Golden Circle & Viking Horse Experience: Þingvellir, Geysir & Gullfoss Day Tour from Reykjavík
Adventure Brief
Cover Þingvellir’s rift valley, watch Strokkur erupt, feel Gullfoss’ spray and finish the day on an Icelandic horse—all in one long, satisfying loop from Reykjavík. This combo tour pairs geology and culture with practical guidance for the road.
You step off the minibus with wind that seems to think it owns the schedule. The rift valley at Þingvellir opens before you—rock faces like pages torn out of the earth, and the lake a steely mirror reflecting an Iceland that still feels in motion. For the rest of the day the landscape will keep moving you: steam and sputter at Geysir, thunder and spray at Gullfoss, then the steadier company of the Icelandic horse as you ride across low, folded farmland where lava fields push green shoots through black crust.
Key Highlights
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
11 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness—able to spend long periods on a bus, walk uneven terrain and sit in a saddle for a 1–2 hour ride
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Icelandic horse (domestic, commonly seen)
- Various waterfowl and migratory birds around the lakes
History
Þingvellir hosted the Alþingi from 930 AD onward and remains central to Icelandic national identity; the area marks a readable boundary between tectonic plates.
Conservation
Stay on designated paths to protect fragile moss and geothermal crust; operators limit herd sizes to reduce pasture impact and discourage feeding wildlife.
Operated By
Cover Þingvellir’s rift valley, watch Strokkur erupt, feel Gullfoss’ spray and finish the day on an Icelandic horse—all in one long, satisfying loop from Reykjavík. This combo tour pairs geology and culture with practical guidance for the road.
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Adventure Tips
Dress for wind and wet
Layer a breathable base, insulating midlayer and a waterproof shell—weather shifts fast and spray from Gullfoss can soak you.
Sturdy, grippy footwear
Trails include uneven volcanic rock and muddy paths; hiking shoes with good tread are recommended.
Bring motion-friendly snacks
The tour is ~11 hours with limited stops—pack high-energy snacks and a refillable water bottle.
Listen to horse handlers
Follow the guide for mounting, dismounting and pace cues—these horses are friendly but powerful.
Recommended Gear
Waterproof outer shell
Protects against wind, rain and waterfall spray throughout the day.
Sturdy hiking shoes
Provides traction on volcanic rock, boardwalks and muddy geology fields.
Layered clothing
Thermal base and insulating midlayer help regulate temperature across sites.
Camera with weather protection
Capture fast-moving geysers and wide waterfall vistas; a wrist strap prevents loss in spray.
Frequently Asked Questions
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