One-Day Private Kerlingarfjoll tour: Geothermal hidden gem

Planning a trip to Iceland often means balancing the iconic sights like the Golden Circle and Blue Lagoon with lesser-known gems. The One-Day Private Kerlingarfjöll Tour offers a unique chance to explore one of Iceland’s most captivating geothermal areas away from the crowds. With a focus on personalized experience, scenic beauty, and authentic landscapes, this tour promises a memorable journey through Iceland’s rugged highlands.

What we love about this experience is the personalized guidance, the stunning scenery, and the opportunity for flexible hiking tailored to your pace. Plus, the chance to relax in a natural hot spring at the end makes it all the more appealing. The only consideration might be the price point, which is on the higher side, but it reflects the private, bespoke nature of the trip.

This tour is perfect for travelers who value customized experiences, are comfortable walking or hiking, and want to see Iceland’s geothermal side without sacrificing comfort or flexibility. It’s especially suited for those craving a private adventure that combines natural beauty with authentic Icelandic wilderness.

Good To Know

• Private, Guided Experience: Personalized attention from a professional guide ensures a tailored hike and local insights.
• Scenic Highland Drive: The route takes you through remote landscapes, with stories about Iceland’s geology and folklore.
• Geothermal Marvels: Explore colorful rhyolite mountains, bubbling hot springs, and steaming fumaroles.
• Flexible Hiking Options: The guided walk can be adjusted to your fitness level and interest, from relaxed walks to challenging treks.
• Optional Hot Spring Stop: Unwind in a natural hot spring surrounded by untouched wilderness.
• All-Inclusive in Price: Includes transportation, parking fees, and guide services—food and hot springs are extra.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Kerlingarfjöll Experience

The Journey Begins: Scenic Drive Through Iceland’s Highlands

The tour kicks off with a comfortable pickup in Reykjavik, where you’ll hop into a private vehicle with your expert guide from Red Planet Adventure. The drive through Iceland’s highlands is part of the adventure—think sweeping views of glacial rivers, ancient lava fields, and rugged volcanic terrain. Travelers who enjoy scenic drives will appreciate the opportunity to learn about the region’s geology, history, and folklore from your guide, who adds color and context to the journey.

“We loved the way our guide shared stories about Iceland’s volcanic past as we crossed the highlands,” one reviewer noted. This part of the tour is crucial because it sets the scene for the geothermal wonderland awaiting at Kerlingarfjöll. Plus, the stops at Geysir and Gullfoss waterfall add iconic Icelandic sights to the itinerary, making the day feel well-rounded and packed with variety.

Geysir and Gullfoss: Classic Icelandic Stops

Before reaching Kerlingarfjöll, the tour includes visits to two famous sites: Geysir and Gullfoss Waterfall. Each stop lasts about 30 minutes, giving enough time for photos, quick walks, and soaking in the natural beauty. The Geysir area is lively with erupting hot springs, while Gullfoss offers thunderous cascades that are hard to beat.

Many travelers appreciate these stops as they give a taste of Iceland’s geothermal activity and dramatic waterfalls, creating a contrast to the highland landscape. One reviewer mentioned, “The stops at Geysir and Gullfoss helped us understand Iceland’s volcanic activity in a more tangible way.” These are perfect for those who want classic sights woven into their adventure.

Exploring Kerlingarfjöll: The Geothermal Playground

Arriving at Kerlingarfjöll, the real magic begins. Surrounded by vibrant rhyolite mountains, steaming fumaroles, bubbling hot springs, and snow-capped peaks, this area is a geothermal playground. Your guide will lead a guided hike, which can last around an hour but is flexible based on your interests and fitness level.

What makes Kerlingarfjöll so special? The landscape is alive with color—reds, yellows, and oranges—created by mineral deposits and geothermal activity. You’ll walk among bubbling pools, hear the steam rise from vents, and see the rugged peaks, offering a perspective on Iceland’s volcanic forces that few get to experience.

According to some reviews, “Our guide was fantastic, tailoring the walk to our pace and making sure we saw all the geothermal features up close.” Whether you’re up for a challenging trek or prefer a leisurely walk, the guide’s flexibility ensures an experience suited to your energy level.

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The Optional Hot Spring: A Perfect Wind-Down

After exploring the geothermal landscape, many travelers opt to visit a nearby natural hot spring. The gentle warmth of the spring is an excellent way to relax sore muscles while soaking in the untouched wilderness. Though this stop is optional and not included in the base price, it’s highly recommended by those who want a moment of peace amid Iceland’s raw beauty.

“The hot spring was the perfect way to end the day,” one reviewer shared, noting how calming it was to soak in warm waters with only the sounds of nature around.

Practicalities: What’s Included, What’s Not

The price of $1,918 for a group of up to four reflects the private, bespoke nature of the tour. This covers transportation, a professional guide, parking fees, and the flexibility to customize the itinerary. Keep in mind that food and the hot spring visit are extra, so packing snacks or planning ahead is wise.

The tour lasts around 10 hours, with a starting time you can check based on availability. The private group setting means you’ll avoid the crowds common on larger tours, making your experience more intimate and relaxed.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This adventure is best suited for travelers with a moderate fitness level who value personalized guides and flexible schedules. Since hiking involves climbing and descending steps, it’s not ideal for those with mobility issues, back problems, or very low fitness. Children under 11 might find the terrain challenging, so it’s more suited for older kids or adults.

The exclusivity and tailored approach make it a fantastic choice for couples, small groups, or anyone seeking an authentic, less commercial side of Iceland. If you’re after a scenic, peaceful, and educational day exploring geothermal wonders, this tour hits the mark.

Final Thoughts: Is it Worth It?

For travelers who want a private, flexible, and immersive experience of Iceland’s geothermal highlands, this tour offers excellent value. It combines iconic sights like Geysir and Gullfoss with the lesser-visited but spectacular Kerlingarfjöll region, giving you a well-rounded adventure.

The guided hikes and optional hot spring soak provide opportunities to connect deeply with the landscape while enjoying personalized attention. While the price might seem steep, it’s justified by the private guide, flexible itinerary, and exclusive access to areas few travelers see.

If your goal is to explore Iceland’s wild, volcanic heart with comfort and authenticity, this tour is a top contender.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 11 years due to the physical nature of the hike and terrain.

Can I customize the hike?
Yes, your guide will tailor the hike to your pace and interests, whether you prefer a relaxed walk or more challenging trek.

What’s included in the price?
The tour price covers private transportation, a professional guide, all parking fees, and a personalized itinerary. Food and hot spring visits are extra.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 10 hours, with flexible start times based on availability.

Is it suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, the tour involves climbing and descending steps, making it unsuitable for those with mobility impairments or low fitness levels.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring with me?
Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, snacks, and camera gear are recommended.

Is the tour available year-round?
Check availability as the tour runs depending on weather and seasonal conditions.

To sum it up, the One-Day Private Kerlingarfjöll Tour invites you to experience Iceland’s geothermal beauty in an intimate and flexible setting. It’s ideal for those who want to see the highlands without the rush of group tours, appreciate storytelling and local insights, and enjoy authentic natural hot springs. For a memorable, personal adventure into Iceland’s volcanic heart, this tour checks many boxes.

You can check if your dates are available here: