Reykjavik: Golden Circle, Kerid, and Fridheimar Minibus Tour

Exploring Iceland’s Golden Circle is often at the top of travelers’ bucket lists, and this guided minibus tour offers an approachable, well-rounded way to see some of the country’s most iconic sights. It’s a compact nine-hour journey that combines natural wonders with authentic Icelandic culture, all delivered by knowledgeable guides in a cozy group setting.

What we love about this tour is how accessible and flexible it feels—small groups mean plenty of personalized attention, and the emphasis on storytelling and local insights makes each stop more meaningful. Plus, the inclusion of Fridheimar Farm and its tomato greenhouse, along with Icelandic horses, adds a personal, local touch that larger buses often lack.

A possible consideration is the comprehensive schedule—while the itinerary is packed with highlights, it means some stops might feel rushed if you’re eager to linger. Travelers who prefer slow, in-depth explorations might want to consider additional days or private options.

This tour is perfect for travelers wanting a solid overview of Iceland’s legendary landscapes without the hassle of organizing multiple excursions themselves. It suits those who appreciate good value, engaging guides, and a taste of Icelandic farm life along with natural beauty.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering all main Golden Circle sights in one day
• Small group size enhances comfort and allows more personal interaction
• Inclusive activities like tomato tasting and Icelandic horse encounters add local flavor
• Excellent value at around $118, with many reviews highlighting the cost-benefit ratio
• Knowledgeable guides share engaging stories and insights, making the experience richer
• Flexible booking options including free cancellation and pay later choices

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Off: Convenient Pickups and Comfortable Transport

The tour begins with pickup from up to 23 different locations in central Reykjavik, including Bus Stops and hotels, making it quite accessible. We’ve seen reviews praising the punctual pickups and the small, comfortable minibuses that create a more intimate atmosphere compared to larger tour buses. This small group size allows guides to tailor the experience more personally, and travelers often mention how this makes for a more relaxed, friendly vibe.

Expect the journey to last roughly 9 hours, with brief stops for photos and sightseeing along the way. The transportation is described as comfortable, with some reviews noting that the bus is well-designed for long-day sightseeing, ensuring you stay comfortable even in Iceland’s variable weather.

First Stop: Kerið Crater

Your first major stop is Kerið, the striking volcanic crater lake famous for its vivid blue-green water and the contrasting black and red slopes around it. It’s a quick but memorable photo opportunity—standing at the rim gives you a sense of the volcanic forces that shaped this landscape. Travelers love the way this crater’s vivid colors and peaceful setting make it feel almost surreal.

The 25-minute stop might seem brief but is enough to snap some photos and appreciate the crater’s geology. Given Iceland’s volcanic history, it’s a reminder of the country’s constantly shifting landscape.

Fridheimar Farm: A Tasty, Authentic Break

Next, you’ll visit Fridheimar, a family-owned tomato farm operating since 1995. The highlight here is the guided tour of the greenhouse, where you can admire how they grow fresh tomatoes and cucumbers in a warm, lush environment—an impressive feat given Iceland’s chilly climate. You’ll also meet adorable Icelandic horses, pet them, and enjoy a horse show demonstrating their gait.

Many travelers raved about the tomato tasting and the delicious lunch options available (though food is at your own expense). Several reviews highlight the farm’s unique setting and the fact that the guide shared plenty of stories and insights. One reviewer called the tomato soup “amazing,” adding that the farm stop was a real highlight—something you probably won’t find at other Golden Circle tours.

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Geysir and Gullfoss: Power and Beauty

After the farm, the tour continues to Geysir, the famous geothermal area where the original geyser gave its name to all others. You’ll likely see Strokkur erupting, shooting boiling water into the air every few minutes. This is a crowd favorite, and the scenic surroundings make for great photos.

Later, you’ll visit Gullfoss, Iceland’s most spectacular waterfall. The powerful cascades tumble into a deep canyon, and the views are jaw-dropping. Reviewers frequently mention how Gullfoss showcases Iceland’s “raw power,” and many say it’s the highlight of the tour. You’ll have about 45 minutes here, enough to walk closer to the falls and snap stunning pictures.

Þingvellir National Park: Meeting of Tectonic Plates

The last major stop is Þingvellir, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the historic site of the world’s first parliament. Geologically, it’s fascinating—where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are drifting apart. The rugged landscape and clear fissures offer an almost otherworldly experience.

Visitors often describe Þingvellir as the most scenic stop, with great opportunities for walks and photos. Many reviews point out how the guide’s commentary enhances understanding, turning a simple sightseeing stop into a lesson on Iceland’s geology and history.

Wrapping Up: End of the Journey

The tour concludes back in Reykjavik, with drop-offs at multiple locations. The entire experience balances sightseeing with storytelling, making the long day feel engaging, not exhausting.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The small group setting is often praised, as it creates a more personal and flexible experience. The guides consistently earn high marks for their knowledge and friendliness—many reviews mention specific guides by name, highlighting their storytelling skills and passion for Iceland.

The inclusion of activities like tomato tasting and horse encounters gives the experience a local flavor that bigger bus tours often lack. Reviewers love the delicious food options, which, although not included in the price, are seen as worthwhile for the authentic experience and the added value.

The price point, around $118, is considered very reasonable given the comprehensive itinerary and the inclusion of entrance fees to Kerið and the farm activities. Travelers frequently remark that they felt they received excellent value for money, especially considering the variety of sights and experiences packed into a single day.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Dress weather-appropriate and bring waterproof shoes, as Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable.
• The tour is not suitable for children under 8, so younger travelers might need private arrangements if they wish to join.
• Lunch is at your own expense, but the farm’s greenhouse is a great spot for a tasty break.
• Pickup starts early, and the process can take up to 30 minutes, so be prepared for an early start.
• Keep an eye on your email for any updates or re-scheduling notices, as some reviews noted occasional communication hiccups.

Who Should Take This Tour?

If you’re after a well-organized, value-packed introduction to Iceland’s Golden Circle, this tour delivers. It’s ideal for travelers who want a guided experience with engaging storytelling, plenty of photo opportunities, and a taste of local life. Families with older children, solo travelers, and small groups will particularly appreciate the intimate setting and flexible pacing.

Those eager to learn about Iceland’s geology, culture, and natural beauty will find this tour both informative and inspiring. If you prefer in-depth exploration and personalized attention, this is an excellent choice.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable if I have limited time in Reykjavik?
Yes, it’s a full-day tour from Reykjavik that covers key sights efficiently, making the most of your available time.

How do pickup locations work?
There are 23 pickup options around central Reykjavik, including hotels and bus stops, which makes it convenient regardless of where you stay.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but you can purchase food at the Fridheimar greenhouse, which is highly recommended given its tasty offerings.

What’s the group size?
It’s a small-group tour, which means fewer than 20 travelers typically, allowing for a more personal experience and better interaction with guides.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, admission to Kerið crater and the tomato greenhouse tour are included, adding to the tour’s overall value.

Can children join this tour?
It’s not suitable for children under 8 years old, due to the schedule and activity nature.

How long is each stop?
Stops vary from about 20 to 50 minutes, enough to enjoy the sights without feeling rushed. Some reviews mention that the timing is well-balanced.

What makes this tour different from others?
Its focus on local experiences, like the farm visit and horse encounters, as well as its small-group environment, set it apart.

What’s the overall value of this tour?
Many visitors feel they get excellent value, as it combines major sights, storytelling, cultural insights, and extras for a reasonable price.

Final Thoughts

This Golden Circle tour from Reykjavik strikes a thoughtful balance between scenic highlights and cultural experiences. The inclusion of Fridheimar Farm and the Icelandic horses adds a memorable, authentic touch, making it more than just a sightseeing run. The small group size and knowledgeable guides ensure you’ll feel engaged and well-informed throughout the day.

While it’s a busy schedule, the pacing and variety keep the day lively and rewarding. If you’re looking for a cost-effective way to see Iceland’s most famous sights with a friendly, expert guide, this tour is hard to beat. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who value stories and local flavor just as much as breathtaking landscapes.

Whether it’s your first trip to Iceland or a quick overview of the Golden Circle, this tour offers a solid, enjoyable introduction—packed with views, stories, and a touch of local life.

You can check availability for your dates here: