Golden Circle and Fridheimar Greenhouse Private Tour

Exploring the Golden Circle and Friðheimar Greenhouse Private Tour

If you’re visiting Iceland and want a well-rounded, personalized look at some of its most famous sights, this private tour covering the Golden Circle and Friðheimar Greenhouse offers a compelling mix. From erupting geysers to stunning waterfalls, plus the chance to learn about Icelandic sustainable agriculture, it’s a bit of everything in a comfortably tailored package.

What really draws us in are the up-close nature experiences, the personalized guide service, and the unexpected highlight — visiting a greenhouse where tomatoes are grown year-round using geothermal energy. That said, the tour doesn’t include meals, so some planning is needed if you’re hungry after a day of exploring. This experience suits travelers seeking flexibility, depth, and authenticity over large group bus tours.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Private, customizable experience with a driver-guide for a more personal touch
• Access to iconic landmarks like Gullfoss Waterfall and Þingvellir National Park
• Educational visit to Friðheimar Greenhouse, showcasing sustainable practices
• Includes transportation and expert guidance, making logistics easier
• Cost reflects the exclusivity and tailored nature of the tour, good value for a private experience
• Note that meals are not included, so plan accordingly

A Detailed Look at the Itinerary and What You Can Expect

Starting Point: Reykjavik and the Comfort of Private Transport

The tour begins with a pick-up from your accommodation, which means no worries about coordinating with large groups or bus schedules. Your driver-guide from Reykjavik Private Tours takes care of navigation, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenery. With a total duration of about 7 hours, you’ll have plenty of time at each stop, but the schedule is flexible enough to accommodate your interests.

Þingvellir National Park: Walking Between Continents

Your journey kicks off at Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, the thrill is standing on the rift valley where the American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. Walking between these plates, you feel connected to a constantly shifting landmass that’s also steeped in history—home to the very first Icelandic parliament.

Travelers often note the peaceful, expansive landscapes and the significance of the site. One reviewer mentioned, “It’s surreal to stand on a crack in the Earth that’s slowly widening.” Expect easy walking and stunning views over the rugged terrain.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Geysir Geothermal Area: Watching Strokkur’s Eruption

Next, you’ll visit the Geysir geothermal region, home to the reliably erupting Strokkur geyser. Watching the geyser spew boiling water up to 30 meters into the air every 4 to 8 minutes is a mesmerising experience—perfect for snapping photos or just marveling at nature’s power.

Reviews highlight how engaging it is to see Strokkur erupt repeatedly. One guest said, “It’s like waiting for a fireworks show that happens every few minutes. Truly captivating.” Alongside Strokkur, the area boasts bubbling mud pots and steaming vents, adding to the geothermal atmosphere.

Gullfoss Waterfall: The ‘Golden Falls’

Continuing on, you’ll reach Gullfoss, often called the “Golden Falls.” This powerful waterfall cascades in two tiers into a deep canyon, creating one of Iceland’s most iconic sights. On a clear day, the spray creates rainbows, and the roar of the water is deafening.

Comments from visitors emphasize its breathtaking nature: “Standing at the edge, you feel the raw force of nature.” Its impressive scale and the surrounding landscape make it an ideal spot for photos and quiet reflection.

Kerið Crater: The Vibrant Blue Lake

The tour’s final natural stop is Kerið volcanic crater, famous for its striking blue lake and vibrant red slopes. Located in the Grímsnes area, this crater is a visual feast and offers a different kind of geological story—volcanic activity shaping the landscape.

Entry costs 600 ISK per person, payable at the site, and many reviewers find it worth the small fee for the chance to walk around the rim and peer into the colorful waters below. The contrast of colors here makes it a favorite for photographers.

The Highlight: Friðheimar Greenhouse

Perhaps the most unique part of this tour is the visit to Friðheimar Greenhouse. This innovative farm grows tomatoes using geothermal heat, a perfect example of sustainable farming. Here, you get to learn how geothermal energy powers their operations, reducing environmental impact.

While meals are not included, many travelers rave about tasting their homemade tomato soup—made from fresh, locally grown tomatoes—and note it’s a delicious way to experience Icelandic ingenuity. One reviewer called it “a surprisingly tasty and warming treat after a day of sightseeing.” The greenhouse itself is a charming, lush environment, a stark contrast to Iceland’s rugged exterior.

Final Thoughts on the Tour Experience

Throughout the day, your guide provides insightful commentary, blending geological facts, historical context, and fun tidbits. Many guests appreciate the personalized service; “Our guide, Sven, was fantastic—knowledgeable, flexible, and passionate about Iceland,” one reviewer shared.

The private nature of the tour allows for stopping at spots that might be crowded on larger buses, or spending more time at places that catch your eye. It’s a leisurely pace, perfect for photography or just soaking in the scenery.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Value: At $1,067 for up to three people, the cost covers a fully private, tailored experience. Considering the convenience of door-to-door service and the ability to customize your stops, many find it offers excellent value.

Authenticity: Visiting Þingvellir and Gullfoss feels genuinely immersive, not just ticking off tourist spots, but engaging with Iceland’s landscape and history. The Friðheimar Greenhouse adds a modern, sustainable twist that you won’t find on every tour.

Comfort and Convenience: With a private guide, you avoid the hassle of large groups or crowded sites, making the entire day more relaxed. Plus, pickup and drop-off at your accommodation in Reykjavik make logistics effortless.

Educational Value: The greenhouse visit provides insight into Iceland’s innovative farming methods, which combine tradition with sustainable practices—an inspiring story for eco-conscious travelers.

Considerations

While the tour offers a solid balance of sights and experiences, it’s worth noting meals are not included. Planning to eat at Friðheimar or bringing snacks could enhance your day. The admission fee to Kerið (600 ISK) is small but adds to your budget.

Plus, weather can be unpredictable, especially in Iceland, so dressing in warm, layered clothing and comfortable shoes is essential. Since the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, travelers with mobility issues should consider this.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private tour is ideal for couples, small groups, or friends wanting a personalized experience with flexible timing. If you prefer in-depth exploration, engaging guides, and access to iconic landmarks without the rush of larger tours, this is a perfect fit. It also suits travelers interested in sustainable farming and modern Icelandic innovations.

Final Verdict

In sum, this Golden Circle and Friðheimar Greenhouse private tour blends Iceland’s most breathtaking natural sights with a touch of local ingenuity. The personalized service, flexible schedule, and inclusion of the greenhouse visit make it stand out from standard group excursions.

While it’s a bit of an investment, the experience’s quality, ease of logistics, and authentic encounters offer genuine value. It’s especially suited for travelers who love nature, enjoy learning about sustainable practices, and want to avoid bus-fulls of travelers.

If you’re after a relaxing, informative day with plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to see Iceland’s wilderness and innovations up close, this tour could be just what you’re looking for.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, private transportation is included, with pickup and drop-off at your Reykjavik accommodation, making logistics simple.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, including all sightseeing and travel time, giving you a relaxed pace.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but you can enjoy their homemade tomato soup at Friðheimar Greenhouse or bring your own snacks.

Do I need to pay admission fees?
Admission to Kerið Crater costs 600 ISK per person, payable at the site. Entry to other attractions is included.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and warm clothing are recommended, as Iceland’s weather can change quickly.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is best suited for adults or those with mobility who can walk around the sites. It’s not wheelchair accessible.

Can I customize the stops?
Since this is a private tour, your guide can accommodate some flexibility, but the main stops are fixed.

Is this tour good for photography?
Absolutely. The stops like Gullfoss, Kerið, and the geyser erupting make fantastic photo opportunities.

How does the cost compare to other tours?
While $1,067 might seem high, it covers a private, tailored experience, making it an excellent value for those wanting exclusivity and comfort.

In short, this private Golden Circle and Greenhouse tour offers a well-rounded, authentic Iceland experience tailored to your pace and interests. It’s perfect for those seeking a mix of natural beauty, modern sustainability, and personal service — a true highlight for any Iceland trip.

You can check if your dates are available here: