Golden Circle and Blue Lagoon Transfer in Small Group by Van

A detailed look at the Golden Circle and Blue Lagoon transfer in a small group by van

If you’re planning your Iceland itinerary, chances are the Golden Circle and Blue Lagoon are top priorities. This tour promises a full day of natural beauty, from historic national parks to geothermal geysers and stunning waterfalls, with the added perk of ending your day soaking in the Blue Lagoon. What caught our eye is the small-group format—capped at just seven travelers—along with inclusive transportation, WiFi, snacks, and admission fees for many key stops.

We particularly like how smoothly this tour runs, with hassle-free hotel pickup and a well-paced itinerary. Plus, the inclusion of a local tomato farm lunch adds a touch of authentic Icelandic flavor. On the downside, the Blue Lagoon visit is limited to just two hours, which might feel rushed if you’re eager to spend hours soaking. Still, it’s a great way to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing. This experience suits those who want to see the highlights comfortably, without the hassle of planning each stop individually.

Key Points

• Small-group comfort: Max of 7 travelers for a more intimate experience.
• All-inclusive stops: Admission fees for Thingvellir, Kerid, and Fridheimar are included.
• Hassle-free logistics: Hotel pickup and round-trip transfer from Reykjavik make things easy.
• Balanced itinerary: A mix of natural wonders, cultural stops, and relaxation.
• Value for money: Sure, the Blue Lagoon admission costs extra, but transport, meals, and entry fees are bundled.
• Authentic experience: Local food at Fridheimar and feeding horses at Brú farm add genuine Icelandic flavor.

An in-depth look at what the tour offers

This tour is designed to give you a comprehensive yet relaxed experience of Iceland’s famed Golden Circle. Starting early from Reykjavik at around 9:00 am, the journey is set to take approximately 10 to 11 hours, including travel time, sightseeing, and the Blue Lagoon soak. The small-group size means you’ll get more personalized attention and the opportunity to ask questions or linger at points that pique your interest.

The transportation experience

Travel is in a comfortable, air-conditioned van equipped with WiFi, bottled water, snacks, and hot tea. This makes the long day more enjoyable and keeps you well-hydrated and energized. The vehicle’s smaller size ensures that the group stays intimate, and you’ll likely find the driver/guide, Tomas, to be lively and knowledgeable — a common praise in reviews.

First stop: Þingvellir National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Þingvellir is the first stop after about a 45-minute drive from Reykjavik. Here, we loved how the tour allows a few hours to explore the sweeping landscapes, walk through the rift valley where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet, and get a sense of Iceland’s historic parliamentary roots. This stop is included in the price, which adds great value for such a significant site.

Kerid Crater

Next, the group visits the Kerid volcanic crater lake. Formed roughly 3,000 years ago, this vivid red volcanic crater filled with a turquoise lake makes for stunning photos. Around 50 minutes are allocated here, giving ample time for a leisurely stroll around the crater’s perimeter. Reviewers have enjoyed this stop’s photogenic qualities, with one noting it’s “a picturesque lake nestled within its ancient confines.”

Fridheimar Tomato Farm

A highlight for many is the stop at Fridheimar, a family-run tomato farm where you can indulge in a delicious tomato soup paired with crusty baguette. The farm also accommodates dietary preferences such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free, if arranged in advance. The included admission fee covers the visit, and the farm’s fresh, locally grown produce really shines. Reviewers appreciated the authentic Icelandic flavor and the opportunity to enjoy a hearty, warm meal amidst the cool Icelandic air.

Geysir Geothermal Area

Next, it’s just a short drive to the Geysir geothermal area. Here, you’ll witness Strokkur geyser erupting every few minutes, shooting boiling water up to 30 meters high. The geothermal landscape is alive with bubbling mud pots and steaming vents, making for a surreal visit. Free admission means you can enjoy this natural spectacle without extra costs, and many note the eruptions are reliably spectacular.

Brú Horse Farm

A quick 20-minute stop at Brú Horse Farm offers the chance to meet the iconic Icelandic horses, feed them candies, and snap some memorable photos. The friendly farm owners sometimes let guests pet or interact with the horses, which is a real treat. If you have allergies, make sure to inform the guide—many travelers appreciated this stop for its casual, down-to-earth vibe.

Gullfoss Waterfall

The mighty Gullfoss is next, a powerful two-tiered waterfall that plunges into a deep canyon. About 50 minutes are spent here, giving time for photos, soaking in the views, or just listening to the roar of the water. One reviewer describes it as “breathtaking,” and it’s easy to see why—the sheer force of Gullfoss captures the imagination.

Blue Lagoon

The grand finale is a visit to the Blue Lagoon. While the tour doesn’t include admission—costing around $150 per person—you’ll be dropped off for a relaxing two-hour soak in the mineral-rich waters. This allows you to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing. Some travelers mentioned it felt a little rushed, but the overall experience of winding down in such a uniquely beautiful setting is worth it.

What the tour means for you

This tour strikes a good balance between seeing Iceland’s most iconic sights and enjoying some authentic local flavors. Its advantage lies in the small-group setup, which translates into a more intimate, flexible experience, plus the convenience of round-trip hotel pickup. The inclusion of many entrance fees helps avoid surprises, making budgeting easier.

The timing is tight but manageable, aiming to tick off the main attractions efficiently. The only potential downside is the Blue Lagoon, which is a popular spot and can get crowded—pre-booking your admission might be wise if you want more time there.

Value assessment

At about $215 per person, this tour offers a lot. Entrance fees for Þingvellir, Kerid, and Fridheimar are included, and the meals are a notable bonus. While the Blue Lagoon’s entrance isn’t included, the transport and guided experience make it a convenient option, especially for first-timers or those wanting a stress-free day. If you’re someone who prefers a structured day with all logistics handled, this tour could be perfect.

Insights from reviews

One reviewer mentioned that their guide, Tomas, was “very chatty and jokey,” which added a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. The way stops are spaced out seems to work well—long enough to explore but not so long that the day drags on. The included snacks and hot tea on board were appreciated, especially given the cooler Icelandic climate.

Who is this tour best suited for?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want to see the highlights of the Golden Circle comfortably and with minimal planning. Perfect for those who appreciate a small, intimate group setting, as well as travelers who want to relax at the Blue Lagoon without worrying about transportation or booking tickets separately.

It’s also a good choice for food lovers, thanks to the included farm lunch, and for travelers who value knowledgeable guides who can share stories and insights along the way. If you’re on a tight schedule but want the full Icelandic experience, this tour offers a convenient, well-rounded option.

Final thoughts

This Golden Circle and Blue Lagoon transfer tour offers a practical, enjoyable way to explore some of Iceland’s most famous sites without the stress of logistical planning. The small-group format enhances the experience, making it more personal and flexible. The inclusion of key entrance fees and a delicious farm lunch adds great value, especially when compared to separately booking each element.

While the Blue Lagoon visit is limited to a couple of hours and costs extra, it remains a highlight and perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure. This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive, comfortable, and authentic Iceland experience in just one day.

For those seeking a hassle-free way to tick off the Golden Circle’s main sights without sacrificing comfort or authenticity, this might just be the ideal choice.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour provides transportation in an air-conditioned van, WiFi, bottled water, snacks, hot tea on board, and admission to Þingvellir, Kerid, and Fridheimar. The farm lunch is also included.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, the tour offers hassle-free hotel pickup from Reykjavik, making it convenient to start your day.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 10 to 11 hours, covering transportation, sightseeing, and the Blue Lagoon soak.

Do I need to book Blue Lagoon tickets separately?
Yes, Blue Lagoon admission is not included in the tour price and costs around $150 per person. It’s recommended to book in advance if you want to guarantee entry.

Can I customize the stops?
Since this is a guided tour with a fixed itinerary, customization isn’t typical. However, the small group size makes it somewhat flexible if you have specific interests or requests.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s worth considering the walking involved at each stop and the willingness to be in a vehicle for a long day.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, a camera, some cash or cards for Blue Lagoon entry, and perhaps a light jacket or layers depending on the weather.

This tour balances iconic sights, authentic local experiences, and the convenience of guided logistics, making it a strong choice for many visitors eager to make the most of their Iceland trip.