Reykjavík: Golden Circle & Extra Waterfalls Small Group Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Iceland and want to cover some of the most beautiful and iconic sights — without feeling rushed or lost in a big crowd — this small-group Golden Circle & Waterfalls tour could be a great choice. It promises approximately 11 hours of exploring some of Iceland’s best-known highlights with a local guide who’s keen to share stories and insights along the way.

What immediately caught our attention is how many travelers rave about the knowledgeable guides and the stunning scenery they experience. The fact that the tour operates with a smaller group—using a minivan instead of a large bus—means you get a more relaxed, personalized feel. On the flip side, the full itinerary means a long day, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a full schedule and some walking.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour runs in all weather conditions, so packing appropriately is essential. If you’re after a straightforward, well-organized day with some of Iceland’s top sights, this trip packs a lot into one day — making it a practical choice for travelers with limited time.

This tour is especially appealing if you appreciate a more intimate experience, want expert commentary from friendly guides, and love to see waterfalls, geysers, and volcanic landscapes up close.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Smaller group size means more space and better interaction with your guide.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: Includes iconic waterfalls, Geysir, Þingvellir, and a volcanic crater.
• Expert Guides: Highly praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and helpfulness.
• Stunning Scenery: Expect breathtaking waterfalls, geysers erupting every few minutes, and volcanic landscapes.
• Long but Rewarding Day: About 11 hours of sightseeing, so dress for the weather and bring water.
• Good for Those Who Value Comfort: Transportation is in a minivan, making it more comfortable than a large bus.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

This tour packs a lot into a single day — seven stops, scenic drives, and plenty of opportunities for photos. We’ll walk through each major stop, highlighting what makes it special and what you might expect.

Starting with Skógafoss: The Power of Water

The tour kicks off at Skógafoss, one of Iceland’s most dramatic waterfalls. Standing before this massive cascade, you’ll understand why it’s such a favorite among travelers. We loved the way the thick wall of water crashes down with such force — it’s just as intense in person as in photos.

People often spend about 30 minutes here, taking in the views, snapping pics, or even climbing the staircase for a different perspective. The reviews highlight that this stop feels like a genuine highlight, not just a quick photo op.

Walking Behind Seljalandsfoss: A Waterfall with a Twist

Next, you’ll visit Seljalandsfoss, famous for the path that runs behind it. Walking behind the waterfall feels almost surreal, especially with the spray cooling your face. Just a heads-up: bringing a rain jacket is wise, as you will get splashed.

This stop also typically lasts about 30 minutes, giving you time to enjoy the spectacle, take photos, and experience the unique perspective behind the falls. Travelers have raved about this stop, with one noting that it’s an unforgettable experience even if you’re used to seeing waterfalls.

Into the Golden Circle: Geysir, Gullfoss & Þingvellir

After the waterfalls, it’s into the Golden Circle itself. The first major stop here is Geysir, where the famous Strokkur geyser erupts every few minutes, shooting water high into the air. Watching this natural fountain in action is fascinating, and it’s a perfect photo opportunity.

Next up is Gullfoss, the “Golden Waterfall,” often described as one of Iceland’s most breathtaking sights. One review mentioned how spectacular the views are, and how the size and power of the falls really make an impression.

Then, it’s a visit to Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a place of great historical and geological significance. Walking through this park, you’ll get a sense of the rift valley and the birthplace of Iceland’s first parliament, offering both scenic beauty and a touch of history.

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The Colorful Kerið Crater

A quick stop at Kerið, a volcanic crater filled with a teal-blue lake, offers a different kind of landscape. The red slopes of the crater make for striking photos. Expect about 20 minutes here, enough to walk around, snap some shots, and appreciate this volcanic feature.

Faxafoss: The Lesser-Known Gem

One of the highlights for many travelers is Faxafoss, a waterfall that’s sometimes overlooked but no less impressive. The reviews mention enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and scenic views here, often for around 20 minutes.

Wrap-up and Return

After a full day of sightseeing, the group heads back to Reykjavík with scenic drives and the chance to reflect on the day’s stunning sights. Drop-off is available at 25 different locations, which offers flexibility and convenience.

Why This Tour Works Well

We found that the quality of the guides is something many travelers rave about. One reviewer called Evo “knowledgeable, fun, and a great driver,” emphasizing how he went out of his way to make sure everyone enjoyed the trip. The small-group format allows for a more relaxed and engaging experience — you can ask questions, take your time at each stop, and feel less like just another face in the crowd.

The scenery on this tour is genuinely breathtaking. The waterfalls, geysers, and volcanic landscapes make it easy to see why Iceland is called the land of fire and ice. The stops at Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, in particular, stand out as unforgettable highlights.

Regarding value, the tour covers a lot of ground in one day, which is ideal if your time is limited. While it is a full day, the price seems justified given the number of iconic sites visited and the small-group personal touch.

Practical Tips

• Dress in layers and bring rain gear, since the weather can be unpredictable and wet.
• Wear comfortable shoes for walking and exploring each site.
• Bring a camera and water — staying hydrated and capturing memories is key.
• If you’re a slow walker or traveling with seniors, the reviews suggest the guide is accommodating, making sure everyone can enjoy each stop at their own pace.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect if you love small, intimate tours, want to learn from friendly guides, and are eager to see Iceland’s waterfalls, geysers, and volcanic landscapes in one day. It suits travelers who appreciate stunning scenery, don’t mind a full schedule, and want a more personal touch compared to larger bus tours.

It’s also well-suited for those who enjoy being outdoors and don’t mind some walking, with enough flexibility for photo breaks and short walks.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It runs approximately 11 hours, including scenic drives and stops at each site.

What is included in the tour?
It covers visits to Skógafoss, Seljalandsfoss, Geysir, Gullfoss, Þingvellir, Kerið crater, and Faxafoss, along with scenic drives in between.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, rain gear, a sun hat or hat, water, and your camera.

Is the tour suitable in bad weather?
Yes, the tour operates in all weather conditions, so dress appropriately for rain or cold.

How many people are in the group?
It’s a small-group tour, which typically means fewer people than large bus tours, though exact group size isn’t specified.

Can I customize the stops or itinerary?
The itinerary is set, but guides are known to share local stories and insights, making the experience more personalized.

Is the tour accessible for those with mobility issues?
The description mentions wheelchair accessibility, but it’s best to confirm with the provider if you have specific needs.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to make the most of a single day in Iceland, this small-group Golden Circle tour balances stunning scenery, expert guidance, and a relaxed pace. It’s especially appealing for travelers who prefer a more intimate experience and want to hear stories behind each site from friendly guides.

While it’s a long day, the comfort of the minivan, the variety of stops, and the chance to see some of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls and geothermal wonders make it worthwhile. Just remember to come prepared for weather, and you’ll leave with plenty of memories and photos to show for it.

This tour is a solid pick for those who want quality over quantity, and who value good storytelling along with jaw-dropping views. Whether it’s your first trip to Iceland or a return visit, it’s a day that’s likely to leave you with a handful of favorite moments.

You can check availability for your dates here: