Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
This Icelandic full-day tour promises a comprehensive look at some of the most iconic sights in the southern part of Iceland, along with lesser-known treasures that add a special touch. With a well-balanced mix of natural wonders, cultural history, and underground volcanic landscapes, it’s designed for travelers eager to see the highlights without sacrificing depth or authenticity.
One of the key strengths of this experience is its focus on smaller, family-run locations like Efsti-Dalur dairy farm, which offer tastes of authentic Icelandic life along with delicious, farm-fresh food. The visit to Raufarhólshellir lava tunnel adds an adventurous edge to the day, giving you a rare glimpse into Iceland’s volcanic past.
A possible consideration is the long day of travel and walking on uneven surfaces, which might be tiring for those with limited mobility or young children. But if you’re generally active, love nature, and want a full, enriching experience, this tour offers fantastic value. It’s especially well-suited for those who appreciate a mix of sightseeing, local culture, and adventure in one seamless package.
Key Points
- Comprehensive itinerary covering major Golden Circle sights and hidden gems
- Authentic farm-to-table lunch at a family-run dairy farm
- Underground lava tunnel exploration for volcanic enthusiasts
- Convenient pickup options from Reykjavik
- Balanced mix of natural beauty, history, and underground adventure
- Value for money at $229, with included transportation and guided commentary
An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience
This 11-hour journey kicks off with pickup from over 16 different locations in Reykjavik, ensuring most travelers can be conveniently collected. The tour is operated by Lilja Tours, known for their professional guides and well-organized trips. The transportation is in a comfortable van, which is crucial for the long day ahead.
Visiting Þingvellir National Park: The Heart of Iceland’s History and Geology
Your first stop is Þingvellir, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see in Iceland. We loved the way the guide explained the significance of this site — not just as a scenic spot but as the birthplace of Iceland’s parliament over a thousand years ago. Walking through the rift valley, you’ll see the tectonic plates of North America and Eurasia drifting apart, creating dramatic fissures and transparent lake views. The site’s landscape offers plenty of opportunities for photos, but the real value lies in understanding its role in Icelandic history and geology.
Witnessing Geysir and Strokkur: Nature’s Volcanic Power
Next, the geothermal area of Geysir is where you’ll see Strokkur erupt every few minutes, shooting water skyward in spectacular bursts. The guide emphasizes the geothermal activity’s influence on Iceland’s landscape and energy sources, making this stop both visually stunning and educational. The lively eruptions are exciting, especially with the crowd gathered around, waiting in anticipation.
Gullfoss: The Iconic Waterfall
The Gullfoss waterfall is a highlight for many. Standing on the viewing platform, you can feel the raw power of glacial water crashing into the rugged canyon below. The guide points out how this impressive cascade has carved its way through the landscape over millennia, giving visitors a chance to witness Earth’s natural forces in action. We appreciated the manageable timing — 45 minutes — which allows sufficient time for photos, a quick walk along the paths, and a chance to feel the mist in your face.
Lunch at Efsti-Dalur: Farm-Fresh Flavors
Midday is reserved for a delicious farm-to-table lunch at Efsti-Dalur, a family-run dairy farm dating back to 1750. The setting is charming, with a rustic atmosphere and farm animals nearby. The tour includes a chance to taste their reputed homemade ice cream, often described as “the best in the world” by past travelers. The meal offers locally sourced dishes, giving an authentic taste of Icelandic rural life. The 75-minute break is well-judged, allowing for a relaxed meal without feeling rushed.
Faxafoss Waterfall: A Serene Stop
After lunch, the tour makes a brief stop at Faxafoss, a wide, peaceful waterfall surrounded by lush farmland. While less famous than Gullfoss, it’s a beautiful spot to appreciate the gentle side of Icelandic waterfalls. The relatively short 30-minute visit provides a restful moment before heading underground.
Raufarhólshellir Lava Tunnel: An Underground Adventure
The highlight for many is the guided tour of Raufarhólshellir, one of Iceland’s longest lava tunnels. Formed over 5,000 years ago, the tunnel offers a surreal experience — vivid colors, strange rock formations, and the chance to walk inside a volcanic landscape. The guide explains the formation process in simple terms, and the tour lasts around 1.5 hours, providing ample opportunity for exploration and photos. Travelers with a sense of adventure or interest in volcanoes will find this a memorable addition. As one reviewer noted, “It’s like walking through a different world, shadows dancing on the walls, and a real sense of stepping back in time.”
Final Stop and Drop-Off
The tour wraps up with a 55-minute drive back to Reykjavik, with convenient drop-off locations. The entire experience is paced to balance sightseeing, relaxation, and adventure, ensuring you get a thorough sampling of Iceland’s natural and cultural treasures.
Analyzing the Value
At $229 per person, this tour offers a lot for your money. The inclusions—transportation, visits to five sites, and a farm lunch—are comprehensive. The focus on authentic experiences like the dairy farm and lava tunnel means you’re not just ticking off tourist sights but engaging with Icelandic life and geology on a meaningful level.
Past guests, including “Tali from Israel,” praised the professionalism and kindness of the guide, as well as the depth of knowledge shared throughout. One reviewer even highlighted that the tour was “most insightful,” indicating the tour’s educational value.
While lunch isn’t included in the price (you pay at Efsti-Dalur), the farm’s reputation for delicious, locally sourced food makes it a worthwhile addition. Also, the tour does not include personal expenses or additional snacks, so a bit of extra cash might be handy.
Practical Considerations
This tour involves walking on uneven surfaces, especially inside the lava tunnel, so comfortable shoes are a must. Weather can change quickly, so dressing in layers and weatherproof clothing is wise. The tour is not suitable for very young children, people with mobility issues, or those with claustrophobia, given the confined space of the lava tunnel.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This experience is ideal if you seek a comprehensive, well-organized day that combines Iceland’s iconic sights with authentic local flavor. It’s perfect for travelers who want to learn and explore without the hassle of planning each stop. Nature lovers, geology enthusiasts, and those interested in Icelandic culture will find this tour especially rewarding.
It’s less suited for travelers with limited mobility, young children, or anyone uncomfortable with walking on uneven terrain or small spaces in the lava tunnel.
Final Thoughts
This tour offers a well-rounded package that balances major sights with lesser-known gems, providing a genuine taste of Iceland’s natural and cultural landscape. The inclusion of a farm lunch, along with the underground lava tunnel experience, elevates it beyond standard Golden Circle trips.
Travelers who value authenticity, expert guidance, and a mix of adventure and learning will find this day thoroughly satisfying. It’s a great way to see Iceland’s highlights in one go, with enough depth to truly appreciate the country’s volcanic roots and rural charm.
If you’re after a practical, engaging, and memorable Iceland experience, this tour hits the mark. Just remember to pack your walking shoes and a sense of curiosity — you’ll leave with a richer appreciation for this volcanic island.
FAQs
What is included in the tour price?
The tour covers visits to Þingvellir, Geysir, Gullfoss, Faxafoss, and Raufarhólshellir lava tunnel, plus transportation and a guided commentary. Lunch at Efsti-Dalur is paid separately.
How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 11 hours, with scheduled stops and a total of around 4 hours of sightseeing.
Are meals included?
No, lunch at Efsti-Dalur is not included but is highly recommended for the farm-to-table experience and delicious homemade ice cream.
What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are essential, as the day involves walking on uneven terrain and exposure to Iceland’s changing weather.
Is the lava tunnel suitable for children?
The tour is not suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues due to walking on uneven surfaces and confined spaces.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.
This tour offers a fantastic blend of Icelandic highlights and hidden gems in one day, making it perfect for travelers who want a meaningful and authentic experience without the need to plan every detail themselves.