Golden Circle with Kerid Volcanic Crater Day Trip from Reykjavik

This popular day trip from Reykjavik promises a comprehensive introduction to some of Iceland’s most breathtaking natural wonders. With visits to UNESCO-listed Thingvellir National Park, the impressive Gullfoss Falls, the energetic Strokkur Geyser, and the striking Kerid Crater, it offers a well-rounded glimpse into Iceland’s volcanic landscape. Priced at $77 per person, it’s a budget-friendly way to cover major sights without the hassle of planning your own itinerary.

One thing we really appreciate about this tour is the inclusion of Kerid Crater, a volcanic site often overlooked in standard Golden Circle trips. Its vibrant, red volcanic rock and the bright blue lake inside make for excellent photos. The guides are consistently praised for their knowledge and friendly attitude, making the experience both educational and enjoyable. That said, the tour clocked at around 8.5 hours, which is quite a full day, so it’s best suited for travelers who don’t mind an early start and a busy schedule.

A possible consideration? The group size and transportation matter. While many guests rave about the overall organization, some mention that the experience can be different depending on the guide and the bus size. If you’re looking for a more intimate or relaxed experience, it might be worth checking the specific guide or group size beforehand. This trip is ideal for first-time visitors eager to tick off Iceland’s top highlights in one smooth, guided experience.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Golden Circle route including Kerid Crater, Geysir, Gullfoss, and Thingvellir.
• Excellent value with all admission fees included.
• Knowledgeable guides add context and fun stories to the scenic stops.
• Good for first-timers wanting an efficient overview of Iceland’s volcanic landscape.
• Busy schedule but plenty of time at each stop, with some reviewers noting very detailed commentary.
• Group sizes can vary; some reviews mention smaller groups making for a more personalized experience.

The Experience in Detail

Starting in Reykjavik

Most tours begin with a pickup in Reykjavik, usually around 10:30 am. This early start is typical for full-day excursions, but it means you’ll need to plan to be ready on time. The meeting point at Þórunnartún 1 is quite accessible, near public transport, which is handy for many travelers. Once onboard, your guide will set the tone for the day, sharing stories about Iceland’s landscape, geology, and culture as you head out of the city.

Kerid Crater: A Volcanic Gem

Your first stop is Kerid Crater, a volcanic caldera about 55 meters deep. While it’s not always included in standard Golden Circle tours after 12:00 pm, this tour makes it a highlight. The brightly colored volcanic rocks and the azure lake are quite a sight, offering fantastic photo opportunities. You’ll get about 20 minutes here, which is enough to take pictures, walk around, and marvel at the crater’s vivid hues.

Reviewers love this stop, with one mentioning, “Kerið is an iconic volcanic crater, and the views are spectacular.” It’s a relatively quick visit but one that leaves a lasting impression. Note that the tour’s timing is tight—if you’re traveling later in the day, Kerid might be excluded, so check your departure time if this is a priority.

Strokkur Geyser: Nature’s Fountain

Next up is Strokkur Geyser, which regularly erupts every 7 to 10 minutes, shooting water up to 30 meters in the air. Here, you’ll have about 1.5 hours, including time for lunch. Many guests appreciate the opportunity to see the geyser in action—it’s a powerful, natural spectacle that keeps everyone captivated. The area is dotted with hot springs and bubbling mud pots, giving you a real sense of Iceland’s geothermal activity.

A reviewer commented, “Strokkur is still very active, and watching it erupt is quite a thrill.” You’ll find plenty of space to walk around, snap photos, or just marvel at the bubbling landscape. Food options are available on-site, and some guests mention that the lunch break here is a good time to relax and refuel.

Gullfoss Waterfall: The Power of Water

After lunch, the tour moves to Gullfoss, one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls. The double cascade plunges 11 and 21 meters into a rugged canyon, creating a thunderous roar. With over 100 cubic meters of water rushing through every second, it’s an incredible display of nature’s force.

Guests frequently mention the breathtaking views and the opportunity to walk close to the falls. One review states, “Gullfoss is a must-see, and it’s even more impressive in person.” The site is wheelchair accessible, and you’ll likely spend about 40 minutes here, soaking in the mist and taking countless photos.

Thingvellir National Park: Geology and History

The final major stop is Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, you can stand on the visible rift between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates, which are slowly drifting apart. It’s also historically significant, as it was the original site of Iceland’s parliament, founded in the late 900s.

Guests love the combination of natural beauty and historical significance. One reviewer shared, “We learned about Iceland’s history and geology here, which added depth to the experience.” The guide will likely share stories about the park’s importance, and you’ll have about 40 minutes to walk around, enjoy the scenery, and maybe pick up some souvenirs.

Wrapping Up and Return

After a full day of exploring, the tour heads back to Reykjavik, arriving approximately at 6 pm. The return journey is a good time to review photos, relax, and chat about the day’s highlights. Many travelers mention the smooth organization and friendly guides as key to a stress-free experience.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The guided aspect is one of the biggest pluses. Many reviews praise guides like Jessica, Ana, and Ivy for their knowledge, storytelling skills, and friendliness. Their insights help you understand the landscape’s volcanic origins, Icelandic folklore, and environmental nuances, making each stop more meaningful.

Value for money is also notable. For $77, all admission fees are covered, and you get to see some of Iceland’s most celebrated sights with minimal hassle. The included stops are carefully chosen, giving a well-rounded taste of Iceland’s geology, waterfalls, geysers, and history.

The scenic variety is impressive—from the vibrant Kerid crater to the roaring Gullfoss, geysers, and tectonic rifts. Many guests, including those on cruises, find this tour a perfect way to see the highlights in a day, especially if time is limited.

Group size, as noted, can impact the experience. While some reviewers have enjoyed smaller groups, others have experienced larger buses. The tour can comfortably accommodate up to 65 travelers, which is standard for organized day trips, but the atmosphere can vary accordingly.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal for first-timers eager to tick off Iceland’s iconic sights without the stress of self-guided planning. It’s also suitable for those wanting an educational experience with a friendly guide who can answer questions about Icelandic culture and geology. If you prefer more flexibility or a private tour, you might want to explore other options.

Travelers who appreciate scenic diversity—from waterfalls and geysers to volcanic craters and tectonic plates—will find this experience satisfying. The tour’s value makes it especially appealing for budget-conscious travelers who want to maximize their time and see Iceland’s highlights without breaking the bank.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup in Reykjavik is offered, and transportation is part of the package, making it easy to relax and enjoy the scenery without worry.

How long is the tour?
The full experience lasts approximately 8.5 hours, including travel, stops, and free time at each site.

Are all admission fees included?
Absolutely, all entrance fees for Kerid Crater, Geysir, Gullfoss, and Thingvellir are covered in the ticket price.

Can I visit Kerid Crater later in the day?
No, Kerid is not included in tours departing at 12:00 pm or later, as the tour duration at that point is only 7 hours.

What’s the group size?
The tour can accommodate up to 65 travelers, but some reviews mention smaller groups, which can enhance the experience.

Is food included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but there are stops with food options, notably at Geysir, where you can purchase lunch.

What if the weather is bad?
Since the tour is weather-dependent, it might be canceled or rescheduled if conditions are unsafe. You would be offered a different date or a full refund if cancellation occurs.

Final Thoughts

This Golden Circle tour from Reykjavik offers a solid, well-organized way to see Iceland’s top sights in a single day. It’s best suited for first-time visitors and those eager to experience the volcanic beauty of the country without the hassle of planning logistics themselves. The inclusion of Kerid Crater adds a splash of color and uniqueness, while the knowledgeable guides enhance the understanding of each location.

While the schedule can be demanding, the scenic rewards and informative commentary make it worthwhile. If you’re after a cost-effective, comprehensive, and enjoyable day out, this tour is definitely worth considering.

In summary, if you want to tick off Iceland’s highlights with a trusted guide, enjoy stunning scenery, and appreciate the convenience of an all-inclusive package, this Golden Circle trip hits the mark. It offers excellent value and plenty of memorable moments, making it an ideal choice for those new to Iceland or travelers short on time.