Golden Circle, Fridheimar Farm & Horses Small Group Tour from Reykjavik

Exploring Iceland’s famous Golden Circle with a small-group tour offers a perfect balance of guided insights and personal space to enjoy the jaw-dropping scenery. This 9-hour trip from Reykjavik covers the top sights like Geysir, Gullfoss, and Thingvellir, with some extra special stops that make it stand out — including a visit to a geothermal farm and an Icelandic horse show.

One of the things we really appreciate about this tour is its small-group size, which means more personalized attention from guides and a less rushed experience. Plus, it’s loaded with added local touches, like tasting tomatoes at a geothermal greenhouse and meeting Icelandic horses up close. The only caveat? It’s a full day, so some may find the pace a bit quick, especially if weather conditions are less cooperative.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a rundown of Iceland’s natural wonders without feeling overwhelmed by big bus crowds. If you’re after authentic experiences, scenic stops, and engaging guides, this trip offers great value for the price.

Key Points

• Small-group experience ensures personalized attention and a relaxed pace.
• In-depth visits to iconic sights plus unique local stops like a geothermal farm and horse show.
• Knowledgeable guides bring history, culture, and humor into each stop.
• Included food tastings add a tasty local touch, especially at the greenhouse and horse farm.
• Comfortable transportation with Wi-Fi and hotel pickup enhances convenience.
• Optimal for most travelers seeking a full but manageable day of sightseeing.

What to Expect from the Tour

This tour offers a detailed and engaging exploration of Iceland’s Golden Circle. It’s a well-rounded experience that balances iconic natural landmarks with off-the-beaten-path stops, all within a comfortable, small-group setting. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll encounter each step of the way.

Pickup and Transportation

Starting at 9:00 am, you’ll be picked up from select Reykjavik hotels or designated bus stops. The vehicle is a Wi-Fi-equipped minibus, so you can stay connected while soaking in the scenery or snapping photos without worrying about data. With a maximum of 22 travelers, your group will feel intimate but lively enough for shared stories and laughs.

The Highlights of the Itinerary

Kerid Crater
Your first stop is the Kerid volcanic crater, famous for its striking colors. The 55-meter-deep lake is filled with milky blue water, contrasting sharply against red and black volcanic rocks. Reviewers note that this stop offers fantastic photo opportunities, and its brevity makes it easy to enjoy without feeling rushed.

Fridheimar Greenhouse & Horse Show
Next, you’ll visit Fridheimar, a geothermal-powered tomato farm. Here, you’ll learn how Iceland’s unique climate and geothermal energy enable year-round tomato cultivation. Visitors rave about the delicious local produce and the chance to see Icelandic horses perform. One reviewer mentioned, “The farm itself was fascinating,” and many appreciate the opportunity to interact with the horses. You’ll also have time to purchase food, which is often praised for its quality.

Gullfoss Waterfall
The mighty Gullfoss, or “Golden Falls,” is a highlight for most. The two-tiered waterfall plunges 32 meters into a crevasse, creating dramatic spray and thunderous noise. Reviewers frequently comment on how awe-inspiring it is to stand near such power. Expect around 45 minutes here to take in the views and snap photos.

Thingvellir National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this park is significant both historically and geologically. It’s where the Icelandic parliament was founded in the late 900s, and it sits right on the rift between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates. The landscape features vast rock formations and geysers, making it a surreal place to walk and learn about Iceland’s natural history. Many travelers mention their guide’s interesting commentary, such as “I now understand what a volcanic eruption really looks like,” thanks to the detailed storytelling.

Strokkur Geyser
Although the original Geysir is mostly dormant, Strokkur remains active, erupting every 7-10 minutes with bursts of boiling water reaching up to 30 meters. This is an exciting stop that’s both visually impressive and fun to watch. Reviewers enjoy the timing and the chance to witness nature’s spontaneous show.

Guide and Local Insights

Throughout the day, guides like Siggi, Tony, and Vala are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and ability to keep the group engaged. Several reviews highlight how guides shared personal stories, cultural facts, and humor, making the experience more memorable. For example, Melanie_B shared, “Our guide Tony was outstanding and never felt scripted. He had a genuine interest in Iceland’s history, culture, and natural history,” which added depth to the trip.

Food and Tastings

The inclusion of tastings at Fridheimar and the horse farm adds a layer of authenticity. The greenhouse produces fresh tomatoes, and the meals are described as delicious, generous, and worth the slight extra cost. Some reviewers mention that the lunch at the greenhouse was a highlight, with one noting that the food was “super fresh and beautifully presented,” even if the seating arrangements at the farm could be a bit tight during busy times.

Duration and Comfort

The tour lasts around 9 hours, which flies by thanks to the variety of stops and stories. Most travelers find the pace comfortable, although some mention that the day can feel rushed, especially if you want longer at each spot or if weather hampers your plans. The small-group format aids in flexibility, making it easier to savor each experience without feeling overwhelmed.

The Value of This Tour

At $111 per person, this tour strikes a good balance between affordability and quality. The inclusion of hotel pickup, knowledgeable guides, and food tastings means you’re getting a comprehensive experience for the price. When you consider the cost of individual entries, meals, and transportation done independently, this organized trip offers convenience along with insightful storytelling and engaging stops.

Many reviews emphasize the personalized touch and the expert guidance that elevate the experience beyond a simple sightseeing day. It’s clear that guides like Harald, Siggi, and Vala genuinely enjoy sharing their knowledge, which enriches your understanding of Iceland.

While the tour doesn’t include lunch, the stops at the greenhouse and farm provide ample opportunity to sample local flavors and support local producers. Plus, the small-group setting ensures you’re not just another face in a crowd but part of a friendly, intimate exploration.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This Golden Circle tour is perfect for travelers who want a well-rounded overview of Iceland’s most famous sights but with an extra layer of authentic local experiences. It’s suited for those who appreciate small-group travel, detailed stories, and the chance to interact with Icelandic culture firsthand. If you’re after stunning landscapes, engaging guides, and good value for money, it’s a solid choice.

It also suits travelers who prefer a comfortable pace but don’t want to miss out on any key stops. If you’re traveling with family, friends, or even solo, the intimate size and friendly guides help foster a relaxed, engaging environment.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off from select Reykjavik hotels and official bus stops are included, making the start and end of your day convenient.

What’s the best time to join?
The tour begins at 9:00 am, and most travelers book it at least 58 days in advance, so it’s best to secure your spot early during peak season.

Is the tour suitable in bad weather?
Yes, the tour operates in all weather conditions, so be sure to dress appropriately. If weather cancels the trip, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

How long is each stop?
Stops vary from about 20 minutes at Kerid to 1 hour 30 minutes at Fridheimar, with time allocated for exploration, photos, and tasting.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, but you’ll have opportunities to purchase food at the greenhouse and farm. The tastings and meals at these stops are highly praised.

What’s the group size?
The group is limited to a maximum of 22 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience and easier interaction with guides.

Can I join if I have mobility limitations?
While most travelers can participate, it’s best to check with the provider beforehand if you have specific mobility concerns, especially given some stops may involve walking.

Final Thoughts

This small-group Golden Circle tour offers a well-balanced mix of natural wonders, cultural insights, and local flavor. Its highlights—like the geysers, waterfalls, and tectonic rift—are awe-inspiring, but it’s the personal touches, such as tasting Icelandic tomatoes and meeting Icelandic horses, that set it apart. Guides like Harald and Vala bring a wealth of knowledge and friendly energy, making the experience both educational and fun.

The tour’s price point provides good value considering the included stops, optional tastings, and the intimacy of a small group. It’s especially suitable for travelers who prefer a slower, more engaged sightseeing day over large bus tours. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to Iceland, this trip captures the essence of the country’s stunning landscapes and rich culture, making it a memorable part of any Iceland itinerary.

In short, if authentic local experiences, engaging guides, and unforgettable scenery matter to you, this Golden Circle tour is a smart pick. It’s designed for curious travelers eager to see Iceland’s highlights without the crowd, and willing to spend a full day exploring with a friendly group.