Private Tour to Golden Circle and Hvammsvík Baths

Exploring Iceland’s Golden Circle and Hvammsvík Baths: A Private Tour Review

A private tour exploring Iceland’s famed Golden Circle, topped off with a soak in the Hvammsvík hot springs—sounds like a perfect way to see some of Iceland’s most breathtaking sights without the hassle of large groups, and with a personal touch. This 10-hour journey is designed to give you a comprehensive look at Iceland’s nature, history, and culture, all while offering the comfort of private transportation and a knowledgeable guide.

What makes this experience especially appealing is the fact that it’s tailored to your group, meaning you can explore at your own pace and enjoy the commentary from a local with insider knowledge. We love the way the itinerary mixes iconic natural wonders like Gullfoss and Geysir with authentic experiences such as tasting fresh farm dairy products and soaking in geothermal waters.

One consideration to keep in mind is the price—at nearly $1,854 for up to seven people, it’s a premium experience that’s best suited for those looking for a more personalized, relaxed way to explore. If you enjoy private, well-curated tours with a blend of nature, culture, and comfort, this will likely be worth every penny.

This tour is ideal for small groups, families, or travelers who want a flexible, in-depth experience without the hustle of larger bus tours. It’s also perfect if you’re eager to combine sightseeing with some well-deserved relaxation in Iceland’s geothermal hot springs.

Key Points

• Highly personalized: A private tour means your group gets tailored attention and flexibility.
• Comprehensive itinerary: Covers major sights like Kerid Crater, Geysir, Gullfoss, and Thingvellir, plus a bath in Hvammsvík.
• Knowledgeable guide: Expect insightful commentary from a local familiar with the area’s history and geology.
• Gourmet and farm experiences: Includes tastings at Friðheimar greenhouse and farm-fresh lunch at Efstidalur.
• Spectacular natural scenery: From volcanic craters to powerful geysers and majestic waterfalls.
• Relaxation in geothermal waters: Hvammsvík’s hot springs are a highlight, offering a soothing end to the day.

The Itinerary in Detail: What to Expect on Your Golden Circle and Hvammsvík Tour

Kerid Crater: A Volcanic Wonder

Your adventure begins with a visit to Kerid Crater, a vibrant volcanic crater approximately 3,000 years old. What makes Kerid truly special are its red volcanic walls, which contrast sharply with the stunning blue-green lake at the bottom. You’ll have around 20 minutes here, plenty of time to marvel at the geological formation, climb down to the lake’s edge, or snap photos of the vivid landscape.

Reviewers mention that Kerid looks particularly magical in winter when snow blankets the crater, transforming it into a scene straight out of a postcard. The admission is included, so no worries about additional costs. Expect to walk and explore, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

Friðheimar Greenhouse: A Taste of Icelandic Agriculture

Next is Friðheimar, a greenhouse dedicated to tomato cultivation using geothermal energy—an example of Iceland’s innovative approach to sustainable farming. Here, you’ll experience a unique blend of agriculture and gastronomy, with tastings of tomato-based dishes, including their famous tomato ice cream.

Guests appreciate the opportunity to sample local flavors and learn about how geothermal heat keeps the greenhouses productive year-round. Besides tasting, you’ll see Icelandic horses grazing nearby, adding a charming countryside vibe. This stop lasts about 20 minutes and is included in the tour, making it a delightful and educational break.

Geysir and Strokkur: The Power of Iceland’s Geothermal Activity

The iconic Geysir geothermal area is a highlight, with Strokkur erupting regularly, typically every 5-10 minutes. Watching a geyser shoot boiling water meters into the air is an unforgettable sight; you’ll be able to capture photos and marvel at this natural force. The area is free to visit, and about 35 minutes are allocated here for exploration and photos.

Gullfoss Waterfall: Nature’s Power in Action

One of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls, Gullfoss, offers a dramatic spectacle of nature’s raw power. The waterfall plunges in two tiers, creating a thunderous roar and mesmerizing mist. Visitors often spend around 45 minutes here, taking in the sweeping views and walking along the paths to get different perspectives.

Photos don’t do justice to the scale and energy of Gullfoss—standing close, you feel the mist on your face and hear the roaring water, truly a majestic display. The waterfall is free to visit, making it a high-value stop.

Efstidalur Farm: Authentic Icelandic Food

For lunch, the tour takes you to Efstidalur, a family-owned farm renowned for its dairy products and homemade ice cream. Many reviewers mention how delicious the farm’s offerings are, especially their Skyr ice cream—a must-try in Iceland. You’ll get about 45 minutes here to enjoy hearty, farm-fresh dishes and perhaps pick up some souvenirs from their farm shop.

This stop highlights Iceland’s rural charm and gives you a taste of local life outside the city. The farm’s atmosphere is cozy, and the food quality is praised as being authentic and flavorful.

Thingvellir National Park: History and Geology

The UNESCO-listed Thingvellir is a highlight for its breathtaking scenery and historical significance. From a vantage point on the cliffs, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the valley and the tectonic rift that runs through the park—an extraordinary sight illustrating the meeting of the Eurasian and North American plates.

The park also hosted Iceland’s parliament for over 900 years, making it a site of deep cultural importance. Expect to spend about 15 minutes here, with opportunities for quick walks and photo stops. Admission is included, and the views are as impactful as the stories they tell.

Hvammsvík Hot Springs: The Ultimate Relaxation

The grand finale of this tour is Hvammsvík, one of the top-rated hot springs in Iceland, renowned for its scenic setting and mineral-rich waters. Time here is approximately 1.5 hours, giving you plenty of opportunity to unwind and soak in the geothermal pools surrounded by stunning coastal scenery.

Many travelers mention this as a highlight—a perfect way to relax after a day of sightseeing. The hot springs are included in the tour price, which, considering the quality and setting, offers great value for a memorable experience.

Practical Details and What to Expect

The tour runs on a private basis, meaning only your group participates, providing a relaxed and flexible atmosphere. Pickup is offered, and the entire experience lasts around 10 hours, including travel time between stops.

The cost is $1,854 per group of up to 7, making it a premium experience suitable for friends, families, or small groups who want an intimate and in-depth tour. The guide, named Thor in one review, was described as energetic, knowledgeable, and helpful, which adds to the overall positive experience.

The tour operates from 8:00 AM to noon on weekdays, with confirmation provided at booking, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance—great flexibility for planning.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re after a personalized, well-rounded Iceland experience with a focus on natural wonders, cultural insights, and relaxation, this private Golden Circle tour ticks all the boxes. It offers an authentic taste of Iceland’s geothermal energy, stunning landscapes, and farm life, all with the comfort of private transport and a dedicated guide.

Travelers who appreciate the combination of sightseeing and leisure will especially enjoy the Hvammsvík hot springs, which many reviewers say is the best part of the day. The inclusion of delicious farm-to-table lunches and tastings adds a layer of depth that larger tours often lack.

However, be prepared for the price; it reflects the private, curated nature of the experience. If you’re traveling with a group and want a flexible, immersive day with memorable sights and a chance to relax in nature’s hot springs, this tour offers excellent value.

FAQ

Is pickup included in this tour? Yes, pickup is offered for convenience, making the day seamless from start to finish.

What is the duration of the tour? The total experience lasts about 10 hours, including travel time between stops.

How many people can join this private tour? It’s designed for groups of up to seven people, providing a personal and intimate experience.

Are admission tickets included? Yes, all listed stops—including Kerid Crater, Friðheimar, Thingvellir, and Hvammsvík—include admission, so there are no hidden costs.

Can I cancel this tour? Yes, there is free cancellation available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

What should I wear? Comfortable walking shoes and layered clothing are recommended, especially since some stops are outdoors and weather can vary.

Is this tour suitable for children? Yes, most travelers can participate, and the stops are family-friendly.

What’s the best time of year for this tour? The tour runs year-round, but winter can add scenic snow scenes—just be prepared for colder weather.

How much does this tour cost per person? The total price is $1,853.78 per group, which translates to roughly $265 per person if split evenly among 7 people.

What makes Hvammsvík Hot Springs special? Many say it’s the top activity in 2024, offering a luxurious, scenic soak that caps off the day perfectly.

This private Golden Circle tour with Hvammsvík Baths offers a superb way to experience Iceland’s most iconic sights in comfort and style, with plenty of opportunities for authentic tastes, scenic views, and relaxation. Whether you’re a nature lover, history enthusiast, or just looking to unwind in geothermal waters, it provides a well-balanced, memorable day out.