Golden Circle and Kerid Crater Afternoon Tour from Reykjavik

If you’re planning a trip to Reykjavik and want to see the best of Iceland’s natural wonders without the hassle of driving, the Golden Circle and Kerid Crater Afternoon Tour from BusTravel Iceland is a highly-rated choice. With a perfect 5.0 rating from hundreds of reviews, this tour promises a well-paced, informative, and scenic experience—all for about $77 per person. It’s a popular pick, often booked 59 days in advance, which speaks volumes about its popularity and value.

This tour is especially attractive for first-time visitors who want to tick off Iceland’s must-see highlights in just one day. What makes it stand out? The combination of expert guides, stunning scenery, and a carefully curated itinerary that balances travel with plenty of time for photos and exploration. One thing to consider: the tour runs in all weather conditions, so packing appropriately for rain or shine is essential.

Ideal for those who prefer a guided experience to avoid the stresses of navigation, this tour is perfect for travelers who want a rundown of Iceland’s iconic sights, with the convenience of hotel pickup in Reykjavik. Whether you’re cruising into Reykjavik or staying nearby, this tour fits well into a busy itinerary and offers excellent value for money.

Key Points

• Expert-guided touring: Knowledgeable guides like Asa, Beggi, Odie, and Sunny deliver engaging commentary that enhances each stop.
• Stunning photo opportunities: From waterfalls to volcanic craters, the scenery is breathtaking, with plenty of time for photos.
• Convenient logistics: Hotel pickup and drop-off in Reykjavik make logistics simple, especially for those unfamiliar with the area.
• Balanced itinerary: The stops include Gullfoss Waterfall, Strokkur Geyser, Þingvellir National Park, and Kerid Crater, each offering unique Icelandic marvels.
• Good value for the price: At $77, the tour includes expert guidance, transportation, and entrance fees for some stops, making it a cost-effective way to see Iceland.
• Suitable for all travelers: Most travelers can participate, children must be accompanied by an adult, and the tour runs rain or shine.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and Meeting

The tour begins at Þórunnartún 1, 105 Reykjavík, with the convenience of pickup included. The journey generally lasts about 8 hours, making it a full but manageable day of sightseeing. The typical start time is around 10:30 am, and the tour concludes back at the meeting point, which is handy for planning your day afterward.

Golden Circle Route

The first leg of the journey covers Iceland’s most famous sights. The Golden Circle is packed with iconic attractions, and this tour ensures you see the highlights without the stress of navigating yourself. Guides like Asa and Beggi are praised for their enthusiastic and informative commentary, making each stop both educational and entertaining.

Gullfoss Waterfall

Gullfoss, a double-tiered waterfall, is a powerful display of nature’s force. It’s a perfect spot for a photo or just standing in awe of the sheer volume of water rushing through. One reviewer, Alison, mentions that the water flow is impressive, with over 100 cubic meters per second, and notes that the stops allow enough time to explore comfortably.

Strokkur Geyser

Next, you’ll visit Strokkur, a lively geyser that erupts roughly every 7 to 10 minutes. Although the nearby Geysir is dormant, Strokkur’s regular eruptions are a spectacle worth waiting for. Some reviewers comment that this site, while sometimes underwhelming compared to other stops, still offers fantastic photo ops and the chance to witness Iceland’s geothermal activity firsthand. Food and snacks are available here, so you can grab a quick bite before more sightseeing.

Þingvellir National Park

A highlight for many is Þingvellir, a UNESCO World Heritage site with both historical and geological importance. It’s where the first Icelandic parliament was founded in the late 900s. Here, you’ll see the visible rift between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates—an awe-inspiring natural feature. Reviewers mention that the time spent here is perfect for walking around and soaking in the landscape, with many noting it as a truly memorable stop.

Kerid Crater

For tours departing at 10:30 am, the journey includes a stop at Kerid Crater, a volcanic crater lake 55 meters deep. The crater’s vivid red volcanic rock contrasts sharply with the turquoise water, creating a striking scene. Visitors can walk around the rim or descend into the crater, though some wish they had more than the 20-minute stop to fully explore this feature. A reviewer from Loretta S. mentions her disappointment at the rushed visit but still praises the overall experience.

What We Loved About the Tour

One of the most praised aspects is the guides’ knowledge and enthusiasm. Reviewers like Alison and Christina highlight how guides like Asa and Sunny made the sites come alive with their storytelling and insights. They didn’t just point and explain—they shared amusing anecdotes and geological facts that made each stop more meaningful.

The scenery is undeniably stunning, especially at Gullfoss and Þingvellir. Many reviewers mention how breathtaking the views are, often describing the weather as ideal—clear, bright, and not too cold, which enhances the sightseeing experience.

The timing was also well-received. Guests appreciated having enough time at each stop to explore, take photos, and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed. One reviewer, Melanie, notes that the guide and driver kept the group punctual and engaged, making for a smooth and enjoyable day.

Food and Refreshments

While the tour fee covers transportation, food and drinks are not included. However, stops like Strokkur offer quick snacks and souvenirs, and some reviews mention bringing their own food or budgeting for pricey Icelandic eateries. A few mention that the tour could be improved with a little more time at certain sites, especially Kerid, but overall, the breaks are sufficient for most.

Group Size and Comfort

The tour’s maximum group size is 65, which allows for camaraderie but still maintains a sense of intimacy. The buses are praised for being comfortable, with some reviewers noting the absence of USB charging ports, so keeping devices charged is recommended for those wanting to capture every moment.

Weather Considerations

The tour operates in all weather conditions, so dressing appropriately is key. Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable, but this tour’s flexibility ensures you won’t miss out due to rain or cold. Reviewers often mention that even in less-than-perfect weather, the scenery is still worth seeing, and guides are adept at making the experience enjoyable regardless.

The Value of This Tour

At $77, this tour offers a great balance between affordability and quality. It includes transportation, entrance fees for key sites like Þingvellir and Kerid, and the expertise of a professional guide. Compared to renting a car and navigating alone, this guided experience saves you time, effort, and the stress of driving on Icelandic roads.

Several reviews emphasize the value for money—especially considering the scenic beauty, expert commentary, and convenience. For travelers short on time but eager to see the classics, this tour hits the sweet spot.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits first-time visitors wanting an easy, guided introduction to Iceland’s Golden Circle without the hassle of planning and navigation. Families with children appreciate the manageable schedule and expert guides. Solo travelers or small groups seeking a social adventure also find this tour engaging and informative. If you’re after a rundown of Iceland’s most famous sites with a good chance for memorable photos and stories, this tour is a solid choice.

However, if you’re looking for a more in-depth, leisurely exploration—particularly of Kerid or Geysir—you might find the pace somewhat rushed. For those who prefer private or small-group tours, it’s worth considering other options, but for most, this tour strikes a fine balance.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is included in the tour?
  The tour includes a professional guide, transportation, and entrance fees for Þingvellir and Kerid Crater. Food and drinks are not included.

• How long does the tour last?
  The entire experience lasts approximately 8 hours, starting around 10:30 am and returning to Reykjavik.

• Is hotel pickup available?
  Yes, pickup and drop-off within Reykjavik are included, making logistics straightforward.

• Are children allowed on this tour?
  Most travelers can participate, but children must be accompanied by an adult.

• What should I wear?
  Since the tour operates in all weather, dress in layers and bring waterproof gear to stay comfortable regardless of rain or shine.

• Can I buy food during the stops?
  Yes, food and snacks are available at Strokkur, but many reviewers recommend bringing your own or budgeting for Icelandic prices.

• What if I’m arriving on a cruise?
  Cruise ship passengers should provide their ship name, docking, and re-boarding times when booking. Pickup can be arranged, but missed tours due to ship delays are non-refundable.

• Is this tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?
  Most stops involve walking, sometimes on uneven terrain, so check with the provider if mobility is a concern.

The Golden Circle and Kerid Crater Afternoon Tour offers an excellent way to see Iceland’s top sights without the stress of self-driving. Thanks to knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and well-chosen stops, it provides a memorable taste of the Land of Fire and Ice. The experience is flexible enough for most travelers—families, solo adventurers, or couples—who want a convenient, value-packed day filled with natural beauty and fascinating stories.

While it may feel a bit rushed at times, the overall package delivers a well-rounded, engaging experience. For those wanting an efficient way to tick off Iceland’s famous landmarks, this tour is hard to beat.

Choose this tour if: you want expert guidance, stunning scenery, and a reliable, well-organized day of sightseeing. Ideal for first-timers and those short on time, but be prepared for some brisk pace and Icelandic weather.