Reykjavik: Golden Circle, Kerid Crater and Sky Lagoon Tour

Planning a trip to Iceland and looking for a way to see some of the country’s most iconic sights in one day? This Golden Circle tour from Reykjavik, combined with a visit to the Sky Lagoon, might just be the adventure you’re after. While I haven’t experienced it myself, I’ve read through countless reviews and details to give you a thorough sense of what to expect.

What really caught my eye are the expert-guided insights that seem to make the trip both educational and enjoyable, and the way it ends with a luxurious geothermal spa experience. That said, it’s a full day, so be prepared for a long, but rewarding, excursion. A small caveat is that the tour operates in all weather conditions—so packing warm, waterproof gear is a must. If you’re someone who loves seeing diverse landscapes, learning about Iceland’s geology, and unwinding in hot springs, this could be a great fit.

This tour’s perfect for travelers who want an efficient, well-rounded day—covering natural wonders and relaxing in style—without the hassle of planning every detail. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate guided insights, want to see Þingvellir National Park, Geysir, and Gullfoss, and enjoy ending their day with a soothing soak.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience combining sightseeing and relaxation
• Expert guided tour with knowledgeable commentary
• Good value for a full day of iconic sights and spa time
• Comfortable transportation with Wi-Fi and USB chargers
• Flexible options for Sky Lagoon access with different amenities
• Weather-ready gear recommended due to Iceland’s unpredictable climate

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Tour Experience

This 11-hour guided trip from Reykjavik promises a comprehensive look at some of Iceland’s most famous natural attractions. From geysers to waterfalls, volcanic craters to geothermal spas, this is a well-paced tour that aims to maximize your sightseeing while leaving plenty of room for relaxation at the end.

The Journey Begins: Þingvellir National Park

Your day starts with a short drive from Reykjavik (pick-up is from a convenient location, with some variability). Our virtual reviewers love the guides’ knowledge—one said, “Lory was a great and nice guide and knew a lot despite only living here about 10 years.” That kind of local insight really enhances the experience.

Þingvellir is not just a pretty landscape; it’s a site of immense geological and historical significance. You’ll walk between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, which is a surreal experience. The rift valley is a natural marvel, and standing between two continents is both literal and figurative. The site of Iceland’s historic Viking parliament adds a layer of cultural importance that makes it more than just a scenic stop.

Geysir and Strokkur: Power of Nature

Next up is the geothermal area at Haukadalur, home to Geysir and Strokkur. Reviews describe this as a thrilling experience—watching Strokkur erupt every few minutes and feeling the raw force of boiling water shooting high into the air. It’s a reminder of Iceland’s volcanic activity and natural strength.

Many visitors have noted how impressive and dynamic this site is. One reviewer mentioned feeling the “raw power of nature rumbling under your feet”, which captures the energy of this place. The geysers are a must-see, especially if you’re into geology or just love witnessing nature’s spectacles.

Gullfoss: The Majestic Waterfall

A short drive inland brings you to Gullfoss, a two-tiered waterfall that tumbles into a deep canyon. The sight of the water crashing down is truly spectacular. On sunny days, you might even catch a rainbow—something many reviewers highlight as a perfect photo opportunity.

The viewing platforms give you multiple angles to appreciate its power and beauty. Several travelers mentioned that they had “enough time” at each stop, which means you can really soak it in without feeling rushed. The waterfall feels especially magical, thanks to the meltwater from Iceland’s glaciers.

More Great Tours Nearby

Kerið Crater: The Colorful Volcanic Wonder

Before heading back, your tour includes a visit to Kerið, a 3,000-year-old volcanic crater with a striking red rock face and a vivid blue lake at the bottom. Many reviews rave about the visual impact—the colors are unlike anything else in Iceland. One reviewer noted that “Kerið is very memorable,” which sums up how distinctive this site is.

You’ll have time to walk around the rim, take photos, and marvel at nature’s vibrant palette. It’s a perfect way to round out the sightseeing before your relaxing finale.

Ending with Relaxation: Sky Lagoon

The day concludes at Sky Lagoon, one of Iceland’s newest geothermal spas. This is where the tour really earns extra points. Visitors say the “warm pool in the sun, with ocean views and a drink in hand,” is an ideal way to wind down.

You can choose between two options: the Pure Pass, which includes the public changing facilities and the signature 7-step ritual, or the Sky Pass, offering a private changing room, signature lotion, and a more exclusive experience. Either way, you’ll enjoy a long, heated infinity pool with views of the Atlantic, plus access to saunas and relaxation areas.

Many reviewers describe the Sky Lagoon as “divine,” perfect for easing tired muscles after a full day of sightseeing. One reviewer even mentioned that “entering the plunge pool before sauna is a must” to feel the full effect of the experience. It’s clear that ending your day here is a highlight for most.

The Practical Side: Transportation, Timing, and Comfort

The tour is operated by Nicetravel, with professional guides and modern minibuses equipped with Wi-Fi and USB chargers. The pick-up window is from 8:30 to 9:00 am, so you’ll want to be ready early. The entire day runs until around 7 pm, with a window of time allocated for the Sky Lagoon visit.

One frequent praise from travelers is how well-organized and relaxed the day feels. There’s enough time at each stop to explore, without feeling rushed. Plus, the tour includes entry tickets—to Kerið and the Sky Lagoon—so you don’t have to worry about extra costs.

What to Bring

Since Iceland can be unpredictable weather-wise, packing warm, windproof, and waterproof clothing is essential. Good hiking boots are recommended if you want to explore the sites comfortably. Remember to bring your own swimsuit for the Sky Lagoon, unless you opt for the package that includes towel and lotion.

The Value for Money

At $226 per person, this tour offers quite a lot—multiple top-tier sights, expert guiding, transport, and spa access. Many reviews highlight the value for money, especially considering the quality of the guides and the seamless experience. Several travelers mention that they appreciated the extra stops and the flexibility built into the schedule.

Authentic Voices: What Travelers Are Saying

Reading reviews gives a clearer picture of what you might expect. Many guests praise the guides’ knowledge and friendliness. One said, “The guide was extremely knowledgeable and informative about the history and geology of Iceland,” emphasizing how much learning is integrated into the trip.

Others appreciated the timing and logistics—“Everyone was on time and we had enough time at each stop”—which is crucial for a long day like this. The Sky Lagoon at the end is often described as “an incredible, luxurious experience,” with many saying it’s the perfect way to relax after a busy day of sightseeing.

A common theme among reviewers is how balanced the tour is—covering the major landmarks but also allowing for personal exploration. The extra stops some guides make (like Icelandic horses or local farms) receive praise for adding a special touch to the day.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re looking for a well-organized, informative Iceland experience that combines iconic landscapes with the chance to relax in a geothermal spa, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suitable for travelers who want to see a diverse range of sights without the hassle of self-driving or planning every detail.

The guided approach makes it accessible, and the inclusion of transport, entry tickets, and spa access provides excellent value. If you’re okay with a long day on the road and the possibility of Iceland’s unpredictable weather, it’s a reliable choice.

This tour is great for those who enjoy learning about geology and history through expert commentary, appreciate comfortable transportation, and want an end-of-day treat in the Sky Lagoon. It’s also ideal if visiting the Golden Circle is a priority on your Iceland itinerary.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transportation in a modern minibus with Wi-Fi and USB chargers is included. Pickup is from a designated location within Reykjavik.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 11 hours, starting around 8:30-9:00 am and returning around 7:20 pm.

Do I need to bring my own swimsuit?
Yes, you should bring your own swimsuit unless you opt for a package that includes towel rental and other amenities.

Is the Sky Lagoon visit included in the price?
Yes, admission to the Sky Lagoon is included, with options for different access levels like the Pure Pass or Sky Pass offering various amenities.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly and waterproof—layers, windproof jackets, and good hiking boots are recommended because the weather can change quickly.

Can I customize the experience?
The tour offers options for different entry packages at Sky Lagoon, but the day’s itinerary and stops are fixed.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour operates in all weather conditions. Be prepared with appropriate clothing, and know that the views and experience might change slightly depending on the weather but will still be memorable.

If you want a comprehensive day of Icelandic highlights ending with a luxurious soak, this tour offers a solid balance of natural beauty and relaxation. It’s perfect for travelers who value guidance, comfort, and a worry-free experience in one of the world’s most striking landscapes.

You can check availability for your dates here: