Iceland: Christmas Golden Circle Tour with Santa

Travelers seeking a festive adventure through Iceland’s breathtaking landscapes will find this Christmas Golden Circle Tour with Santa both charming and memorable. Offered by Iceland Odyssey, it’s designed to blend the natural wonders of Iceland with the festive spirit of the holiday season. With its cozy atmosphere, expert guides, and a dash of Christmas magic, this tour promises a balanced mix of sightseeing and seasonal cheer.

What we particularly like about this experience is the personalized nature of the private group setting — it feels intimate and flexible, perfect for families or friends. Plus, the inclusion of famous Icelandic sights like Gullfoss and Geysir, combined with heartwarming touches such as hot chocolate served by Santa, adds a special holiday touch. That said, one thing to consider is the duration — around 7 to 8.5 hours — which might be a long day for very young children or those prone to travel fatigue. This tour is ideal for travelers looking to combine Iceland’s natural beauty with a festive atmosphere, especially if you appreciate a bit of personal service and seasonal magic.

Key Points

• Festive atmosphere with Christmas songs and treats
• Visit iconic Golden Circle sights like Geysir and Gullfoss
• Personalized private group experience
• Includes traditional Icelandic cookies and hot chocolate served by Santa
• Comfortable, scenic transport with knowledgeable guides
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours before

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Festive Spin on Iceland’s Golden Circle

This tour offers a creative twist on the classic Golden Circle route, adding a holiday flavor that makes it ideal for the Christmas season. The journey begins in Reykjavík, where you’ll be picked up by your private guide and driver — a small group of up to seven people, which keeps the experience intimate and relaxed. You’ll appreciate the flexibility of a private tour, allowing for a more personalized approach compared to larger, bus-based excursions.

The tour lasts between 7 and 8.5 hours, depending on the day, and includes several carefully chosen stops that highlight Iceland’s stunning scenery and geothermal activity. The itinerary is designed to balance sightseeing with cozy moments, making sure you’re not just rushing from one location to another but also soaking in the atmosphere.

Exploring the Highlights

Thingvellir National Park

Your first stop is Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site where you can see the rift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. We loved the way guides typically share stories about Iceland’s geological history here, adding depth to the visit. The scenery is dramatic, with rugged cliffs and clear waters, and it’s a perfect spot to kick off your day with some awe-inspiring views.

Kerid Volcano Crater

Next, you’ll visit the Kerid Crater, a striking volcanic caldera filled with vivid blue water. The circular shape and colorful slopes create a stark contrast to Iceland’s typical landscapes. Spend about 40 minutes here taking photos or strolling around, soaking in the quiet beauty. The crater’s accessibility makes it easy for most visitors, but remember, the loose volcanic rock can be a bit uneven, so wear sturdy shoes.

More Great Tours Nearby

Fridheimar Tomato Greenhouse

A culinary highlight is the stop at Fridheimar Greenhouse, where you get to enjoy a warm bowl of tomato soup with fresh baguette — a cozy and delicious treat. This is also a chance to see how Icelanders grow food in geothermal-heated greenhouses, which is quite fascinating. The 45-minute stop offers a relaxed break, and many reviews point out the soup here as a memorable part of the tour.

Geysir Geothermal Area

Moving on, the Geysir area offers the classic Icelandic geysers, with Strokkur erupting every few minutes, shooting water high into the air. The guides typically explain the geothermal activity in clear, engaging terms, making this stop both fun and educational. You’ll love the views of bubbling hot springs and steaming vents, which create a surreal landscape.

Gullfoss Waterfall

The glistening Gullfoss Waterfall caps off the sightseeing with its powerful cascade. A photo stop of about 45 minutes allows visitors to marvel at the thundering water and perhaps warm up with hot chocolate served in the visitor center. Several reviews mention how the views here are truly breathtaking, especially when framed with the winter landscape.

The Bru Horse Farm

A unique aspect of this tour is the visit to the Bru Horse Farm, where you might get a chance to see Icelandic horses and learn about their special gait. While not every review details this stop, the inclusion adds an authentic touch and gives insight into rural Icelandic life.

Festive Touches and Practical Details

What makes this tour stand out is the festive atmosphere created by Christmas songs played throughout and Santa serving hot chocolate and cookies midway. These touches turn a standard Golden Circle tour into a holiday memory, especially for families or couples looking for a cozy, joyful experience.

The hot chocolate served by Santa is a simple, yet effective, way to warm up and get into the holiday spirit. The cookies, resembling traditional Icelandic treats, add a local flavor to the experience. Many travelers appreciate this little touch, noting it as a highlight in reviews.

The scenic transportation is comfortable, and the guide’s knowledge helps make each stop more meaningful. The small group size means you can ask questions freely and enjoy a more relaxed pace.

Logistics and Value

The tour costs $1,248 per group of up to 7 people, which breaks down to roughly $178 per person — a price that reflects the private, personalized nature of the experience. When you consider the inclusion of multiple iconic sites, festive extras, and the convenience of door-to-door pickup, the value becomes clearer.

It’s worth noting that the free cancellation policy — cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund — adds peace of mind to your booking. You can reserve now and pay later, keeping your plans flexible, which is particularly helpful during unpredictable winter weather.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for families with children, couples, or friends seeking a festive outing that combines iconic Icelandic sights with seasonal cheer. The private group setting makes it especially suitable for those wanting a more personal touch or a flexible schedule.

However, travelers who prefer very long or strenuous days might find the 7 to 8.5 hours a bit much, especially if traveling with very young kids or anyone sensitive to cold or travel fatigue.

Final Thoughts

In summary, this Christmas Golden Circle Tour with Santa offers a wonderful way to see Iceland’s most famous sights while celebrating the holiday season. The combination of stunning scenery, engaging guides, and festive extras makes it a well-rounded experience that balances sightseeing with holiday warmth.

If you’re looking to add a touch of Christmas magic to your Iceland trip, or if you want a more intimate, tailored alternative to larger bus tours, this private jaunt delivers in both charm and authenticity. It’s a particularly good fit for those who appreciate great views, knowledgeable guides, and a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to Iceland during the holidays, this tour promises a festive adventure you’re unlikely to forget.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for families, especially since Santa serves hot chocolate and cookies, creating a festive atmosphere. However, very young children under 2 years might not be ideal, as the tour is a full day.

What’s included in the price?
You’ll visit Thingvellir National Park, Kerid Crater, Fridheimar Greenhouse, Geysir, Gullfoss Waterfall, and Bru Horse Farm. Plus, Santa’s hot chocolate and cookies, and a playlist of Christmas songs.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you peace of mind if your plans change.

Do I need to pay upfront?
You can reserve your spot now and pay later, allowing for flexible planning.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, warm clothing, a camera, and waterproof gear if you want to capture photos comfortably.

Is this a shared or private experience?
It’s a private group experience for up to 7 people, offering a more personalized and relaxed environment.

Are meals included?
The only included food is the tomato soup at Fridheimar Greenhouse. Other meals or snacks are not included.

What language is the guide?
The tour is guided in English, Russian, and Romanian, depending on the group.

How long does each stop last?
Stops range from about 40 to 45 minutes, giving enough time to explore and take photos without feeling rushed.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour operates rain or shine, but be prepared for possible winter weather conditions, especially if traveling in December.

To sum it up, this tour offers a balanced mix of Iceland’s stunning landscapes and festive cheer, making it an excellent choice for those wanting a cozy, memorable holiday experience. The attentive guides, breathtaking scenery, and holiday extras all combine to create a truly special journey through one of Europe’s most captivating countries.

You can check availability for your dates here: