The Golden Circle & Northern Lights Combo tour

Exploring Iceland’s Natural Wonders: The Golden Circle & Northern Lights Combo Tour

Planning a trip to Iceland and want to see some of the most iconic sights without fuss? This Golden Circle & Northern Lights Combo tour is a solid option for travelers who appreciate a mix of daytime sightseeing and a chance to catch the northern lights at night. Priced at around $147 per person, it offers a full day and evening of exploring, all with convenient round-trip transportation from Reykjavik.

What we like about this tour is how it combines two essential Iceland experiences—visiting Gullfoss waterfall, Thingvellir National Park, and the geothermal geysers—plus the thrill of hunting for the aurora borealis. The transparency of the itinerary, the focus on expert guidance, and the ecological commitment through carbon neutrality are definite pluses. On the flip side, some travelers have noted issues like weather-dependent northern lights sightings and minor bus comfort hiccups, so it’s good to keep expectations realistic.

This tour is well-suited for those who want a comprehensive taste of Iceland’s natural beauty in a single day, especially if you’re short on time but still want to see the highlights. It caters to travelers who enjoy guided experiences, don’t mind some long hours, and are eager to potentially see the northern lights in a dedicated evening outing.

Key Points

• Combines Day & Night Experiences: See Iceland’s top sights and the northern lights in one well-organized trip.
• Expert Guides: Guides are knowledgeable and enthusiastic, bringing the landscape and history to life.
• Flexible & Convenient: Round-trip transportation from Reykjavik and free Wi-Fi onboard make it easy and comfortable.
• Weather & Aurora Dependency: Aurora sightings are not guaranteed, as they depend on the weather and aurora activity.
• Cost & Value: Priced at $147, this tour offers substantial value considering the included stops and guided experience.
• Environmental Commitment: It’s a carbon-neutral tour, aligning with Iceland’s eco-conscious vibe.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point & Timing

The tour kicks off at 12:30 pm at the BSÍ Bus Terminal in Reykjavik. It’s a straightforward meeting point, close to public transportation, which is handy if you’re staying centrally. The entire experience lasts about 9 hours, with the daytime portion roughly 6.5 hours and the evening northern lights hunt around 3 hours. That’s a full day of exploration, giving you a good taste of Iceland’s most celebrated sights without feeling rushed.

The Itinerary Breakdown

First Stop: Þingvellir National Park
This UNESCO World Heritage site is the first major stop. We loved the way guides explain its significance—not just as the site of the world’s oldest parliament, but also for the fascinating geology where the Mid-Atlantic Ridge is visible above ground. It’s a surreal landscape, with crack lines splitting the continent—truly a must-see. The stop lasts about 30 minutes, enough to stretch your legs and take some photos.

Second Stop: Geysir Geothermal Area
Next, you’ll visit the bubbling landscape of Geysir, where Strokkur erupts roughly every 10 minutes, shooting hot water high into the air. It’s a lively, energetic spot that captures Iceland’s geothermal power. One hour here gives you time to walk around, see the springs in action, and soak in the volcanic ambiance. It’s a highlight for many, especially because of the impressive eruptions.

Third Stop: Gullfoss Waterfall
Then, it’s onto Gullfoss, one of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls. The sheer power and width of this two-tiered cascade make it an unforgettable sight. The canyon it carves into the Hvítá river is impressive, plunging 62 meters. We’ve read in reviews that visitors find it striking and almost otherworldly, especially in different weather conditions. You’ll spend about 45 minutes here, enough to get close to the falls, take photos, and appreciate the raw energy of Iceland’s water systems.

The Evening Northern Lights Experience

After a full day of sightseeing, the tour transitions into its evening phase. The guides take you out into the countryside—the darker, less light-polluted areas—to hunt for the northern lights. Keep in mind, aurora sightings aren’t guaranteed; they depend heavily on weather conditions, cloud cover, and aurora activity. Some reviews mention multiple cancellations, which is just part of the gamble with northern lights tours.

That said, the guides are attentive—they offer tips and are solicitous about maximizing your chances. If you don’t see the lights, the company offers to let you join another tour free of charge, which is a nice gesture. The experience is relaxed, but you should be prepared for cold evenings and possibly long waits outside.

Transportation & Comfort

The tour uses a bus that offers free Wi-Fi, which is great for sharing your photos or just passing the time. However, some travelers have noted that the bus’s outlets to charge phones sometimes don’t work, which can be a minor inconvenience if you rely on your devices. The group size is capped at 99 travelers, so it’s a relatively social experience but still manageable.

How about the guide?

According to reviews, the guides are knowledgeable and passionate, especially about Iceland’s culture and geography. One reviewer said, “Our tour guide for the Golden Circle was very knowledgeable and her love for Iceland shone through.” Good guides make a huge difference, particularly when you’re trying to get a sense of place in a short time.

Price & Value

At $147, the tour is quite reasonable considering the number of stops, the guided nature, transportation, and the potential to see the northern lights. You won’t be paying extra for entrance fees since those are free at the main sights. Food and drinks aren’t included, so budget for meals, especially if you want to stay warm and energized.

Reviews Snapshot

Most reviews are positive, praising the knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and good value. One traveler mentioned that the Golden Circle itself was “amazing,” highlighting the geological interest of the tectonic plates. Another appreciated how the guides shared tips for viewing the aurora borealis, making the experience more engaging.

There are a few negatives—some travelers felt uncomfortable due to bus issues or didn’t get to see the lights because of weather—but overall, the majority found it worthwhile. One reviewer said, “I highly recommend this tour,” while another cautioned about the unpredictability of Northern Lights sightings.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re looking for a well-rounded day of sightseeing with a chance to see the northern lights, this tour hits most marks. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy guided experiences, want to cover multiple highlights efficiently, and are prepared for the chance that the aurora might not appear on the night of their tour.

Those who value eco-conscious options will appreciate the tour’s carbon-neutral commitment. It’s also suitable for travelers comfortable with long hours, moderate walking, and being outdoors in Iceland’s cool evenings.

It might not be the best choice if your primary goal is a guaranteed northern lights experience—since the natural phenomenon is always weather-dependent. Families with older children should find it manageable, but younger kids might find the long hours a bit tiring.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs about 9 hours, starting at 12:30 pm and ending back at the meeting point. The daytime sightseeing is roughly 6.5 hours, with an additional 3 hours dedicated to the northern lights hunt.

What sights are included in the Golden Circle?
You’ll visit Þingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall—three of the most iconic and accessible sites in Iceland.

Is the northern lights guaranteed?
No, aurora sightings depend on weather and solar activity. Guides do their best to find clear skies, but there’s no promise of seeing the northern lights. If you don’t see them, you may be offered to join another tour for free.

What should I bring for the northern lights part?
Dress warmly, as evenings in Iceland can be chilly—even in summer. Bring a camera with good low-light capabilities if you want photos, and extra layers to stay comfortable outside.

Are there any food options included?
No, food and drinks aren’t included. You might want to bring snacks or plan to grab something in Reykjavik before or after the tour.

How accessible is the tour?
The starting point is near public transportation, making it easy to reach. Most travelers can participate, but consider mobility if you plan to walk around uneven terrain at the sights.

What’s the group size?
The maximum is 99 travelers, so it’s a fairly large group but still manageable for a guided coach experience.

Final Thoughts

The Golden Circle & Northern Lights Combo Tour offers a practical way to see some of Iceland’s must-visit sites in a single day while giving you a shot at witnessing the aurora borealis. The tour’s price point, combined with expert guides and scenic stops, makes it a solid choice for travelers who want a comprehensive experience without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

While the northern lights are always a bit of a gamble and some minor bus comfort issues may arise, the overall experience is rewarding. It’s especially suitable for first-time visitors who want an efficient intro to Iceland’s natural wonders and are flexible about the unpredictable nature of aurora viewing.

If you’re prepared for the weather, eager for scenic views, and enjoy guided tours, this outing could be a highlight of your Iceland trip. Just keep your expectations realistic about the northern lights, and you’ll have a memorable adventure.

Enjoy your Iceland journey, and may the skies treat you to a spectacular display of the northern lights!