Golden Circle & Blue Lagoon Day Tour: Thingvellir, Geysir, Gullfoss, Kerid
Cover the Golden Circle’s classic geology and Icelandic highlights in one long day: Thingvellir’s rifts, Strokkur’s eruptions, Gullfoss’s power, Kerid’s volcanic bowl — finished with a soak at the Blue Lagoon. This small-group tour packs in admissions and transport for a practical, sensory introduction to Iceland.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring swimwear and quick-dry towel
Blue Lagoon entry includes a towel but pack a swimsuit and a compact quick-dry towel so you can change easily between stops.
Dress in windproof layers
Icelandic weather shifts fast—a waterproof shell, insulating mid-layer and hat will keep you comfortable across open plains and near waterfalls.
Charge your camera and phone
You’ll move from wide rift valleys to intimate steam vents—keep a full battery and an extra memory card for panoramic shots.
Watch footing at Gullfoss and Kerid
Paths near the waterfall and the crater rim can be wet and uneven—sturdy shoes and caution on the edges are advised.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Stop briefly at Laugarvatn to see geothermal bakeries where rye bread is steamed underground
- •Ask your guide about nearby greenhouse farms that use geothermal heat to grow vegetables year-round
Wildlife
- •Arctic Tern (summer coastal areas)
- •Icelandic horse grazing in lowlands
Conservation Note
Visitor pressure is managed with marked paths and site fees; stick to trails to protect fragile moss and geothermal features.
Thingvellir hosted the Icelandic Alþingi (parliament) from 930 AD — a site where legal tradition and geology intersected.
Photographer's Notes
- • Thingvellir rift walk overlooking Almannagjá
- • Gullfoss lower viewing platform for full canyon perspective
- • Kerid rim for crater-to-water compositions
What to Bring
Waterproof shell jacketEssential
Protects against wind-driven rain and spray at Gullfoss and open highlands.
Sturdy walking shoesEssential
Provide grip and support on rocky trails, crater rims and wet viewing platforms.
Swimsuit and quick-dry towelEssential
Required for the Blue Lagoon soak and useful for drying between stops.
Insulated mid-layer (fleece or down)
Keeps you warm during morning pickups and near cold coastal winds.
Common Questions
Is Blue Lagoon admission included?
Yes; the Comfort Admission ticket is included and covers entry, a towel, a silica mud mask and one drink.
How long is the tour and what time does it return?
The tour is approximately 11 hours; with a 9:00 AM departure expect return to Reykjavik around 8:00 PM (times can vary with traffic and weather).
Is hotel pickup available?
Yes—free pickup and drop-off from many Reykjavik hotels is provided; exact pickup points and times are confirmed after booking.
Can I bring small children or a stroller?
Infants and small children can use a stroller for shorter walks, but some sights include uneven terrain and steps where carrying may be required.
What should I wear for the Blue Lagoon?
Bring a swimsuit and flip-flops; the Comfort ticket provides a towel and silica mask; a hair conditioner is handy to protect hair from mineral exposure.
Are meals included?
Lunch is not included, but there is a stop at Geysir area where you can buy food and drinks during the 80-minute visit.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
11 hours
Location
Reykjavik, Capital Region
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves short walks on uneven ground and standing at viewpoints.
Topics
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