From Skarfabakki: Golden Circle Day Trip with Kerið Crater

Discover Iceland’s Golden Circle on a Guided Day Trip from Reykjavik

Exploring Iceland’s famous Golden Circle is often considered a must-do for visitors, offering a snapshot of the country’s most striking natural wonders. This 6-hour tour from Skarfabakki Cruise Terminal promises to showcase key sights like Þingvellir National Park, Gullfoss Waterfall, Geysir Geothermal Area, and the volcanic Kerið Crater — all in a comfortable, private group setting.

One thing we love about this experience is how it packs those standout sights into a manageable day. The convenience of round-trip transport from the cruise port, combined with insightful commentary from a licensed driver, makes it particularly appealing to travelers with limited time in Reykjavik.

A potential consideration is that the tour involves some walking on uneven terrain, which might be a challenge for those with mobility restrictions. Still, with plenty of time at each stop, it’s suitable for most active travelers eager to see Iceland’s highlights without the hassle of planning transport or guides on their own.

This tour suits travelers who want a well-rounded, authentic experience of Iceland’s natural beauty, especially those visiting via cruise who need a reliable, efficient way to see the Golden Circle without missing out.

Key Points

• Comfortable, private group tour ideal for up to four travelers
• Includes entrance fees to Þingvellir, Gullfoss, and Geysir — a big plus for convenience and value
• Stops at Kerið Crater for a unique volcanic landscape photo opportunity
• Balanced itinerary with ample free time at each site for personal exploration
• Expert guidance from a licensed driver, offering local insights
• Flexible booking options with full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance

The Experience: A Deep Dive into the Golden Circle

Starting Point and Convenience

You’ll be picked up directly at the Skarfabakki Cruise Terminal, which is perfect for cruise travelers wanting a seamless start. The tour is designed specifically for private groups, so you won’t be stuck with strangers, and your driver, fluent in both English and Icelandic, provides a personable touch—often sharing little local tidbits that make the experience more engaging.

Kerið Crater: A Colorful Volcanic Wonder

Your first stop is the Kerið Crater, a striking volcanic caldera around 30 minutes away from Reykjavik. It’s easy to see why this site is a favorite among travelers—its vivid red and green slopes contrast beautifully with the bright blue water at the bottom. The stop provides about 30 minutes of free time, enough to stroll around, take photos, and appreciate the volcanic history.

While the entrance fee is only about EUR 4, it’s not included in the tour price, so it’s a small extra to consider. Reviewers mention that walking around Kerið is straightforward, but the terrain can be uneven, so sturdy shoes are recommended.

Gullfoss: Iceland’s Iconic Waterfall

Next, you’ll head to Gullfoss, often called the “Golden Falls.” This powerful waterfall cascades in two tiers into a deep canyon, creating a dramatic scene that’s one of Iceland’s most photographed sights. You’ll get about 30 minutes here, which is enough to stand close to the falls, snap some photos, and soak in the raw energy of the Hvítá River.

Reviewers have appreciated how accessible the viewing areas are, even during busy seasons. One noted, “The view of Gullfoss is jaw-dropping—you feel the power of the water even from a distance.” Be prepared for potentially misty conditions, so a raincoat or waterproof clothing might enhance comfort.

Geysir Geothermal Area: Watching Nature’s Fireworks

Geysir is next, with a dedicated hour for exploration and relaxation. The star here is Strokkur, which erupts every 5-10 minutes, shooting boiling water up to 20-40 meters high. The bubbling hot springs, mud pots, and fumaroles create a lively, almost otherworldly landscape.

Several reviewers highlighted how fascinating it is to watch the geyser erupt multiple times, and how close you can get to these geothermal features. One remarked, “It’s like standing in a bubbling cauldron of nature’s own fireworks.” You’ll have enough time for photos and to wander freely around the geothermal area.

Þingvellir National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site

The final stop is Þingvellir, where Iceland’s history and geology collide. Not only is it where the Alþingi, the world’s first parliament, was established in 930 AD, but it’s also where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are pulling apart—a visible rift that splits the landscape.

In about 50 minutes, you can walk through the Almannagjá gorge, see the historic parliament site, and appreciate the stunning vistas. Reviewers have praised how informative the guide is here, sharing stories about the site’s significance and geological wonder. The landscape here is particularly striking, with rugged cliffs and clear waters creating perfect photo opportunities.

Return and Drop-off

The tour wraps up with a comfortable ride back to the cruise terminal, giving you time to reflect on the stunning sights. The entire experience is designed to fit comfortably within your schedule, making it easy to catch your ship or continue your Iceland adventure.

Analyzing the Value: Is It Worth It?

At $940 for a group of four, the per-person cost is reasonable considering the included transportation, entry fees, and guided commentary. The tour’s length—6 hours—is just enough to see the highlights without feeling rushed. Plus, the private group setting means a more personalized experience, often praised by travelers for the flexibility and attentiveness of the guide.

Several reviewers appreciated the professionalism of the licensed driver, citing their knowledge and friendly attitude. The small group size fosters a relaxed atmosphere, allowing plenty of opportunities to ask questions and take photos.

While food isn’t included, there are stops where you can purchase meals and snacks, which some found convenient, especially since the itinerary includes a 1-hour stop at Geysir—ample time to grab a quick bite.

Some practical insights:

• Weather considerations: Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable, so dress in layers and bring rain gear just in case.
• Walking: Expect moderate walking on uneven surfaces, so comfortable shoes are essential.
• Timing: Check availability beforehand to confirm your preferred start time, especially if you’re on a tight schedule.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for cruise passengers or travelers with limited time seeking a comprehensive yet manageable introduction to Iceland’s highlights. It offers a perfect balance of natural beauty, history, and geothermal activity, making it a well-rounded choice.

It’s especially suitable for those who value guided insights and want to avoid the hassle of navigating on their own. On the flip side, travelers with mobility issues should consider the walking involved—although most sites are accessible, uneven terrain could pose a challenge.

Final Thoughts

This Golden Circle day trip from Skarfabakki offers a solid, immersive introduction to some of Iceland’s most iconic landscapes. The small-group format, combined with expert guidance and included entry fees, makes it a practical and value-packed choice. You’ll leave with plenty of photos, stories, and a good sense of what makes Iceland so uniquely captivating—without the stress of planning each stop yourself.

If your goal is to see the highlights comfortably and authentically, this tour provides a well-balanced, memorable experience. It’s a smart choice for cruise travelers or those eager to tick off Iceland’s top attractions in a single day.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, round-trip transportation from Skarfabakki Cruise Terminal is included, making it very convenient for cruise travelers.

How long do we spend at each site?
You’ll have roughly 30 minutes at Kerið Crater and Gullfoss, an hour at Geysir, and about 50 minutes at Þingvellir, allowing for exploration and photography at each stop.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, admission to Þingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss is included. The fee for Kerið Crater (~EUR 4) is not, so plan accordingly.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, a camera, and water are recommended. The weather can change quickly, so layers are essential.

Is this tour suitable for children or mobility-impaired travelers?
It’s mainly suitable for active travelers because of walking on uneven surfaces. Those with mobility impairments should be aware of potential challenges.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexible planning if your itinerary changes.