Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon with Ticket and Kerid Volcanic Crater

Setting out on a day trip through Iceland’s highlights can seem ambitious — but with the right tour, it’s totally doable without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. This well-reviewed package combines the iconic Golden Circle route, a visit to the stunning Kerid volcanic crater, and a relaxing soak in the famous Blue Lagoon, all while offering a balance of comfort, informative guides, and authentic Icelandic scenery.

What we love most about this tour is how it manages to pack so many of Iceland’s best-known attractions into just over 11 hours. The seamless logistics, including hotel pickups and included entry tickets, mean you can focus on taking in the sights rather than stressing over timing or crowds. However, keep in mind that it’s quite a long day, so this trip works best if you’re prepared for some early mornings and a full schedule. It’s ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive Iceland experience without the hassle of planning each stop individually.

Key Points

• All-in-One Experience: Combines major sights with included tickets, making the day both convenient and value-packed.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides like Nikola, Axel, and Filip are praised for their friendliness, humor, and insights, enriching the journey.
• Comfort & Connectivity: Modern, climate-controlled vehicles with onboard Wi-Fi keep you comfortable and connected.
• Flexible & Well-Paced: Stops are designed to give you plenty of time to explore, relax, and take photos.
• Quality Endnote: The Blue Lagoon’s included comfort tickets and extra amenities like mud masks and drinks make for a memorable finish.
• Limited Food Options: No meals are included, but the stops at Geysir and Gulfoss offer opportunities to buy snacks or sit down for a meal.

A Full Day of Icelandic Wonders

This tour is a carefully curated whirlwind that hits all the scenic and cultural highlights of Iceland’s famed Golden Circle, with the bonus of a luxurious Blue Lagoon soak at the end. It’s a tested formula that’s received rave reviews, often praised for the guides’ knowledge and the overall value.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start with Thingvellir National Park
Your adventure begins in the morning with a hotel pickup from Reykjavik, where you’ll hop into a comfortable, climate-controlled bus equipped with Wi-Fi. Just like many reviewers mentioned, the onboard Wi-Fi is a thoughtful touch to keep you connected or share photos during downtime.

Thingvellir is the first stop — a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s as much about history as it is breathtaking scenery. It’s the site of Iceland’s first parliament and a place where you can see the rift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. The 45-minute visit allows enough time to walk around, snap photos, and absorb the significance of this iconic location.

Next, stop at Laugarvatn and see geothermal activity in action
This lesser-known stop offers a glimpse into local geothermal use — locals bake rye bread in the ground using super-heated vapor. It’s a quick, fascinating detour that many travelers appreciated, although some noted it’s more about the scenery and local culture than a lengthy attraction.

Geysir and Strokkur Eruptions
The famous Geysir hot spring area is next, where you’ll witness the spectacular eruptions of Strokkur, which shoots boiling water up to 30 meters high every few minutes. It’s a true highlight — a natural spectacle that’s both powerful and educational. Many reviews mention how the timing is perfect for photos, and guides often share stories or geology facts that deepen the experience.

You’ll have around 80 minutes here, so it’s enough time to buy snacks, explore the area, or sit back and enjoy the spectacle.

Gullfoss Waterfall
A short drive takes you to Gullfoss, often called the “Golden Waterfall.” This double-tiered cascade plunges dramatically into a deep canyon, providing some of the most iconic views in Iceland. Reviewer comments rave about how impressive the power and scale are — the thundering sound and mist create an almost otherworldly atmosphere. You get about 40 minutes here, which is ample for a good look, photos, and soaking in the natural grandeur.

Kerid Crater
One of the tour’s unique stops, Kerid is a 3,000-year-old volcanic crater filled with vivid blue-green water and surrounded by striking red volcanic rock. The included entry ticket means you get close-up views without extra cost, and many travelers mention how surreal the crater looks, especially against a contrasting sky or crisp sunlight. About 30 minutes here balances time for photos and a quick walk around the rim.

Scenic Drive & the Blue Lagoon

From Kerid, the group heads southwest through the Reykjanes Peninsula, known for its rugged lava fields, cone volcanoes, and expansive views of the Atlantic Ocean. This drive alone is worth mentioning — many reviews highlight how the landscape constantly changes from barren lava to coastal vistas.

Arriving at the Blue Lagoon, the tour includes Comfort Admission tickets, which is a real bonus. This means no waiting in long lines, plus access to the lagoon’s amenities like a silica mud mask, a drink of your choice, and a towel. Many guests note that the experience is both soothing and fun, with some mentioning how the lagoon’s milky waters beautifully contrast against the black volcanic rocks. Two hours here feels just right, allowing you to relax and rejuvenate after a day full of sightseeing.

End of Day & Return to Reykjavik

As the sun begins to set, you’ll be driven back to your hotel, often with friendly guides sharing tips for your stay or recommendations for dining. The group size (max 19 travelers) ensures a cozy atmosphere, and the guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge receive consistent praise.

Why This Tour Offers Excellent Value

At $229 per person, this tour packs a lot into a single day. With all entry tickets, hotel pickup, Wi-Fi, and a relaxing Blue Lagoon experience included, it’s a cost-efficient way to tick off Iceland’s top attractions. Many reviewers compare the price favorably against local excursions or cruise line offerings, emphasizing how much you get for your money.

The small group format means fewer crowds and more personalized attention. Guides like Nikola, Axel, Filip, and Mika are lauded for their friendliness, humor, and insights, turning what could be a standard bus tour into a memorable Icelandic adventure.

Considerations

While the experience is valuable, be prepared for a long day. The itinerary covers quite a bit of ground, so expect early mornings and some bus time. Weather can be unpredictable — some travelers mention being glad they packed layers and waterproofs. No meals are included, but ample opportunities exist at Geysir and Gullfoss to grab snacks or sit down for a meal, if desired.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive glimpse of Iceland’s natural beauty without the hassle of planning individual visits. It’s especially suitable if you prefer guided tours with knowledgeable leaders, comfortable transportation, and all logistics taken care of. Active travelers who enjoy scenic drives, photography, and learning about the geology and history of the land will find this tour enriching.

It’s also a suitable choice for those short on time, as Iceland’s must-see sites are all conveniently combined. However, if you’re looking for a more leisurely pace or a focus on any single site, you might prefer to customize your own day or join a smaller, slower tour.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, pickup is offered directly from your central Reykjavik hotel, making the start of your day smooth and easy.

How long is the Blue Lagoon visit?
You get about two hours at the Blue Lagoon, which is enough to relax, enjoy the silica mud mask, and sip your drink while soaking in the warm waters.

Are all site entries included?
Yes, your tour includes tickets to Kerid’s volcanic crater and the Blue Lagoon’s comfort package, so you won’t need to pay extra at those locations.

Can I buy food during the tour?
Lunch and other meals are not included, but there are stops at Geysir and Gulfoss where you can purchase snacks and sit down for a meal if you wish.

What’s the group size?
The maximum group size is 19 travelers, which helps keep the experience personal and less crowded.

What is the typical duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts around 11 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and relaxation time at the Blue Lagoon.

Final Thoughts

This guided tour offers a thoughtfully balanced way to see Iceland’s highlights in a single day. From the historic significance of Thingvellir to the awe-inspiring Gullfoss waterfall, the bubbling Geysir, the vivid Kerid crater, and the luxury of the Blue Lagoon, it’s designed to give you a well-rounded Icelandic adventure.

The positive reviews speak to the quality of guides, the comfort of the transportation, and the overall value. It’s ideal for travelers who want a hassle-free, informative, and scenic day, especially if your time in Iceland is limited. While it’s a full day with some long stretches on the bus, many consider it worth every minute for the convenience and the unforgettable sights.

If you’re seeking a comprehensive, well-organized snapshot of Iceland’s natural beauty with the added indulgence of the Blue Lagoon, this tour hits all the marks. It’s a dependable choice that consistently earns high praise — and a great way to make the most of your Iceland trip.