Reykjavik: Golden Circle Day Trip with Blue Lagoon Transfer

Exploring Iceland’s Golden Circle with Blue Lagoon Transfer: A Detailed Review

This Reykjavik-based tour offers a well-rounded, full-day adventure through some of Iceland’s most iconic natural wonders. For $145 per person, you get to visit Thingvellir National Park, see erupting geysers, admire the mighty Gullfoss waterfall, and end your day soaking in the Blue Lagoon’s geothermal waters. It’s a popular pick for travelers wanting a mix of history, natural beauty, and relaxation, all wrapped into a manageable 11-hour experience.

What we love most about this tour is the focus on small-group travel, which creates a more intimate, relaxed atmosphere — plus, the chance to get plenty of personalized insights from the guides. The inclusion of admission to the Kerid volcanic crater adds extra value, and the convenience of hotel pick-up and Wi-Fi on the bus makes the day smooth and comfortable. One thing to keep in mind is that Blue Lagoon entrance tickets are not included, so you’ll want to plan ahead for that part of the experience.

Ideal for those who want to see Iceland’s highlights without the hassle of organizing transport or navigating on their own, this tour suits travelers with limited time but a keen interest in natural wonders. If you’re after a comprehensive, guided day that combines scenery with comfort, it’s worth considering.

Key Points

• Small group size enhances comfort and personalized experience
• Includes admission to Kerid volcanic crater—a striking geological site
• Transport, guide, and Wi-Fi included — all you need for a hassle-free day
• Blue Lagoon transfer, with tickets booked separately, offers relaxation after sightseeing
• Highlights include Thingvellir, Geysir, Gullfoss, and Kerid—a well-rounded tour of Iceland’s natural beauty
• Guide expertise often praised for making the sights engaging and informative

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown

This tour is carefully designed to maximize your day without feeling rushed. It begins with hotel pickup in Reykjavik — a time that varies depending on your booking, but generally in the morning. The small-group setting means you’ll be traveling in a cozy vehicle with no more than 19 passengers, which makes it easier to ask questions and enjoy conversations with your guide.

Thingvellir National Park: Natural & Historical Wonder

The first stop is Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, we loved the way the guide explained both the geological and historical significance. The park sits on the mid-Atlantic ridge, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are visibly pulling apart. Walking between them is a surreal experience, giving you a literal sense of being between two continents.

Tour reviews highlight how guides like Holgar make these stops come alive with stories and context. One reviewer marvelled at how Holgar’s stories made what could be just a scenic site into a memorable experience. The park’s rugged landscape, combined with the history of Iceland’s parliament being founded there over 1,000 years ago, offers a compelling mix of nature and culture.

Geysir and Strokkur: The Eruption Show

Next, it’s off to the geothermal area around Geysir, a site that truly lives up to its name. The Great Geysir is less active today but still visible, while Strokkur erupts every 5-10 minutes, shooting water up to 30 meters high.

Travelers rave about how captivating it is to watch the geyser erupt. One reviewer noted that their guide’s commentary made the eruptions even more exciting, especially as Strokkur’s water columns soar and splash down with thunder. The area’s bubbling hot springs and steaming vents make it feel like you’ve stepped onto another planet.

Gullfoss Waterfall: Power and Beauty

The Gullfoss waterfall is a highlight for most visitors, and for good reason. The sheer force of water tumbling down 32 meters into a deep canyon is impressive. The tour provides ample time here to take photos from multiple angles, and the guide often shares stories about the area’s geology and history. Several reviews mention how the guide’s detailed explanations and enthusiasm enhanced the experience, making it more than just a pretty waterfall.

Kerid Crater: The Vibrant Volcanic Lake

After Gullfoss, the journey takes a turn to the Kerid volcanic crater, a site that consistently surprises visitors. This 3,000-year-old crater is filled with vibrant aquamarine water, surrounded by red volcanic rock. Walking around the rim offers plenty of photo opportunities, with reviewers noting how photogenic and almost alien the landscape feels.

The Blue Lagoon: The Perfect End

The tour concludes with a transfer to the Blue Lagoon, famous for its warm, mineral-rich waters. While the entrance isn’t included in the tour price, you’ll get instructions on how to book tickets afterward. Many reviewers highlight how this final stop is the perfect way to relax after a busy day of sightseeing.

One reviewer described their Blue Lagoon experience as “otherworldly,” noting the size of the lagoon exceeded expectations and that even when busy, it didn’t feel crowded. If you’re lucky, you might even spot the Northern Lights while soaking in the geothermal waters — a magical ending to your Iceland adventure.

Transportation, Guides, and Overall Value

The bus used for this tour is comfortable, with free Wi-Fi, which is appreciated during the long day. The small-group format means less time waiting and more personalized attention from guides like Holgar, Nicola, or Philip, all of whom receive high praise for their knowledge, humor, and storytelling skills. Several reviews mention how guides went beyond just pointing out sights by sharing interesting facts, humor, and in some cases, impromptu performances.

Cost-wise, $145 per person offers great value considering the included stops, the Kerid crater admission, and the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off. The Blue Lagoon tickets are purchased separately, but many find this to be a worthwhile investment for the chance to unwind in the warm waters at the end of a busy day.

What Travelers Should Know

• Food and Meals: The tour doesn’t include meals, but there’s usually time for quick snacks or lunch at designated stops. Reviewers mention that the geyser stop and lunch was “great” with outstanding food, so packing some snacks or a light lunch is optional.
• Walking & Clothing: Prepare for moderate walking and bring warm clothing and hiking shoes — Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable, even in summer.
• Blue Lagoon Booking: You’ll receive a link after booking to reserve your Blue Lagoon entry, which ensures you avoid lines and enjoy your time comfortably.
• Duration and Flexibility: The 11-hour tour is long but well-paced, with plenty of breaks. Reviews suggest the timing at each stop is generous, allowing for photos and exploration.

Authentic Traveler Insights

A common theme among reviews is how knowledgeable guides like Philip and Holgar make a difference. One reviewer exclaimed that Philip was “the BEST,” praising his mix of information, entertainment, and safety. Others appreciated the added touches, like impromptu singing or extra stops for Icelandic horses, which made the experience feel personalized and authentic.

The small-group setup allows for a more relaxed experience and the opportunity to ask questions about Iceland’s geology, culture, or even local tips. Several reviews mentioned how the guides’ stories made the natural sights more meaningful, turning what could be just a sightseeing stop into a memorable story.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a well-rounded view of Iceland’s Golden Circle with the bonus of a relaxing Blue Lagoon visit. For travelers who want a convenient, guided experience with small-group intimacy, it’s a compelling choice. The inclusion of Kerid Crater and the high praise for the guides make it stand out against larger, more impersonal tours.

While the Blue Lagoon entrance isn’t part of the package, the process to book tickets afterward is straightforward, and many agree that ending in the lagoon is worth it. The tour strikes a balance between natural wonders, cultural insights, and comfort, making it ideal for first-time visitors or those short on time but eager to see Iceland’s highlights.

If you value expert guides, stunning scenery, and a relaxed pace, this trip will deliver. It’s a fantastic way to connect with Iceland’s dramatic landscapes without the stress of planning every detail yourself.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour provides free pickup and drop-off at your accommodation in Reykjavik, making it convenient to start your day.

What is the tour duration?
The full experience lasts about 11 hours, with starting times subject to availability. It’s a long day but well-paced.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but there are stops with options for food. Bringing snacks or a packed lunch is a good idea.

Is the Blue Lagoon entrance included?
No, the entrance ticket to the Blue Lagoon is purchased separately after the tour. You’ll get clear instructions on how to book.

What should I bring?
Bring warm clothing and hiking shoes, as some walking is involved and Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable.

How many people are on the tour?
The maximum group size is 19 passengers, which helps keep the experience intimate and engaging.

Is the tour suitable for kids?
Yes, several reviews mention that guides are welcoming to children, including a 6-year-old. It’s suitable for families willing to handle the day’s length.

How good are the guides?
Guides like Holgar, Nicola, Philip, and Reynir have received high praise for their knowledge, humor, and storytelling skills, making the experience more informative and enjoyable.

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

In short, this Reykjavik Golden Circle tour with Blue Lagoon transfer is a thoughtfully curated experience. It’s perfect for travelers wanting to see Iceland’s most famous sights comfortably, with engaging guides and the option to unwind in the lagoon afterward.