Private Golden Circle Tour from Skarfabakki Cruise Terminal

Discover the Icelandic Wonder: Private Golden Circle Tour from Skarfabakki Cruise Terminal

Planning a visit to Iceland and eager to see its most iconic sights? This Private Golden Circle Tour from the Skarfabakki Cruise Terminal offers an intimate and tailored experience of Iceland’s natural marvels. With a dedicated guide and flexible schedule, this tour makes it easy to enjoy the country’s highlights without feeling rushed or lost in crowds.

What we love about this experience: the comfort of private transportation, the chance to customize your stops, and the local insights from a knowledgeable guide. Plus, the stops are genuinely spectacular and well-paced, giving you ample time at each site. One consideration might be the price — at over $1,300 for up to four people, it’s an investment, but well worth it if you value exclusivity and personalized service.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a hassle-free, in-depth look at Iceland’s top attractions while enjoying the comfort and flexibility of a private guide. If you’re traveling with family, friends, or in a small group and prefer a tailored experience, this could be your ideal Iceland day trip.

Good To Know

• Exclusive and Private: Only your group participates, ensuring a personalized experience.
• Flexible Itinerary: You can adjust your pace and focus on what interests you most.
• Comprehensive Sightseeing: Includes Þingvellir, Geysir, Gullfoss, and Kerid Crater — Iceland’s most famous sights.
• Expert Guide: Knowledgeable driver and guide share insights, stories, and local tips.
• All-Inclusive: Entrance fees, taxes, and private transport are covered; food and drinks are on you.
• Ideal for Cruise Passengers: Convenient pickup and drop-off directly from the cruise terminal.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point: Skarfabakki Cruise Terminal

From the moment your tour begins at Skarfabakki, you’ll appreciate how seamlessly this experience is designed for cruise travelers. No need to worry about navigating Reykjavik or finding your way—your private vehicle awaits, ready to whisk you off to iconic Icelandic sights.

Þingvellir National Park

Our first stop, Þingvellir, is more than just a pretty landscape. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the birthplace of Iceland’s parliament. Walking through the rift valley where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet is fascinating—it’s as if you’re walking between two worlds.

The site offers plenty of space for photos, and you can take your time exploring the rugged terrain. The guide shared stories about the historical significance of the area, which adds depth to the visit. Expect about an hour here, which gives enough time for a relaxed stroll and some photo ops.

Geysir Geothermal Area

Next, you’ll head to Geysir, where Iceland’s geothermal activity is on full display. The geyser Strokkur erupts every few minutes, shooting boiling water up to 30 meters in the air. Watching this natural spectacle is mesmerizing, and it’s a highlight that often leaves visitors in awe.

While the area is free to explore, it’s also a chance to see bubbling mud pools, steaming vents, and the vibrant colors of mineral deposits. The guide explained the science behind the eruptions, making the experience both exciting and educational.

Gullfoss Waterfall

Then, it’s time for the Gullfoss, or Golden Falls. This powerful two-tiered waterfall offers dramatic views and plenty of opportunities to snap breathtaking photos. On sunny days, the mist often creates rainbows, adding to the fairy-tale quality of the scene.

You’ll get about an hour here, which is enough time to appreciate the force of the falls, take some close-up shots, and enjoy the surrounding trails. The guide shared insights into its formation and significance, enriching your visit.

Kerid Crater

The final stop is the Kerid Crater, a volcanic crater with striking red rocks and a vivid blue-green lake at its base. Walking around the rim provides panoramic views and excellent photo opportunities. The vivid colors make this a standout feature of the tour.

You’ll spend around 30 minutes here, taking in the scenery and learning about the volcanic activity that created the crater. The guide might share details about Iceland’s volcanic history, making this stop both beautiful and informative.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Comfort and Convenience: The private vehicle is spotless, comfortable, and well-maintained. You won’t be stuck in a large coach or rushing from site to site. Instead, you control the pace, linger longer if you wish, and ask your guide questions.

Expert Guidance: The guide, such as “Didzis,” is praised for going above and beyond—maximizing time, catering to requests, and sharing engaging stories. As one reviewer mentioned, “He was charming and maximized our time at both travel and sites.”

Flexible Schedule & Time: Unlike bus tours that stick rigidly to a timetable, this private experience allows for adjustments. Need more time at Gullfoss or want to skip certain stops? Just ask.

Inclusion of Entrance Fees: The tour includes all tickets to the attractions, removing surprise expenses and making budgeting easier.

Additional Value: The tour offers a relaxed, intimate experience suitable for those who want to avoid crowded group tours. It’s particularly appealing if you value personalized attention and in-depth insights.

The Price and Its Value

At $1,340.43 per group (up to 4 people), this tour might seem costly at first glance. However, considering private transportation, all included entrance fees, and a dedicated guide, it offers excellent value for a personalized day in Iceland. For travelers seeking a tailored, hassle-free experience with the flexibility to focus on what interests them most, this expense is often justified.

Why is it worth it?

• The convenience of pickup and drop-off directly at the cruise terminal saves precious time and effort.
• The intimacy of a private group means you’re not just another tourist; your guide can cater to your interests.
• The ability to customize stops or spend more time at certain sites makes this experience more meaningful.
• The included tickets eliminate extra costs, which are often hidden in group tours.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private tour suits travelers who:

• Desire an exclusive, customized experience rather than a large bus trip.
• Appreciate local insights and want to learn more about each site’s significance.
• Are traveling in a small group or with family and want a comfortable, flexible day.
• Have limited time during a cruise stop and want to maximize their sightseeing.
• Are looking for a stress-free, well-organized day with knowledgeable guides.

It’s especially ideal if you value comfort, flexibility, and personalized service over cost savings.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour takes approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes, including travel time between sites.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Skarfabakki cruise terminal in Reykjavik and concludes there or at a designated Reykjavik location.

Is transportation included?
Yes, your private, neat and clean vehicle is part of the package, ensuring comfort and reliability.

Are entrance fees covered?
All tickets for Þingvellir, Geysir, Gullfoss, and Kerid Crater are included, so there are no hidden costs.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour is flexible. You can adjust the pace and focus on sites that interest you most.

Is food included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, but there is time allocated for you to enjoy food or snacks during the day.

What if the weather is poor?
The experience requires good weather. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but check for mobility restrictions if any. The guide is experienced and can assist with accessibility questions.

The Sum Up

This Private Golden Circle Tour from Skarfabakki effectively combines the convenience of private transportation with the richness of Iceland’s most celebrated sites. It’s a perfect choice for travelers who value personalized service, insightful commentary, and the ability to explore at their own pace. The stops are thoughtfully chosen, offering a mix of geological wonder, historical significance, and stunning scenery—each one providing a memorable moment.

Whether you’re visiting Iceland for the first time or looking to deepen your understanding of its natural beauty, this tour delivers a well-rounded experience. The guide’s engaging storytelling and flexible approach make it stand out from typical group excursions, giving you more space and attention to enjoy your day.

For those seeking comfort, customization, and expert insights during their Iceland adventure, this private Golden Circle tour is a solid investment. It’s especially ideal if you’re traveling with a small group and want a tailored, hassle-free way to see Iceland’s most iconic sights in one day.

Remember: While the price might seem high, the value lies in the ease, comfort, and personalized experience you get — which can turn a standard sightseeing day into a truly unforgettable journey across Iceland’s geological and cultural treasures.