Golden Circle tours
in Iceland

Typically the first stop on most Golden Circle tours is Thingvellir National park which is only 50 minutes from Reykjavik. Thingvellir is a big deal in Icelandic history. It's where Viking settlers held their meetings for parliament and where Iceland got its independence from Denmark in 1944. And guess what? It's also a UNESCO World Heritage Site because it's the only place in the world where you can see both the European and North American tectonic plates drifting apart above ground. You can actually walk right between them! Oh, and before I forget, be sure to ask your guide about Drekkingarhylur and check out the Öxarárfoss waterfall. Trust me, it's worth it!

Gullfoss waterfall is the mother of all waterfalls in Iceland, and typically the last stop on Golden Circle tours leaving from Reykjavik. Its rugged power and beauty are unmatched. Even locals are amazed every time they stand in the spray and hear the thundering of water falling off the volcanic cliffs. In spring and summer, you can walk all the way up to it and we encourage you to do so. Pro tip: wear waterproof clothing for this stop.

The second stop on most Golden Circle tours is Geysir Geothermal area, which is home of Geysir Hot Spring. All geysers in the world get their name from this one. Although it's dormant, it's little brother Strokkur erupts every ten minutes or so. Each eruption is unique so be sure to catch a few of them. Depending on the wind be sure to get a good view of this otherworldly sight

Yes, the Golden Circle can get crowded, especially during the summer months. But it's not like visiting Disney World, the crowds aren't that overwhelming. So, we encourage you to give it a try. After all, there's a reason why it is so popular. Don't let the presence of others spoil your experience, as the sights are truly worth it. If you prefer smaller crowds, consider opting for a smaller group tour for a more personal experience. Alternatively, if you're still wary of crowds, going on a Snaefellsnes Peninsula tour could be a perfect alternative. It offers similar breathtaking scenery and can be done as a day trip from Reykjavik.

People often ask if it's worth doing a Golden Circle tour in winter. They worry about the roads and if they can see anything with all the snow. But you don't need to worry. Icelanders, especially tour guides, are used to driving in the snow and take precautions. Places like Gullfoss waterfall and Geysir look amazing with all the snow around. And because there are fewer people, it's peaceful and quiet, letting you enjoy Iceland's winter beauty.

When it comes to choosing a Golden Circle tour, you've got plenty of options! They all share a visit to the three main attractions: Thingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss. You will find that some tours vary in group size and departure times, giving you flexibility. Some even include cool extras like a glacier adventure. Since Gullfoss is close to Iceland's second-largest glacier, Langjökull, adding an ice cave or snowmobiling adventure to your itinerary can make your day unforgettable. And for those seeking relaxation, consider a tour that includes a visit to the Secret Lagoon, the perfect way to unwind at the end of your day trip.