Golden Circle and Kerið Crater Small Group Tour

Exploring Iceland on the Golden Circle and Kerið Crater Small Group Tour

Visiting Iceland and not seeing the Golden Circle is like going to Italy and skipping pizza — it’s simply not complete. This small group tour offers a well-rounded look at some of the country’s most iconic sights, from roaring waterfalls to volcanic craters, all within a manageable 8-hour window. With a maximum of 19 people, it’s designed for those who appreciate a more intimate experience, fewer crowds, and personalized attention.

What really caught our eye about this tour is the variety it packs in — you get the chance to see geysers erupt, walk through a rift valley where Europe and North America meet, and peer into a vividly colored volcanic crater lake. The price of $112 per person feels reasonable given the comprehensive itinerary, comfortable transport, and the expertise of guides.

One thing to consider, though, is the need to be prepared for Iceland’s unpredictable weather — warm clothing and sturdy shoes are recommended. The tour’s pace and stops are quite flexible, making it ideal for travelers who want a balance of sightseeing, storytelling, and some fun surprises along the way. It’s especially suitable for those who love natural wonders and want a hassle-free way to tick off multiple key sights without the hassle of organizing transport and timings themselves.

• Small-group experience with a maximum of 19 travelers for more personalized service
• Comprehensive itinerary covering Gullfoss, Þingvellir, Geysir, and Kerið crater
• Expert guides impart knowledge, share stories, and often go beyond the standard stops
• Comfortable transportation with amenities like WiFi and USB chargers onboard
• Value for money considering the included visits, transport, and guide expertise
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation and pay later choice

Starting the Day: Hotel Pickup and Transportation

The tour kicks off with convenient hotel pickup in Reykjavik, meaning you avoid the hassle of finding a meeting point — especially helpful if you’re jet-lagged or just want a stress-free start to your day. The transport itself is described as newish, clean, and comfortable, with onboard WiFi and USB chargers. Several reviewers mentioned the ease of boarding and the quality of the bus, which definitely adds to the overall experience.

Traveling in a smaller group of fewer than 20 travelers means you’re not crammed in, and guides often find ways to avoid the busiest crowds, even at popular sites like Gullfoss Waterfall and Þingvellir. One reviewer noted that their guide, Pavel, was especially good at finding quieter spots which made the experience more relaxed and personal.

Þingvellir National Park: Standing on Two Continents

Your first major stop is Þingvellir (Thingvellir) National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s a place of geological and historical significance; it’s where the Icelandic parliament was founded over a thousand years ago. The rift valley here gives you the chance to stand with one foot in Europe and the other in North America — a striking illustration of tectonic activity.

Expect wide-open vistas, rugged terrain, and fascinating fissures in the earth. One reviewer said, “We enjoyed traveling in the small group and learning about the area from a local,” highlighting how guides enrich this experience with stories and insights. The natural landscape is dramatic, with the possibility of seeing the area in the glow of morning or afternoon light, adding extra magic to your visit.

Geysir and Strokkur: Geothermal Marvels

Next, the tour takes you to the Geysir geothermal area, home to the famous Geysir and Strokkur. Strokkur erupts roughly every 8-10 minutes, shooting water up to 30 meters into the air. This geyser is mesmerizing, and guides often share fascinating facts about geothermal activity and how Iceland harnesses this natural energy.

According to reviews, guides like Rahim and Nikola don’t just point and explain — they add personal touches, sometimes playing guitar or improvising stops based on weather or crowds. Reviewers like “Walter, the guide, was honest the best I’ve ever met—knowledgeable, funny, and friendly,” show how guides can turn a standard stop into a memorable moment.

Gullfoss Waterfall: Power and Beauty

No Golden Circle trip is complete without seeing Gullfoss, one of Iceland’s most powerful waterfalls. The falls tumble in two stages into a deep canyon, with spray often creating rainbows, even on cloudy days. The sheer force and size of Gullfoss are awe-inspiring.

Several reviewers mention that guides are skilled at finding less crowded viewing points, which makes the experience more enjoyable. One noted, “At the busiest sites, the guide found spots to avoid the crowds,” so you can truly appreciate the natural spectacle without the jostling of tour buses.

Kerið Crater: Colorful Volcanic Lake

A highlight for many is the volcanic crater lake of Kerið — with its vivid aquamarine water contrasting against red volcanic rock. It’s a relatively short stop, but one packed with color and geological intrigue. You can peer down into the caldera and get a sense of the volcanic activity that shaped this part of the country.

Travelers rave about this stop, with comments like “the crater was awesome,” and “the lake’s colors are mesmerizing.” It’s a perfect photo opportunity and a reminder of Iceland’s volcanic origins.

Additional Surprises and Personal Touches

Throughout the day, guides often add extra stops or personal touches. Some reviewers mentioned sampling Icelandic rye bread baked in hot springs, petting Icelandic horses, or enjoying farm-fresh ice cream — experiences beyond the usual sightseeing. These small moments make the trip feel special and tailored.

One reviewer noted that their guide, Christine, was “very knowledgeable and kind,” and others highlighted guides like Vlad and Nikola for their enthusiasm and willingness to improvise when plans changed due to weather.

Practicalities and Comfort

The tour lasts around 8 hours, with a good balance of sightseeing and travel time. It’s suitable for most travelers, excluding children under 5. The included pickup and drop-off make logistics seamless, and the comfort of the bus makes longer stretches easy.

Since food and drinks are not included, bringing snacks or cash for a quick coffee break is advisable. Waterproof clothing and sturdy shoes are recommended, particularly if the weather turns wet or snowy — quite common in Iceland, even in summer.

This Golden Circle and Kerið Crater tour is perfect if you want a well-organized, insightful, and comfortable way to see Iceland’s famous sights. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate small groups, personal stories, and a mix of natural beauty and geological wonder. If you’re on a cruise or have limited time, the itinerary’s efficiency and guide expertise help maximize your experience without feeling rushed.

For adventure lovers, the stops at geysers and waterfalls provide plenty of photo-worthy moments, while those interested in geology will appreciate the explanations of tectonic plates and volcanic activity. Foodies will enjoy the optional local stops, like ice cream or bread baked in geothermal heat.

This tour offers a strong value proposition — combining expert guides, comfortable transport, and a rich itinerary — ensuring you won’t leave Iceland feeling like you missed anything major.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at your Reykjavik hotel, making the start and end of your day effortless.

What should I bring?
Warm clothing and hiking shoes are recommended, as Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable. It’s also useful to have a camera, snacks, and possibly some cash for additional purchases.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, with flexible timing at stops to allow for quality exploration and photos.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under age 5, but older kids and teenagers will find it engaging and educational.

What makes this tour stand out from others?
The small group size, personalized guides, and added surprises like food stops and storytelling make this experience more intimate and memorable.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind when booking.

To sum it up, the Golden Circle and Kerið Crater Small Group Tour offers a thoughtfully curated experience of Iceland’s most recognizable sights, with a focus on comfort, authenticity, and storytelling. It’s ideal for travelers seeking a balance of natural beauty, geological curiosity, and personal touches from passionate guides. Whether you’re on a tight schedule or simply want to make the most of your Iceland visit, this tour delivers a well-rounded, memorable day out.