Private Golden Circle with Lunch at Tomato Farm (6 Locations)

Exploring Iceland’s Golden Circle: A Thoughtful Look at a Private Tour Experience

If you’re eyeing a trip to Iceland and want a way to see the best of the Golden Circle without the crowds or rushing, this private tour from Reykjavik might just fit the bill. Designed for small groups—up to three people—this experience offers a personalized approach, guided by a professional driver and guide who truly knows the area.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it combines iconic sights like Þingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall with a special visit to a local horse farm and an exclusive stop at a tomato farm. Plus, the included lunch of fresh tomato soup and baguette at Fridheimar is a standout feature that makes the trip more memorable.

Of course, no tour is perfect for everyone. This one’s best suited for those who prefer a flexible, intimate experience with a smaller group, and who want to see the highlights in a relaxed, hassle-free way. If you’re after a budget-friendly, big-bus style tour, this private option might feel a bit pricey. But if personalized attention and comfort matter, it’s worth considering.

Who this tour is great for:
– Travelers wanting a private, customizable experience
– Visitors keen to see major Golden Circle landmarks efficiently
– Food lovers eager to try Icelandic tomato soup in a unique setting
– Those seeking a more relaxed pace with fewer crowds

Key Points

• Private & Personalized: Only your group participates, making for a more tailored experience.
• Comprehensive Stops: Covers all the main Golden Circle sights plus extra visits like the horse and tomato farms.
• Comfort & Convenience: Pickup from your hotel, WiFi on board, bottled water, and snacks help keep you comfortable.
• Inclusion of Pro Photos: You’ll get free pictures during the tour, which is a nice touch.
• Efficient Itinerary: Seeing six locations in about 6 to 7 hours means you get a thorough yet relaxed day.
• Value for the Price: The $1,242.94 cost covers a lot—private transport, admission fees, lunch, and extras—making it a good deal for a private tour.

The Itinerary in Detail

Start with Convenience: Hotel Pickup

The tour begins with a pickup from your Reykjavik accommodation. This kind of door-to-door service saves the hassle of organizing transportation and ensures you start the day stress-free.

Þingvellir National Park

Our first stop is Þingvellir, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its striking landscapes and geological significance. Walking through the park, you’ll get a sense of Iceland’s natural beauty and history. It’s also where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet, making the scenery both stunning and scientifically fascinating.

The trip includes a 30-minute stop with admission fees covered, giving you time to soak in the views and take photos. Many travelers mention how this place is a must-see for its dramatic scenery and historical importance.

Fridheimar Tomato Farm

Next, the tour takes you to Fridheimar, a truly unique Icelandic farm that grows tomatoes using geothermal energy. Here, you get to enjoy their famous tomato soup with fresh baguette—a simple yet memorable meal that’s included in the tour.

The farm offers a glimpse into Iceland’s innovative farming techniques and the chance to experience a flavor of local life. Reviewers often mention how this part stands out as a highlight, especially if you’re a foodie or like trying authentic local experiences.

Kerid Volcano Crater

Following lunch, you’ll visit Kerid, an ancient volcanic crater filled with a vivid blue lake. Formed roughly 3,000 years ago, Kerid offers a leisurely 45-minute stroll around its perimeter, providing spectacular views and excellent photo opportunities.

This stop is a favorite for its colorful, otherworldly landscape. The admission fee is included, so you can focus on enjoying the scenery and snapping pictures without worry.

Geysir Geothermal Area

The famous Geysir geothermal field is next, home to Strokkur, Iceland’s most active geyser. Watching Strokkur erupt every 5-10 minutes is a thrilling experience—you’ll see a burst of hot water shooting up into the sky, sometimes reaching 30 meters high.

The free admission makes it accessible for everyone, and the area’s geothermal activity is both fascinating and photogenic. Many travelers comment on how impressive it is to witness such natural power up close.

Brú Horse Farm

A quick stop at Brú Horse Farm offers the chance to see and photograph Icelandic horses, known for their unique tölt gait. Visitors can feed the horses with special candies, and if you’re allergic, just let your guide know.

This stop is often appreciated for its relaxed vibe and the chance to get interactive with Iceland’s iconic breed.

Gullfoss Waterfall

The tour wraps up with Gullfoss, perhaps Iceland’s most famous waterfall. Its powerful two-tier cascade creates a magnificent spectacle, especially if the weather is clear. Many reviews emphasize how awe-inspiring this site is, especially with the sound of crashing water filling the air.

Spending about 50 minutes here allows plenty of time for photos and simply soaking in the grandeur of the scene.

What’s Included & What to Consider

The price covers a lot: admission fees for Þingvellir and Kerid, lunch at Fridheimar, WiFi, bottled water, snacks, and professional photos during the tour. This all adds up to a convenient, hassle-free experience.

The tour doesn’t include other attractions outside those listed, but the focus on the main Golden Circle sites means you won’t miss out. The lunch at the tomato farm is a highlight, especially if you enjoy local flavors and unique settings.

One thing to note is the price—$1,242.94 per group (up to three people)—is a significant investment. However, considering the private nature, the included extras, and the comfort, many might view it as good value, especially for a personalized experience.

The Practicalities

This tour lasts approximately 6 to 7 hours, including transportation and sightseeing. The small group size ensures you get more attention from the guide, and the private setup means flexibility—whether you want a relaxed pace or to spend extra time at a particular stop.

Since the tour is private, you can expect a more tailored experience, with the guide likely able to answer questions and adapt slightly to your interests. The vehicle is a comfortable van, and the pickup service means you don’t have to worry about logistics.

Why This Tour Stands Out

The biggest appeal here is the combination of iconic landmarks and exclusive experiences like the tomato farm. The inclusion of professional photos is a thoughtful touch, helping you remember your trip without having to fuss with your camera.

Many reviewers, like Alodie_S, praise the guide’s knowledge and the ease of making the itinerary as strenuous or relaxed as you prefer. This flexibility is a real advantage for travelers who want a more personalized, less pressured day.

Who Should Book This Tour?

If you value comfort, a private setting, and a personalized experience, this tour is a great choice. It suits those who want to cover the main Golden Circle sights efficiently without feeling rushed, and who enjoy added touches like local food and photography.

However, for travelers on a tight budget or those comfortable with larger group tours, this might seem a bit pricey. Still, for the experience of having a dedicated guide and a tailored day, many find it worthwhile.

Final Thoughts

This private Golden Circle tour offers a well-rounded, relaxed way to see Iceland’s highlights. The stops are thoughtfully chosen, and the inclusion of special experiences like the tomato farm and professional photos make it memorable. The small-group, private setup ensures comfort, flexibility, and a more personal touch—perfect for those who prefer a tailored experience over a busload of strangers.

It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate a bit of luxury, personalized attention, and unique local encounters. Whether you’re an avid photographer, a foodie, or just someone eager to tick off Iceland’s must-see sights in style, this tour could hit the spot.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs about 6 to 7 hours, including both transportation and sightseeing, giving you plenty of time at each stop without feeling rushed.

What is included in the price?
Admission fees for Þingvellir and Kerid, the lunch of tomato soup with baguette at Fridheimar, bottled water, snacks, WiFi, and pro photos are all included.

Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
Not outside the included fees; there are no extra charges for the stops listed. However, any attractions or meals outside the plan aren’t covered.

Is pickup available from my hotel?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup from your Reykjavik accommodation, making it a hassle-free start to your day.

Can I customize the experience?
Since it’s a private tour, there’s some flexibility. You can discuss your preferences with the guide, especially if you want to spend more time at certain locations.

What if I have dietary restrictions?
The included lunch is tomato soup with baguette. If you have allergies or dietary restrictions, it’s best to mention this when booking or communicate with your guide.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
The information doesn’t specify, but since transportation is a van and stops are mostly walkable, it might be suitable—best to confirm directly with the supplier.

How many people can participate?
This private tour is designed for up to 3 people per group, making it intimate and personalized.

What makes this tour different from other Golden Circle options?
Its private setup, inclusion of unique stops like the tomato farm and horse farm, and professional photos make it stand out, especially if you prefer a more personalized experience.

If you’re after a thoughtful, comfortable way to explore Iceland’s Golden Circle with personalized touches, this tour is definitely worth considering. It’s a chance to enjoy iconic sights without the hustle of big tour groups, and the added experiences make the day more memorable.