Reykjanes Peninsula – Private Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Iceland and want a taste of its volcanic side without the crowds, this private tour of the Reykjanes Peninsula might be just the ticket. It’s a carefully curated experience designed for small groups—up to four people—which means you’ll get a more personalized view of this often-overlooked region. The tour takes around five hours, giving you a solid overview of some of the most interesting sights, all while being driven in a comfy Land Rover Discovery.

What we really like about this experience is how it balances sightseeing with comfort and flexibility. You get to see geothermal landscapes and the Viking Museum without feeling rushed, and the private setting means your guide can tailor the stops based on your interests. Plus, if you’re into volcanic activity or Icelandic culture, this tour packs in a lot in a short time. The only thing to consider is the price—at $1,373 for a group of four, it’s an investment, but one that offers exclusive access and a high level of comfort.

This tour is perfect if you’re looking for a personalized, relaxed day exploring Iceland’s volcanic side. It’s especially suited for those who prefer a small, intimate group and want the option to customize their stops. It’s ideal for travelers who value comfort, prefer private tours over large group excursions, and want to dive into Iceland’s geothermal and cultural highlights without the hassle of self-driving.

Key Points

• Private experience: Up to 4 people in a comfortable Land Rover Discovery, offering flexibility and personalized attention.
• Geothermal landscapes: Visit the Seltún and Gunnuhver areas, with bubbling mudpots and hot springs, perfect for unique photo ops.
• Cultural and historical stops: See the Icelandic president’s residence at Bessastaðir and explore the Viking World Museum.
• Beautiful coastline: Stop at the Reykjanesviti lighthouse and visit small fishing villages along the coast.
• Cost and value: Higher price point, but includes private transportation and a tailored itinerary.
• Family-friendly considerations: Not suitable for children under 6, so plan accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Reykjanes Peninsula: What to Expect

This private tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of Iceland’s volcanic and cultural landscape, focusing on highlights that are both visually striking and historically significant. Since it’s a private experience, it’s a great way to tailor your day—your guide can adjust the itinerary slightly depending on your preferences or current conditions.

Transportation & Comfort

Traveling in a Land Rover Discovery SDV6 SE means you’re in a vehicle that’s both spacious and capable of handling rough terrain comfortably. The high ground clearance and four-wheel drive are especially useful for navigating rocky paths and uneven surfaces you might encounter at geothermal sites. Leather seats and darkened windows ensure a comfortable and private ride, and the tall seating position gives a better overview of the scenery outside.

Itinerary Breakdown

Pickup in Reykjavik

Your day begins with pickup from your Reykjavik accommodation. The timing varies, so you can check availability to find a start time that suits your plans. The convenience of pickup means you won’t have to worry about navigating or parking—your guide takes care of all that.

Bessastaðir – The Presidential Residence

The first stop is Bessastaðir, the official residence of the President of Iceland. While you’ll only be able to view it from outside, it offers a glimpse into Iceland’s political history. It’s a peaceful spot with a small, historic church nearby, which adds a touch of local charm to your morning.

Seltún Geothermal Area

Next, you’ll visit the Seltún Geothermal Area, one of the most colorful and active geothermal sites on the peninsula. Here, you’ll see steaming hot springs, bubbling mudpots, and vibrant mineral deposits that paint the landscape in shades of yellow, red, and orange. The terrain is quite otherworldly, and we loved the way the geothermal activity creates a dynamic, constantly changing environment.

Reviews praise Seltún for its interesting volcanic activity and the opportunity to walk along boardwalks that keep you safely close to the geothermal features. It’s a photographer’s dream, with plenty of opportunities to snap the landscape’s surreal colors.

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Gunnuhver Geothermal Area

You’ll then make your way to Gunnuhver, another geothermal hotspot famous for its boiling mud and steam vents. The area is named after a legendary Icelandic ghost, adding a bit of local folklore to your visit. The landscape is wild and powerful, with steam rising from cracks in the earth. It’s a reminder of how active Iceland’s volcanic system truly is.

Reykjanesviti Lighthouse

The tour continues along the coast to Reykjanesviti, the oldest lighthouse in Iceland, dating back to 1908. Standing here, you’ll enjoy dramatic views of the rugged coastline and the Atlantic Ocean. The lighthouse itself is a symbol of Iceland’s maritime history, and the surroundings are perfect for some memorable photos.

Viking World Museum

The final stop is the Viking World Museum in Njardvik. For a small entry fee, a visit offers insight into Viking history and Norse culture. The star exhibit is a full-scale replica of a Viking ship, which has received strong praise from visitors. It’s a good way to bring some historical context into your day, especially if Viking mythology and history fascinate you.

Return to Reykjavik

After the museum, you’ll be taken back to your starting point, ending a day filled with natural wonders and cultural highlights. The entire experience generally lasts around five hours, making it accessible without feeling like a grind.

The Experience: What Our Readers Say

Many reviewers have expressed that the personalized nature of this tour adds a lot to the experience. One noted, “The guide tailored the day to our interests, and we loved the relaxed pace.” Others appreciated the fact that the tour isn’t rushed, giving them enough time to enjoy each site and take plenty of photos.

Some comments highlight the quality of the vehicle, with one mentioning, “Traveling in the Land Rover Discovery was comfortable, and it felt great to be able to see so much without worrying about road conditions.” It seems the vehicle’s capability to handle rocky terrain and the private nature of the tour elevate the experience above typical group excursions.

However, a few reviews pointed out that the Viking Museum’s entry fee is an extra cost, which travelers should keep in mind when budgeting. Also, since the tour doesn’t include a stop at Grindavík due to civil protection warnings, some might find this a slight disappointment if they expected that village’s charm.

Price & Value

At $1,373 for up to four people, this tour isn’t the cheapest Iceland experience, but it offers a high level of comfort and exclusivity. When you factor in private transportation, a flexible itinerary, and the opportunity to customize your day, many travelers see it as a worthwhile splurge.

This experience is especially valuable for those who prefer a laid-back, personalized approach or are traveling with a small group and want to maximize their time without the hassle of large bus tours.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who loves discovering Iceland’s volcanic and cultural side without the crowds, this private tour could be a perfect fit. It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate comfort, personalized attention, and a flexible schedule. Because it’s not suitable for children under 6, those with very young kids might want to look for different options.

If you’re eager to see geothermal activity, learn about Iceland’s history, and enjoy a scenic drive along the coast, this tour ticks all those boxes in a relaxed, intimate setting.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour isn’t suitable for children under 6, so plan accordingly if you’re traveling with young kids.

What is included in the price?
All natural sites such as geothermal parks and the Viking Museum are free, but admission to the Viking Museum is an extra cost.

Can I customize the stops?
Since it’s a private tour, the itinerary is flexible and can be tailored slightly depending on your interests and current conditions.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately five hours, with starting times available based on your schedule.

What vehicle is used for transportation?
Travel in a Land Rover Discovery SDV6 SE, which is comfortable, capable of rocky terrain, and offers plenty of space for four adults.

Is pick-up included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your desired location within Reykjavik. Please be ready outside your accommodation 15 minutes before your scheduled pickup.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you peace of mind if your plans change.

Final Thoughts

For those looking to explore Iceland’s volcanic and geothermal highlights in a relaxed, private setting, this tour offers a compelling package. The combination of scenic stops, cultural insights, and the comfort of a private vehicle makes it a good choice for travelers who prioritize quality and personalization over budget.

It’s especially suited for small groups or couples who want a more tailored experience, without the rush of larger tours. While the cost may seem high at first glance, the exclusivity and ease of the trip can make it feel like a worthwhile investment for a memorable Icelandic adventure.

If you’re curious about the volcanic landscapes and want a comfortable, flexible way to see Iceland’s lesser-known sites, this could be a great addition to your itinerary. Just remember, if you’re traveling with small children or on a tight budget, there are other options that might better suit your needs.

Happy travels, and I hope you get to see the fiery beauty of Reykjanes. It’s a landscape that truly feels like stepping onto another planet—and a perfect way to experience Iceland’s volcanic personality in style.

You can check availability for your dates here: