Golden Circle Private Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Reykjavík and want to see some of Iceland’s most iconic sights in a relaxed, personal setting, the Golden Circle Private Tour from ValkyrieTours is worth a look. While I haven’t experienced it firsthand, the feedback suggests that it offers a well-rounded, customizable way to explore Iceland’s natural wonders without the hassle of big tour groups. For travelers who appreciate personalized service, flexible timing, and the chance to visit less crowded spots, this private excursion could be a perfect fit.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it offers a private, intimate experience—only your group participates—so it’s easier to customize the day to your interests. Second, the itinerary includes some of the most famous attractions along with a few lesser-known gems, providing a good mix of popular sights and unique moments. One potential drawback? The price of $1,400 per group might seem steep for some, but considering the private nature and tailored experience, many will find the value justified.

This tour is ideal for small groups, families, or friends who want a flexible, informative, and scenic day without the rush of large buses. If you want a memorable Icelandic adventure with personalized touches, this could be just the ticket.

Key Points

• Private and customized experience for up to four people
• Includes transportation, entrance, and parking fees—no hidden costs
• Flexible duration from 6 to 10 hours, fitting your schedule
• Combines famous sights with lesser-known gems like Bruarfoss Waterfall and Kerið
• Ideal for travelers who want comfort and personalization
• Cost reflects a premium experience, but many find it worthwhile

The Golden Circle is Iceland’s most popular route, but a private tour elevates it from a standard bus trip to a more relaxed, tailored experience. We’ll walk through what you can expect at each stop and why it might be a highlight or a slight disappointment depending on your interests.

Þingvellir National Park: Where History Meets Geology

Your journey begins at the Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its historical significance and geological drama. Here, the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are pulling apart, creating dramatic fissures in the earth’s crust. These cracks are visible and accessible, making it a fascinating place to walk and imagine the Icelandic parliament that once met here (the Alþingi). The one-hour visit allows you to soak in the scenery—rugged cliffs, clear lakes, and volcanic formations—without feeling rushed.

Many travelers love this stop for its mix of natural beauty and cultural history. One reviewer noted how they appreciated the way the tour made this site feel more personal and less hurried, giving enough time to explore or simply admire the views.

Efstidalur Dairy Farm: An Authentic Taste of Rural Iceland

Next, the tour includes a delightful stop at Efstidalur, a family-run farm, which offers a genuine glimpse into Icelandic farm life. Here, you can taste fresh dairy products and enjoy the countryside scenery—an authentic experience that many travelers find charming. The free 30-minute visit emphasizes local food, sustainable farming, and friendly hospitality.

This stop is a chance to see how Icelanders live and farm, away from the tourist crowds. One reviewer praised this part of the tour, calling it “a wonderful way to experience rural Icelandic life” and highlighting the delicious local treats.

Bruarfoss Waterfall: A Lesser-Known Natural Wonder

Most Golden Circle tours hit the major sights, but this private tour includes a visit to Bruarfoss, often called the Blue Waterfall due to its vivid turquoise hues. It’s a less crowded, more tranquil spot that rewards visitors with stunning views and excellent photo opportunities. The 45-minute stop lets you enjoy this natural gem, which is often overshadowed by Gullfoss but no less impressive.

Travelers who have visited Bruarfoss rave about its serene atmosphere and spectacular color—a perfect moment for quiet reflection or a memorable snapshot.

Geysir Geothermal Area: Witness Earth’s Power

No Icelandic tour would be complete without stopping at the Geysir geothermal area. While the original Geysir itself is mostly dormant these days, the nearby Strokkur geyser erupts reliably every 5–10 minutes, shooting hot water up to 30 meters into the air. The one-hour visit here offers plenty of chances to see this natural spectacle and learn about Iceland’s geothermal activity.

Many visitors find the raw power of the hot springs awe-inspiring. One reviewer appreciated the informative stops and the fact that this site remains lively and engaging, even if Geysir itself isn’t as active as it once was.

Kerið Crater: A Colorful Volcanic Caldera

The Kerið volcanic crater is renowned for its vivid red volcanic rock and the striking blue-green lake at its base. Formed over 3,000 years ago, it’s a vivid reminder of Iceland’s volcanic activity. The 45-minute stop allows for walking around the rim and taking in the contrasting colors—something many travelers find visually compelling.

This site offers a more colorful, surreal landscape compared to the other stops, perfect for capturing striking photos. It’s also a chance to learn about Iceland’s volcanic history.

Optional: Friðheimar Greenhouse—A Taste of Innovation

An optional extra, Friðheimar Greenhouse, invites visitors into a warm, geothermal-powered greenhouse producing tomatoes and other produce. The 1 hour 30 minutes visit includes the chance to taste fresh, homegrown food and explore Iceland’s ingenuity in sustainable farming. This stop, though not included in the base price, might appeal to those interested in local agriculture and eco-friendly practices.

The tour includes private transportation, which means no cramped bus or hurried schedule. You’ll get to enjoy the scenery at your own pace, with the flexibility to linger or move quickly through sites. The parking and entrance fees are covered, so you won’t face surprise costs upon arrival.

The price of $1,400 might seem high at first glance, but considering it’s a private experience for up to four people, it’s actually a reasonable way to enjoy Iceland’s highlights without the crowds or rigid schedules of larger tours. For groups seeking comfort and exclusivity, the value is clear.

The duration varies from 6 to 10 hours, giving you the flexibility to customize your day. You might choose to spend more time at a favorite spot or skip a less-interesting stop—something you rarely get on larger tours.

One review from a Tripadvisor traveler highlights how this tour fit a diverse group of four families, emphasizing the friendly, flexible, and well-organized nature of the experience. The reviewer appreciated the “excellent” service and the way the tour felt more personal than a typical group outing.

Travelers consistently mention the stunning views, especially at Bruarfoss and Kerið, and the delicious local food at Efstidalur and possibly at Friðheimar. The natural beauty and the chance to see Iceland’s geothermal activity are often praised as the tour’s standout features.

If you’re a traveler who values comfort, flexibility, and a tailored experience, this private Golden Circle tour might be just what you need. It’s particularly suited for small groups, families, or friends who want to avoid crowded buses and enjoy a more relaxed pace. The inclusion of lesser-known sights like Bruarfoss and Kerið adds a special touch, offering moments of quiet awe away from the crowds.

The tour’s mix of majestic waterfalls, volcanic craters, geothermal wonders, and authentic rural stops provides a well-rounded Icelandic experience. With the added benefit of private transport and flexible timing, you’ll feel more like a guest than just another tourist.

While the price may be a consideration, many travelers find the combination of personalized service, stunning scenery, and cultural insights makes it a solid investment for a memorable Icelandic adventure. If you want to explore the Golden Circle without rushing, this could be an excellent choice.

What is included in the tour?
The tour covers private transportation, all landing and facility fees, and parking fees. It does not include lunch, so you might want to bring snacks or plan for a meal during the day.

How long does the tour last?
The duration ranges from approximately 6 to 10 hours, depending on your interests and pace. You can discuss your preferred timing when booking.

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. It’s designed to be flexible, making it suitable for most ages and fitness levels.

Can I customize the stops or the itinerary?
Yes, as a private tour, it offers flexibility. You can prioritize certain sites or skip others based on your preferences.

What if the weather is poor?
The experience requires good weather. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How many people can join this tour?
The tour is designed for groups of up to 4 people, providing an intimate, personalized experience.

Whether you’re after iconic sites or quieter moments, this private Golden Circle tour packs a lot into a flexible, comfortable package. It’s ideal for those who want the best of Iceland’s natural beauty with a touch of personal service.