Golden Circle & Secret Lagoon Tour
Geothermal wonders, cascading waterfalls, and ancient history in one unhurried day
The Golden Circle and Secret Lagoon tour brings together the most celebrated natural landmarks of southwest Iceland with the restorative warmth of one of the country's oldest geothermal pools. The itinerary is thoughtfully paced, allowing genuine time at each stop rather than a rushed overview. It is among the most well-rounded single-day experiences available from Reykjavik.
The day opens at Kerid Crater Lake, a volcanic crater filled with vivid blue-green water set against rust-red volcanic rock. From there, the route leads to the Secret Lagoon in Fludir, where naturally heated water sits at a consistent 38 to 40 degrees Celsius year-round. Guests at this tour benefit from an earlier admission window, meaning the pool is quieter and the experience more personal than on a standard visit.
After the lagoon, the tour continues through the Haukadalur valley to the Geysir geothermal area, home to the Strokkur fountain geyser, which erupts every few minutes. The route then follows on to Gullfoss waterfall and concludes at Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that sits directly on the boundary of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.
The difficulty level is rated easy, with no strenuous hiking required at any stop. All sites are reachable by short, well-maintained paths, making this tour accessible to a broad range of visitors including families and those who prefer a relaxed pace.
Tour Highlights
Soak in the Secret Lagoon with earlier-than-usual admission, enjoying the 38-40 degree mineral-rich geothermal water before the crowds arrive.
Watch Strokkur geyser erupt dramatically into the air every few minutes at the active Geysir geothermal area in Haukadalur valley.
Stand before Gullfoss, the iconic two-tiered waterfall that plunges 32 metres into a glacial canyon carved by the river Hvita.
Explore Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the location of Iceland's original parliament established in the year 930.
Begin the day at Kerid Crater Lake, a striking volcanic caldera filled with vivid water surrounded by colourful geological formations.
Walk the rift valley at Thingvellir where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates visibly meet and continue to drift apart.
Experience a full-day itinerary that covers six distinct natural and cultural sites without feeling rushed, all departing from central Reykjavik.
Itinerary
The day begins with a stop at the Kerid volcanic crater, where a vivid blue-green lake sits at the bottom of steep ochre and black volcanic walls. It is a short walk around the rim and down to the water's edge.
Guests enjoy an early admission to the Secret Lagoon, one of Iceland's oldest natural geothermal pools, surrounded by bubbling hot springs and a small active geyser. The water temperature holds at 38 to 40 degrees Celsius throughout the year, offering a genuinely restorative experience.
The Haukadalur valley is home to the Strokkur geyser, which sends a column of boiling water skyward every few minutes. The surrounding geothermal field features steaming vents, colourful mineral deposits, and interpretive information about Iceland's volcanic geology. Food is available at the on-site Glima Geysir restaurant.
Located a short drive from Geysir, Gullfoss descends in two stages into a 32-metre-deep canyon on the glacial river Hvita. Viewing platforms on both upper and lower levels provide different perspectives of the waterfall's scale and force.
The final stop is Thingvellir, a site of dual significance as both a geological landmark on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge and the historical home of Iceland's Althing parliament since 930 AD. It was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2004 for its outstanding cultural values.
What Is Included
Included
- Pick-up and drop-off from central Reykjavik accommodations and designated bus stops
- Professional tour guide throughout the day
- Visit to Kerid Crater Lake
- Early admission to the Secret Lagoon geothermal pool
- Stop at the Geysir geothermal area
- Visit to Gullfoss waterfall
- Visit to Thingvellir National Park
Not Included
- Meals and beverages (available for purchase at Geysir)
- Towel rental at the Secret Lagoon
- Swimwear (guests must bring their own)
- Personal travel insurance
- Optional gratuities for guide
Important Information
Reserve Your Spot on the Golden Circle
Spaces on this popular tour fill quickly, particularly during the peak summer season. Secure your place in advance to guarantee the early lagoon admission and a full day across Iceland's most celebrated natural sites.
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