Reykjavik: Golden Circle & Northern Lights Tour

Reflecting on the experience of the Golden Circle combined with a Northern Lights chase, this tour offers a thoughtful way to see some of Iceland’s most famous natural wonders while also giving you the chance to catch the elusive Aurora Borealis. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the detailed itinerary and reviews paint a clear picture of what travelers can expect: a seamless, comfortable, and adventure-filled day, perfect for those eager to maximize their Iceland visit without feeling rushed.

What I love about this tour is how it packs in six major attractions into just one day—saving you time and energy while still offering plenty of photo-worthy moments. Plus, the small group size and comfortable van make it feel personal and flexible. The inclusion of WiFi, snacks, and hot drinks onboard adds a cozy touch that counters Iceland’s often chilly weather. The only thing to keep in mind is that the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, so sightings depend on weather and solar activity, which means some nights might be more spectacular than others. This tour is ideal for travelers who want a hassle-free, well-organized way to see Iceland’s highlights and experience the thrill of hunting for the Aurora.

Good To Know

• All-in-one experience combining the Golden Circle with a Northern Lights chase
• Small group size (up to 7 participants) for a more personal feel
• Comfortable transportation with WiFi, hot drinks, and snacks included
• Clear, efficient itinerary minimizes travel time and maximizes sightseeing
• Includes admission fees to key attractions, no hidden costs
• Flexible cancellation and booking options for peace of mind

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Deep Dive Into What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The Comfort of Small Group Travel

Traveling in a small, intimate van with up to seven people means you’ll get a more relaxed experience and more personalized attention from your guide. This setup allows for spontaneous stops or extra photo moments without the hustle of larger tour buses. Reviewers frequently mention the friendly guides, like the driver/guide who is both professional and engaging, making the long day feel more like a fun adventure than a rigid schedule.

The Itinerary: A Well-Structured Day of Exploration

The tour kicks off with hotel pickup in Reykjavík, removing the stress of logistics. After a quick 40-minute drive, you’ll arrive at Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. Expect about 40 minutes here to take in the dramatic landscapes and learn about its historical significance.

Next, the visit to Kerid Crater offers a more colorful, volcanic contrast. With around 40 minutes at the crater, travelers enjoy walking along the rim and marveling at the striking red volcanic rock and bright blue lake—demonstrating Iceland’s volcanic character in vivid hues.

The stop at Fridheimar Tomato Farm is both practical and charming. Here, you’ll get a 45-minute break to tour the greenhouse and learn about Icelandic tomato cultivation, with time to enjoy fresh tomato-based snacks or drinks. Reviewers love this unexpected gem, saying it “adds a unique, cozy vibe to the tour” and offers a delicious taste of local farming.

Afterward, the famous Geysir geothermal area becomes your next highlight. Expect about 45 minutes to watch the erupting geysir and explore the bubbling geothermal fields, with many visitors describing the sight as “spectacular” and “surreal.”

The final major stop before returning to Reykjavík is Gullfoss waterfall, where the sheer power and mist of this two-tiered cascade often leave travelers awe-struck. Be prepared for about 45 minutes here to snap photos and feel the spray.

The journey continues with an 80-minute drive back, giving you time to relax, reflect, and maybe even review your photos with onboard WiFi and hot drinks in hand.

The Northern Lights Experience: A Natural Wonder

After the daytime exploration, the tour transitions into a Northern Lights hunt. The guide does their best to find clear skies, and reviews indicate that while aurora sightings depend on weather and solar activity, most nights do see some display—whether visible to the naked eye or captured beautifully on camera. Travelers appreciate the flexibility and patience the guides show, emphasizing how the experience is as much about enjoying the night sky as it is about the actual sighting.

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Value for the Price

At $221 per person, this tour offers remarkable value considering it combines transportation, guided commentary, all entrance fees, and the chance to see the Aurora. Food isn’t included, but the onboard snacks and drinks help keep you energized. Many reviewers note that the cost compares favorably with booking separate excursions, especially since the tour handles all logistics.

Practical Considerations

The 10-hour duration means you’ll need comfortable clothing and a flexible attitude—weather can be unpredictable, and aurora sightings are never guaranteed. The tour’s timing and success depend heavily on atmospheric conditions, so patience is key. The pickup service in Reykjavík adds convenience, and the small group size ensures a more personalized experience.

The Experience Through Others’ Eyes

According to reviews, travelers loved how the tour balanced sightseeing with comfort. One mentioned, “It’s exhausting but so worth it for the views and the chance to see the Northern Lights.” Others appreciated the local guides’ knowledge and friendly demeanor, which made long drives enjoyable.

What to Expect at Each Stop

Thingvellir National Park

Expect stunning vistas of rift valleys and historical landmarks. The 40-minute stop allows you to walk along the park’s trails, take photos of the tectonic plates, and appreciate the significance of this UNESCO site.

Kerid Crater

This vibrant volcanic crater is a photographer’s dream. The 40-minute visit offers enough time to walk around and absorb its fiery reds contrasted against a bright blue lake, making it one of the more colorful sites on the Golden Circle.

Fridheimar Tomato Farm

A highlight for many foodies, this greenhouse operates year-round using Icelandic geothermal energy. The 45-minute visit includes a chance to sample fresh tomato products and learn about sustainable farming in harsh climates.

Geysir Geothermal Area

Watch Strokkur erupt every 5-10 minutes, shooting boiling water high into the air. The 45-minute stop offers ample time to explore the geothermal features and capture some spectacular photos.

Gullfoss Waterfall

Known as “the Golden Waterfall,” it’s a powerful sight to witness. The 45-minute break allows you to get close to the falls, feel the spray, and snap unforgettable images.

Northern Lights Chase

After sunset, the guide seeks clear skies for a chance to see the Aurora. While sightings depend on conditions, many guests find the experience magical, especially if the lights dance overhead or illuminate the night sky.

Final Thoughts

This tour’s blend of nature, comfort, and convenience makes it an excellent choice for travelers who want to see Iceland’s renowned sights without the hassle of planning or navigating on their own. The small group setting ensures a more personal experience, and the inclusion of all major attractions means you’ll leave with a solid understanding of the Golden Circle’s highlights.

The Northern Lights component adds a touch of magic, though patience is key, as nature can’t be controlled. This tour offers flexible, value-packed adventure that’s perfect for first-timers or anyone eager to experience iconic Icelandic landscapes in one day.

If you’re after a well-organized, comfortable, and comprehensive day out that combines classic sights with the thrill of chasing the Aurora, this tour is worth considering. It’s especially suitable for travelers who appreciate small groups and hassle-free logistics.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The cost covers round-trip transportation, a professional guide, WiFi, bottled water, snacks, hot tea, and admission fees to all the major attractions listed in the itinerary.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, the tour offers free pickup and drop-off at your accommodation in Reykjavík. You’ll need to provide your address in advance.

How long is the entire trip?
The total duration is approximately 10 hours, including sightseeing stops, transportation, and the Northern Lights chase.

What should I bring?
Bring warm clothes since Iceland’s weather can be chilly, especially at night. Layering is recommended, along with a camera and perhaps a tripod for Aurora photography.

Is the Northern Lights guaranteed?
No, the Aurora depends on weather conditions and solar activity. Guides will assess the forecast and do their best to find suitable viewing conditions, but sightings are not guaranteed.

Are the attractions included in the price?
Yes, all entrance fees to sites like Thingvellir, Kerid Crater, Geysir, and Gullfoss are included.

What size are the groups?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 7 participants, making it more intimate than larger bus tours.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure.

Will I have WiFi during the trip?
Yes, WiFi is available on board, so you can share your photos or check your messages during the drive.

When should I book this tour?
Since the Northern Lights are weather-dependent, it’s best to reserve early, especially in peak aurora season, to secure your spot.

This Golden Circle & Northern Lights tour combines Iceland’s most celebrated sights with the thrill of chasing the night sky. It’s a smart, comfortable way to see the country’s highlights and maybe even experience the Northern Lights in a relaxed, personalized setting.

You can check if your dates are available here: