Golden Circle and Kerid Volcanic Crater Small-Group Day Tour

Exploring the Golden Circle and Kerid Crater: A Practical Review

If you’re planning a trip to Reykjavik and only have time for one full-day excursion, a Golden Circle tour is often the go-to choice. We’ve come across this particular experience that promises to cover the must-see sights with the added bonus of a visit to the striking Kerid volcanic crater—something many standard tours overlook.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the strong positive reviews—an impressive 5.0 rating from over 770 travelers—show that people really appreciate the experience. Second, the fact that it offers small-group comfort, knowledgeable guides, and a good value for the total price of around $104 per person. At the same time, it’s worth noting that this kind of trip isn’t for those wanting a super-flexible or private experience, as the group size is capped at 19, and the schedule is quite packed.

What We Love About This Tour

First, the comprehensive itinerary hits all the major sights, including Thingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, Gullfoss waterfall, and Kerid Crater. The fact that the tour includes Kerid is a real plus—it’s a volcanic crater lake often missed by other Golden Circle trips, and it adds a unique visual element to the day.

Second, the guides get consistently high praise. Reviewers mention guides like Christina, Elias, and Monica for their knowledge, friendly attitude, and storytelling skills. This makes a big difference when you’re trying to understand Iceland’s geology, history, and culture, especially if your time is limited.

One potential drawback to consider? The schedule is quite full, so if you’re after a laid-back day or want more time at each stop, this might feel a touch rushed. Also, since it’s a full-day tour, be prepared for early mornings and a long ride, but the experience typically balances this with engaging commentary and breathtaking scenery.

This tour suits travelers who want a well-rounded, hassle-free way to see Iceland’s highlights without the stress of driving or organizing multiple stops on your own.

Key Points

• All-in-one Golden Circle experience that covers major sites plus Kerid Crater
• Small group size ensures comfort and more personalized attention
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with storytelling and insights
• Pickup and round-trip transport add convenience and make logistics easy
• Long day, full schedule—ideal for travelers who prefer guided tours with structure
• Good value for the price, especially considering the diverse stops included

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Thingvellir National Park

The tour kicks off at Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a lot of significance. As you walk through this historic location, you’ll see the meeting point of the American and Eurasian tectonic plates—a striking visual that’s hard to replicate elsewhere. The geology here is fascinating; the plates are slowly drifting apart, creating a landscape that’s constantly changing.

Reviewers consistently mention how guides provide great context about Iceland’s history and geography. One reviewer raved about Christina, saying she offered lots of background info while giving space to explore the stunning scenery. Expect about 45 minutes here—enough time for some photos and a quick walk, but not so long that you get bored.

Laugarvatn and Geothermal Baking

Next, the tour stops at Laugarvatn, a small town beside a beautiful lake. Here, you might notice the steam plumes rising from the ground—a sign of Iceland’s volcanic activity. Locals use this geothermal heat to bake rye bread underground, which you might find interesting and even tasty if you get the chance to try it.

Geysir Geothermal Area

Then, it’s on to Geysir, the star of the geothermal scene. You’ll have time to wander among bubbling springs and hot pools, and most likely, you’ll catch the Strokkur geyser erupting—which happens roughly every 10 minutes and can shoot water up to 30 meters (98 feet). This is an experience that leaves many travelers in awe, with reviews praising the power and spectacle of the eruptions.

Many visitors appreciate the time allocated here—about 80 minutes—allowing enough opportunity to watch the geysers, take photos, and even grab a snack or lunch at the on-site café (lunch is at your own expense). Reviewers note that the area is beautiful and photogenic, and guides often share interesting facts about geothermal activity, making the stop both fun and educational.

Gullfoss Waterfall

Next, the Gullfoss Waterfall comes into view—the iconic “Golden Waterfall.” The sheer force of water plunging 32 meters into a rugged canyon is mesmerizing. Reviewers often mention how powerful and scenic the waterfall is, with some describing it as a “must-see.” Expect around 40 minutes here, which is enough for photos and a quick walk around.

Kerid Crater Lake

The highlight for many is the visit to Kerid, a volcanic crater filled with a shimmering blue lake. It’s roughly 3,000 years old, 55 meters deep, and offers spectacular views. The crater’s vivid colors contrast sharply with the surrounding landscape, making it one of the most distinctive sights on the Golden Circle.

One reviewer called it “a unique view of Iceland’s volcanic beauty,” and many find the crater’s vibrant red slopes and blue lake the perfect photo opportunity. The stop here lasts around 30 minutes, which feels just right to appreciate the scenery without feeling rushed.

The Return Journey

On the way back to Reykjavik, the tour passes through Hveragerði, known for its greenhouses powered by geothermal energy, and the Hellisheiði Geothermal Power Plant. These stops provide a glimpse into Iceland’s sustainable energy and farming practices, adding an educational layer to the experience.

The Practicalities of the Tour

Duration and Group Size

The trip is about 8 hours long, starting at 9:00 am with pickup from your Reykjavik hotel or designated meeting point. With a maximum of 19 travelers, the group is small enough to feel intimate, but large enough to keep the schedule efficient. Travelers report that the small group experience enhances comfort and allows guides to give more personalized commentary.

Pricing and Value

For $104, you’re getting a full-day guided tour that covers major sights and includes hotel pickup and drop-off—convenience that can be hard to beat. While food and drinks aren’t included, the flexibility to buy lunch at Geysir or bring your own makes it adaptable to different budgets. Many reviewers feel the value exceeds expectations, especially given the quality of guides and sights, with some calling it a “great value for the money.”

What’s Included and what’s not

The tour includes guide services and transportation, making logistics seamless. You’ll want to budget for food separately, but the stops at Geysir and Kerid offer opportunities to eat or snack. Also, optional visits, like the geothermal bread tasting or second geyser stop, can be added at your own expense.

Weather Considerations

Since Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable, the tour operates in all conditions, so dress warmly and in layers. Most travelers participate comfortably, but be prepared for rain, wind, or sunshine—reviews mention that good clothing makes all the difference.

Accessibility and Suitability

Children as young as 5 are allowed, but keep in mind the full-day nature and walking involved. Small luggage like backpacks are recommended, and the tour is suitable for most travelers who are physically capable.

Why This Tour Might Be Perfect for You

This Golden Circle tour is an excellent choice if you want a well-organized, comprehensive day without the hassle of self-driving. The small-group environment ensures a more relaxed, engaging experience, and the knowledgeable guides keep the day lively and informative.

Travelers who enjoy spectacular scenery, history, geology, and good company tend to love this trip. The inclusion of Kerid Crater adds a special touch, giving you a chance to see something a bit different from the usual stops.

However, if you’re after a more leisurely pace or prefer to spend more time at individual stops, this tour might feel a little rushed. It’s best suited for those who want to see as much as possible in one day and are happy to be on a tight schedule.

FAQ: Everything You Need to Know

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour offers pickup from your Reykjavik hotel or nearby meeting points, making planning easier.

How long does the tour last? It’s approximately 8 hours, starting around 9:00 am and ending with drop-off back at your hotel.

Do I need to bring anything special? Just wear weather-appropriate clothing, as the tour operates in all conditions. Small backpacks are recommended since large luggage isn’t suitable.

Is food included? No, meals are not included, but there’s time at Geysir to buy snacks or lunch at your own expense.

Are children allowed? Yes, children aged 5 and above can participate, but keep in mind it’s a full-day outing.

What makes Kerid Crater special? It’s a 3,000-year-old volcanic crater filled with a stunning blue lake, offering breathtaking views and a unique Icelandic landscape.

Can I customize or add stops? Optional visits like bread tasting or additional geyser stops are available at your own expense but are not included in the standard tour.

What if the weather is bad? The tour runs in all weather; if conditions are poor, guides adapt to ensure safety, and you might see different sights or enjoy more indoor explanations.

Final Thoughts

This small-group Golden Circle and Kerid Crater tour from Reykjavik offers a solid mix of Iceland’s most iconic sights, engaging guides, and good value. It’s best suited for travelers who want a structured, informative, and scenic day without the stress of planning every detail themselves.

If you’re after a comfortable experience with a knowledgeable guide, this trip is likely to meet your expectations. You’ll come away with plenty of photos, stories, and an understanding of Iceland’s volcanic and geological marvels—perfect for those making the most of limited time in this stunning country.

While it’s not the most leisurely way to see Iceland, the highlights and the professional approach make it a tour worth considering. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, it’s a reliable option to get a taste of Iceland’s natural wonders.

Happy planning, and I hope your Iceland adventure is unforgettable!