Iceland: Golden Circle Tour (What To Expect and Tips)
If you only have one full day in Reykjavík, book the Golden Circle Tour. One minute you’re walking between continents, the next you’re watching a geyser erupt, and then suddenly you’re standing in front of a massive waterfall (and if you’re really lucky, with a rainbow). Add in a visit to the colorful Kerid Crater since you are in the land of fire and ice and it’s all in one easy day trip from Reykjavík. And if you have the time, book early so you can add in a stop to a lagoon because taking a dip in geothermal heated waters is one of those must-dos when you’re in the land of fire and ice!
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What Is the Golden Circle And Why Is It So Popular?
The Golden Circle is Iceland’s most famous sightseeing route, located about 45–90 minutes from Reykjavík. It connects four major natural attractions: Þingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, Gullfoss waterfall and Kerid Crater.
The Golden Circle is Iceland’s most popular sightseeing route, and honestly, it makes sense why. In one day you get a little bit of everything that makes Iceland special: waterfalls, geysers, volcanic landscapes, historic sites and dramatic scenery in every direction It’s about an hour outside Reykjavík with most tours running 6-8 hours with comfortable stops along the way.
When I was visiting Reykjavík for the first time with my family on our NCL Prima cruise, we opted to also add in the Kerid Crater and my only regret is that I was too late and this tour that also included the Blue Lagoon was sold out! This would have allowed the family to visit the Perlan museum before they flew back home – read why you should consider going to one of my favorite places in Reykjavík here!
Golden Circle Full Day Tour with Kerid Crater
Tour Details
- Overview: The Golden Circle is Iceland’s most-famous sightseeing route. This tour from Reykjavik takes you beyond the route’s three attractions—UNESCO-listed Thingvellir National Park, Gulfoss waterfall, and the Geyser geothermal area—with a visit to the mighty Kerid Crater. Travel through an endless panorama of photo-worthy scenery and enjoy your guide’s insights into natural history and culture.
- Details: 8 Hours 30 Mins
- Important Notes:
- Travel time is already included in the total duration
- Pick up is available (including from Skarbakki Harbor/Cruise Port)
- At time of booking, Cruise ship passengers must provide the following information at time of booking: ship name, docking time, disembarkation time and re-boarding time
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
My Experience on Golden Circle Full Day Tour with Kerid Crater
Pick-Up
Pick-up for the tour was very easy from the Skarbakki Cruise terminal in a large comfortable motorcoach.
Hveragerdi – Almar Bakeri
First stop was to this bakery where we tried the local pastry/bread that was recommended by our tour guide and was able to get coffees. I do love guided tours as I typically learn so much information and our guide was fantastic and hilarious!
Kerid Crater
Next stop was to Kerid which is a crater that was formed approx. 6500 years ago when an ancient volcano’s magma chamber collapsed. It is known for the striking contrast between the red, black and green slopes that are set against mesmerizing blue-green waters of the crater lake.
Here we were given enough time to not only take photos but also to explore the crater. There’s the choice of walking the well-maintained trail winds around its rim which gives you the best overall view.
Or as you can see here, there’s also a path that descends to the crater floor, allowing for the chance to see that vivid colors of the lake up close. We found that there was sufficient time to do both if you (really) hustle.
Gullfoss Waterfall
We then continue on to see the Gullfoss Waterfall (“Golden Falls“). We were given the opportunity and time to view this massive waterfall from multiple viewpoints along scenic, paved trails. Unlike most waterfalls, which are typically observed from below, the desired vantage point is from above to fully appreciate it’s unique features.
Rather than being a single cascade, Gullfoss is made up of two distinct tiers: the first drop is 36 feet (11 meters), followed by a second, larger plunge of 69 feet (21 meters).
The Hvítá River originates from the Langjökull glacier, flowing through Iceland’s rugged landscape before dramatically plunging into the canyon. We were close enough at some of the viewpoints to feel the spray from Gullfoss.
I love this is another Icelandic waterfall whose name origin remains murky as one legend tells of a local farmer named Gýgur who threw a chest of gold over the falls so that no one could take it hence a literal Gullfoss. And it has been said that the name comes from the golden light that reflects off the water at sunset. I was hoping we would see proof that the name comes from the rainbow created by the sun hitting the water spray – I walked around to all viewpoints but alas the mystery remains.
Unplanned Stop: See and Pet Icelandic Horses!
One of the most interesting things that we learned about during the tour was about Icelandic horses. They came to the island with Norwegian settlers 1100 years ago and it has been revealed that they descended from an ancient breed of horse that is now extinct outside of Iceland. It is one of the purest horse breeds in the world as they have been and continue to be preserved in isolation. No horses are allowed to be imported in, with the law so rigid that once a horse leaves Iceland, it will never be allowed to return.
Geysir Geothermal Area / Lunch Stop
Geysir – one of the Icelandic words that will be easy for English speakers to pronounce and is the namesake for all geysers around the world as it was discovered before any other erupting fountain worldwide.
This is one of those places that feels almost unreal. We learned about how Great Geysir was the most famous geyser in the world but currently is dormant. In 1845, at it’s peak, it shot water as high as 558 feet (170 meters) into the air or as high as a 50 story building!
But we didn’t just come to learn about the history of geysers….but we were hoping to see some in action and luckily there’s Strokkur.
It reliably shoots steam and water up to 131 feet (40 meters) every 4-10 minutes (with that time frame still holding true today). You can watch it again and again from different angles.
The area is known as the Haukadalur Geothermal Valley and you are able to walk among steam vents, bubbling mud pots, and vibrant hot springs, which are framed by colorful hills. But do mind the ropes as there are posted signs reminding visitors how hot the water and steam temps are!
Þingvellir (Thingvellir) National Park
In 2004, Þingvellir was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site for both its historical and geological importance.
The Mid-Atlantic Rift or Ridge, which runs through Iceland, marks the boundary between two tectonic plates. Þingvellir lies in a rift valley or where the Earth’s crust is being pulled apart. Here we were able to see the separation of the Eurasian and North American plates as it is one of the few places on Earth where this movement can be seen on land!
As the tectonic plates slowly drift apart, they create a widening gap in the landscape with the crack expanding by about 0.78 inches (2 cm) every year. A visit to this park allowed us to observe this ongoing geological process up close.
Þingvellir (Thingvellir) Church was built in the 11th century after Christianity was declared as the official religion of Iceland in 1000 AD. You are able to walk around and tour inside the church.
We were given sufficient time to walk through and enjoy the National Park. While this looks like a river from this vantage point, this is part of Lake Þingvellir. Interestingly because it is cut off from other water sources, the marine life evolved on its own. In the summer, you can buy a fishing license to catch ice-age brown trout, for which the lake is famous. And despite the cold temperatures, the lake is very fertile and has a lot of plant life. I found it very fascinating that the water doesn’t freeze and stays around 37.4 and 41 °F (3 to 4°C).
Þingvellir (Thingvellir) translated to English means “Assembly Plains.” and as such, holds great historical significance. Althingi, the oldest parliament in the world, was established here in 930 AD and is why many consider this to be the birthplace of the nation.
For over 800 years, Icelandic lawmakers gathered at Lögberg (Law Rock) to pass legislation and make speeches until 1798. In 1000 AD, Iceland peacefully converted to Christianity here, while still allowing private worship of Norse gods. In 1928, Icelandic law officially recognized Þingvellir as a National Park to mark the millennium of Alþingi.
Final Thoughts – A Perfect Introduction to Iceland on the Golden Circle
Why I recommend this tour: you are able to experience Iceland’s top natural wonders without planning every detail and especially welcome with a big group and as a cruise excursion. The Golden Circle tour with Kerid Crater is the easiest, most scenic way to see waterfalls, geysers, and volcanic landscapes in one day with minimal effort and maximum wow factor.
Best Time of Year For Golden Circle Tours
Aruba’s climate is warm year-round, but snorkeling conditions vary slightly:
- Summer (May-September): This is the busiest time of the year so book early especially if you want to add on a lagoon as tours sell out.
- You will have longer daylight hours with easier walking conditions and green landscapes
- Winter (October-April): Tours will still operate during this time – important to dress for the elements and your comfort.
- This is when you might encounter snow-covered scenery and fewer crowds. This is also when you have the chance to combine with Northern Lights tours
Unsure of what to pack? Oh I’ve got you! Here’s my Iceland and Norway Packing List that covers year-round essentials, season-specific items, and cruise-specific must-haves to ensure you’re always ready for your Nordic adventure!
Other Variations / Add-Ons for Golden Circle Tours
- Beautiful tip: If you are taking a tour, one way to maximize your time is to add on a lagoon to this tour – consider one of these tours that include pick-up
- Golden Circle, Fridheimar Farm & Horses Small Group Tour from Reykjavik (9 Hours)
Who This Golden Circle Tour Is Perfect For
Great for:
- First-time visitors to Iceland
- Cruise passengers with limited time
- Families
- Travelers who don’t want to drive
Less ideal for:
- People wanting deep hikes or long exploration time
- Travelers who prefer independent exploration
FAQs for Golden Circle Tours
- Is Kerid Crater included in all Golden Circle tours? No. Some tours skip it. Look for tours that specifically list Kerid.
- How much walking is involved? Moderate with flat paths and short scenic walks.
- Are you able to take this tour in the winter? Yes as Icelandic roads are well maintained – you will be rewarded with magical scenery.
Why I Chose to Book This Activity Via Viator
What I Really Spent
- Activities $85 Golden Circle with Kerid Crater Bus Tour $85- adults/$67- youth/ $37- children
- Food $64.50 $37.35(4,925 ISK): Almar Bakery~ 5 cafe + pastries & $27.15(3.580 ISK): Geysir Glima lunch~Tomato soup (2.480 ISK) / Fanta (450 ISK)/ Sparking H2O (650 ISK)
As always, I believe in making your money work for you. I save so much money by not booking with the cruise lines and there’s the added benefit of having better experiences. That assessment is based on my conversations with those who have done the ship’s shore excursions and the limited times I have done them. I know that many opt to because they are worried about not making it back to the ship on time so I always book with reputable companies and on Viator or GetYourGuide as they are dependent on cruise passengers and have their reputation to maintain vs somebody selling a tour when you get to port!
For Viator, I was able to stack earning miles/points paying with a rewards credit card, o
If You Want to Book This Tour Via GetYourGuide Instead?
Interestingly this exact same tour from the same tour company Reykjavik: Golden Circle Full-Day Tour with Kerid Crater on GetYourGuide
Related Reykavik + Iceland Activities/Guides
About Author
Rosemary is a travel hacker, points nerd and female solo traveler who’s explored 70+ countries without a trust fund, sugar daddy, or sponsored content. Every mile, upgrade, and trip is completely self-funded using a mix of points, miles, and cash or earned with elite status. And she shows you the receipts along with a mildly concerning amount of spreadsheets. Through firsthand experience and plenty of trial and error, she teaches everyday travelers the art of travel hacking and how they too can travel for cheaper, better, and more often. While Rosemary doesn’t take herself too seriously, she does take award travel (and searching for the best ice cream) seriously – because seeing the world shouldn’t be reserved for the rich, the retired, or content creators with brand deals.
