Small Group Tour: Golden Circle & Friðheimar Visit From Reykjavik

If you’re planning a trip to Reykjavik and want to see some of Iceland’s most famous sights, a guided Golden Circle tour might be just what you need. This specific small group experience promises an engaging day packed with waterfalls, geysers, historic sites, and even a visit to a lively tomato farm—unique spots that capture the essence of Iceland’s rugged beauty and ingenuity.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the small group size (max 19 people) creates a more personal, relaxed vibe, and the guides go beyond just pointing out sights—they share stories and secrets that most travelers miss. Second, the itinerary is thoughtfully designed to balance natural beauty with cultural insights, ending with a visit to the stunning Kerið Crater.

That said, it’s worth noting that the tour is quite full-day, around 9 hours, and some travelers may find the pace a bit tight, especially if you’re not used to long days on the road. It’s best suited for those who enjoy an active, sightseeing-focused day and want to maximize their Iceland experience without the hassle of planning each stop.

This tour feels like a great fit for curious travelers who appreciate knowledgeable guides, scenic stops, and a well-rounded introduction to Iceland’s highlights. It’s also ideal if you value small-group intimacy and detailed storytelling over large bus tours.

Key Points

• Small group experience offers a more personalized and relaxed atmosphere.
• Comprehensive itinerary covers major attractions like Þingvellir, Geysir, Gullfoss, Friðheimar, and Kerið Crater.
• Expert guide enhances the experience with stories and insights, as noted by a recent traveler praising Rodger’s knowledge and friendliness.
• Great value at around $132, considering the transportation, guided tours, and entry fees included.
• Includes unique stops like a family-run farm and a geothermal tomato greenhouse, adding local flavor and insight.
• Duration of approximately 9 hours suits those comfortable with full-day excursions, with pickup and drop-off included.

Þingvellir National Park – Where History and Geology Converge

This UNESCO World Heritage site kicks off the tour with a bang. Walking between North American and Eurasian tectonic plates is a thrill—imagine standing at a literal boundary of two continents. The park isn’t just about geology; it’s where Iceland’s ancient parliament held assemblies centuries ago, making it a place that’s both physically and historically significant. We loved the way our guide brought the stories to life, making the vast landscape feel intimate and personal.

Expect about 90 minutes here, which is ample time to soak in the views, snap photos, and hear some fascinating tales about Iceland’s past. It’s a quiet, reflective start that sets the tone for the day.

Öxarárfoss Waterfall – A Photo-Ready Stop

A short walk from Þingvellir, Öxarárfoss offers a charming cascade framed by lush surroundings. It’s a quick stop—roughly 30 minutes—but enough to admire the falls and capture some great photos. If you’re into nature shots, this spot doesn’t disappoint, and it’s a lovely little breather before moving on.

Efstidalur II Farm – A Taste of Rural Iceland

Next, you’ll visit a family-run farm that’s welcoming and authentic. Here, you can interact with farm animals, enjoy the rural scenery, and take a break. It’s a chance to see how Icelanders maintain their traditions and innovate at the same time. The farm’s relaxed vibe makes it a nice contrast to the more dramatic sights. This stop lasts about 30 minutes, giving you time to explore and snap some pictures.

Geothermal Geysir Area – Witnessing Nature’s Power

No Iceland trip is complete without seeing Geysir and Strokkur erupt. The bubbling hot springs, steaming vents, and erupting geysers are mesmerizing. Strokkur erupts roughly every 5-10 minutes, shooting water high into the air—an impressive display of geothermal energy. Walking around the area, you’ll learn about the geothermal activity that sustains much of Iceland’s energy.

This stop lasts about 60 minutes, so you’ll have plenty of time to admire the landscape, take photos, and listen to the guide’s explanations. It’s a highlight that never gets old, especially if you love natural phenomena.

Gullfoss Waterfall – A Powerhouse of Nature

Gullfoss is often called one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls, and for good reason. The Hvítá River plunges into a deep canyon with thunderous force, often creating rainbows in the mist on sunny days. The viewing platforms offer multiple perspectives—so don’t forget your camera.

We appreciated the 1.5 hours here, which provided enough time to walk around, enjoy the views, and hear some interesting stories from our guide. It’s a place that makes you feel tiny in the face of nature’s power, and you’ll probably want to linger a bit longer to soak in the scenery.

Friðheimar Tomato Farm – A Geothermal Greenhouse Oasis

What’s cooler than a farm growing fresh tomatoes in Iceland’s cold climate? Friðheimar offers insight into year-round greenhouse farming powered by geothermal energy. During the visit, you’ll see the lush greenhouses, enjoy a show, and probably sample some of their delicious produce.

This stop lasts about 90 minutes, giving you time to explore, ask questions, and take photos of the vibrant greenhouses. It’s a quirky and educational experience that adds a tasty twist to the day.

Kerið Crater – The Day’s Grand Finale

The volcanic Kerið Crater is a striking sight—an crater lake with vivid colors and dramatic slopes. Walking around the rim offers expansive views, and descending to the water’s edge helps you appreciate its scale. It’s a perfect spot for reflection and photos, especially as the light starts to soften later in the day.

This final stop gets about 45 minutes, enough to enjoy the scenery and wrap up the tour on a high note.

What’s Included and What to Expect

For $132.65, this tour includes minibus transportation, pickup and drop-off at Reykjavik bus stops, and an English-speaking guide who makes the stops engaging and informative. All stops have guided tours, and entry to Kerið Crater, along with the Friðheimar Tomato Farm visit and Efstidalur II farm visit are covered.

You’ll want to bring your own food and drinks, as meals are not included. The tour doesn’t seem to be specifically geared toward families or children, but it’s suitable for most travelers comfortable with a full day on the road.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With a maximum of 19 travelers, the experience feels intimate and relaxed. The reviews highlight the guide’s friendliness and knowledge, making the long day enjoyable rather than exhausting.

Duration and Timing

Starting at 9 a.m., the tour runs for roughly 9 hours, meaning you’ll return around 6 p.m. or later. The timing is logical—it offers a full day of sightseeing without feeling rushed, but be prepared for a busy schedule.

Real Travelers’ Voices

One recent traveler described it as a “great tour, only 7 people including me and my partner,” praising the knowledgeable and friendly guide named Rodger. Others appreciated the stunning views and the opportunity to learn about Iceland firsthand.

The small group size was a big plus for many, providing a cozy, personalized experience that felt more like exploring with friends than being part of a large crowd.

Pricing and Value

At just over $130, the tour offers good value considering the transportation, guided commentary, and multiple entry points. The included visits to the farm and Kerið Crater add unique touches that make it more than just a drive-by sightseeing trip.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect if you want a comprehensive introduction to Iceland’s Golden Circle without the hassle of planning your own route. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy guided stories and a relaxed pace.

If you’re interested in geothermal activity, natural waterfalls, and historic sites, this tour hits all the high notes. It’s also suitable for those who prefer smaller groups for a more personal touch, though it’s quite full during busy seasons.

This small group Golden Circle tour from Reykjavik does a good job balancing sights, stories, and comfort. The focus on top attractions like Þingvellir, Geysir, Gullfoss, and Kerið, combined with visits to a farm and greenhouse, offers a well-rounded Iceland experience.

The knowledgeable guides and intimate group size elevate the experience, making it feel more than just a set of stops—they bring Iceland’s landscape and culture into focus. While a full 9-hour day might be long for some, the variety and scenery make it worthwhile.

If you’re after a stress-free, educational, and scenic tour with a friendly atmosphere, this could be a great pick. It’s especially suited for curious travelers eager to learn and explore without the chaos of large bus tours.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour isn’t specifically marketed as family-friendly, most travelers of all ages who can handle a full day of sightseeing should be fine. Just consider your kids’ stamina for a long day.

What’s the best time of year to take this tour?
It’s available year-round, but weather can impact the experience. The tour requires good weather, and if it’s canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring snacks or buy something during the stops.

How big is the group?
A maximum of 19 travelers, which keeps the experience personal and relaxed.

What’s the duration of the tour?
It lasts approximately 9 hours, starting at 9 a.m. and returning in the late afternoon or early evening.

Is pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off at Reykjavik bus stops are included, which makes it convenient.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What’s the guide like?
Based on reviews, guides like Rodger are knowledgeable and friendly, making the day both fun and educational.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, the tour covers entry to Kerið Crater and visits to Friðheimar and Efstidalur farms.

This tour offers a well-paced, scenic, and informative way to explore Iceland’s Golden Circle. If you value small groups, expert guides, and a mix of natural and cultural sights, it’s a solid choice for your Iceland adventure.