Reykjavik: Golden Circle, Kerid, and Fridheimar Minibus Tour

Exploring Iceland’s Golden Circle: An Honest Review of the Minibus Tour from Reykjavik

Iceland’s Golden Circle is a must-see for anyone visiting the country, and this guided minibus tour from Reykjavik promises to cover the most iconic sites in a single day. With a mix of natural wonders, cultural stops, and a taste of local life, it’s designed to give travelers a well-rounded experience. What makes this tour stand out? The expertly guided commentary, the intimate small-group atmosphere, and the chance to visit lesser-known spots like the Friðheimar tomato farm.

One of the things we love about this experience is how well-paced and informative it is. The guides are praised for their knowledge, adding context and stories that make each stop more meaningful. Plus, the inclusion of a visit to the farm and Icelandic horses offers a touch of local charm you wouldn’t get on a standard sightseeing trip. The main consideration? The tour’s duration is around 9 hours, so it’s quite a long day—perfect if you’re eager to see everything, but possibly tiring if you prefer a more relaxed pace.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive day out with a small group, excellent guides, and a mix of natural beauty, local culture, and photo opportunities. Since it covers a lot in one day, it’s ideal for those short on time but eager to maximize their sightseeing in Iceland. Keep in mind, lunch is not included, so plan to bring some snacks or purchase something at the farm.

Key Points

• Small-group experience means more personalized attention and easier photo opportunities
• In-depth commentary enhances the understanding of each site’s significance
• Visit to Friðheimar Farm offers a unique look into local agriculture and a taste of fresh tomatoes
• Diverse stops include volcanic craters, waterfalls, tectonic rifts, and geysers for a well-rounded experience
• Comfortable transportation in a minibus offers intimacy and flexibility that larger tours might lack
• Great value for the price considering the included admissions, guided tour, and extra stops

A Deep Dive Into the Itinerary

The tour kicks off early in Reykjavik with pickup at one of 23 convenient locations. From there, you’re whisked off in a cozy minibus—an advantage many reviews highlight, as it’s more intimate and allows for quick stops and departures. You’ll spend just over an hour traveling to the first main site, giving you a chance to settle in and get excited.

Kerið Crater

First stop: Kerið, a volcanic crater famed for its striking red and black slopes surrounding a serene, milky blue-green lake. Here, the landscape’s volcanic origins are on full display, and the short 25-minute stop allows plenty of time for photos and wandering around the rim. Reviewers mention how this crater’s unusual colors and water make it a favorite photo spot, with many appreciating the chance to get close to the volcanic geology.

Friðheimar Farm

Next, your guide will lead you to the family-owned Friðheimar Tomato Farm, where you’ll spend around 1.5 hours. The farm has been growing tomatoes since 1995, and it’s a real highlight. Visitors can walk through the greenhouses, meet the adorable Icelandic horses in the stables, and enjoy a guided show of the horses’ gaits—something many reviews say is both fun and fascinating. The farm offers the chance to taste fresh tomato soup and buy local products, making it a unique blend of agriculture, culture, and culinary delight.

Multiple reviews mention how the Tomato Soup at Friðheimar is a memorable part of the day, with some noting that the food and the farm’s atmosphere add a cozy, authentic touch to the trip. The farm stop is also praised for its relaxed vibe, giving you a break from the bus and a chance to really soak in Iceland’s rural charm.

Geysir and Gullfoss

From there, the trip continues to the Geysir geothermal area—home to the famous erupting geyser. The stop lasts about 40 minutes, giving you enough time to see Strokkur’s spectacular eruptions up close. Reviewers highlight how lively and active the geyser is, and it’s a photo-worthy moment you won’t want to miss.

Next up is Gullfoss, Iceland’s “Golden Waterfall,” which is considered the most impressive of the country’s approximately 30,000 waterfalls. A 45-minute stop allows plenty of time for photos, a walk along the viewing platforms, and soaking in the raw power of this cascading spectacle. Many reviews mention how Gullfoss’s thunderous roar and vast scale leave a lasting impression.

Þingvellir National Park

The last major stop is Þingvellir, a UNESCO World Heritage site and geological marvel. It’s where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet, creating a rugged landscape with fissures and clear waters. The 45-minute walk here offers scenic views that spread across the park. Visitors like us appreciate the chance to see the rift valley and learn about Iceland’s historic Alþingi assembly.

Final Stretch and Return

After Þingvellir, the bus heads back to Reykjavik, with a few extra scenic stops if time allows. Typical return time is around 6:30 pm, making this a full but fulfilling day.

Authentic Experiences and Practicalities

Guides and commentary are a highlight of this tour. Multiple reviewers praise guides like Siggi, Addi, and Josip for their storytelling, humor, and knowledge. They add context that turns sightseeing into storytelling, making each stop more than just a photo op. Many reviewers mention how guides go above and beyond—they take photos, give extra information, and add personal touches.

The small-group format means less time waiting and more flexibility, which travelers say makes the day more enjoyable. Plus, the comfortable minibus allows for quick, efficient stops—got a question or want a quick photo? The guide is right there.

Cost-effectiveness is another big plus. At $118, this tour offers comprehensive coverage, including admissions and a farm visit, for a price that many consider reasonable given the quality and variety of stops. You won’t find many tours that combine all these highlights in one day with such a personable approach.

Lunch isn’t included, so plan to bring snacks or buy some at Friðheimar. The farm does serve tomato-based dishes, but reviewers say the prices are fair, and the experience is worth it.

Transportation and Group Size

The minibus offers a more intimate experience than large coach tours, and reviews mention how this makes it easier to get around and take photos. Pickup options are numerous, and the process is generally smooth, although some reviewers experienced minor communication hiccups at the start. Once on board, you’ll enjoy a comfortable ride with plenty of scenic commentary.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is best suited for travelers who want to see Iceland’s Golden Circle efficiently without sacrificing depth or comfort. The inclusion of the tomato farm and Icelandic horses adds a local touch that many visitors find charming. The small-group setup makes it ideal for those who prefer a more personal, relaxed atmosphere compared to larger, busier excursions.

While it’s a full-day adventure, the variety of stops and knowledgeable guides make the experience worthwhile. It’s especially perfect for first-timers eager to cover all the main sites with insightful commentary and a touch of Icelandic farm life.

If you’re after a well-organized, value-packed tour that combines natural beauty with local culture, this trip will meet your expectations—and likely exceed them.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, including stops and transportation, with pick-up starting early in the day.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers bus fare, guided commentary, admission to Kerið crater, a tomato tasting at Friðheimar Farm, and a visit to meet Icelandic horses.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is at your own expense. You can purchase food at Friðheimar or bring snacks for the day.

What should I bring?
Weather-appropriate clothing and waterproof shoes are recommended. It’s a good idea to bring a camera and some extra cash for souvenirs or food.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is not suitable for children under 8 years old, but for older kids and teens, it offers engaging scenery and fun stops.

Are pickup locations convenient?
Yes, there are 23 pickup points across Reykjavik, making it easy to join from most central locations.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your Iceland trip.

In all, this Golden Circle minibus tour offers a fantastic way to see Iceland’s top natural and cultural highlights with expert guides, a friendly group atmosphere, and excellent value. Whether it’s your first visit or a repeat trip, you’ll come away with plenty of memories—and great photos.