Reykjavik: Golden Circle, Kerid, and Fridheimar Minibus Tour

Reykjavik: Golden Circle, Kerid, and Fridheimar Minibus Tour – A Practical Guide

Travelers dreaming of Iceland often picture the sweeping landscapes, roaring waterfalls, and volcanic craters that make this country so unique. For those who want to see as much of the Golden Circle as possible without the hassle of planning, this guided minibus tour from Reykjavik is a popular choice. With a stellar rating of 4.8 out of 5 from over 445 reviews, it’s clear many find it worth the price and effort, especially for the chance to explore some of Iceland’s most iconic sights in one day.

Two things we really appreciate about this tour are the knowledgeable guides and the variety of stops—from waterfalls to farms, it offers a well-rounded experience. A potential consideration is that at 9 hours long, it’s a full day, which might feel a bit packed for some. But overall, this tour is best suited for travelers who love natural beauty, want detailed insights, and prefer a structured, hassle-free day out.

Key Points
– All-inclusive price of $118 per person offers good value for a comprehensive experience.
– Includes admission to Kerið crater and a local tomato farm visit with tastings.
– Small group setting for more personal attention, with a friendly, knowledgeable guide.
– Long but varied itinerary that covers waterfalls, volcanic craters, and tectonic rift zones.
– Food and drink: Lunch isn’t included, so be prepared to purchase at the farm or bring snacks.
– Ideal for those who prefer guided tours over self-driving, especially if you want to learn as you go.

What the Tour Looks Like: A Full Breakdown

Let’s start with the core appeal: this is a guided tour of the Golden Circle, Iceland’s most famous sightseeing route. It loops from Reykjavik and covers roughly 300 km of Iceland’s dramatic landscapes. The tour is designed for visitors who want to see major highlights without the stress of navigating themselves. We’ll walk through each stop, what to expect, and why it matters.

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Convenient Pickup & Transport

The tour begins with pickups from 23 different locations across Reykjavik. These options include major hotels, bus stops, and even the cruise terminal, making it easy to find a pickup point close to your accommodation. Once onboard, you’ll be traveling in a comfortable minibus, which is a plus if you prefer a more intimate setting than large buses. Reviews suggest that the smaller vehicle allows for quick off-and-on stops and some unique detours, which larger buses might miss.

The journey itself is about 9 hours, including travel time and stops. The tour offers a balance of sightseeing and travel, with a guide providing commentary along the way. Many reviews highlight how comfortable and informative the transportation is, which helps make the long day feel more relaxed.

First Stop: Kerið Volcano Crater

The first major stop is the Kerið volcanic crater, which is quite a sight. Surrounded by red volcanic slopes, the crater lake boasts a glowing blue-green color that catches the eye. It’s a perfect photo op, and the admission fee to the crater is included in the tour price. We loved the way the guide explained how volcanic activity shaped this landscape—something that many reviews echo, noting that the guides make the geology come alive.

With about 25 minutes here, you have enough time to snap photos, take in the views, and get a sense of Iceland’s fiery past. Some travelers mention that it’s a relatively quick stop, but it’s definitely worth the visit.

Second Stop: Fridheimar Tomato Farm

Next up is the family-owned Friðheimar Farm, a highlight for many. Since 1995, this farm has specialized in growing tomatoes and cucumbers inside a greenhouse, using hydroponic techniques. The tour includes a guided walk around the greenhouse, where you can see the plants up close, plus the chance to meet Icelandic horses and watch a small horse show demonstrating their unique gaits.

Many reviews rave about the tomato tasting, often describing the fresh tomato soup and local products available for purchase. One reviewer called it “the best tomato soup” they’ve ever had. The atmosphere is cozy, and the guide’s storytelling about farming and horse life adds a personal touch. This stop is a great way to break up the day, and it’s especially nice for those who enjoy seeing local food production firsthand.

Third Stop: Geysir Geothermal Area

From the farm, it’s a short drive to the Geysir geothermal area, home to the famous Strokkur geyser, which erupts approximately every 5-10 minutes. Watching a geyser shoot boiling water into the air is always impressive, and you’ll have about 40 minutes here to walk around the bubbling hot springs and take photos. The guide typically provides explanations about geothermal activity, which makes the visit both fun and educational.

Reviews note that this stop is a classic for good reason, with many appreciating the chance to see a real-life geyser in action. The scenery here is otherworldly, with steaming vents and bubbling pools.

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Fourth Stop: Gullfoss Waterfall

Next comes Gullfoss, Iceland’s most famous waterfall, and for many, the highlight of the tour. With a powerful cascade crashing into a deep canyon, Gullfoss is a sight that sticks with you. The waterfall’s spray often creates rainbows on sunny days, making it a fantastic photo spot. The stop lasts about 45 minutes, offering a good window to walk closer to the falls and take in the scale.

Based on reviews, visitors find Gullfoss to be “absolutely breathtaking,” and many mention it as a key reason to join this tour. The guide’s commentary helps you appreciate the forces at work here, and the accessible viewing platforms make it easy to enjoy.

Fifth Stop: Thingvellir National Park

The trip wraps up at Thingvellir, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where tectonic plates are visibly pulling apart. This is a unique geological feature, and it’s also historically significant as the site of Iceland’s ancient parliament. We loved the rugged scenery and the fact that you can walk along the crack between the North American and Eurasian plates.

The stop lasts about 45 minutes, giving you time to stroll, take photos, and soak in the landscape. Several reviews emphasize how impressive it is to stand on a site where millions of years of plate tectonics are happening right beneath your feet.

The Food and Local Experience

A key part of the tour is the visit to Friðheimar, which offers a chance to taste fresh tomato products and see a thriving farm operation. Many reviewers describe the tomato soup as “delicious,” and the setting is surprisingly cozy given the greenhouse environment. There’s also the opportunity to meet Icelandic horses and enjoy a horse show, which adds a charming element to the day.

Lunch, however, is not included in the price, so you’ll need to buy your own meal at the farm or bring snacks for the day. This allows for flexibility but also means you might want to plan ahead if you prefer a sit-down meal at a specific time.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour caters well to travelers who prefer a structured, guided experience and want to see Iceland’s highlights without the stress of driving or planning each stop themselves. The small group setting makes it more personal, and the guide’s knowledge is a big plus—many reviews praise guides like Addi, Siggi, and Josip for their engaging storytelling.

It’s ideal for those who value comfort and efficiency, and for travelers who don’t mind a long day in exchange for a rundown of the Golden Circle. The inclusion of stops like the farm and horse meeting offers a nice touch of local culture, making it more than just sightseeing.

If you’re traveling with kids over 8, this could work well, but note that it’s not explicitly geared toward families with very young children. The pace and length might be a consideration for very little ones, but for older kids and teens, it’s a great way to see Iceland’s natural wonders.

Pricing and Value

At $118 per person, this tour provides a lot of value for the money. It covers transportation, admission fees to Kerið, and a farm visit with tastings—all included in the price. Several reviews mention how it’s a cost-effective way to see many highlights in one day, especially compared to booking separate excursions or self-driving.

The tour’s inclusion of a guide who provides commentary on geology, history, and culture enhances the experience, making it worth the price for many travelers. Plus, the convenience of pickup and drop-off from numerous locations takes away logistical stress.

Practical Tips

• Bring weather-appropriate clothing and waterproof shoes, as Iceland’s weather can change quickly.
• Prepare to purchase lunch at the farm or bring your own snacks, since food isn’t included.
• If you’re prone to motion sickness, be aware that the drive is long but mostly on well-maintained roads.
• Be ready for a fairly full day — plan your rest after, and allow for some flexibility if you want to linger longer at any stop.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a solid blend of natural beauty, local culture, and expert guidance. It’s particularly suited to travelers who want a comprehensive Golden Circle experience without the hassle of self-driving or organizing multiple stops. The reviews highlight friendly guides, breathtaking scenery, and good value, making it a top choice for many visiting Reykjavik.

While it’s a long day, most find the experience more than worth it — especially if you’re eager to tick off Iceland’s must-see sights in a relaxed, organized manner. Just remember to bring your camera, some snacks, and an open mind to enjoy the best of what Iceland’s golden landscapes have to offer.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the price covers bus fare in a comfortable minibus, and pickup is available from 23 different locations in Reykjavik.

How long is the tour?
The full experience lasts around 9 hours, including travel time and all stops.

What is included in the price?
Your fee includes the guided tour, bus fare, admission to Kerið crater, a tomato tasting at Friðheimar Farm, and meeting Icelandic horses.

Are meals included?
No, lunch isn’t included, so plan to buy at the farm or bring your own snacks.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 8, but older kids who enjoy outdoor scenery and short walks will likely find it engaging.

How big are the groups?
It’s a smaller group experience thanks to the minibus, which helps with personal attention and quick stops.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and booking allows you to reserve now and pay later.

What should I bring?
Weather-appropriate clothing, waterproof shoes, and some cash or card for food and souvenirs will make your day more comfortable.

If you’re looking for a straightforward, well-reviewed way to experience Iceland’s Golden Circle with insightful guides and a variety of stops, this tour might just be your best bet. It hits the highlights, offers a bit of Icelandic farm charm, and leaves most travelers feeling satisfied with their day.

You can check availability for your dates here: