Golden Circle & Northern Lights Tour From Reykjavik

Exploring Iceland’s natural wonders is a must-do for many travelers. The Golden Circle & Northern Lights Tour from Reykjavik offers an unparalleled opportunity to discover some of the country’s most iconic landmarks while also chasing the elusive Aurora Borealis. From the UNESCO-listed Thingvellir National Park to the mesmerizing Gullfoss waterfall, this full-day adventure showcases the best of Iceland’s diverse landscapes. But the true highlight lies in the chance to witness the captivating display of the Northern Lights, a natural phenomenon that has captivated the human imagination for centuries. With sustainable tourism practices at the forefront, this tour promises an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

Good To Know

• This full-day tour from Reykjavik combines the iconic Golden Circle sights with the opportunity to witness the stunning Northern Lights.
• The tour duration is approximately 12.5 hours, with 8-10 hours spent exploring the Golden Circle’s key attractions.
• Pricing starts at $119 per person, with a Lowest Price Guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
• The tour showcases the geological wonders of Iceland, including Thingvellir National Park, Geysir, Gullfoss, and Kerid Crater.
• Northern Lights viewing is optimized by taking guests to remote areas, with sightings occurring on around 60% of nights during peak season.

Tour Overview and Duration

What does the Golden Circle & Northern Lights Tour entail? This combined tour offers nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers a chance to explore Iceland’s renowned Golden Circle and search for the elusive Northern Lights.

The tour lasts approximately 12 hours and 30 minutes, with the full-day excursion lasting around 8-10 hours. Departing from Reykjavik city center, the tour takes you to the iconic sites of Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area, Gullfoss waterfall, and the Kerid Crater.

The best time to spot the Northern Lights is during the months of September to April, when the dark, clear skies provide the ideal conditions for this natural light display.

Pricing, Booking, and Cancellation

The starting price for the Golden Circle & Northern Lights Tour is $119.00 per person. A Lowest Price Guarantee is available, and free cancellation is offered up to 24 hours before the experience. Booking flexibility is provided through the Reserve Now and Pay Later option. While online reservations are recommended, various tour operators are available. Cancellation policies tend to be flexible, so it’s best to review the specific terms of the tour operator.

Pricing
Starting Price	$119.00 per person
Lowest Price Guarantee	Available
Cancellation Policy	Free up to 24 hours before
Booking Options	Reserve Now & Pay Later
Reservation Method	Online recommended, various operators

Highlights of the Golden Circle

The Golden Circle tour takes visitors to some of Iceland’s most iconic natural wonders.

At Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, travelers can walk between the tectonic plates of Europe and North America.

The Geysir geothermal area is home to the famous Strokkur geyser, which erupts every 5-10 minutes, delighting onlookers.

The magnificent Gullfoss waterfall, a two-tiered cascade measuring 32 meters high, is another highlight.

The tour also includes a visit to the Kerid Crater, a 3,000-year-old volcanic caldera with striking red-and-green hues.

These diverse natural landscapes showcase Iceland’s rich geological history and geothermal activity.

Experiencing the Northern Lights

Aurora Borealis, the natural light display also known as the Northern Lights, captivates visitors to Iceland. The best time to witness this mesmerizing phenomenon is from September to April when the skies are dark.

Factors like solar activity, weather conditions, and light pollution affect the visibility of the Northern Lights. Tour operators take guests to remote areas away from city lights, enhancing the chances of spotting the elusive Aurora. Sightings occur on 60% of nights during the peak season.

Photographers should use a tripod and long exposure settings to capture the vibrant colors. If weather conditions prevent Northern Lights visibility, tour operators often offer rescheduling options.

Accessibility and Practical Information

Travelers receive confirmation at the time of booking for the Golden Circle & Northern Lights Tour.

The tour offers wheelchair-accessible facilities, allowing most travelers to participate. Visitors are advised to wear warm, layered clothing and waterproof outerwear.

Comfortable buses with Wi-Fi and rest stops are provided for transportation. The tour operators emphasize sustainable tourism and environmental responsibility, mitigating the impact of light pollution and promoting wildlife conservation.

Plus, the tours support local businesses and communities, contributing to the region’s economic development.

• Wheelchair-accessible facilities
• Warm, layered clothing recommended
• Comfortable buses with Wi-Fi and rest stops
• Sustainable tourism practices
• Support for local communities

Sustainable Tourism Practices

Tour operators’ emphasis on sustainable tourism practices helps mitigate the impact of the Golden Circle & Northern Lights Tour. By promoting eco-friendly initiatives, they aim to reduce light pollution and respect the delicate natural environment.

Travelers are encouraged to follow guidance on waste management and wildlife conservation to minimize their footprint. The tours also support local businesses and communities, enabling visitors to engage with Icelandic culture in a responsible manner.

Through these measures, the tour operators demonstrate a commitment to preserving Iceland’s stunning landscapes for future generations to enjoy. Sustainable tourism is integral to the overall experience, ensuring a balance between exploration and environmental protection.

Photography Tips for the Northern Lights

Capturing the mesmerizing Northern Lights on camera requires a few key considerations.

Using a tripod is essential to avoid blurry images caused by long exposure times. Photographers should also set their camera to manual mode and experiment with longer shutter speeds, typically between 5-20 seconds.

Plus, adjusting the ISO to a higher setting, such as 800 or 1600, can help brighten the aurora’s colors. Framing the shot carefully and including foreground elements like landscapes or silhouettes can create more visually interesting compositions.

Finally, staying patient and persistent is crucial, as the Northern Lights can be unpredictable and require multiple attempts to capture the perfect shot.

• Use a tripod to avoid blurry images
• Set manual mode and longer shutter speeds
• Increase ISO to brighten the aurora’s colors
• Frame the shot with foreground elements
• Stay patient and persistent for the best results

Customizing Your Tour Experience

Flexibility and customization are hallmarks of the Golden Circle and Northern Lights tour experience. Travelers can tailor their journey to suit personal preferences and needs. Consider these options:

Add-Ons	Duration
Snowmobiling	1-2 hours
Glacier Hike	2-3 hours
Hot Spring Bathing	1-2 hours
Whale Watching	2-3 hours

Whether seeking a longer adventure or focusing on specific activities, the tour operators work with guests to craft an unforgettable experience. With a range of customizable elements, the Golden Circle and Northern Lights tour can be tailored to create lifelong memories.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Children Allowed on the Tour?

The tour generally allows children, but it’s best to check with the specific tour operator for their policies on minimum age and any restrictions. Some tours may have age limits or additional requirements for younger participants.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Most tour operators allow passengers to bring their own snacks and non-alcoholic beverages on the tour. They may provide water and light refreshments, but packing a lunch or bringing your own drinks is generally permitted.

Are There Any Medical Facilities Along the Tour Route?

The tour provides a first aid kit and has access to local medical facilities if needed. However, travelers should notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions or concerns prior to the tour.

What Type of Transportation Is Used During the Tour?

The tour provides comfortable buses equipped with Wi-Fi and rest stops along the way. This transportation allows travelers to comfortably and efficiently explore the sights and scenery during the full-day excursion.

Do I Need a Special Camera to Photograph the Northern Lights?

While a special camera with long exposure settings is recommended for optimal northern lights photography, most modern smartphones can capture decent images. Using a tripod or other stabilizing device can also help improve low-light shooting.

Sum Up

The Golden Circle & Northern Lights Tour from Reykjavik offers an unforgettable adventure, combining iconic Icelandic landmarks and the breathtaking Northern Lights. Travelers can explore the UNESCO-listed Thingvellir National Park, witness Strokkur’s eruptions, and marvel at Gullfoss waterfall. The tour emphasizes sustainable tourism, allowing guests to enjoy the Northern Lights while supporting local communities and preserving Iceland’s natural landscapes. With customizable options, this full-day excursion provides an exceptional Icelandic experience.