Golden Circle : Private Day Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Iceland and want to experience its most famous sights without the hassle of navigating on your own, a private Golden Circle tour might be just what you need. This tour promises a personalized, comfortable way to see the geysers, waterfalls, and historic sites that define Iceland’s natural beauty. While we haven’t done this particular tour ourselves, we’ve gathered plenty of insights to help you decide if it suits your travel style.

What we really like about this experience is how it combines the convenience of private transportation and expert guiding with the flexibility to customize your stops. Plus, the inclusion of off-the-beaten-path destinations like Brúarfoss Waterfall gives it an extra edge over standard group tours. That said, the price point of $1,380 per group isn’t cheap, especially for just three people, so weighing the value becomes essential. This tour is best suited for those who want a relaxed, tailored experience with a guide to enrich their understanding of Iceland’s geology and culture.

Key Points

• Private and Personalized: A flexible itinerary with an experienced guide makes for a tailored experience.
• Iconic & Hidden Gems: Visits include famous spots like Geysir and Gullfoss, plus lesser-known treasures like Brúarfoss.
• Comfortable Transport: Travel is in a spacious, private vehicle, with WiFi on board—ideal for photos or catching up.
• Flexible & Customizable: You can adjust stops and timing to match your interests.
• All-Inclusive: Entrance fees, parking, and pick-up/drop-off are covered, simplifying logistics.
• Cost Reflects Quality: The experience offers good value for those who prioritize comfort, personalization, and expert insights.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This private Golden Circle tour offers an experience that’s quite different from typical bus trips. We’re talking about a full-day adventure with a dedicated guide who’s well-versed in Icelandic history, geology, and culture. This isn’t just a sightseeing shuttle—it’s an informative journey where you get to ask questions, take plenty of photos, and really absorb each site at your own pace.

The personalized nature means you won’t be herded along with a crowd—your guide can tailor the stops or spend more time where you’re most interested. Plus, the off-the-beaten-path stop at Brúarfoss is a real highlight. While many visitors might miss this gem, here you get to see a waterfall with striking blue waters and intricate cascades—a true photographer’s dream.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who value comfort and customization over a rigid schedule. If you’re traveling as a small group or a couple, and you appreciate expert commentary, this tour offers a perfect balance of relaxation and education. It’s also good for those who want to avoid large crowds and prefer a more intimate experience.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and What to Expect

Starts with Convenience

Your day begins with a pickup from your accommodation in Reykjavik around 8:30 am. This level of convenience means you won’t have to worry about transportation logistics, especially after a long flight or a busy day.

More Great Tours Nearby

Thingvellir National Park

Your first stop is Thingvellir, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, you can see the rift valley where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are pulling apart—an awe-inspiring sight that really puts the world’s geological forces into perspective. It’s also the historic site of Iceland’s first parliament, established in 930 AD. The guide will share insights into the significance of the location, making it more meaningful than just another scenic stop.

Geysir Geothermal Area

Next, you’ll visit Geysir, where the famous Strokkur geyser erupts every 5-10 minutes, shooting water up to 30 meters high. It’s fascinating to watch and offers fantastic photo opportunities. The guide’s commentary might include interesting facts about geothermal activity, giving you context about Iceland’s volcanic landscape.

Gullfoss Waterfall

Then, it’s time to witness Gullfoss, one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls. With its powerful cascade dropping 32 meters in two tiers, it’s a sight that leaves most visitors speechless. The roaring water and the mist often create rainbow arcs on sunny days—truly a captivating scene.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Stop at Brúarfoss

Perhaps the most unique part of this tour is the stop at Brúarfoss Waterfall. Known as the “Bridge Falls,” this hidden gem isn’t as crowded as the other sites, so you’ll enjoy a more peaceful experience. Its striking blue waters and intricate cascades are a photographer’s paradise and a reminder that Iceland’s beauty isn’t only about the well-known spots.

Flexibility and Personalization

Throughout the day, your guide will provide detailed information about each location’s geology, history, and cultural relevance. If you’re keen on exploring more or spending extra time at certain sites, the private nature of the tour makes this easy to do. Plus, there are plenty of opportunities for taking photos—so remember your camera!

Return to Reykjavik

By the end of the day, you’ll be back in Reykjavik, typically around 4:30-5 pm, depending on your interests and timing. The journey back is a good chance to reflect on what you’ve seen or ask final questions.

The Practicalities: What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour covers most of the essentials, making it relatively hassle-free. The entrance fees for the national park and parking are included, along with pick-up and drop-off within Reykjavik. WiFi on board is a nice touch, allowing you to share your photos or look up additional info during the drive.

The guide is English-speaking but can also speak multiple languages, which adds to the overall experience. You’ll also receive free, professional-quality photographs—a bonus that saves you the trouble of snapping your own shots.

However, food and drinks are not included—you might find it worthwhile to bring snacks or plan to stop at a local café during the day. The tour doesn’t include gratuities, but if you appreciated the guide’s insights, a tip is always a kind gesture.

How Does the Cost Stack Up?

At $1,380 for up to three people, the cost breaks down to around $460 per person. For this, you get a private, customized tour with a knowledgeable guide, comfortable transportation, and a highly flexible schedule. The added value of personalized attention, off-the-beaten-path locations, and the convenience of door-to-door service can make this a worthwhile choice for travelers who prioritize comfort and enriching experiences over budget options.

Compare this to typical group tours, which can be cheaper but less flexible and often crowded. If you’re looking for a more intimate, tailored outing that allows you to savor each site without feeling rushed, the price might be justified.

Our Final Take: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re someone who appreciates the comfort of private transportation and the insights of a local guide, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suited for small groups or couples who want a relaxed pace and the chance to customize their day. The inclusion of off-the-beaten-path stops adds a layer of uniqueness that can’t be found on standard group trips.

While the price may seem steep, the experience’s quality, flexibility, and the chance to explore Iceland’s highlights and hidden gems make it a strong value. It’s perfect if you’re visiting Iceland for the first time, love photography, or simply want a more personal touch to your sightseeing.

However, if you’re traveling solo on a tight budget or prefer to explore independently, this might be more than you need. Also, if you’re comfortable with self-guided trips and don’t mind shared tours, there are other options to consider.

FAQs About the Private Golden Circle Tour

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
The tour is private and flexible, so it can work for families, especially if traveling with older children who enjoy outdoor adventures. However, the itinerary and duration are more suited to those comfortable with a full-day outdoor experience.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes entrance fees for the national park, parking fees, pickup and drop-off within Reykjavik, a knowledgeable English-speaking guide, WiFi on board, and free professional photographs of your trip.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included. The guide can recommend stops for lunch and refreshments during the tour.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 8 hours, with detailed timing depending on your interests and stops.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the private nature means you can tailor the stops or spend more time at certain locations with your guide.

What type of vehicle is used?
Transportation is in a comfortable SUV or Jeep, perfect for scenic drives and accommodating small groups.

Is pickup available outside Reykjavik?
No, pickup and drop-off are within the Reykjavik Downtown Area only.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, which makes it inclusive for different mobility needs.

How do I book and pay?
You can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Exploring Iceland’s Golden Circle with a private tour offers a tailored, comfortable experience that highlights both famous and lesser-known spots. If you value a knowledgeable guide and flexible schedule, this tour could be your ideal way to see some of Iceland’s most iconic scenery without the stress of group travel.

You can check availability for your dates here: