Golden Circle & Kerið Day Tour by Minibus from Reykjavik

This comprehensive review covers the popular Golden Circle & Kerið Day Tour by Minibus from Reykjavik, a well-loved experience with a perfect blend of natural beauty, fascinating geology, and Icelandic culture. With a stellar 5.0 rating from over 250 reviews, this tour has proven to be a hit among travelers seeking an efficient way to see some of Iceland’s most famous sights.

What we love about this tour is its small-group vibe—limiting the bus to just 16 people means you get personalized attention and more relaxed pacing. Plus, the inclusion of unique stops like a horse farm and a greenhouse makes it stand out from standard Golden Circle trips.

That said, the 8-hour duration can feel quite packed, especially if you’re not used to long days of sightseeing. It’s ideal if you’re eager to tick off Iceland’s top natural landmarks without the hassle of organizing multiple tickets or transfers. This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of popular sights and some offbeat experiences, especially those who appreciate a knowledgeable guide and comfort on a climate-controlled minibus.

Key Points

• Small-group experience ensures a more personal and relaxed tour.
• Includes unique stops like a horse farm and greenhouse, adding local flavor.
• Comfortable transport with Wi-Fi and USB charging enhances the journey.
• Multiple photo opportunities and detailed explanations from guides.
• Flexible options for food and lunch at local restaurants or packed meals.
• Excellent reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting in Reykjavik: Hassle-Free Pickup

The tour kicks off at 8:30 am, with pickup from select hotels or designated bus stops in Reykjavik. Just 16 travelers share the minibus, which means fewer crowds and more space—something travelers consistently appreciate, as many reviews mention the comfort of the vehicle and the friendly atmosphere.

Stop 1: Hveragerði and the Earthquake Museum

Our journey begins in Hveragerði, a town famous for its geothermal activity. Here, you can grab freshly brewed coffee and Icelandic sweets, setting a cozy tone for the day. The Earthquake Museum is a quick but impactful stop, simulating the 2008 earthquake that shook South Iceland. Visitors note that it’s a free museum, offering a glimpse into Iceland’s seismic activity and how it shapes the landscape.

Stop 2: Kerid Crater – A Volcanic Wonder

Next, you’ll visit Kerið, a volcanic crater lake with striking red slopes and gleaming water. The reviews highlight how awe-inspiring it is to walk along the ridges or even dip your fingers into the cool, crystal-clear water at the bottom. The included admission ticket allows you to explore freely, and many visitors mention how the vivid colors and surreal setting make it a must-see photo op.

Stop 3: Fridheimar Greenhouse

A unique stop at Fridheimar greenhouse gives insight into Icelandic vegetable cultivation. You’ll see how greenery is grown in this cold climate and might even sample the famous tomato-based products like fresh soups or tomato sorbet—reviewers rave about the unexpected delight of this stop. It’s a fun and educational break that combines sustainability with local flavor.

Stop 4: Gulfoss Waterfall – Nature’s Power

No Golden Circle tour is complete without a visit to the majestic Gulfoss. Many describe it as breathtaking, with roaring cascades that create rainbows in the right weather. The walk around the falls offers excellent vantage points for photos, and the sheer scale of the waterfall leaves a lasting impression. A popular lunch spot, with traditional Icelandic soup options, helps you warm up before more exploration.

Stop 5: Brú Horse Farm – Meet Icelandic Horses

A quick visit to the Brú farm lets you get close to the unique Icelandic horse breed. Several reviewers appreciated this personal touch, noting the chance to learn about the horses’ special gait and history. Some even enjoyed feeding them horse candies, adding a sweet, interactive element.

Stop 6: Geysir Geothermal Area – Witness the Eruption

Geysir is the star of geothermal sites, with Strokkur erupting roughly every 10 minutes, shooting water nearly 20 meters into the air. The steam-covered geothermal area is alive with activity, and many travelers mention the awe of seeing a hot water eruption firsthand. It’s an unforgettable experience, especially standing amidst the bubbling vents and steaming pools.

Stop 7: Efstidalur II – Homemade Ice Cream

This charming barn-turned-restaurant offers homemade ice cream, often based on milk from the farm’s own cows. Reviewers love this authentic stop, describing the ice cream as rich and creamy—perfect for a sweet break. It’s a less typical stop but one that adds a personal, cozy touch to the tour.

Final Stop: Þingvellir National Park

The historic Þingvellir (Thingvellir) is not just scenic but also historic. As the site of the world’s oldest parliament, it’s deeply meaningful for Icelanders. Here, you’ll walk along the rift valley where European and American tectonic plates meet. Many reviews mention the remarkable feeling of walking across a canyon that’s literally splitting the continent in two. The 40-minute stop allows plenty of time for photos, exploration, and soaking in the unique geological landscape.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Natural Beauty and Offbeat Stops: The trip is packed with iconic sights like Gullfoss and Geysir, but the inclusion of Kerið, the horse farm, and the greenhouse makes it a richer experience. These stops offer insight into Icelandic culture, agriculture, and geology that many other Golden Circles overlook.

Expert Guides and Small Groups: According to reviews, guides like Anton and Tómas are well-informed, friendly, and often share amusing stories or local legends. The small group size fosters a more intimate and flexible experience, with many travelers appreciating the personalized attention and the ability to ask questions freely.

Comfort and Connectivity: The Mercedes Benz climate-controlled minibus, equipped with Wi-Fi and USB charging, means you stay comfortable and connected throughout the day. Travelers repeatedly mention how these small touches elevate the experience above standard bus tours.

Food and Local Flavor: Stops at a greenhouse, a horse farm, and a local restaurant give you a taste of Iceland beyond just sightseeing. Reviewers often highlight the delicious food options, especially the homemade ice cream and traditional Icelandic soups, that make the tour feel more authentic.

Flexibility and Value: At $135 per person, the tour is considered quite good value, especially given the included admissions, guided commentary, and small-group atmosphere. The reviews confirm that most guests felt the price was justified by the quality and variety of experiences.

Considerations for Travelers

While the tour is highly rated, there are a few things to keep in mind. The 8-hour duration can feel long, especially if you’re not used to full days of sightseeing. The itinerary covers a lot of ground, which means some stops are brief but packed with sights. Also, weather in Iceland is unpredictable; a waterproof jacket and sturdy walking shoes are strongly advised, as some stops involve outdoor exploration on uneven terrain.

The tour offers pickup from select Reykjavik hotels, but it’s wise to confirm your pickup location in advance. Some reviews mention minor delays or issues with Wi-Fi connectivity, but these seem to be exceptions rather than the rule.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

Absolutely. If you’re after a practical, well-organized way to see Iceland’s most famous spots with a knowledgeable guide, this tour offers excellent value. Its carefully curated stops provide a mixture of natural beauty, geological wonder, and cultural insights that will appeal to curious travelers.

The small-group setting, combined with the comfort of modern transport and the added stops like the greenhouse and horse farm, create a memorable day that balances iconic sights with authentic Icelandic experiences. Whether you’re a first-timer or someone wanting a convenient overview, this tour is likely to meet or exceed expectations.

Ideal for those who enjoy a relaxed pace, want to avoid overcrowded big buses, and appreciate guides with local knowledge. It’s also perfect if you’re keen to combine sightseeing with sampling Icelandic food and learning about the country’s geology and culture.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, pickup and drop-off are offered at select hotels or bus stops in Reykjavik, making the start and end of your day hassle-free.

How long is the tour? The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, allowing enough time at each stop while keeping the day packed but manageable.

What’s the group size? The minibus only accommodates up to 16 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience with fewer crowds.

Are meals included? No, meals are not included, but stops are made at local restaurants and grocery shops, or you can bring a packed lunch.

Does the tour operate in bad weather? Yes, but if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or full refund.

Are children allowed? Yes, children aged 3+ can join, but they must be accompanied by an adult. Child seats are available on request.

What’s the best way to prepare? Dress warmly and waterproof, especially if the weather looks uncertain. Bring a camera, comfortable walking shoes, and a sense of adventure.

Is Wi-Fi available onboard? Yes, the minibus provides free Wi-Fi and USB charging, although connection quality might vary.

What if I want to customize my experience? The small-group format and knowledgeable guides often allow some flexibility, so ask your guide if you have special interests.

In The Sum Up

The Golden Circle & Kerið Day Tour from Reykjavik offers a thoughtfully crafted, enjoyable way to see Iceland’s most renowned sights alongside some lesser-known gems. Its combination of stunning scenery, cultural insights, and friendly guides make it ideal for travelers wanting a balanced mix of nature, history, and local flavor—all without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

With consistently high reviews praising the guides’ expertise, the comfortable transport, and the memorable stops, this tour is a smart choice for those seeking a reliable, value-packed day in Iceland. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for more, it’s a journey that captures the essence of Iceland’s rugged beauty and warm hospitality.

Remember: Dress for the weather, bring your camera, and prepare to be wowed by the natural wonders and stories that make Iceland truly unique.