Golden circle Iceland

If you’re planning a trip to Reykjavik and want an efficient yet personalized way to see some of Iceland’s most iconic sights, this private Golden Circle tour might catch your eye. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, I’ve looked closely at the details and reviews to help you decide if it’s the right fit.

One of the things I appreciate about this tour is that it offers full control over your schedule—no rushing to keep up with a big group, and a guide who’s focused solely on your party. Plus, the inclusion of Wi-Fi on board and a private driver makes the ride comfortable and connected, ideal for sharing those unforgettable views in real time. A second highlight is the quality of the stops—Kerid Crater, Geysir, Gullfoss, and Thingvellir are truly among Iceland’s highlights, and doing them privately means you can linger or move quickly depending on what excites you most.

However, it’s not perfect for everyone. The price point—around $415 per person—might seem a bit steep for some, especially considering there’s no included lunch or longer stops at certain sites. It’s a shorter, more streamlined experience meant for those who prefer flexibility over a packed schedule. If you’re someone who values personalized service, relaxing pace, and a more tailored day, this tour could work well. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to see Iceland’s natural wonders without the hassle of larger tour groups.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience with your own guide and driver
• Flexible pacing allows for more time at your favorite spots
• Comfortable amenities, including Wi-Fi and coffee/tea
• All main Golden Circle sites included, with convenient pickup from Reykjavik
• Ideal for travelers who prefer a quieter, more tailored day
• Cost reflects the private nature and convenience, but no lunch included

A Closer Look at the Tour’s Itinerary

Starting Point: Pickup from Reykjavik

The tour kicks off with pickup from Harpa Concert Hall, a central and easily accessible location. Having a door-to-door pickup means no stress about finding a meeting point, especially after a long travel day. This convenience alone is a real plus, particularly if you are staying in central Reykjavik or arriving via cruise.

Stop 1: Kerid Crater

The first stop is the Kerid Crater, which is a volcano crater filled with a vivid lake. We loved the way the tour allows you to walk around the rim—this is a great opportunity to get different angles of the crater and snap some photos. The fact that admission is included makes it straightforward, and the approximately one-hour stop means enough time to soak in the views without feeling rushed.

Reviews highlight that walking around Kerid is a memorable way to start: “We walked around the rim of Kerid crater and got to see the volcano lake,” one traveler said, appreciating the ease and beauty of the site.

Stop 2: Geysir and Hot Springs

Next, you’ll head to Haukadalur Valley, home to the world-famous Geysir geothermal area. This site is a must-see, with hot springs and geysers erupting every few minutes. Strokkur, the star geyser, shoots water up to 30 meters high roughly every 10 minutes—a spectacle that’s just as impressive as you’d hope.

The tour includes a free stop at the geyser area, giving you time to walk around, enjoy the landscapes, and experience the geothermal steam rising everywhere. Plus, you get to have tea or coffee included—a nice touch that keeps you energized during this busy part of the day.

One reviewer shared that they enjoyed experiencing the geysers and even sampling some local cuisine, remarking how “wonderful the landscapes and hot springs” were, with the added bonus of tasting local meat soup.

Stop 3: Gullfoss Waterfall

The Gullfoss Waterfall is the tour’s grand finale, and it’s easy to see why. The waterfall plunges in two massive cascades from a height of 32 meters, creating a thunderous roar and a spectacular spray. From the natural observation deck, you’ll feel the raw power of nature—something truly awe-inspiring.

The walk along the water’s edge is straightforward, and the views are unforgettable. It’s a popular stop for a reason, and the fact that admission is included makes this a simple, no-hassle visit. Several reviews mention how impressive Gullfoss is: “The flow of water and the roar of the falls just hit differently,” as one traveler put it.

Stop 4: Þingvellir National Park

Finally, the tour visits Þingvellir, a site that’s steeped in historical significance and geological wonder. You’ll see the giant rifts where the North American and Eurasian plates are slowly separating—a rare sight that makes you appreciate the Earth’s ongoing movements.

This park is also where the Alþingi, Iceland’s ancient parliament, was founded in the 10th century. Walking through this site, you’ll get a vivid sense of Iceland’s history and natural forces. The tour’s hour-long stop allows for a relaxed exploration, where many reviewers comment on how striking the landscape is—”the earth splits here, and it’s truly fascinating,” one noted.

The Overall Experience

What makes this tour stand out is the personalized approach. Unlike large bus trips, you’ll get to experience each site at your own pace, which can make all the difference for capturing photos or just soaking in the scenery. The Wi-Fi on board means you can share moments in real-time, and the bottled water and coffee/tea provide comfort during the day.

Many reviews praise the driver/guide’s knowledge and friendliness—with some mentioning that their guides were not only professional but also fun and engaging. For example, one reviewer said, “Oly was friendly, professional, and got us where we needed to go efficiently. I wouldn’t hesitate to book again.”

Duration and Price

The tour lasts about 6 to 8 hours, which is perfect for a day trip. The price, at just over $415 per person, reflects its private, tailored nature. While it’s not the cheapest option available, many feel it’s good value for the convenience and quality of experience. For travelers who want to avoid crowded group tours and prefer a more intimate setting, this could be well worth the cost.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private Golden Circle tour suits travelers who value flexibility and personal service. If you like to go at your own pace, take your time exploring each site, and enjoy comfortable transportation, this is a solid choice. It’s also perfect for those who prefer not to share their experience with strangers or want a more tailored day.

While families and travelers with specific needs aren’t explicitly highlighted, the ease of private transportation and the relaxed pace make it suitable for most adults and older children. If you’re traveling with younger kids or have special considerations, it’s worth discussing directly with the provider for tailored advice.

The Sum Up

For anyone wanting a personalized, fuss-free way to explore Iceland’s Golden Circle, this private tour offers a compelling blend of comfort, flexibility, and access to iconic sights. The stops at Kerid, Geysir, Gullfoss, and Þingvellir are all highlights that give you a well-rounded taste of Iceland’s natural beauty and history, all while enjoying a more relaxed pace.

The included amenities like Wi-Fi, coffee, and bottled water enhance the experience, making the day feel more comfortable and connected. The knowledgeable guides, as praised in reviews, help bring the sites to life and make the journey enjoyable.

Overall, if you’re willing to invest in a more tailored tour and prioritize quality over quantity, this experience is worth considering. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who want to avoid the crowds and have control over how they spend their time in Iceland’s stunning landscape.

FAQ

How early should I book this tour?
Most travelers book around 115 days in advance, which is a good idea to secure your preferred date, especially during peak season.

What’s included in the price?
The tour price includes private transportation, parking fees, bottled water, Wi-Fi onboard, and coffee/tea. Admission tickets to each site are also included.

Is there lunch included?
No, lunch is not included. However, you have the opportunity to try local cuisine, such as Icelandic lamb meat soup, at the Geysir stop.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since this is a private tour, you can likely adjust the pacing and time spent at each site, depending on your preferences.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 to 8 hours, making it a full but manageable day trip.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the relaxed pace and private nature make it suitable for most older children. For very young children, it’s best to check with the provider directly.

If you’re after a flexible, comfortable way to see the Golden Circle without the crowd, this private tour provides a wonderful balance of scenery, history, and personal service.