Reykjavik: Golden Circle & Northern Lights Tour

Exploring Iceland’s Golden Circle and Northern Lights in One Day: An Honest Look

If you’re thinking about ticking off Iceland’s most iconic sights while also hoping to catch a glimpse of the elusive Northern Lights, this Reykjavik: Golden Circle & Northern Lights Tour might just be what you need. Designed as a full-day adventure, it packs in some of Iceland’s most famous natural landmarks, all while offering a cozy, small-group experience. The fact that it includes hassle-free transfers and on-board amenities like WiFi and hot drinks makes it particularly appealing for travelers who want ease and comfort.

What I really like about this tour is how it combines the spectacular scenery of the Golden Circle with the thrill of Northern Lights chasing—two bucket-list experiences rolled into one day. Plus, with a limit of just 7 people, it promises a more personalized experience, which often means better interaction and fewer crowds. On the downside, the long hours and changing weather conditions can be challenging if you’re sensitive to cold or tight schedules. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a flexible, well-organized itinerary and are eager to see multiple sights without feeling rushed.

If you’re someone who values convenience, appreciates scenic views, and is open to the unpredictability of nature, this tour could be a great fit. It’s especially good if you want a comprehensive day out without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. Now, let’s break down what you can expect on this memorable Icelandic journey.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: Combines Golden Circle sights with Northern Lights chasing in a single day.
• Comfort and convenience: Includes hotel pickup, drop-off, WiFi, hot drinks, and snacks.
• Small-group intimacy: Limited to just 7 participants for a more personal touch.
• Includes admission fees: No hidden costs for entry to attractions.
• Flexible and weather-dependent: Aurora viewing depends on weather conditions and may vary.
• Ideal for travelers who want a hassle-free, scenic adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Starting Point: The Ease of Pickup in Reykjavik

The tour kicks off with a complimentary pickup from your hotel in Reykjavík, which is a real plus. This means you don’t have to worry about transportation logistics early in the day, especially after a possibly late night or early morning flight. The van used for the trip can comfortably seat up to seven people, maintaining a cozy vibe that’s often lost in larger tour groups. The driver/guide, who is licensed and professional, sets a friendly tone, sharing insights about each stop.

The Golden Circle Highlights

The core of the day revolves around ticking off six must-see attractions:

• Thingvellir National Park: This UNESCO World Heritage site is fascinating not just for its natural beauty but also because it sits on the boundary of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. We loved the way the guide explained the geology and history here, making it more than just a scenic stop.

• Kerid Volcano Crater: Visiting this volcanic crater, with its vivid red slopes and turquoise lake, feels like stepping into another world. It’s a relatively quick stop—about 40 minutes—but gives plenty of time to walk around and snap photos.

• Fridheimar Tomato Farm: This is a fun and unique visit. The farm’s greenhouse is powered by geothermal energy, and they grow tomatoes year-round. You’ll get a chance to see their operation and maybe enjoy a quick snack or coffee with fresh tomatoes—a nice break from the busier sightseeing stops.

• Geysir Geothermal Area: Here, the famous Geysir and Strokkur erupt regularly, shooting water high into the air. It’s a crowd-pleaser, but worth it because these eruptions are truly captivating and photo-worthy.

• Gullfoss Waterfall: A true highlight, this powerful waterfall offers stunning views from multiple angles. We appreciated the 45-minute visit, enough to soak in the sight without feeling rushed.

• Additional Stops: Depending on the weather and timing, the guide might adjust the schedule a bit, but the key sights are always on the list.

The Unique Visit to Fridheimar and Kerid

Both stops add a flavor of Iceland’s geothermal and volcanic landscape. The Kerid crater is striking with its colorful slopes and serene lake, perfect for photos and a quick walk. Meanwhile, the Fridheimar Tomato Farm gives a behind-the-scenes look at sustainable farming in Iceland, powered by geothermal heat—an interesting contrast to the icy landscape.

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Comfortable Transport and Onboard Amenities

Throughout the day, you’ll enjoy WiFi, hot tea, bottled water, and snacks on the van—making the experience more relaxed and personal. The short drive times between stops help keep the energy up without long, exhausting stretches.

The Northern Lights Experience

After the sightseeing, the tour transitions to chasing the Northern Lights. This part depends heavily on weather conditions and aurora activity, so patience and flexibility are key. The guide emphasizes that they don’t control nature and may visit different locations based on cloud cover or aurora forecast.

While some travelers have noted that the aurora can be elusive or only visible on camera, many appreciate the effort and the chance to see this natural wonder. The tour is designed to maximize your odds, but it’s not a guaranteed show. Still, the excitement of waiting under Iceland’s vast night sky can be magical, especially with small groups and an experienced guide.

What We Think About the Price and Overall Value

At around $230 per person, this tour offers a lot for the price. You’re getting admission to key attractions, transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and onboard amenities—all of which significantly reduce the stress of independent travel. For those wanting an efficient, guided day covering Iceland’s top sights without the hassle of organizing transport or entrance fees, it’s a good deal.

However, keep in mind that food isn’t included, so you might want to pack a snack or plan for a meal at the tomato farm or elsewhere. Also, since the Northern Lights are weather-dependent, some nights you might not see them, but the tour’s flexibility helps make the most of your chances.

The Itinerary in Detail

The day begins with a timely pickup and a roughly 40-minute drive to Thingvellir. This site is where the tectonic plates meet, creating dramatic rifts and fissures in the earth’s crust. The guide’s commentary makes this stop engaging, especially if you’re into geology or history.

Next, you head to Kerid Crater, a volcanic caldera with vibrant red slopes and a tranquil lake—a spot that’s often an Instagram favorite, but also offers serene views that feel untouched. It’s a quick 40-minute visit, perfect for snapping photos and stretching your legs.

The visit to Fridheimar Tomato Farm is a highlight for many. You get about 45 minutes here to learn about geothermal-powered agriculture and enjoy fresh tomato products. It’s a delightful break and a taste of Iceland’s innovative spirit.

The Geysir geothermal area is next, with Strokkur erupting every 5–10 minutes, providing ample photo opportunities. We loved how close and accessible this site is, making it both fun and practical to visit.

Gullfoss Waterfall is a grand finale to the sightseeing, with plenty of vantage points to appreciate its raw power. The 45-minute stop lets you stand close enough to feel the spray and hear the roaring water.

The return trip to Reykjavík takes about 80 minutes, giving you a chance to relax after a busy day. Then, the Northern Lights chase begins, with the guide monitoring conditions and adjusting accordingly.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re after a comprehensive, hassle-free day that hits all the major Golden Circle highlights, this tour delivers. The small-group setting ensures a more intimate experience, and the added bonus of Northern Lights chasing makes it a well-rounded Iceland adventure. The onboard amenities and included admission fees add value, especially for those who prefer convenience.

That said, the Northern Lights are unpredictable, and the long day might be tiring for some. But if you’re flexible and eager to see Iceland’s top sights along with the hope of a aurora display, this tour offers a good balance of comfort and adventure.

It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a guided experience but still prefer a more personal touch, without the crowds that larger bus tours often bring. Keep in mind, it’s best if you’re prepared for possibly cold weather and variable aurora conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is included in the tour price?
  Admission fees for attractions are included, along with transportation, a professional guide, WiFi, hot drinks, snacks, and hotel pickup/drop-off.

• How long is the tour?
  The entire trip, including transportation and sightseeing, lasts about 10 hours.

• What should I bring?
  Warm clothing is essential, especially for evening aurora watching. Pack a camera, and perhaps a snack if you want extra energy.

• Can I expect to see the Northern Lights?
  The guide will do their best to find clear skies, but aurora visibility depends on weather and solar activity. Some nights may be more successful than others.

• Is this tour suitable for families?
  The tour is primarily focused on adult travelers, but older teens could enjoy it too. It’s a full day of sightseeing and waiting outdoors, so consider your family’s comfort with that.

• Are the stops brief or long?
  Stops range from about 20 to 45 minutes, enough for sightseeing and photos without feeling rushed.

• What happens if the weather is bad?
  The Northern Lights tour is flexible and depends on conditions. The guide might visit different locations or postpone the aurora hunt if skies are cloudy.

• Is food included?
  No, meals are not included, but there are opportunities to buy food at stops like Fridheimar.

• How big is the group?
  Limited to 7 participants, ensuring a more personal experience.

• Can I cancel if my plans change?
  Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This tour offers a well-rounded way to experience Iceland’s top sights and the excitement of the Northern Lights without the stress of self-organizing everything. It’s especially appealing if you prefer small-group travel, value comfort, and are willing to be flexible with nature’s unpredictable show.

You can check availability for your dates here: