Golden Circle Afternoon Tour from Reykjavik — Gullfoss, Geysir & Kerið Crater
Escape Reykjavik for an afternoon and hit Iceland’s most iconic trio: Thingvellir’s rift valley, Strokkur’s eruptions, and the two-tiered power of Gullfoss — with Kerið crater on select departures. This compact route delivers geology, history, and dramatic scenery in a single day.
The Experience
Before You Go
Dress in layers and waterproofs
Icelandic weather flips quickly—windproof outerwear and a waterproof shell are essential even in summer.
Bring sturdy shoes
Viewing platforms and short trails can be slippery; choose shoes with grippy soles for safety and comfort.
Protect your camera
Spray from Gullfoss and mineral-rich steam near Strokkur can damage gear—use a waterproof case or quick-dry cover.
Plan for pickup delays
Pickup windows can be up to 30 minutes; be at your meeting point early and confirm pickup details with the operator.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Brúarfoss — a vivid blue waterfall off the main route (requires a short detour)
- •Friðheimar tomato greenhouse — a unique stop for lunch among geothermally heated plants
Wildlife
- •Icelandic horse (roadside grazing)
- •Golden plover and other shorebirds
Conservation Note
Thingvellir and Gullfoss are protected; visitors should stay on marked paths to prevent erosion and avoid disturbing fragile mosses and geothermal areas.
Thingvellir was the meeting place of the Alþingi from the late 900s and remains a cultural symbol of Icelandic governance and identity.
Photographer's Notes
- • Gullfoss lower viewing platform for the best sense of scale
- • Strokkur geyser edge to capture eruptions against the sky
- • Thingvellir rift and Öxarárfoss viewpoints for wide-angle landscape shots
What to Bring
Waterproof jacketEssential
Protects against wind-driven rain and the frequent spray at Gullfoss.
Sturdy walking shoesEssential
Provides traction on boardwalks, gravel paths, and wet surfaces.
Warm midlayer (fleece)Essential
Adds insulation against chilly winds, especially outside summer months.
Daypack with water & snacksEssential
Keeps essentials organized and provides energy between stops—some departures have limited food stops.
Common Questions
Is Kerið crater always included?
No—Kerið is included on earlier departures (for example 10:30); later afternoon departures (12:00 and after) typically run a shorter 7-hour loop and skip Kerið. Confirm your itinerary when booking.
How long is the tour and how much driving is involved?
Typical durations are 7–8 hours depending on the departure; the loop is a few hours of driving dispersed between multiple short stops, with total distance roughly 200–250 km roundtrip from Reykjavik.
Are entry fees included?
Kerið admission is included on departures that stop there; other standard fees are usually covered by the operator—check your booking confirmation for specifics.
Can cruise ship passengers join this tour?
Yes, but you must provide ship name and docking/disembarkation times at booking; refunds won’t be issued for missed tours due to late ship arrival.
Is the tour suitable for children and seniors?
Yes—this tour is classified as suitable for all physical fitness levels, but some viewpoints have steps; children must be accompanied by an adult.
What if the weather is bad?
The operator runs the tour in most weather conditions but may cancel for safety; cancel at least 24 hours for a full refund if necessary.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
7–8 hours
Location
Reykjavik, Capital Region
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves short walks (typically under 2–3 km per stop) on flat or gently sloped terrain, with stairs at a few viewpoints.
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