Golden Circle and Northern Lights Cruise from Reykjavik — Day Tour + Aurora Boat Trip
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
10–11 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate stamina needed to stand and walk at multiple sites during the day and remain alert during a late-night boat trip.
Overview
Combine Iceland’s iconic Golden Circle by day with an evening Northern Lights cruise from Reykjavík. See geysers, Gullfoss and Þingvellir, then head offshore where guides, warm overalls and hot drinks set the stage for an aurora hunt.
Golden Circle and Northern Lights Cruise from Reykjavik — Day Tour + Aurora Boat Trip
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When the tour bus slips out of Reykjavík, the city’s glass and lava silhouette slides away and the country opens with speed: snow-flecked fields, low black ridges and steam that seems to rise from the ground itself. By midmorning you'll be standing with the crowd at Strokkur, watching water balloon the sky in a clean, boiling arc — an eruption every few minutes that throws a plume up to 30 meters and dares you to blink. The Golden Circle stitches together geyser basins, a waterfall that throws its weight into a deep crevice, and a rift valley where continents edge apart.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Layer for extremes
Bring a waterproof outer layer plus insulating mid-layers; wind off the waterfall and ocean chill quickly even on mild days.
Charge devices and bring spare battery
Cold drains batteries fast — bring a portable charger for long daylight sight-seeing and night photography on the boat.
Pack seasickness prevention
If you’re prone to motion sickness, take medication before boarding; the boat heads to calmer waters but conditions vary.
Bring ID for check-in
You’ll need a passport or ID to exchange vouchers and board the Northern Lights cruise at the Old Harbour.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Seals resting near the coast
- Arctic fox sightings inland in quieter areas
History
Þingvellir was the meeting place of the Alþingi from 930 AD, making it one of the world’s oldest parliamentary sites and a focal point of Icelandic national identity.
Conservation
Stick to marked paths at Þingvellir and Gullfoss to protect fragile moss and geological features; minimize light and noise on aurora nights to reduce disturbance to wildlife.
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Adventure Hotspots in Reykjavík
Recommended Gear
Insulating mid-layer (fleece or down)
Keeps you warm between stops and on the cold deck at night.
Waterproof shell
Protects from spray at Gullfoss and wind on the boat.
Compact tripod
Essential for aurora photography and long-exposure shots of waterfalls.
fall specific
Sturdy walking shoes
Grip and support for wet paths, stairs and uneven viewing platforms.