Reykjavik: Golden Circle, Tomato Farm and Kerið Crater Tour

This 9-hour tour of Iceland’s famed Golden Circle offers more than just the usual sightseeing. It combines iconic natural wonders like Þingvellir National Park, Geysir, and Gullfoss with a visit to a working tomato farm, plus the stunning Kerið crater. With an average rating of 4.9 from 146 reviews, it’s clear many travelers find it a worthwhile way to explore the country’s highlights.

What really sets this tour apart is its smaller group size, personalized storytelling, and thoughtful stops that go beyond the typical tourist route. We loved the mix of nature, history, and local life, especially the chance to taste homegrown tomatoes at Friðheimar. However, the schedule is quite packed, and food isn’t included, so be prepared for extra costs. Designed for those who enjoy a balance of sightseeing and authentic experiences, this trip is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive yet relaxed day out.

Key Points

• Concise, well-organized itinerary covers Iceland’s top sights with added local stops
• Small-group format ensures more personal attention and opportunity for questions
• Inclusion of Friðheimar tomato farm provides a tasty, unique experience
• Guides are consistently praised for their knowledge, stories, and friendliness
• Cost reflects quality and variety of stops, with optional extra expenses
• Ideal for travelers who appreciate diversity — from waterfalls to geothermal landscapes

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

How It Starts: Convenient Pickup and Transport

The tour kicks off with pickup from up to 20 different locations around Reykjavik, including major hotels and bus stops. This flexibility means you can start your day without the hassle of navigating to a central meeting point. The transport is in a comfortable coach, with Wi-Fi onboard, making the 45-minute drive to the first stop feel quick and relaxed.

Þingvellir National Park: Where History Meets Tectonic Drama

The first major stop is Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where the Icelandic parliament was founded in 930 A.D. Here, we loved how the guide explained the significance of this place, blending history with geology. The park also sits between two tectonic plates, meaning you can actually see the rift valley where the North American and Eurasian plates are slowly pulling apart.

Expect about 45 minutes here, which is enough time for a walk, some photos, and a quick overview of the area’s importance. Several reviews mention how knowledgeable guides like Bjorn and Atli make the stories come alive, sharing fascinating details that you wouldn’t find in a standard guidebook.

Gullfoss Waterfall: Power and Beauty in One

Next, it’s on to Gullfoss, one of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls. With the water flowing from the Langjökull glacier, Gullfoss offers a spectacular display of nature’s force. Tourists often comment on the impressive size and roar of the falls; it’s a highlight not just visually but emotionally as well.

You’ll have about 45 minutes here to take photos, soak in the scenery, and perhaps feel the spray on your face. Many reviews highlight how guides like Martin and Arni make sure everyone gets enough time and shares stories that deepen the experience. The falls are easily accessible and a perfect example of Iceland’s raw natural power.

Geysir Hot Springs: Waiting for the Next Eruption

The Geysir geothermal area is next, where the Strokkur geyser erupts every five minutes. We loved watching the powerful spout shoot water up to 30 meters in the air, a truly mesmerizing spectacle. The area is dotted with bubbling mud pools and steaming vents, giving a real sense of the geothermal activity that shapes Iceland.

Spend around 45 minutes here, enough to wander, take photos, and listen to the guide’s commentary. Reviewers note that guides like Bjorn and Atli are great at sharing stories about the history of Geysir and the science behind geothermal energy, adding an educational twist to the experience.

Friðheimar Tomato Farm: A Unique Tasting Experience

One of the most praised stops on this tour is Friðheimar, a working tomato farm where you can sit down for a delicious lunch — but more than that, you get to see how Iceland’s farmers grow tomatoes in heated greenhouses. The farm is charming, with bright green plants and a cozy atmosphere.

The included visit here lasts about an hour, and many travelers rave about the tomato soup — some say it’s so good they’d come back just for that. The farm also offers tomato-based products like beer and bread, providing a taste of local ingenuity. Several reviews mention the staff’s friendliness and how the guide’s stories make the visit even more memorable.

Kerið Crater: Over 3,000 Years of Geological History

The last stop is Kerið crater, a striking volcanic caldera over 3,000 years old. Its vivid red and green slopes and blue lake at the bottom make it one of Iceland’s most Instagram-worthy sites. Expect about 45 minutes here for photos, a stroll around the rim, and some time to soak in the dramatic landscape.

Reviewers say that guides such as Halli and Kristoff make the visit engaging, sharing insights about Iceland’s volcanic activity and how such craters form. The color contrasts and the view down into the crater are truly stunning, especially if you visit during good weather.

Returning to Reykjavik

The tour wraps up with a comfortable drive back to Reykjavik, with drop-offs at multiple locations. The entire day is approximately 9 hours, including transportation and stops, giving you a comprehensive taste of Iceland’s natural and cultural treasures.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The small-group format is a major plus, often praised for making the experience more intimate and allowing guides to share detailed stories. Many reviewers highlight guides like Bjorn, Atli, and Arni for their enthusiasm, knowledge, and friendliness. Having a guide who can toss in local anecdotes and answer questions makes the day richer and less like a cookie-cutter tour.

The added visit to Friðheimar is a smart touch. It’s not only a unique opportunity to see Icelandic agriculture in action but also to enjoy a tasty, homemade tomato soup that many consider a highlight. The “off-the-beaten-path” stops like Efstidalur Farm, where you can glimpse local life, also add authenticity to the experience.

Value for Money

At $133 per person, this tour offers a lot — well-organized logistics, expert guides, and a variety of highlights. The inclusion of admission to Kerið crater, plus the personal touch of small-group touring, makes this a good deal. However, food and drinks are not included, so expect to budget extra for meals, especially at Friðheimar where prices can be high.

Many travelers find that the tour’s pacing and stops justify the cost, especially considering the high-quality storytelling and the chance to see both iconic sites and local life.

Potential Drawbacks

The schedule is quite full, and the day moves swiftly. If you prefer a more relaxed pace or wish to spend more time at each site, this might feel a bit rushed. Also, since food isn’t included, you should plan for additional expenses. Some reviews mention the costs at the tomato farm as being on the higher side, so pack snacks if needed.

This tour isn’t suitable for very young children under 4 years or travelers with mobility issues, as it involves walking and standing at various stops.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you love a balance of nature and culture, this Golden Circle tour is ideal. It’s perfect for those wanting a small group experience with guides who bring stories and local insights into the mix. Foodies will enjoy the visit to Friðheimar, and nature lovers will appreciate the waterfalls, geysers, and volcanic craters.

Travelers who enjoy well-structured, comprehensive days that include some off-the-beaten-path stops will find this tour satisfying. It’s great for first-timers to Iceland or those wanting a reliable, educational, and scenic overview of the country’s highlights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included from many hotels and bus stops around Reykjavik. Check the specific location to ensure it’s covered.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 9 hours, including traveling time and sightseeing stops. Starting times vary, so check availability.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included. You’ll want to budget extra for lunch, especially if you plan to dine at Friðheimar, where prices can be high.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 4 years old or those with mobility issues, due to walking and standing at stops.

What is the group size?
It’s a small-group tour, which many reviewers find enhances the experience by offering more personalized attention and stories from guides.

Are there any optional expenses?
Yes, meals at Friðheimar and other personal purchases are extra. The tour doesn’t include snacks or drinks outside of Wi-Fi on the bus.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before departure. After that, bookings are non-refundable unless the tour is canceled due to weather.

Final Thoughts

This Golden Circle tour from Reykjavik strikes a wonderful balance between iconic sights and local flavor. The inclusion of Friðheimar tomato farm, small-group intimacy, and enthusiastic guides make it stand out as a well-rounded adventure. While the pace is brisk and extra costs are to be expected, many guests find the value and storytelling make it worthwhile.

If you’re after a comprehensive, authentic look at Iceland’s natural beauty and cultural quirks, this trip offers a memorable day out. It’s especially suited for curious travelers who enjoy engaging guides, scenic stops, and a touch of local life woven into their Iceland experience.

Whether you’re visiting for the first time or want a reliable day tour with rich storytelling, this Golden Circle adventure is likely to meet and even exceed expectations.