Golden Circle and Laugarvatn Fontana Geothermal Tour from Reykjavik

Introduction

This comprehensive review is about the popular Golden Circle and Laugarvatn Fontana Geothermal Tour from Reykjavik—a full-day experience that packs Iceland’s must-see sights into roughly nine hours. With an average of 58 days booked in advance, it’s clear this tour is a favorite among travelers seeking an efficient, well-rounded Icelandic adventure.

What we love about this tour is its blend of scenic natural wonders, educational stops, and relaxing moments at the geothermal baths. The inclusion of professional guides, air-conditioned transport, and entrance fees makes it a hassle-free way to see the classic Golden Circle route without the stress of self-driving.

A key consideration is the large group size—some reviews mention it feeling crowded, which might diminish the intimacy or photo opportunities for those seeking a quieter, more personal experience. This tour is best suited for travelers who want a structured, informative day that covers all the main sights, especially if time is limited or they prefer guided comfort over DIY exploration.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering all major Golden Circle highlights plus a geothermal bath visit
• Knowledgeable guides who share detailed insights about Iceland’s geology and history
• Value for money with included admissions, hotel pickup, WiFi, and transport
• Potential crowding due to large coach size, which might affect the experience
• Relaxing thermal baths offer a perfect break in the day, with options for bringing your own towel or rental
• Weather-dependent operation—be prepared for all conditions, as the tour runs year-round

The Itinerary in Detail

Thingvellir National Park: The Geological Wonder and Historic Site

Your day begins at Thingvellir, a UNESCO-listed site that’s as much about geology as it is about Iceland’s cultural roots. Here, you’ll see the tectonic rift—the visible boundary between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates—making it a visual testament to Iceland’s volcanic activity and continental drift.

But this site is also where Iceland’s first parliament was established over a thousand years ago, adding historical depth. As one reviewer mentions, the “geological wonders of Thingvellir” are a highlight, combined with stories about Iceland’s political origins. You’ll have about an hour here, ample time to walk around, take photos, and absorb the environment.

Laugarvatn Fontana Geothermal Baths: A Soothing Break

Next, you’ll visit the Fontana Geothermal Baths by Lake Laugarvatn. This stop is more than just a cool-down; it’s an experience that’s highly praised by travelers. The geothermally heated pools offer a blissful way to relax and recharge, especially after a morning of sightseeing.

You’ll love the alternative steam rooms, where the steam comes straight from the springs beneath, producing a bubbling, authentic experience. As one reviewer shared, “the lakes and baths were incredible,” and the chance to hear the bubbling hot springs adds a sensory element most hot tubs can’t match.

The visit lasts about two hours, giving enough time to enjoy the different temperatures of the pools and steam cabins. Remember, you can bring your own swimsuit and towel, or rent them at the site for a small fee.

Geysir Hot Springs Area: Witness Nature’s Eruption

After the baths, the tour continues to the Geysir geothermal area, home of the famous Strokkur geyser. Here, the geyser erupts every few minutes, shooting water up to 30 meters in the air—an impressive sight that will keep both kids and adults engaged.

Many travelers appreciate this stop for its predictable eruptions and lively atmosphere. It’s a chance to get close to Iceland’s geothermal activity and learn about the forces beneath the earth’s surface. The area is free to explore, and the stop lasts about 45 minutes, giving plenty of time for photos and soaking in the steaming landscape.

Gullfoss Waterfall: Iceland’s Iconic Cascade

Next up is Gullfoss, one of Iceland’s most celebrated waterfalls. The glacial water plunges into Hvitargljufur canyon, creating a stunning display of raw power. Visitors often describe it as “breathtaking” and “a must-see”, with the sight of the water roaring into the canyon in all its glory.

A walk along the viewing platforms provides different perspectives, and the mist and spray add a mystical feel. You’ll spend about an hour here, enough time for photos and perhaps a quick walk if the weather permits.

Strokkur Geyser: The Showstopper

Right next to Geysir is Strokkur, the most active geyser in the area. It erupts reliably every 5-10 minutes, giving plenty of chances to witness its forceful spout. This stop, lasting around 30 minutes, is often described as “fun” and “exciting” thanks to the frequent eruptions.

Optional: Additional Highlights or Breaks

While the itinerary is fairly packed, some reviews mention an appreciation for the flexibility of the stops, and the tour includes WiFi on board, so you can share photos or check in with loved ones during the day.

The Experience: What You Can Expect

Transport and Comfort: The tour uses air-conditioned vehicles, which are particularly appreciated during Iceland’s unpredictable weather. The size of the group can reach up to 30 travelers, which some find a bit crowded, especially at popular photo spots. However, for many, this provides a lively, social atmosphere.

Guides and Info: According to reviews, guides like Darren, Gregor, and Stephan are knowledgeable and friendly, sharing interesting facts about Iceland’s geology, history, and culture. One reviewer highlighted how guides even sang during the trip, adding a personal touch.

Timing and Pacing: The schedule is designed to give enough time at each stop, from an hour at Thingvellir to two hours at Fontana Baths. This allows for a balanced experience—enough sightseeing without feeling rushed.

Value for Money: At approximately $149.78 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup, entrance fees, WiFi, and transportation. Considering the inclusions and the comprehensive itinerary, many travelers find it offers good value, especially compared to the cost of visiting these sites independently.

Food and Additional Expenses: Meals aren’t included, but the guide will stop at local restaurants and cafes where snacks and meals can be purchased. Towel rentals at Fontana are also extra, so bringing your own can save a few krona.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

Many reviewers praised the knowledge and friendliness of guides. For example, Darren and Gregor received glowing praise for their storytelling and recommendations. Stephan was singled out for making the experience particularly enjoyable.

The scenery consistently earns high marks, with many describing the waterfalls, geysers, and geothermal baths as “stunning” and “breathtaking”. One traveler noted that Fontana Baths felt almost private during their visit, which they adored, highlighting how this stop can sometimes feel like a peaceful oasis amid the crowds.

A few reviews mention crowding and large coach sizes, which could impact the intimacy of the experience or photo opportunities. Plus, some travelers experienced schedule mishaps or missed parts of the tour due to communication issues, so being clear about pickup points and timing is crucial.

The Bottom Line

This tour is an excellent choice for travelers who want to maximize their time in Iceland without the hassle of driving. It offers a balanced mix of sightseeing, educational commentary, and relaxation—perfect for first-timers or those with limited days. The inclusion of the Fontana Baths provides a much-needed warm break, especially on colder days.

While it’s not the best fit for travelers seeking a small, intimate group experience or those with a preference for flexible, self-guided exploration, it’s hard to beat for convenience and overall value. The guides’ expertise and the stunning sights will leave you with lasting memories of Iceland’s natural wonders.

Who Should Book This Tour?

If you’re visiting Iceland and want an organized, all-in-one day tour that covers the golden sights and includes a relaxing geothermal bath, this tour is a fantastic pick. It suits first-time visitors, couples, or small groups who prefer to travel comfortably with a guide.

Travelers on a tight schedule will appreciate how efficiently the day is planned, giving plenty of time at each stop without feeling rushed. If you’re okay with larger groups and the possibility of crowded photo spots, this tour offers a very good balance of value and experience.

For those who want a more personalized, quieter experience, exploring independently or seeking smaller group tours might be preferable.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are offered if you select the option during booking, making the day even more hassle-free.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, from 10:00 am start until returning to the meeting point.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but stops at local restaurants allow you to purchase food and snacks during the day.

Can I bring my own towel and swimsuit?
Yes, you’re welcome to bring your own, or you can rent these at Fontana for a small fee.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour operates in all weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or full refund.

Is the group size large?
Yes, with up to 30 travelers, some may find it crowded, especially at popular photo spots.

Are the stops flexible?
The itinerary is fixed, but the tour is designed to give ample time at each location for photos and relaxation.

What is included in the price?
Included are transportation, guide, entrance to Thingvellir, Gullfoss, Geysir, Strokkur, and Fontana Baths, as well as WiFi on the bus.

Final Thoughts

This Golden Circle and Laugarvatn Fontana tour offers a solid, well-organized way to see Iceland’s most iconic sights in one day. Its value lies in the expert guides, inclusive pricing, and diverse stops, especially the chance to unwind in geothermal pools.

While it’s not perfect for those seeking small groups or highly flexible schedules, it’s an excellent option for first-timers or travelers eager to tick off Iceland’s top attractions without the hassle of planning every detail. With plenty of reviews praising its organization, scenery, and guides, it remains a popular, dependable choice that promises a memorable day out in Iceland.