From Reykjavik: Golden Circle, Kerid, & Secret Lagoon Tour

From Reykjavik: Golden Circle, Kerid, & Secret Lagoon Tour
Location: Southern Region, Iceland
Country: Iceland
Rating: 4.8/5 (5189 reviews)
Price: $127 per person
Supplier: BusTravel Iceland

Intro: An Authentic Icelandic Adventure for Curious Travelers

If you’re planning a trip to Iceland and want a balanced mix of iconic sights and relaxing moments, this tour offers just that. It’s a well-rounded full-day experience that covers the famous Golden Circle, including Gullfoss Waterfall, Geysir, and Þingvellir National Park—all must-sees. Plus, there’s the chance to unwind in Iceland’s oldest thermal pool, the Secret Lagoon, or its substitute, Laugarvatn Fontana, when the Lagoon is closed for upgrades.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it combines nature’s spectacle with authentic local experiences. From the geothermal geysers to the volcanic crater, each stop feels meaningful, not just a photo op. An extra touch that many reviews highlight is the knowledgeable guides, who make the day both fun and informative. The only potential drawback? The 10-hour length might be long if you prefer a more leisurely pace or shorter trips.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive introduction to Iceland’s natural wonders without sacrificing comfort or authenticity. It’s ideal for first-timers, adventure seekers, and those eager to relax in thermal waters after a busy sightseeing day.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering major Golden Circle sights and the Secret Lagoon or alternate spa.
• Knowledgeable guides who share interesting stories and tip extra surprises, like a horse farm visit.
• Great value for money considering the inclusion of entry tickets, Wi-Fi, and hotel pickup.
• Relaxing thermal soak in Iceland’s oldest hot springs, or its replacement, during the visit.
• Flexible options for pickup and drop-off, with multiple convenient locations.
• Authentic experiences with ample opportunities for photos, exploration, and learning about Icelandic culture.

The Itinerary: A Day Packed with Nature and Culture

Start with Convenience: The journey begins early, with pickup from central Reykjavik (most options start around 8:00 AM). The tour is designed to maximize your sightseeing time while keeping the day engaging and enjoyable.

Kerið Volcano Crater: Your first stop is the Kerið volcanic crater, a striking red volcanic caldera filled with a turquoise lake. The walk around the rim offers sweeping views of the crater’s edges, and if you’re feeling adventurous, you can descend into the crater itself. As one reviewer put it, you get “stunning views” and a chance to step into a volcanic landscape that looks almost surreal.

Secret Lagoon (or Laugarvatn Fontana): Next, you’ll head to the Secret Lagoon—Iceland’s oldest geothermal pool—where you’re free to relax for about 1.5 hours. It’s a chance to soak in warm waters, unwind, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Keep in mind, from May 13-22, the Lagoon is closed for upgrades, and the tour switches to Laugarvatn Fontana, another geothermal spa with similar benefits. Many travelers mention how this stop is a highlight, a perfect break after a morning of exploration. One reviewer remarked, “the Secret Lagoon was great to relax in at the end of the day,” emphasizing how refreshing it is after a busy schedule.

Geysir Hot Springs: After your swim, the tour guides you to the Geysir geothermal area, home to the famous Strokkur geyser, which erupts roughly every 8 minutes, shooting boiling water up to 30 meters. Watching this natural spectacle is always a crowd-pleaser. Guides often share fascinating facts about geothermal activity and Iceland’s volcanic landscape, adding depth to the experience.

Gullfoss Waterfall: Then comes the iconic Gullfoss, or “Golden Falls,” where tons of glacial water rush down a two-tiered waterfall into a deep canyon. The spray and roar make it impossible not to feel the raw power of nature. Several reviews describe it as “absolutely breathtaking,” with plenty of time for photos. Some mention how standing close to the fall’s edge gives you a real sense of Iceland’s untamed beauty.

Þingvellir National Park: The next stop is Þingvellir, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are pulling apart—literally—a captivating geological phenomenon. The park also holds historical significance as the site of Iceland’s ancient parliament. Guides often share stories woven into the landscape, making it more than just a scenic spot. Reviewers note how guides “tell interesting stories about Iceland’s history,” enriching the visit.

Kerið Crater (second visit): The tour concludes with a visit to Kerið, providing yet another chance to marvel at its vibrant colors and volcanic origins. Many travelers find this a fitting end, capturing the striking visuals before heading back to Reykjavik.

Drop-offs & Flexibility: The tour ends at a variety of central Reykjavik locations, including hotels and bus stops, making it convenient regardless of where you stay. The total duration is about 10 hours, but the pacing is well-managed, with enough time at each stop for sightseeing and relaxation.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Knowledgeable Guides: Many reviews highlight guides like “Steinunn,” “Jennifer,” and “Sara,” noting their friendliness, storytelling ability, and willingness to go the extra mile—like a guide taking visitors to a horse farm. This personal touch adds a lot to the experience, making it more meaningful than a standard sightseeing bus ride.

Authentic Nature Experiences: Seeing geysers erupt, walking around volcanic craters, and standing in front of powerful waterfalls fosters a genuine connection with Iceland’s landscape. The inclusion of the Secret Lagoon, rather than the more crowded Blue Lagoon, offers a more authentic thermal bath experience that many travelers prefer.

Comfortable Transportation: The bus is described as modern and comfortable, with many reviews mentioning how the drive is smooth and the group size manageable. Wi-Fi onboard is a thoughtful touch, allowing travelers to share their stunning photos or catch up on messages during the day.

Value for Money: At $127, this tour includes several entry tickets, hotel pickup, Wi-Fi, and the guidance of knowledgeable hosts. Considering how much Icelandic beauty is packed into the day, many reviewers feel this offers solid value—especially compared to private tours or visits to more commercialized sites like the Blue Lagoon.

Considerations for Travelers

While the overall experience is highly praised, note that the day is quite full. If you prefer a more leisurely pace or shorter outings, this might feel a little rushed, especially during peak seasons when crowds can slow things down slightly. Also, the tour’s duration means you’ll be on your feet quite a bit, so comfortable shoes and a readiness for outdoor weather are advisable.

Another point: Towels at the Secret Lagoon are available for rent, so if you plan to swim, bringing your own towel could be more convenient. And for those with specific health considerations, the long bus ride and walking at each stop are worth considering.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour

This full-day Golden Circle tour from Reykjavik offers a fantastically balanced experience—combining Iceland’s top natural sights with relaxing thermal baths and insightful guides. It’s particularly good for travelers seeking value and authenticity without sacrificing comfort, especially if they appreciate a knowledgeable commentary and a well-organized schedule.

First-time visitors will find this tour a perfect introduction to Iceland’s landscapes. Adventure lovers will enjoy the geysers, waterfalls, and volcanic craters, while those wanting relaxation will appreciate the thermal spa stop. The inclusion of multiple stops and the opportunity to learn about Iceland’s geology and history makes it a comprehensive, satisfying choice.

In short, if you want to see some of Iceland’s most photogenic spots, learn fun facts from guides, and finish with a soak in thermal waters, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s a reliable, well-reviewed option for anyone wanting a full day of Icelandic highlights with the added bonus of local charm and comfort.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
Yes, pickup from selected hotels and official bus stops in central Reykjavik is available, starting around 8:00 AM. Make sure to be ready at your designated pickup spot.

What should I bring for the thermal spa stop?
Bring a swimwear and towel. Towels at the Secret Lagoon are available for rent if you prefer not to bring your own.

How long do we spend at each stop?
You’ll have roughly 1.5 hours at the Secret Lagoon, time for photos and exploration at Geysir, Gullfoss, and Þingvellir, and a comfortable amount of time at Kerið. The schedule is designed to balance sightseeing with relaxation.

What if the Secret Lagoon is closed during my trip?
From May 13-22, the Lagoon is under upgrades, and the tour switches to Laugarvatn Fontana geothermal spa, which offers similar thermal bath experiences.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 2 years are not suited for this tour due to the long day and outdoor activities. For older kids, it provides a fun, educational experience.

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

This tour combines Iceland’s natural wonders with some well-earned relaxation, guided by friendly experts. It’s a great way to see the highlights while feeling comfortable and engaged.