Golden Circle and Kerid Crater Afternoon Tour from Reykjavik

If you’re planning your first trip to Iceland, chances are the Golden Circle is on your must-see list — and for good reason. It’s the classic route that hits up some of the most iconic sights in the country, all packed into one manageable day. We’ve looked into the Golden Circle and Kerid Crater Afternoon Tour from Reykjavik, and honestly, it seems like a solid option for travelers wanting a guided experience that covers the essentials without breaking the bank.

One of the standout features? The expert guides and comfortable transportation make this tour accessible even if you’re new to organized sightseeing. Plus, the stunning scenery at each stop, from waterfalls to volcanic craters, is definitely worth the trip. That said, there’s a chance you might find the schedule a bit rushed — especially if you’re eager to soak everything in at a slower pace.

This tour is perfect for those who want a well-organized, informative outing with minimal hassle. If you’re okay with a busy day that hits multiple highlights and aren’t fussed about spending a lot of time at each stop, it’s likely a good fit. Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of what makes this tour worth considering — as well as some points to watch out for.

Key Points

• Convenient Pickup & Drop-off: Hotel pickup in Reykjavik makes starting easy.
• Expert Guide & Comfortable Transport: You’ll be in good hands with knowledgeable guides and a comfortable bus.
• Iconic Sights Covered: Gullfoss waterfall, Strokkur geyser, Thingvellir National Park, and Kerid Crater.
• Affordable Price Point: At $77 per person, it’s a decent deal for a full day of sightseeing.
• Well-Structured Itinerary: Plenty of stops with enough time to explore each site.
• Weather-Ready: Operates in all weather conditions, just dress appropriately.

What You Can Expect from This Tour

Starting Out: Convenient Pickup and Orientation

The tour begins in Reykjavík at the designated meeting point, with pickup included in the price. This saves you the hassle of navigating around or renting a car. From there, the bus is usually comfortable, and many reviews mention the inclusion of USB ports, which is a small but appreciated touch for charging your devices. As one reviewer pointed out, “The bus was comfortable and tour well designed for a good balance of travelling and sightseeing off the bus,” and that balance really makes a difference if you want to see a lot without feeling exhausted.

Exploring the Golden Circle Route

The Golden Circle is essentially a loop that covers three main sites: Geysir geothermal area, Gullfoss waterfall, and Thingvellir National Park. These stops are the backbone of most Golden Circle tours and offer a great introduction to Iceland’s natural beauty and geology.

• Geysir geothermal area: A fascinating spot where you can see Strokkur geyser erupt every 7-10 minutes, shooting hot water high into the air. While Geysir itself is no longer active, Strokkur more than makes up for it with its frequent eruptions. It’s a mesmerizing sight, and many travelers find themselves captivated by the raw power of bubbling hot springs and steaming vents.

• Gullfoss Waterfall: One of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls, Gullfoss offers a dramatic view of the powerful Hvítá River plunging into a deep canyon. With two tiers of 11 and 21 meters respectively, it’s a sight that’s both humbling and beautiful. Several reviews mention the “magnificent scenery” and note that the waterfall’s roar and spray make it a memorable stop.

• Thingvellir National Park: This UNESCO World Heritage site is a highlight for many reasons. It’s historically significant as the site of Iceland’s first parliament, founded in the late 900s, and geologically remarkable as the visible division between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. Reviewers consistently praise the “stunning” views here and appreciate having enough time to walk around and really take it in.

The Kerid Crater Stop

The Kerid Crater is an eye-catching volcanic crater about 55 meters deep. Its vivid red and black slopes contrast sharply with the azure lake at the bottom, making it a favorite for photos. This stop is only included in the 10:30 am departure, so if you’re on a later schedule, it might not be part of your experience.

Travelers who love photographing unique landscapes will especially enjoy this part of the tour, and some reviews note that “the walk around the crater gave us plenty of photo opportunities.” However, one point to keep in mind — the stop is relatively short (around 20 minutes), so if you’re a slow walker or want to explore more thoroughly, you might find it a little rushed.

Additional Highlights and Food Options

Throughout the day, you’ll have opportunities to buy food, especially at Strokkur, where cafes are available. While the tour price doesn’t include meals, many travelers mention that the stops allow for a quick bite or drink.

The Value of This Tour

For $77, this tour offers a solid mix of guided insight, transportation, and access to Iceland’s top sights. Many reviews highlight the knowledge and friendliness of the guides, with Alison_J praising her guide Odie and driver Albert for making the experience both informative and enjoyable: “The commentary was informative and entertaining,” she said. Several travelers also note the comfortable bus and well-planned itinerary that strikes a good balance between travel time and sightseeing.

Some reviews point out the value for money, especially considering how much ground you cover in one day. And because it operates in all weather conditions, it’s a flexible option no matter if it’s sunny or snowy.

Potential Downsides

That said, a few travelers mention feeling a little rushed, especially at the last stop or at sites like Geysir. Tina_C noted that “the time at each location was good, except for the last” and suggested that some stops could be longer. Also, one review pointed out that the food at Strokkur’s cafe can be expensive, so packing a snack might be a good idea if you’re on a budget.

The tour’s group size varies up to 65 people, which means it’s a fairly large group. While most reviews say the guides are attentive, some travelers prefer smaller tours for a more intimate experience.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re after a rundown of Iceland’s Golden Circle, want to travel comfortably with an expert guide, and value good photos and storytelling, this tour is likely a smart choice. It’s particularly suited for first-timers, solo travelers, or those who prefer not to rent a car or drive themselves.

However, if you’re someone who loves to explore every site at your own pace or wants more time at each stop, this might feel a bit rushed. It’s a “taster” of Iceland’s most famous sights, not an in-depth exploration.

The Golden Circle and Kerid Crater Afternoon Tour from Reykjavik appears to be a reliable, well-reviewed way to experience some of Iceland’s most iconic spots without the stress of self-driving or planning complex itineraries. With knowledgeable guides, a comfortable ride, and breathtaking views, it offers good value — especially for those new to Iceland or short on time.

It’s best suited for travelers who want a structured, informative day out that hits the highlights efficiently. If you’re okay with a busy schedule and some quick stops, you’ll likely walk away with fantastic memories and plenty of photos. Just remember to dress warmly and bring snacks, as some stops can be brief and food prices high.

This tour seems to deliver on most fronts — memorable scenery, expert guidance, and a straightforward experience. It’s a dependable choice that balances comfort, cost, and quality, perfect for making the most of a day in Iceland.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from centrally located hotels in Reykjavik, making it easy to start your day without worry.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 8 hours, including travel time, with the tour ending back at the meeting point.

Can I take this tour in bad weather?
Absolutely. The tour runs in all weather conditions, so dress appropriately for rain, snow, or sunshine.

What sites are included?
You’ll visit Gullfoss waterfall, Strokkur geyser, Thingvellir National Park, and Kerid Crater (only in the 10:30 departure).

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, but food options are available at some stops, notably Strokkur.

Is this suitable for children?
Children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult. Keep in mind the schedule is quite full, so younger kids should be prepared for a busy day.

If you’re after a straightforward, scenic, and well-guided introduction to Iceland’s Golden Circle, this tour hits most of the right notes. Just plan ahead for the weather and brief stops, and you’ll likely have a memorable day out.