Golden Circle with Kerid Volcanic Crater Day Trip from Reykjavik

If you’re planning a trip to Reykjavik, chances are the Golden Circle is on your must-see list. This popular day trip packs in some of Iceland’s most iconic sights—think waterfalls, geysers, and volcanic craters—all within a manageable day. While we’ve heard from many travelers about its popularity, we’re here to give you a straightforward, honest look at what this tour offers.

What really stands out about this experience are the knowledgeable guides and the stunning scenery that truly brings Iceland’s volcanic landscapes to life. The inclusion of Kerid Crater, often added as a special stop, makes this trip a bit more unique, especially for those wanting a closer look at Iceland’s volcanic history.

One aspect to consider is the group size and timing—with a maximum of 65 travelers, it’s a fairly large tour, which can mean less intimacy but better value. Also, the tour runs mostly on a tight schedule, so if you love flexible, leisurely days, this might feel a bit rushed at times.

This tour suits first-time visitors eager to tick off Iceland’s big-ticket sights without fuss, especially if they want a well-organized, informative experience. If you’re looking for a straightforward overview of Iceland’s volcanic landscapes with a friendly guide, this could be a great fit. But if you prefer off-the-beaten-path spots or a more relaxed pace, you might want to explore other options.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary including Þingvellir, Geysir, Gullfoss, Kerid Crater, and more.
• All admission fees are included, making it straightforward and transparent.
• Guides receive high praise for their knowledge and friendliness.
• The duration of about 8.5 hours makes it a full but manageable day.
• Group size can go up to 65 people, which is good for value but less intimate.
• Pick-up included and mobile tickets make planning easier.
• Best for first-timers or those wanting a guided overview of Iceland’s top sights.
• Food and drinks are not included, so packing snacks is advisable.

What to Expect on the Tour

This Golden Circle tour kicks off with a pick-up in Reykjavik, usually around 10:30 AM, depending on the season. From there, you’re on a comfortable bus with a guide who shares insights about Iceland’s landscapes and history, making the long drives engaging. The tour is designed to give you a well-rounded glimpse into Iceland’s geological and cultural significance.

First Stop: Kerid Crater

We love the way this volcanic crater feels both dramatic and accessible. At 55 meters deep, Kerid’s vibrant red volcanic rock contrasts with the bright blue water in the crater lake—it’s an eye-catching sight. Travelers seem to find this stop especially worthwhile, with many appreciating the extra time to explore and snap photos. According to reviews, Kerid isn’t included in tours starting at 12:00 or later, so timing matters if you want to include it.

Geysir Area: Strokkur Geyser and Lunch

Next is the famous Strokkur Geyser, which erupts roughly every 7 to 10 minutes, shooting water up to 20 meters into the air. It’s a spectacle that feels like watching nature’s own fireworks. The tour often includes about 40 minutes here, giving you enough time for photos and to enjoy the bubbling geothermal area.

A common highlight is the lunch stop at Geysir itself, with about 40 minutes to grab a bite and relax. You can purchase food on-site, though bringing some snacks from Reykjavik might be a good idea if you prefer quick bites.

Gullfoss Waterfall

The Gullfoss Falls are a must-see. These massive, two-tiered waterfalls of the Hvítá River are breathtaking, especially when the sunlight hits the mist and rainbows form. The waterfall’s power and scale often leave visitors speechless, with many reviews emphasizing how impressive it is. The stop here lasts about 40 minutes, giving enough time to walk around and take in the views.

Þingvellir National Park

Next is the historic Þingvellir, where Iceland’s first parliament was founded in the late 900s and where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates visibly diverge. It’s an area combining natural beauty with cultural history. Reviewers appreciate the time allocated here, with some mentioning it’s an educational highlight. The park’s unique geology, with visible fissures and rifts, makes it a photographer’s paradise.

Wrapping Up: Return to Reykjavik

The tour ends with a scenic drive back to Reykjavik, usually lasting around 1 hour and 10 minutes, with a drop-off point close to the city center for convenience.

The Experience: What Travelers Say

Many reviewers highlight the expertise of guides as a standout feature. One traveler wrote, “This is a must-do if you come to Reykjavik! It was so informational and such a pleasant way to see and learn about Iceland’s history, nature, and culture.” Others appreciate the plenty of time at each stop, with one mentioning they got “extra time due to a minor mechanical issue,” which the company handled well.

The scenery consistently impresses—Gullfoss’s roaring falls and Strokkur’s eruptions are described as unforgettable. For those who enjoy photography, the stops offer numerous opportunities for stunning shots, especially Kerid Crater with its vibrant colors.

A recurring theme in reviews is the tour’s value for money. For around $77, travelers feel they receive a lot—visiting key sights with an informative guide and all entrance fees included. However, some mention that the bus can be quite large, which might detract a bit from the personal feel, especially if you prefer smaller groups.

Notable Praise for Guides and Organization

Multiple reviews rave about the friendly, knowledgeable guides. One reviewer even said they “learnt quite a lot about Iceland,” which shows how educational the experience is. The organization is also praised for being smooth, with pick-up and drop-off being hassle-free.

Drawbacks and Considerations

A few travelers noted the length of the day—8.5 hours can be tiring, especially if you’re not used to long bus trips. Also, since the tour is fairly full, some might find it less intimate, and the schedule can feel tight, limiting time at each stop. For those who prefer more leisurely visits, this might not be ideal.

Another point worth mentioning is that food and drinks are not included, so bringing snacks is recommended. Also, if you’re cruising in, you’ll need to provide your ship details ahead of time.

How Does This Tour Compare?

Compared to other Icelandic excursions, this day trip offers a well-organized, rundown of the Golden Circle route. It’s a popular choice for first-timers, offering a good balance of scenery, history, and geology, all with an experienced guide. Many reviews point out that it’s a convenient way to see the highlights without the hassle of planning individual visits.

If you’re interested in other tours, similar experiences include trips to the South Coast or the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, which often provide more off-the-beaten-path sights. But for a straightforward, reliable overview, this trip hits all the major points.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For a first visit to Iceland, this tour is a solid choice. The all-inclusive price combined with professional guides makes for a worry-free experience. You’re likely to come away with plenty of beautiful photos and a good understanding of Iceland’s volcanic landscape and history.

If you’re short on time or prefer guided tours over self-driving, this trip provides a good balance of convenience and insight. The stops are carefully selected and timed, ensuring you see the key attractions without feeling rushed.

However, if you’re after a more relaxed pace or want to explore less touristy spots, this might feel a bit formulaic. It’s best suited for those wanting a rundown with friendly, knowledgeable guides leading the way.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transportation is provided from Reykjavík, with pick-up included to make things easy.

How long is the total trip?
The entire experience lasts around 8 hours and 30 minutes, including travel time and stops.

Are all entrance fees covered?
Yes, all admission fees for Kerid Crater, Geysir, Gullfoss, and Þingvellir are included in the price.

Can I bring food and drinks?
Food and drinks are not included, but there are stops where you can purchase food or snacks.

What is the group size?
The tour can accommodate up to 65 travelers, which is fairly large but common for popular tours.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can participate if accompanied by an adult, though you’ll want to consider their patience for a full day of sightseeing.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent, and if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How do I cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the start for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refundable.

In the end, this tour offers a good snapshot of Iceland’s most iconic sights, especially if you want a guided, well-organized, and value-packed experience. Whether you’re discovering your first Iceland adventure or just want to tick off big-ticket sights efficiently, this trip could very well fit the bill.