perfect way to unwind after a long day of sightseeing.”
More Great Tours NearbyDeep Dive into the Itinerary
Morning pickup and first stop: Thingvellir
The tour’s early start means you’re on the road before the crowds build up. We love the way guides share stories about both history and geology, making the landscape more meaningful. Walking between the tectonic plates, you can’t help but feel connected to the land’s volcanic roots.
Geysir and Strokkur
Timing is key here. The eruptions happen every few minutes, so you won’t wait long to see the water shoot up. The geothermal activity adds a sense of energy to the landscape, and it’s fun to witness such natural power firsthand.
Gullfoss
This waterfall’s roar is deafening in person. The views from various vantage points allow you to appreciate the scale and power of nature. Many reviews mention how much they appreciated having enough time to explore and take photos.
Kerid Crater
Known for its striking red rocks and deep blue waters, Kerid offers a different kind of beauty. It’s a quick stop, but one that leaves an impression. Walking around the rim, many guests comment on the surreal beauty of the volcanic landscape.
Blue Lagoon
The final stop is a highlight for many—an iconic Iceland experience. The included silica mud mask and towel enhance the spa-like feel, and most travelers find the warm waters a perfect way to relax. Some mention that two hours can feel a bit short, especially if they want more time to soak and enjoy.
The Practicalities
Transportation and Group Size
The minibus is comfortable, with amenities like Wi-Fi, and the group size is manageable. From reviews, it seems guides excel at keeping the schedule tight but flexible enough for spontaneous photos or questions.
Price and Value
At $259 per person, the tour offers an impressive lineup of attractions, plus entry tickets, towels, and a mud mask. When you consider the cost of individual tickets and transport, it’s a solid deal for a full day of sightseeing. Travelers often praise the value, especially given how much they see in just one day.
Timing and Duration
The 11-hour duration makes it a long day, but most find it worth the effort. The timing at each stop seems well-balanced, according to reviews, so you won’t feel overly rushed or stranded somewhere too long.
Food and Drinks
While food isn’t included, there are ample opportunities to buy snacks and lunch along the route. The Blue Lagoon’s included amenities help streamline the experience, so you can focus on unwinding.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This trip is perfect for travelers who want to maximize their time and see Iceland’s top spots without the hassle of planning multiple trips. It’s especially suited for those who value comfort and expert guidance, given the many reviews praising guides’ knowledge and storytelling. If you’re comfortable with a packed schedule and long hours, you’ll likely find this tour very satisfying.
Great for first-timers wanting a broad overview, it’s also good for seasoned travelers who want a quick, scenic taste of Iceland’s geology and landscape. Just note that children under 5 aren’t suited for this tour, and if you’re looking for a more relaxed or private experience, this might not be the best fit.
The Sum Up
All in all, this Reykjavik day tour offers a well-rounded, immersive experience into some of Iceland’s most iconic natural sights. Its combination of convenience, expert guides, and rich scenery makes it stand out, especially for those short on time but eager to see the country’s highlights.
The value is clear when you consider the inclusion of transport, entry tickets, and a full day of sightseeing. It’s a solid choice for first-time visitors, solo travelers, or anyone wanting a structured, informative adventure that covers a lot of ground. The Blue Lagoon finale is a wonderful, relaxing way to cap off the day.
While a longer stay at each site would be lovely, the tour’s efficient schedule means you’ll leave with a broad, memorable snapshot of Iceland’s natural beauty. If you’re okay with a full day on the move and want everything organized for you, this tour is a great way to make the most of your Iceland trip.
Reykjavik: Golden Circle, Kerid Crater, & Blue Lagoon Tour
FAQ
Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the minibus is described as clean, modern, and equipped with Wi-Fi, making the long day more pleasant.
Are entry tickets included?
Absolutely. The tour includes tickets for Kerid Crater and the Blue Lagoon, plus a towel and a silica mud mask at the Lagoon.
How long do we spend at each stop?
Most stops are timed to give you enough time to explore and take photos without feeling rushed. The Blue Lagoon gets about 2 hours for relaxing.
Can I buy food or drinks during the tour?
Food and drinks are not included but are available for purchase during stops and at the Blue Lagoon.
Is this suitable for children?
Children under 5 years old are not recommended for this tour.
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, warm waterproof clothing, and swimwear are essentials. Towels are provided at the Lagoon.
How is the guide?
Reviews consistently mention knowledgeable, friendly, and engaging guides who enhance the experience with stories and local insights.
Is the tour long?
Yes, about 11 hours, but most travelers find the schedule well managed and worth the effort.
What about the price?
$259 per person offers good value considering all included tickets, transportation, and the comprehensive itinerary.
In all, this tour is a dependable, well-organized way to see Iceland’s top sights in a single day, especially if you’re looking for comfort and expert guidance. It’s a solid choice for those eager to experience Iceland’s geology, waterfalls, and geothermal spas without the fuss of multiple bookings or long drives on their own.
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