Small Group Golden Circle Tour w/ Kerid & Tomato Farm Visit

If you’re planning a trip to Iceland and want to see the iconic sights without the hassle of a large bus tour, this small-group Golden Circle experience might be just what you’re after. It’s a carefully curated day with a handful of stops that showcase the country’s geological wonders and innovative farming practices. We’ve looked into it from the perspective of someone who loves honest, practical insights, and here’s what you need to know.

What caught our eye are the personalized vibe of a small group and the chance to explore both natural and culinary Iceland in one day. Plus, the inclusion of a visit to Kerid Crater adds a splash of volcanic color to the itinerary. On the flip side, some travelers note that the tour can be a bit rushed or that the Tomato Farm visit might not always happen**, which is worth keeping in mind.

This tour is best suited for curious travelers who want a balanced mix of sightseeing, learning, and a touch of local farming innovation. If you’re looking for a more intimate, less crowded experience and are okay with a full day on the move, this could be a good fit.

Key Points

• Small-group setting enhances the experience with more personal attention
• Balanced itinerary with natural wonders, geothermal activity, and a unique farm visit
• Comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned minivan makes the day easier
• Good value for the price at $115, considering entrance fees and the guide’s knowledge
• Weather can be unpredictable, so dressing warmly and in layers is essential
• Some reviews mention the farm visit might be skipped, so be flexible

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from This Tour

This full-day adventure starts with pickup from your Reykjavik hotel, giving you a relaxing start and ensuring you’re in a smaller group where the guide can give more tailored information. The journey covers some of Iceland’s most famous sights in the Golden Circle route, packed into roughly 8 hours.

The Schedule and Stops

Þingvellir National Park

Your day kicks off at Þingvellir, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a geological marvel. It’s the place where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet, making it incredibly special to stand between two continents. Here, you’ll get to walk along cracks in the earth’s crust, see the historic site of Iceland’s parliament, and learn about its significance. The guide’s insights make this stop even more meaningful, highlighting the importance of this site in Icelandic history and geology.

Geysir Geothermal Area

Next, you head to Geysir, home to the famous Strokkur geyser which erupts every few minutes, shooting boiling water up to 30 meters in the air. Watching this natural spectacle is almost hypnotic, and it’s a highlight for most visitors. You’ll also see bubbling springs and other geothermal features, which tell the story of Iceland’s volcanic activity.

Gullfoss Waterfall

From there, you go to Gullfoss, sometimes called the “Golden Falls,” where the Hvítá river drops in a dramatic two-tier cascade. Walking along the viewing paths, you get different perspectives of the waterfall, often surrounded by mist and rainbows, making for some stunning photos. The reviews praise the views here, emphasizing how powerful and scenic Gullfoss is.

Fridheimar Tomato Farm

One of the more unique parts of this tour is the visit to Fridheimar, a greenhouse where tomatoes are grown sustainably inside a geothermal-heated environment. You won’t be touring the farm extensively, but you’ll get a good look at how Icelandic farmers are innovating to grow food in a challenging climate. Keep in mind, some reviews mention that the farm visit might be just a quick stop or even skipped depending on the day, so don’t expect a full tour or tasting.

Kerid Crater

Finally, you arrive at Kerid, a volcanic crater lake with strikingly vivid red and orange slopes surrounding the serene water. You’ll walk along the rim for panoramic views, and if you’re feeling up for it, descend into the crater for a closer look at the colorful rocks and the water’s stillness. This site offers some of the best photo opportunities of the day.

The Practicalities

Transportation and Group Size

Travel is in a comfortable, air-conditioned minivan, which makes a big difference compared to large bus tours. The smaller group size means more flexibility and a more personalized experience. Based on reviews, most travelers found it easy to load up and locate the meeting point, especially if you’re staying centrally in Reykjavik.

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Duration and Pacing

The full-day trip lasts about 8 hours, which means some stops are quick, but that’s enough time to explore each site without feeling overly rushed. Keep in mind, though, that the day involves a fair amount of walking and outdoor exposure, so comfortable shoes and layered clothing are key.

Cost and Value

At $115 per person, this tour offers good value — it includes entrance fees to the sites, the guide’s expertise, and the farm visit. Considering the cost of individual tickets and transportation, it’s a reasonable deal for those wanting a well-organized, guided experience. However, be aware that lunch isn’t included, so you’ll want to bring snacks or plan to buy food during the day.

Weather Considerations

Icelandic weather can be unpredictable, and the reviews echo this, advising to dress warmly and in layers. The wind, rain, or chilly temperatures won’t deter the sights but can make the experience more comfortable if you’re prepared.

Authentic Traveler Insights

One reviewer shared, “Our guide Anya was really informative and nice. It was worth every cent,” highlighting how a knowledgeable guide can really enrich the day. Others appreciated the well-planned stops and the less crowded atmosphere of a small group.

However, not all reviews are perfect. One traveler mentioned that the Tomato Farm visit didn’t happen during their tour, which shows that some parts of the itinerary might be unpredictable or subject to change. It’s good to stay flexible and have expectations that can shift slightly.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers wanting a personal touch in their Iceland adventure, especially those who prefer small-group settings over large buses. It suits nature lovers, geology enthusiasts, and foodies curious about local farming practices. It’s also good if you’re looking for a balanced day of sightseeing and education without overextending your schedule.

It’s less suitable for travelers with mobility issues due to some walking, or those who need a more leisurely pace. Also, if you’re keen to spend lots of time at each site, be aware that the itinerary moves at a brisk pace.

Final Thoughts

This small-group Golden Circle tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of Iceland’s natural beauty and innovative farming. The personalized atmosphere, combined with stunning views and an informative guide, makes it a solid choice for those wanting to maximize their day without the crowds. The inclusion of the Kerid Crater and Tomato Farm adds special touches that differentiate it from standard group tours.

While some parts of the itinerary, like the farm visit, might vary in execution, the overall experience tends to deliver good value. It’s a practical, engaging way to see key sights and get a taste of Iceland’s diverse landscape and ingenuity.

If you’re after a well-organized, small-group adventure that balances natural wonders with a bit of local flavor, this tour is worth considering.

FAQs

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch isn’t included. You should plan to bring snacks or buy food during the day at your own convenience.

Does the tour pick me up from my hotel?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making it easy to start and end the day comfortably.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly and in layers, as Iceland weather can change quickly. Comfortable walking shoes are also recommended due to some moderate walking.

How long is the tour?
The full experience lasts about 8 hours, giving enough time at each stop without feeling rushed.

What is the group size?
It’s a small-group tour, which usually means fewer than 20 people, allowing for more interaction with the guide and a more intimate experience.

Can I expect the Tomato Farm visit every time?
The farm visit is included in the price, but some reviews note it might not happen on every tour day, so flexibility is key.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, children comfortable with walking and outdoor weather should enjoy the sights. Always check with the provider if you have specific needs.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of iconic natural sites with the chance to learn about Icelandic sustainable farming makes it a unique way to experience the country’s diversity in one day.

In essence, this tour offers a practical, engaging way to see some of Iceland’s most famous sights in a cozy group setting, with just enough variety to keep it interesting.

You can check availability for your dates here: