Golden Circle and Kerid Crater Tour with Geothermal Lagoon Visit

If you’re planning a trip to Reykjavik and want to make the most of your day, this Golden Circle and Kerid Crater tour promises a full, engaging experience. It’s designed for those who want to see Iceland’s iconic sights without the hassle of planning every detail — all in around 11 hours. What makes this tour stand out are its well-organized stops and knowledgeable guides, plus the chance to unwind in a geothermal lagoon at day’s end.

We particularly appreciate the balance of sightseeing and relaxation, and the inclusion of beyond-the-basics stops like Kerid crater offers a deeper glimpse into Iceland’s volcanic landscape. However, it’s worth noting that the tour involves a packed schedule, which might be a consideration if you prefer slow-paced days. This trip suits travelers who enjoy a comprehensive, guided overview of Iceland’s natural wonders, especially if you’re limited on time but want the full experience.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: Combines the Golden Circle, Kerid crater, and geothermal baths.
• Expert guides: Well-reviewed guides enhance the experience with stories and insights.
• Convenient logistics: Pickup and drop-off from Reykjavik hotels make it easy.
• Good value for money: Includes multiple stops and options for relaxing in hot springs.
• Duration: About 11 hours, ideal for a full day of sightseeing.
• Weather-ready: Operates in all weather conditions, so dress accordingly.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and What You Can Expect

Starting with Reykjavik’s Hotel Pickup

The tour kicks off early at around 9:00 am, with hotel pickup in Reykjavik. The transport is a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, and most travelers find the logistics straightforward. With a maximum group size of 19, it feels intimate enough to ask questions and get personalized attention, but still lively enough to share the experience with fellow explorers.

Thingvellir National Park: Walking Between Continents

Your first stop is Þingvellir (Thingvellir) National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This place is fascinating because it sits right on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, meaning you get to walk between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. It’s a visual and physical reminder of the incredible forces shaping Iceland. The landscape here is volcanic, and the stories the guide share about its geology and history make the experience more meaningful.

Reviewers rave about their guide’s knowledge and storytelling. One said, “Siggi our tour guide was fun to listen to and really provided us with a lot of useful information about the country, the tour, the sites etc.” It’s these personal touches that elevate the visit beyond just scenery.

Laugarvatn and the Geothermal Bakery

Next, the tour takes you to Laugarvatn, a small town bordering a beautiful lake. Here, you’ll notice plumes of super-heated vapor — a signature of Iceland’s geothermal activity. Locals use this heat to bake rye bread underground, which is a fun, authentic experience that makes you appreciate Iceland’s volcanic energy in a tangible way.

The Geysir Geothermal Area

Onward to Geysir, a landscape of bubbling ponds, steaming vents, and geysers shooting up periodically. The star here is Strokkur, which erupts roughly every 10 minutes, shooting water up to 98 feet into the air. Watching this natural fountain is a highlight — it’s both mesmerizing and a reminder of the Earth’s volatile core.

Visitors often mention the surreal landscapes as a big draw. One reviewer said, “The views are amazing but you learn a lot about the history and landscape. Our tour guide was very knowledgeable and friendly.”

Gullfoss Waterfall: The Golden Waterfall

Next, you’ll visit Gullfoss, a powerful waterfall plunging into a deep canyon. It’s a classic Icelandic sight that looks just as stunning in person as in photos. Standing at the viewing platforms, you’ll feel the raw force of nature.

A reviewer shared, “The waters of the mighty Hvíta river are swept into a 70 meters deep canyon,” which emphasizes its impressive scale. The falls are often described as awe-inspiring, and the surrounding landscape offers ample photographic opportunities.

Kerid Volcanic Crater: A Unique Stop

Adding a layer of diversity, your itinerary includes a visit to Kerid crater, a 3,000-year-old volcanic caldera filled with a vivid blue lake. The colorful slopes — red, green, and volcanic rock — contrast sharply with the lake, creating a landscape that looks almost otherworldly.

The crater offers a short but scenic hike, and many guests find it a memorable part of the day. As one reviewer put it, “Stop to marvel at its magical-looking lake and colorful slopes,” highlighting how this stop feels like stepping into a different planet.

Ending the Day with a Geothermal Bath

The tour wraps up with an optional visit to one of two geothermal hot springs: the Blue Lagoon or Hvammsvík Hot Springs. Both are fantastic ways to relax after a day full of sightseeing, but they offer different vibes.

• Blue Lagoon: Famous worldwide, the lagoon is a broad, milky-blue basin surrounded by lava fields. It’s perfect if you want to soak in the iconic, milky waters with the option to enjoy spa treatments or just relax and people-watch.

• Hvammsvík: Offers a more natural, less commercial experience with pools that flow into the Atlantic Ocean, giving you the sensation of bathing in the sea with the added warmth of geothermal water. One review says, “The geothermal hot springs at the end of the day were fantastic — Christina, our guide, was so knowledgeable and fun.”

Note that entrance tickets for the lagoons are not included, so you need to pre-book if you want to swim.

Final Drop-off and Reflection

The tour concludes with a hotel drop-off in Reykjavik, typically around 8-9 pm. It’s a long day, but many find the value in covering so many highlights with expert guidance and hassle-free logistics.

The Experience from the Traveler’s Perspective

Based on numerous reviews, guides like Siggi, Mika, and Christina consistently receive praise for their friendly, knowledgeable manner. Travelers love the insider stories and the pacing of the stops, which are well-timed to avoid crowds and give enough time to explore.

A common theme is the value for money — for $134, guests get a comprehensive glimpse into Iceland’s geological marvels, with the added bonus of relaxing in warm waters at the end. Many mention that the stops at Geysir, Gullfoss, and Þingvellir are “must-sees,” and the opportunity to see Kerid adds a nice touch of variety.

Some guests comment on the comfort of the transportation and appreciate the free Wi-Fi on the bus, which helps pass the travel time. The small group size makes the experience more personal, and most travelers find the day well-paced with ample time at each stop.

Potential Downsides

The main consideration is the long hours — nearly 11 hours — which can be tiring, especially if the weather is cold or wet. Also, since the tour involves multiple stops, the schedule can feel a bit rushed if you like more leisure time at each site.

Plus, the hot springs visits are optional and require pre-booking, so if soaking in the lagoon is a priority, plan ahead. For those expecting a luxurious spa experience, Hvammsvík might feel more natural and less commercial than Blue Lagoon.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is perfect for first-timers wanting a broad overview of Iceland’s natural wonders in a single day. It’s also great for travelers who prefer guided experiences to make logistics easier, especially if they’re short on time. If you’re someone who appreciates storytelling, knowledgeable guides, and a variety of landscapes — from waterfalls to volcanic craters — you’ll find this a satisfying way to spend a day.

However, if you prefer slow-paced sightseeing with more time at each location, or if budget is tight, you might find the schedule a little packed. The optional lagoon visits are a bonus, but they’re not included in the base price, so plan accordingly if a soak is on your must-do list.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from Reykjavik hotels are provided, making it easy to join the tour without stress.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 11 hours, which is full-day exploring — perfect if you want a comprehensive experience.

Are the lagoon visits included?
No, entrance tickets to Blue Lagoon or Hvammsvík Hot Springs are not included. You can opt for these during booking or separately.

What should I bring?
Dress in weather-appropriate layers, as Iceland’s weather can change quickly. If you plan to swim, bring a bathing suit and towel (not included).

Is the tour suitable for families?
While most travelers of all ages enjoy it, children should be accompanied by an adult. The itinerary involves some walking and long hours, so consider your kids’ stamina.

What’s the main advantage of this tour?
The combination of Iceland’s top sights with expert guides and convenient logistics makes it an efficient way to see the highlights without feeling rushed.

Final Thoughts

This Golden Circle and Kerid Crater tour offers a solid, well-rounded introduction to Iceland’s stunning geology and landscapes. It’s an excellent pick for travelers who want to maximize their day with minimal hassle, thanks to hotel pickup, expert guides, and a trip that hits all the major sights. Plus, ending the day with a geothermal soak is a fantastic way to unwind and reflect on the day’s adventures.

While it’s a busy schedule, many reviewers say the experience is worth it — especially in the company of knowledgeable guides who bring the landscape to life. If you’re after a balanced mix of sightseeing and relaxation, this tour hits the mark. Just be prepared for a full day, and consider booking ahead for the lagoon visits if soaking in the thermal waters is a priority.