The Golden Circle is a renowned tour route in Iceland that showcases the country’s natural wonders and cultural heritage. Visitors can explore Thingvellir National Park, witness the dramatic eruptions of the Strokkur geyser, and admire the majestic Gullfoss Waterfall. With knowledgeable guides providing insights into the region’s geology and history, this full-day tour offers an intimate experience amidst breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, the Golden Circle promises to leave you captivated by the raw power and beauty of Iceland’s natural world.

Key Points

Golden Circle - Key Points

  • The Golden Circle is a popular sightseeing route in Iceland featuring Thingvellir National Park, Strokkur Geyser, and Gullfoss Waterfall.
  • Thingvellir National Park showcases the dramatic geological formations created by the movement of tectonic plates.
  • Strokkur Geyser is a must-see attraction, erupting every 5-10 minutes and reaching heights of up to 20 meters.
  • Gullfoss Waterfall is a two-tiered cascade plunging 32 meters into a canyon, showcasing Iceland’s geological diversity.
  • The tour includes knowledgeable local guides and a maximum group size of 15 for a personalized experience.

Tour Overview

Golden Circle - Tour Overview

The full-day tour of Iceland’s Golden Circle departs from the picturesque Seljalandsfoss Waterfall.

It takes visitors to explore the UNESCO-listed Thingvellir National Park, witness the eruptions of the Strokkur geyser, and admire the majestic Gullfoss Waterfall.

Throughout the tour, travelers learn about Iceland’s rich history, culture, and geology from a knowledgeable local guide.

The maximum group size is 15 people, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.

Scenic landscapes are enjoyed at every turn, making this tour an unforgettable way to discover the wonders of Iceland’s Golden Circle.

Itinerary Highlights

Golden Circle - Itinerary Highlights

Exploring UNESCO-listed Thingvellir National Park is a captivating highlight of the tour.

Travelers will witness the dramatic geological features of this historic site, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet.

The tour also includes a visit to the Strokkur geyser, an iconic Icelandic natural wonder that erupts every 5-10 minutes, shooting a column of steaming water up to 20 meters high.

Capping off the experience is the majestic Gullfoss Waterfall, a two-tiered cascade plunging 32 meters into a rugged canyon.

Throughout the tour, travelers will enjoy scenic landscapes that showcase Iceland’s remarkable geological diversity.

Meeting and Pickup

Golden Circle - Meeting and Pickup

Pickup is available from postcodes 850, 851, 860, and 861.

The meeting point is Southcoast Adventure / Brú Base Camp, road 249, 861 Hvolsvöllur, Iceland.

The tour starts at 9:30 am and ends back at the meeting point.

Travellers can expect:

  • Convenient pickup from specific postcodes
  • Meeting at the Southcoast Adventure / Brú Base Camp
  • Early morning tour start at 9:30 am
  • Return to the original meeting point at the end of the tour

Pricing and Cancellation

The tour price starts at $357.60. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience starts. Confirmation is received at booking, and infant seats are available.

Pricing Cancellation
$357.60 Free up to 24 hours before
Confirmation at booking
Infant seats available

This Golden Circle tour provides excellent value with its knowledgeable local guides, intimate group size, and access to Iceland’s top natural wonders. The flexible cancellation policy ensures travelers can book with confidence.

Customer Reviews

Golden Circle - Customer Reviews

Travelers have consistently rated the Golden Circle tour highly, with an overall 5.0 score based on 6 reviews.

Customers have praised the tour’s knowledgeable and friendly guides, including Ingvar, Ibi, Skuli, and Vidar. The beautiful sights and personalized service have also been highlights, leaving a lasting impact on travelers.

The tour has been described as unforgettable, with many noting the tour’s ability to showcase Iceland’s history, culture, and geology in an intimate setting.

  • Knowledgeable and friendly guides
  • Breathtaking natural sights
  • Personalized and attentive service
  • Unforgettable experience

Visiting Thingvellir

As visitors arrive at Thingvellir National Park, they’ll find themselves immersed in a landscape that’s both historically and geologically significant.

This UNESCO World Heritage site sits atop the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are slowly drifting apart, creating a dramatic rift valley. Visitors can walk along the Almannagjá fault, peering down into the crevice and seeing firsthand the effects of the plates’ movement.

The park also holds great historical importance as the site of the Icelandic parliament, the Alþingi, which was founded in 930 AD, making it one of the oldest continuously running parliamentary institutions in the world.

Witnessing Strokkur Geyser

After leaving the serene landscapes of Thingvellir, travelers are drawn to the dramatic eruptions of Strokkur geyser. This iconic hot spring captivates visitors with its powerful, predictable eruptions that can reach heights of up to 40 meters.

The tour guide provides insightful commentary, explaining the geological processes that fuel Strokkur’s spectacular displays. Travelers eagerly await each eruption, eager to witness this natural wonder in action.

The experience offers a mesmerizing glimpse into Iceland’s dynamic geothermal activity and the power of the Earth’s forces.

Key features of the Strokkur geyser experience include:

  • Predictable eruptions every 5-10 minutes
  • Eruption heights of up to 40 meters
  • Geological explanations from knowledgeable guides
  • Breathtaking views of the geyser against Iceland’s stunning backdrop

Admiring Gullfoss Waterfall

Golden Circle - Admiring Gullfoss Waterfall

Descending from the otherworldly landscapes of Strokkur geyser, the tour participants are greeted by the majestic Gullfoss Waterfall. This thunderous waterfall, fed by the Hvítá River, cascades 32 meters (105 feet) in two stages, creating a breathtaking display of power and beauty. As they stand in awe, the group takes in the raw, untamed nature of this iconic Icelandic landmark.

Sight Description
Gullfoss Waterfall Thunderous two-stage waterfall plunging 32 meters
Hvítá River Rushing river that feeds the waterfall
Dramatic Landscapes Rugged, natural surroundings of the Golden Circle

The Gullfoss Waterfall stands as a testament to Iceland’s extraordinary geological heritage, captivating all who witness its grandeur.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is This Tour Suitable for Families With Children?

This tour seems well-suited for families with children. The small group size, knowledgeable guides, and focus on scenic landscapes and natural wonders suggest an engaging and comfortable experience for all ages. Infant seats are also available, making it accessible for families.

What Is the Duration of the Tour?

The tour lasts a full day, departing at 9:30 am and returning to the meeting point. This allows travelers to thoroughly explore the key sights along the Golden Circle route without feeling rushed.

Can We Make Any Stops During the Tour?

Yes, the tour makes several stops along the way. Visitors can explore Thingvellir National Park, witness the eruptions of the Strokkur geyser, and admire the majestic Gullfoss Waterfall during the full-day excursion.

What Should We Bring for the Tour?

Travelers should bring comfortable walking shoes, warm layers, a rain jacket, and sun protection. It’s also recommended to bring snacks, water, and a camera to capture the stunning sights along the tour.

Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers Available?

The tour operator offers free cancellation up to 24 hours prior and doesn’t seem to have any special discounts or offers available at this time. Travelers should check the website for any updates on promotions.

Recap

The Golden Circle tour offers an exceptional opportunity to take in Iceland’s captivating natural wonders and rich cultural heritage. From the tectonic landscapes of Thingvellir to the mesmerizing eruptions of Strokkur Geyser and the breathtaking Gullfoss Waterfall, this guided excursion provides an intimate, in-depth exploration of Iceland’s geological marvels, leaving visitors with a profound appreciation for the country’s remarkable beauty and history.