Private Golden Circle & Hvammsvik Springs Day Tour from Reykjavik
Spend a day tracing Iceland’s geological story from the rift at Thingvellir to the boiling bursts of Strokkur, the thunder of Gullfoss, and a late soak at Hvammsvik Hot Springs. This private tour packs the Golden Circle’s highlights into a comfortable full-day route with lunch at a working tomato farm.
The Experience
Before You Go
Layer up for sudden changes
Iceland’s weather turns quickly—bring a windproof, waterproof outer layer even on sunny mornings.
Bring swimwear & quick-dry towel
Hvammsvik provides warm pools but towels aren’t guaranteed—pack your own for comfort.
Sturdy shoes for short walks
Trails at Gullfoss and Kerið are uneven and can be wet; closed-toe hiking shoes with grip are recommended.
Charge your camera and phone
Long driving stretches and changing light are ideal for photos—carry a power bank and extra memory.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Stop at the small viewing platform below Gullfoss for a raw, close perspective on the falls’ spray
- •Pull over near less-visited fissures at Thingvellir for quiet photos away from main paths
Wildlife
- •Arctic terns (summer coastal areas)
- •Icelandic horses at roadside farms
Conservation Note
Visitors should stay on marked paths to protect fragile moss and volcanic soils; many sites operate with strict trail routing to minimize erosion and preserve geothermal features.
Thingvellir was the site of Iceland’s medieval Alþingi assembly (from 930 AD), where chieftains convened on open ground to settle disputes and set laws.
Photographer's Notes
- • Upper Gullfoss viewpoint for full cascade
- • Rim walk at Kerið crater for circular lake shots
- • Thingvellir Almannagjá rift for tectonic lines and stream reflections
What to Bring
Waterproof shell (jacket)Essential
Protects against wind and sudden rain common on open Icelandic roads.
Sturdy walking shoesEssential
Necessary for rocky viewpoints, wet boardwalks and crater rims.
Swimwear and quick-dry towelEssential
Required for enjoying Hvammsvik’s pools; quick-dry fabrics travel light.
Insulating midlayer
Keeps you comfortable during cooler mornings and breezy viewpoints.
Common Questions
How long is the tour and what is included?
The private tour runs about 10–11 hours and includes round-trip transport from Reykjavik, admissions to listed sites, lunch at Fridheimar, bottled water, snacks, and entry to Hvammsvik Hot Springs.
Is hotel or airport pickup available?
Yes—pickup from Reykjavik hotels, nearby towns, the cruise port and KEF airport can be arranged; confirm your exact pickup location when booking.
Can children join this tour?
Yes—this is family-friendly; note that hot springs and some viewpoints have stairs and uneven surfaces, and children should be supervised at Gullfoss and geothermal areas.
Are dietary needs accommodated for lunch?
Yes—the Fridheimar tomato farm can handle vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and other common dietary requirements if advised at booking.
What should I wear for Hvammsvik Hot Springs?
Bring standard swimwear and a towel, plus a warm dry layer to put on after the soak; sandals for pool areas are useful.
Is this tour suitable in winter?
Yes—the route runs year-round but conditions change: shorter daylight and potential road or weather delays in winter, so dress warmly and expect adjustments to timing.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
10–11 hours
Location
Reykjavik, Capital Region
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; day includes multiple short, mostly easy walks and prolonged seated transfers.
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