Golden Circle Private Tour: Þingvellir, Strokkur, Gullfoss & Kerið Day Trip from Reykjavík
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
6–8 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness; able to complete short walks (10–30 minutes) on uneven ground and climb short stairways.
Overview
In a single day, this private Golden Circle tour delivers Iceland’s geological highlights—Þingvellir’s rift valley, the erupting Strokkur geyser, thundering Gullfoss and the crimson rim of Kerið. It’s a compact primer in volcanic forces, parliamentary history and dramatic landscapes, timed to give you the best light and fewer crowds.
Golden Circle Private Tour: Þingvellir, Strokkur, Gullfoss & Kerið Day Trip from Reykjavík
Select participants and date
By the time your guide eases the van out of Reykjavík, the coast peels away and the low volcanic hills of southwest Iceland begin to open like pages. Within an hour the road gives way to the rift-carved silhouette of Þingvellir: a raw, horizontal canyon where the earth is literally pulling itself apart. Wind runs its hands along the cliff edge and the Almannagjá fault stares back, a visible bruise of ancient tectonic motion.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Dress in windproof layers
Icelandic weather changes fast—bring a windproof outer layer and insulating mid-layers to stay comfortable between short walks and viewpoints.
Waterproof footwear
Boardwalks and paths around Gullfoss and hot springs can be wet and slippery; sturdy, waterproof shoes improve traction and comfort.
Keep your camera ready for Strokkur
Strokkur erupts every 6–10 minutes—position yourself on the boardwalk and expect a quick window for the best shot.
Bring small change and card
Some stops (Kerið and local cafés) may charge small entrance or refreshment fees—cards are widely accepted but keep a few ISK just in case.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Icelandic horses along rural roadsides
- Various waterfowl and small bird species near lakes and streams
History
Þingvellir hosted the Alþing from 930 AD and remains a powerful site of national history and law where geology and governance intersect.
Conservation
Stay on marked paths, respect thermal warning signs and avoid disturbing vegetation—entrance fees and local regulations help fund site protection.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Reykjavík
Recommended Gear
Waterproof shell jacket
Protects against wind and rain common on the route.
Sturdy waterproof hiking shoes
Keeps footing secure on wet boardwalks and uneven volcanic terrain.
Layered clothing and fleece
Layering lets you adapt to sun, wind, and spray—important in cooler months.
winter specific
Camera with spare batteries
Cold and frequent shooting drain batteries; bring spares to capture geyser eruptions and waterfalls.
summer specific