Golden Circle Day Tour from Reykjavik: Thingvellir, Geysir, Gullfoss & Kerið
A single-day loop through Iceland’s most celebrated sites—Þingvellir’s rift, Strokkur’s eruptions, Gullfoss’s thunder, and Kerið’s crater—this guided Golden Circle tour from Reykjavík pairs vivid geology with local farming traditions and small-group ease.
The Experience
Before You Go
Layer for variable weather
Bring a windproof shell and insulating mid-layer; weather can swing from sun to sleet in an hour.
Sturdy footwear
Trails include wet boardwalks and uneven volcanic rock—waterproof hiking shoes will keep you comfortable.
Bring snacks and cash
Lunch is not included—cafés accept cards but remote stops sometimes prefer cash; pack energy snacks for the short walks.
Charge your camera and phone
You’ll move between wide landscapes and close-up geological details—extra battery or power bank ensures you don’t miss shots.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Efstidalur farm ice cream and farmyard—great for close-up animal interactions
- •Short trail along Þingvellir’s Öxarárfoss stream for quieter photography away from the main overlook
Wildlife
- •Arctic fox (rare, distant sightings)
- •Icelandic horses grazing near Friðheimar
Conservation Note
Visitors are encouraged to stay on marked paths to protect fragile moss and soil; geothermal facilities teach sustainable energy use practiced locally.
Þingvellir is the site of Iceland’s Alþingi, established in 930 AD, where laws were proclaimed before a centralized state existed.
Photographer's Notes
- • Þingvellir rift crest for plate separation and wide views
- • Gullfoss upper platform for full cascade, lower for intimate spray shots
- • Kerið rim for saturated crater colors
What to Bring
Waterproof hiking shoesEssential
Keep traction and dry feet on wet boardwalks, muddy patches and volcanic gravel.
Windproof waterproof jacketEssential
Wind and sleet are common; a breathable shell keeps you warm and dry between stops.
Reusable water bottleEssential
Tap water in Iceland is excellent—refill between sites to stay hydrated in the cold, dry air.
Portable battery pack
Useful for phone cameras and to receive the pick-up confirmation email mid-morning.
Common Questions
How long is the tour and what time does it start?
The tour is approximately 9 hours long; hotel pick-up begins at 8:30 AM and the provider sends a confirmation email about 30 minutes before departure with vehicle details.
Is lunch provided?
Lunch is not included; there are cafés at some stops (for example Friðheimar and near Gullfoss) and you can bring your own food.
Is the tour suitable for children or infants?
Infants (0–3 years) are not recommended due to the length and schedule; children are welcome if they can handle several short walks and a full day out.
Are entrance fees or tickets included?
The itinerary notes admission to Kerið is included; other stops like Þingvellir, Geysir and Gullfoss have no additional ticket required for basic viewing.
Will there be time to photograph each site?
Yes—each stop includes dedicated viewing time, but expect group pacing; arriving earlier in the season or on weekdays reduces crowds.
Can the tour accommodate mobility issues?
The tour is not recommended for travelers with significant mobility problems because several sites require uneven walking and steps to reach viewpoints.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
9 hours
Location
Reykjavik, Capital Region
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers in average physical condition; involves several short walks totaling about four hours on varied terrain.
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