Iceland Golden Circle, Crater, and Hidden Hot Spring Day Tour (Round Trip from Reykjavík · 18-Person English Minibus Tour)

Itinerary details

We’ll pick you up from a designated location in Reykjavík to begin today’s tour. After a 40-minute drive, we’ll arrive at our first stop: Þingvellir National Park, once home to Iceland’s first parliament, the Alþingi. As you enter Þingvellir, you’ll immediately feel the awe-inspiring power of standing in a rift valley—a vivid testament to the Earth’s ongoing movement. As you explore the park, you’ll walk along the boundary between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates. Iceland’s dramatic natural scenery and rich history come together here to create a truly extraordinary landscape. Next, we’ll visit one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls: Gullfoss. This magnificent two-tiered waterfall is fed by meltwater from Langjökull, Iceland’s second-largest glacier. The rushing water plunges into a 32-meter-deep gorge, creating a breathtaking drop of 102 feet (32 meters)—a captivating display of nature’s power. Gullfoss is spellbinding in every season. Next, we’ll head to the Geysir geothermal area, famous for Iceland’s most renowned geyser. In fact, all geysers are named after this area! You’ll wander among bubbling pools, clear hot springs, and steam vents. The most active geyser, Strokkur, erupts every 4 to 10 minutes, giving you plenty of chances to witness boiling water shoot dramatically 49 to 65.6 feet (15 to 20 meters) into the air. After visiting the many attractions, unwind in the Secret Lagoon, Iceland’s oldest swimming pool, and soak in its geothermal waters. Nestled among moss-covered lava fields, the pool uses geothermal energy to keep the water at a steady 38–40°C. Keep an eye out for the small geyser that erupts beside the pool as you swim! Today’s final stop is well worth the wait. Kerið Crater is a breathtaking sight, with a deep-blue lake surrounded by steep slopes. Formed around 6,500 years ago, the crater still dazzles with vivid colors and unique textures. In summer, moss and minerals tint its walls red and green; in winter, the azure lake contrasts beautifully with the snow. Take an easy stroll along the crater’s rim and enjoy a fresh perspective on the surrounding landscape and the lake below from every angle. Known as the “Eye of the World,” Kerið is a photographer’s paradise and a spectacular finale to your adventure. Recommended items: Warm, waterproof outdoor clothing, a hat, scarf, gloves, and comfortable hiking boots. Don’t forget your swimsuit and bath towel! The guide will stop at a gas station along the way for lunch, where you can buy a light meal. If you don’t have suitable clothing, you can request equipment rental when booking.

Important notes

Note: All times shown on this webpage are for reference only. Actual arrival times may be delayed due to circumstances beyond our control, such as weather, traffic congestion, traffic accidents, festivals or sporting events, civil unrest, or strikes. We appreciate your understanding. If you have onward travel plans involving other transportation to another city, we strongly recommend allowing at least 3 hours of extra time to avoid inconvenience caused by delays. Our company accepts no responsibility for losses arising from travel arrangements you make yourself without allowing sufficient extra time. Thank you for your understanding.

Meals

Breakfast: At your own expense Lunch: At your own expense Dinner: At your own expense

Attraction details

Geyser

Geyser

Close

The Geysir hot spring is located in the Haukadalur Valley, near Iceland’s capital, Reykjavík. The entire area is a geothermal field with around 50 geysers. Geysir is particularly prominent: its eruptions reach higher than those of any other spring or geyser in Iceland, making it one of the world’s most famous geysers. Strokkur is also located here, about 50 meters (160 feet) to the south. Geysir was the first geyser recorded in history and the first discovered by Europeans. The English word “geyser” comes from this place name. Geysir can shoot boiling water up to 70 meters (230 feet) into the air, although its eruptions can sometimes become infrequent. Records show that it has stopped erupting altogether for as long as a year.

Gullfoss Waterfall

Gullfoss Waterfall

Close

This is Iceland’s second-largest waterfall. It was given the name “Golden” not only because the river water has a slight yellow tint, but also because at dusk the setting sun bathes the entire waterfall in gold, creating a precious, golden spectacle.

Crater lake

Crater lake

Close

Kerið Crater Lake is located in Iceland’s western volcanic region and is one of seven crater lakes in the area. It formed about 6,500 years ago and is 7 to 14 meters deep. Most crater lakes are surrounded by steep rock walls, but one side of this crater lake has a gentler slope, allowing visitors to approach the water. The water is clear and transparent, and its mineral content gives it vivid colors that change with the light.

Þingvellir National Park

Þingvellir National Park

Close

The Great Rift in Thingvellir National Park, Iceland, marks the boundary between the North American and Eurasian plates. The water is so clear that you can see more than 100 meters into it. The rift is still widening by 2 centimeters each year.

Secret Hot Springs

Secret Hot Springs

Close

The Secret Lagoon (known locally as Gamla Laugin) is Iceland’s oldest swimming pool. Built in 1891, it is located in the Hverahólmi geothermal area near Flúðir. The water flows continuously, and the entire pool is refreshed within 24 hours. The warm, clean water is rich in sulfur and stays at 38–40°C year-round.