Private Golden Circle Tour with 5+ Stops from Reykjavik

Exploring Iceland’s Golden Circle: A Deep Dive into a Private Tour Experience

When it comes to exploring Iceland’s iconic natural landmarks, a guided private tour offers a personalized and relaxed way to tick off the Golden Circle’s highlights. This particular tour, offered by GlacierHeli & Tourismiceland, provides up to 7 travelers with a carefully curated itinerary that hits all the essentials while leaving room for those unexpected, special moments. With a duration of around 8 hours, including hotel pickup and drop-off, it’s a solid choice for visitors who want an authentic, comfortable, and efficient way to see some of Iceland’s most famous sights.

What we really like about this experience is the private group setting, which means more flexibility in how long you linger at each stop and fewer crowds to contend with. Plus, the inclusion of extra stops like the Kerid crater adds a layer of uniqueness to a route many travelers have seen before. The cost—around $1,134 for up to 7 people—may seem steep at first glance, but when you break down the value in terms of comfort, flexibility, and personalized service, it starts to make a lot of sense for those craving a more intimate adventure. That said, it’s worth considering that food and drinks aren’t included, so plan to bring snacks or purchase them along the way.

This tour suits travelers who want a more tailored experience than large group bus tours, particularly those who appreciate flexibility, comfort, and a more in-depth look at Iceland’s natural wonders. It’s ideal for small groups, families, or couples who value exclusivity and expert guidance, especially if they’re keen to avoid the crowds and focus on photography, learning, or simply soaking up the serenity of Iceland’s landscapes.

Key Points

• Private group experience: More flexibility, less crowding, personalized attention.
• All-encompassing itinerary: Includes Thingvellir, Geysir, Gullfoss, and Kerid crater, with beautiful extra stops.
• Comfort and convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off, Wi-Fi on board, and a dedicated guide.
• Value for money: While pricier, the private setting and extra stops add significant value.
• Active and flexible pace: You can decide how long to stay at each site, making it adaptable to your interests.
• Good for photography: Stunning views and diverse landscapes, from waterfalls to volcanic craters.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and Highlights

Starting Point and Pickup

The tour kicks off with a convenient pickup from either the Leifr Eiricsson monument or your Reykjavik accommodation. This makes the day feel more seamless—no need to worry about navigating or waiting for buses. The driver-guide, whose name isn’t specified but who’s described as friendly and informative, sets the tone for a relaxed yet engaging day.

Thingvellir National Park

Our first stop, Thingvellir, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an area of immense geological and historical significance. This is where you’ll see the fault line between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. The guide explains the tectonic activity and the historic parliament site, adding context to why this place is so revered. Reviewers noted that the guide shared plenty of interesting facts about Iceland’s landscape and history, making the visit both educational and memorable.

Geyser Geothermal Area

Next, you’re whisked away to the Geysir geothermal area, home to one of the oldest geysers in the world. While the famous Strokkur erupts approximately every 8-10 minutes, the tour allows enough time for everyone to snap photos and soak in the bubbling mud pools and steaming vents. This geothermal zone is a visual feast and offers plenty of opportunities for those iconic eruption shots. The guide’s commentary enriched the experience, helping us understand the geothermal activity that fuels Iceland’s geysers.

Gullfoss Waterfall

One of Iceland’s most photographed waterfalls, Gullfoss, is next. It plunges 32 meters into a rugged canyon, and the view from the designated viewpoint offers a dramatic spectacle. Reviewer comments highlight that you get about 45 minutes here, enough to take photos, feel the spray, and appreciate the power of nature. This stop’s popularity is matched by its raw beauty, making it a must-see.

Kerid Volcanic Crater

Perhaps the most unique addition to this tour is the Kerid crater, a volcanic caldera filled with vivid blue water and surrounded by dark lava rocks. The guide takes you on a short walk along the rim, offering excellent photo opportunities. Travelers love the contrast—the blue lake against the dark lava—making it one of the most Instagram-worthy stops. The 40-minute guided walk allows ample time to explore and snap stunning pictures.

Extra Stops & Flexible Pacing

What sets this tour apart is the ability to customize how long you spend at each site. Unlike larger group tours where timings are fixed, this private experience lets you linger or move on based on your preferences. One reviewer loved that they could decide their own pace, especially at places like Thingvellir and Kerid.

Returning to Reykjavik

After a full day of sightseeing, the group is whisked back to Reykjavik, with drop-off points at the Leifr Eiricsson monument or your hotel. The comfortable vehicle, Wi-Fi, and friendly guide make the return journey just as pleasant as the morning pickup.

Practical Details: Price, Duration, and What’s Included

Price and Value

At $1,134 per group (up to 7 people), this tour offers good value considering the personalized service, private transportation, and the flexibility to customize your stops. For travelers who prioritize comfort, exclusivity, and a tailored experience, the cost aligns well with expectations. What’s impressive is the inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off, free Wi-Fi, and entry into Kerid crater—these extras reduce hassle and add to the overall value.

Duration and Timing

The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at a time that can be checked based on availability. This full-day coverage ensures you see all main highlights without feeling rushed. The flexibility to choose the start time makes it adaptable to your schedule.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included are hotel pickup and drop-off, guided commentary in English, free Wi-Fi, and free entry into Kerid crater. However, food and drinks are not included, so packing snacks or planning meals is advised. Reviewers mentioned the guide’s friendly manner and informative commentary, which enriches the experience beyond just sightseeing.

What Travelers Who Loved It Said

One reviewer described the tour as offering a “good variety of natural beauty,” which perfectly captures the diverse landscapes you’ll encounter. Another appreciated the small group setting that allowed them to customize their stay at each site and learn more from the guide. They specifically highlighted the guide’s knowledge of Iceland’s landscape and history, which made the experience more meaningful.

Several travelers also mentioned how the stops at Gullfoss and Kerid provided perfect photo opportunities, emphasizing the visual impact and serenity of these locations. The flexibility to stay longer or shorter at each site was a big plus for those wanting to soak up the scenery without feeling rushed.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private Golden Circle tour is best suited for travelers who want more than just a quick overview of Iceland’s highlights. If you’re seeking an intimate, flexible, and comfortable experience, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s perfect for small groups, families, or couples who value personalized attention and wish to explore at their own pace. The inclusion of extra stops like Kerid adds a unique touch that differentiates it from standard bus tours.

While the price is higher than group excursions, the added comfort, flexibility, and exclusive feel often justify the investment—especially for those who want to avoid the crowds and focus on capturing stunning memories with plenty of time. If you’re a photography enthusiast or a curious traveler eager to learn more about Iceland’s geology and history, this tour could be a fantastic choice.

Overall, it offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, educational value, and comfort, making it a solid option for anyone wanting to experience the Golden Circle in style and style.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a guided tour in English, free Wi-Fi, and free entry into Kerid crater.

Are food and drinks provided?
No, food and drinks are not included, so consider bringing snacks or planning to purchase at stops along the route.

How long is the tour?
The whole experience lasts approximately 8 hours, with time allocated for each stop and travel in between.

Can we customize how long we stay at each site?
Yes, being a private tour, you can decide how long to spend at each location, offering flexibility not available on larger group tours.

What are the pickup options?
Pickup is available from the Leifr Eiricsson monument or your accommodation in Reykjavik; the guide will confirm your pickup location before the tour.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While specific age restrictions aren’t mentioned, the tour’s length and walking involved suggest it’s best for children old enough to walk comfortably and enjoy sightseeing.

What should I wear?
Weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable shoes are recommended since Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable.

How many people can join?
The tour is designed for groups of up to 7 people, making it intimate and ideal for small parties.