The Private Golden Circle Tour from Reykjavik offers travelers a unique opportunity to explore Iceland’s renowned landmarks at their own pace. With a personalized itinerary and private transportation, guests can explore the country’s volcanic origins, discover its natural wonders, and uncover its rich history. From the dramatic landscapes of Thingvellir National Park to the thundering Gullfoss waterfall, this customizable experience promises an in-depth look into the heart of Iceland. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, the Private Golden Circle Tour provides an unforgettable journey that might just leave you craving more of this enchanting Nordic nation.
This experience made our list of the 20 Best Private Tours In Southern Region Iceland.
Key Points
- Offers a private guided tour of the Golden Circle sights, including Thingvellir National Park, Geysir, Strokkur, and Gullfoss waterfall.
- Provides personalized attention and flexibility to customize the itinerary based on the group’s interests.
- Includes hotel/port pickup and drop-off, bottled water, and high-speed WiFi in the vehicle.
- Covers entry fees to key sites like Thingvellir National Park, Faxi Waterfall, and Kerid Crater.
- Allows exploration of the iconic Skalholt Episcopal See, a significant religious and historical landmark.
Tour Overview
The Golden Circle tour from Reykjavik offers a private exploration of southwest Iceland’s renowned landmarks and natural wonders. This personalized experience allows you to discover the highlights of the region at your own pace with a private guide and transportation.
The itinerary can be customized based on your group’s interests, ensuring you make the most of your time. You’ll visit iconic sites like Thingvellir National Park, the birthplace of Iceland’s parliament, and witness the erupting Strokkur geyser and the magnificent Gullfoss waterfall.
With hotel pickup and drop-off in Reykjavik, along with bottled water and high-speed WiFi in the vehicle, this tour provides a seamless and enriching way to experience the best of Iceland’s Golden Circle.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Reykjavik.
Included Services
This private Golden Circle tour from Reykjavik includes a range of convenient services. It provides hotel/port pickup and drop-off within the Reykjavik capital area, ensuring a seamless start and end to your experience.
Travelers can also expect a professional private driver/guide to accompany them throughout the tour, offering personalized attention and insights.
The tour includes:
- Bottled water to keep you hydrated.
- High-speed WiFi access in the vehicle, allowing you to stay connected.
- Entry and admission fees to key sites like Thingvellir National Park, Faxi Waterfall, and Kerid Crater.
- A comfortable and customizable experience tailored to your group’s interests.
Itinerary Highlights
Visiting Thingvellir National Park, the site of the world’s first democratic parliament, allows travelers to explore Iceland’s captivating history and geological wonders.
Witnessing the Geysir, the source of the term ‘geyser,’ and the nearby Strokkur geyser, which erupts every few minutes, showcases Iceland’s dynamic geothermal activity.
Gazing upon the majestic Gullfoss, Iceland’s most renowned waterfall, leaves a lasting impression.
Exploring Skalholt, the location of Iceland’s first Episcopal See, provides insight into the country’s religious and cultural heritage.
The carefully curated itinerary ensures guests experience the highlights of southwest Iceland, from breathtaking natural phenomena to significant historical sites, all within the comfort of a private tour.
Thingvellir National Park
As a site of immense historical and geological significance, Thingvellir National Park captivates visitors with its dramatic landscapes and role in the development of Iceland’s democratic traditions. Located in the rift valley where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates meet, the park offers a unique window into the island’s volcanic origins.
Visitors can:
- Hike along the Almannagjá fault, a stunning canyon separating the continental plates.
- Marvel at the shimmering Þingvallavatn, Iceland’s largest natural lake.
Visitors can also:
- Explore the Þingvellir Church and its surrounding ruins, remnants of the world’s first democratic parliament.
- Dive or snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of the Silfra fissure, a submerged canyon between the tectonic plates.
Geysir and Strokkur
The Geysir geothermal area features the eponymous Great Geysir and its more active neighbor, Strokkur, which erupts every few minutes, delighting visitors with its towering jets of boiling water and steam.
Though the Great Geysir itself is now less active, it’s still an impressive sight, and the wider geothermal area offers a fascinating glimpse into Iceland’s volcanic activity.
Strokkur, on the other hand, is a reliable performer, shooting water up to 40 meters into the air in a dramatic display. Visitors can get close to the geyser’s percolating pools and watch the dramatic eruptions, making this a highlight of the Golden Circle route.
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Gullfoss Waterfall
After marveling at the geysers of the Geysir geothermal area, visitors can’t miss the thundering Gullfoss, one of Iceland’s most captivating natural wonders.
Situated in the Hvíta river canyon, this magnificent two-tiered waterfall cascades over 105 feet (32 meters) into a rugged, rocky crevice.
Visitors can:
- Take in the breathtaking views from the observation decks overlooking the falls.
- Follow the trail down to the waterfall’s edge for a closer look at the powerful torrent of water.
- Capture stunning photos of the mist-shrouded falls, which can reach heights of up to 105 feet (32 meters).
- Enjoy the tranquility of the surrounding area, a stark contrast to the thunderous display of Iceland’s natural force.
Skalholt Episcopal See
Tracing the rich history of Christianity in Iceland, the Skalholt Episcopal See stands as a revered site, serving as the seat of the country’s first Catholic bishop since the 11th century.
Today, visitors can explore the cathedral’s well-preserved ruins, seeing the ancient architecture and religious significance of the location.
The site also features a museum that delves into the intriguing past of the Icelandic church, providing insights into the nation’s spiritual evolution.
With its deep roots in the island’s cultural heritage, a stop at the Skalholt Episcopal See offers travelers a unique opportunity to connect with Iceland’s enduring religious traditions and the pivotal role this landmark has played in the country’s history.
Pricing and Booking
Pricing for the Golden Circle tour from Reykjavik varies based on the size of the group, with discounted rates available for larger parties. Travelers can easily book the experience online, taking advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours prior to the tour’s start time.
The pricing structure includes:
- A base rate for private groups of up to 4 people.
- Reduced per-person rates for larger groups of 5 or more.
- Complimentary hotel/port pickup and drop-off in the Reykjavik capital area.
- Admission fees to the tour’s key attractions, including Thingvellir National Park, Faxi Waterfall, and Kerid Crater.
With its customizable itinerary and personalized attention, the Golden Circle tour offers excellent value for travelers seeking to explore southwest Iceland’s stunning landscapes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?
The maximum group size for this tour is not specified. The price varies by group size, which suggests the tour can accommodate different party sizes. However, the exact maximum group size is not provided in the details.
Do We Make Any Stops for Food or Refreshments?
The tour includes bottled water, but doesn’t mention any scheduled food or refreshment stops. However, the itinerary can likely be customized to accommodate requests for meal breaks or snack stops during the tour.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour to Add More Sites?
The tour can be extended to include more sites. Customers can discuss additional stops with the private guide to customize the itinerary based on their interests and preferences. Flexibility allows for a personalized sightseeing experience.
Can We Request a Specific Language for the Guide?
Yes, you can typically request a specific language for the guide. Many tour companies offer multilingual guides, so you can select the language that best suits your needs when booking the tour. Just be sure to inquire about language options.
How Long Is the Total Duration of the Tour?
The tour typically lasts around 8 hours. It includes stops at major sights like Thingvellir National Park, Geysir, Gullfoss waterfall, and more. The exact duration may vary based on the pace and interests of the private group.
Recap
The Private Golden Circle Tour from Reykjavik offers a personalized exploration of Iceland’s renowned natural wonders.
Travelers can discover iconic sites, including Thingvellir National Park, Strokkur geyser, and Gullfoss waterfall, at their own pace with a private guide and transportation.
The customizable experience provides an in-depth look at the country’s volcanic origins, unique geography, and rich history, making it an ideal way to experience the best of Iceland.
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