Golden Circle and Northern Lights Tour
Departing from Reykjavik, the route takes travellers through Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates visibly diverge and where Iceland's first parliament was established over a thousand years ago.
The journey continues to the Geysir geothermal area, where the Strokkur geyser erupts every few minutes, before reaching Gullfoss, a two-tiered waterfall that channels the Hvita River into a rugged canyon. A stop at Kerid volcanic crater adds geological variety to the day.
As night falls, the group heads to darker terrain away from city light pollution in search of the northern lights. Clear skies and solar activity determine visibility, but the extended duration of this tour maximises the opportunity for a sighting.
Tour Highlights
Walk the rift valley of Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with deep historical and geological significance.
Watch Strokkur erupt at the Geysir geothermal area, one of Iceland's most active and photogenic natural phenomena.
Stand at the edge of Gullfoss, the Golden Waterfall, and feel the force of glacial meltwater plunging into a canyon.
Explore Kerid, a 3,000-year-old volcanic crater lake that adds a striking splash of colour to the itinerary.
Venture out after dark in search of the northern lights, with the tour extending into the evening for the best aurora opportunity.
Cover the complete Golden Circle loop with additional stops, offering more variety than a standard sightseeing run.
Itinerary
The tour departs from central Reykjavik, heading east toward the Golden Circle route. The drive itself offers views of Iceland's lava fields and open terrain.
The first stop is Thingvellir, where visitors can walk along the Almannagjá rift and learn about the site's dual identity as a tectonic boundary and the birthplace of Icelandic democracy.
At the Haukadalur valley, the Strokkur geyser puts on a regular show, erupting to heights of 15 to 30 metres. The surrounding area features bubbling mud pools and steaming vents.
Gullfoss descends in two cascades before disappearing into a narrow canyon, creating a dramatic and powerful scene. Viewing platforms allow safe and close observation.
This extra stop features a red and black volcanic caldera with a vivid turquoise lake at its base. A path circles the rim and leads down to the water's edge.
After dark, the guide drives to locations with minimal light pollution to maximise the chance of seeing the aurora borealis. The group returns to Reykjavik once the search concludes.
What Is Included
Included
- Return transport from Reykjavik by coach
- Professional guide throughout the tour
- Entry to Kerid volcanic crater
- Evening northern lights excursion
- Stops at Thingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss
Not Included
- Food and beverages
- Personal travel insurance
- Gratuities for the guide
- Thingvellir National Park parking fee if applicable
Important Information
Reserve Your Spot
Secure your place on the Golden Circle and Northern Lights Tour and experience Iceland's most celebrated natural landmarks, from tectonic rifts to dancing auroras, in a single unforgettable day.
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