Small Group Golden Circle Tour w/ Kerid & Tomato Farm Visit

Our review of the Small Group Golden Circle Tour with Kerid & Tomato Farm Visit offers a detailed look at this popular Icelandic excursion. Designed for travelers eager to see some of the country’s most iconic sights without the hassle of large tour buses, this experience promises a personalized touch along with some memorable landscapes.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the small group setting ensures you won’t be lost in the crowd, allowing for more meaningful interactions and tailored commentary from your guide. Second, the combination of natural wonders and local agriculture—from geysers and waterfalls to a tomato farm—offers a well-rounded taste of Icelandic scenery and ingenuity.

One consideration? The price point of $95 is quite reasonable for a full-day, well-organized adventure, but it does exclude lunch, so you’ll need to budget for that separately. This tour is ideal for those who want a comprehensive, engaging day with a knowledgeable guide in a comfortable setting—perfect for first-time visitors or anyone wanting to hit the highlights without feeling rushed.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you enjoy learning about the places you visit, appreciate the comfort of a small group, and want a mix of natural beauty and local innovation, this tour is a natural fit. It’s especially suited for travelers who prefer a relaxed pace, want insightful commentary, and value authenticity over just ticking boxes.

• Intimate Experience: Small group size means more personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Diverse Highlights: Combines natural landmarks with local farming practices for a well-rounded day.
• Expert Guide: Guides are knowledgeable, making the experience both educational and fun.
• Flexible & Convenient: Hotel pickup and drop-off simplify logistics, making it easy to relax and enjoy.
• Cost-Effective: At $95, it offers good value, especially given the included entrance fees and guide.
• Limited Dining: No included lunch, so plan to bring snacks or purchase food during the day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting with Convenience and Comfort

The tour begins with hotel pickup in Reykjavik, which is a real advantage for those unfamiliar with city transport. The group travels in a comfortable, air-conditioned minivan, ideal for navigating Iceland’s sometimes bumpy roads and ensuring a cozy ride. The smaller group size (not specified, but implied) means you won’t be squeezed in like sardines, allowing for a more intimate and flexible experience.

Þingvellir National Park: Walking Between Tectonic Plates

The first stop is Þingvellir National Park, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, we loved the way the guide explained the area’s significance—not just as a scenic landscape but as the place where Iceland’s historic parliament, Alþingi, was founded. Standing on the rift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, you get a literal sense of a continent drifting apart. Expect a moderate walk with plenty of opportunity to explore and snap photos of the rugged terrain.

One reviewer especially appreciated the guide’s storytelling: “He was informative and had a good sense of humour.” This stop sets the tone for a tour that balances geology, history, and stunning vistas.

Geysir Geothermal Area: Watching Nature’s Power

Next up is the Geysir geothermal area, home to the famous Strokkur geyser. This natural fountain erupts every few minutes, shooting boiling water up to 30 meters into the air—a spectacle that never gets old. We loved the way the guide explained how these hot springs work and the importance of geothermal energy in Iceland.

You’ll also stroll along bubbling springs and steaming vents, which create the unmistakable smell of sulfur. It’s a lively, energetic scene that provides fantastic photo opportunities. From the reviews, it’s clear visitors appreciate the timing and storytelling: “We stopped at all the designated stops and had enough time to explore,” describes one.

Gullfoss Waterfall: The Power of Nature

The iconic Gullfoss (Golden Falls) is a highlight—an awe-inspiring cascade plunging into a deep canyon. The viewing paths offer multiple perspectives, from close-up to panoramic. Expect to feel the spray and hear the roar as you stand near the edge, taking in the raw force of the Hvítá river.

Many travelers find this waterfall to be a truly memorable sight. One reviewer noted, “Feel the mist of the Hvítá river as it plunges into the Gullfoss waterfall,” emphasizing how immersive the experience can be. The walkways are accessible, making it easy to get good shots and enjoy the scenery comfortably.

More Great Tours Nearby

Fridheimar Tomato Farm: Small-Scale Sustainability

The tour then takes you to the Fridheimar Tomato Farm, where you’ll visit a greenhouse that uses sustainable farming practices. Iceland’s climate makes this a particularly interesting stop, showcasing how innovative farming can thrive even in harsh conditions.

While the tour at the farm is only a visit and does not include a meal, it offers a glimpse into Iceland’s agricultural ingenuity. Visitors appreciate the chance to see how tomatoes are grown in the country’s unique environment. One reviewer mentioned, “The farm uses sustainable practices, which is crucial in farming in Iceland.” It’s a chance to learn about local efforts to produce food sustainably and reduce environmental impact.

Kerid Crater: A Volcanic Masterpiece

The last major stop is the Kerid Crater, a volcanic crater lake with vividly colored slopes—reds, oranges, and greens—that create a striking contrast against the blue water. Walking along the crater rim offers sweeping views of the surrounding landscape, and a descent to the bottom reveals the rock formations and the serene lake.

This site is often praised for its unique colors and peaceful atmosphere. One traveler mentioned, “Walk along the crater rim for panoramic views,” and many find it to be a peaceful, almost surreal, experience.

Returning to Reykjavik

After Kerid, the group heads back to Reykjavik, with the return drive offering more chances to chat with your guide and enjoy the Icelandic countryside. The tour ends at your hotel or a central location—convenient for exploring the rest of the city or heading to your accommodation.

At $95 per person, this tour offers solid value for a full-day adventure. It includes all entrance fees, transportation, a professional guide, and the visit to Fridheimar. The main expense—lunch—is not included, giving flexibility to bring your own or dine independently.

For the price, you get a comprehensive itinerary that covers major highlights with minimal hassle. The small group size makes the experience more personal, and the guided commentary enhances your understanding of each site.

Authentic and Engaging Guides

Many reviews emphasize the knowledge and humor of the guides. One said, “Our guide was great explaining about the history of Iceland, geographical features etc.” This kind of commentary makes the scenery more meaningful, turning a sightseeing trip into a learning experience.

Potential Drawbacks

The main downside noted is that the visit to the tomato farm is only a stop, not a full tour or meal. Also, some travelers may find the lack of included lunch a minor inconvenience, especially if they prefer all-in-one packages. Plus, weather can influence the experience, so dressing warmly and in layers is advisable.

This trip is best suited for travelers who want to see Iceland’s highlights in a manageable, comfortable setting. If you enjoy guided tours that blend natural beauty with insights about local practices, this is a good choice. It’s especially appealing for first-time visitors wanting a well-rounded overview.

Those who appreciate small-group intimacy and dislike crowded buses will find this tour more personal. If you’re on a budget but want to maximize your sightseeing, at $95, it delivers strong value. It’s less ideal for travelers seeking a culinary experience (since lunch is not included) or those with limited mobility, as some walking is involved at each site.

This Small Group Golden Circle Tour offers a balanced, engaging look at some of Iceland’s most famous natural wonders, combined with a glimpse into local sustainable agriculture. The small group setting and knowledgeable guides elevate the experience beyond a standard sightseeing bus trip, making it a good pick for those who want a more personal touch. The stops at Þingvellir, Geysir, Gullfoss, Kerid, and Fridheimar cover a broad spectrum of Iceland’s landscape and ingenuity.

While it doesn’t include lunch, the overall value is high, especially considering the entrance fees and guide services. The stops are thoughtfully chosen and paced, giving travelers plenty of time to enjoy each site without feeling rushed. If you’re after authentic landscapes, friendly guidance, and the comfort of a small group, this tour fits the bill.

For those seeking a comprehensive, well-organized day exploring Iceland’s Golden Circle, this tour strikes a fine balance of adventure, education, and comfort—a trip that will leave you with lasting memories and plenty of photo opportunities.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Reykjavik, making it convenient to start and end your day.

What is the transportation like?
You’ll travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned minivan, which is suitable for small groups and helps create a more intimate experience.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, with starting times based on availability. It’s a full-day experience but designed to be relaxed and manageable.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees for the sites visited, including Þingvellir, Geysir, Gullfoss, and Kerid, are included in the price.

Is food provided?
No, lunch is not included, so you should plan to bring snacks or purchase food during the day.

Is the tour accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, but some walking at sites might be moderate.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly and in layers, as Iceland’s weather can change quickly. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for exploring each site.

This detailed review should help you decide whether this Golden Circle tour fits your travel style and expectations. With its combination of natural beauty, local culture, and small-group comfort, it offers a memorable way to experience Iceland’s highlights.

You can check availability for your dates here: