Private Combo Tour from REY: Golden Circle and South Coast

Exploring Iceland in a single day might seem ambitious, but this Private Combo Tour from Reykjavík makes it possible. Combining the famed Golden Circle with the stunning South Coast, this experience offers a nose-to-tail view of Iceland’s most iconic sights, all in the comfort of a private vehicle with a dedicated guide.

What we really love about this tour: the flexibility of a private experience, the chance to visit everything at a relaxed pace, and the opportunity to see Iceland’s diverse landscapes—from waterfalls and glaciers to geysers and black sand beaches. The only catch? With so much packed into one day, it’s a long trip, so good walking shoes are a must. This tour is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, personalized Iceland adventure without sacrificing comfort or intimacy.

Good To Know

• Private experience means tailored pacing and fewer crowds.
• All-inclusive fee covers taxes, fees, and hotel pickup/drop-off.
• Expert local guide ensures insightful commentary and interaction.
• Diverse landscapes from waterfalls to glaciers provide excellent photo ops.
• Flexible timing allows for a more relaxed, customized day.
• Ideal for families and photography lovers seeking a comprehensive Icelandic experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Starting Point: Reykjavík Pickup

The tour begins with hotel pickup in Reykjavík, a great convenience that saves you from navigating busy city streets early in the morning. The private vehicle is comfortable and well-suited to Iceland’s often bumpy roads, ensuring a smooth ride across diverse terrains.

Hveragerði and Selfoss: Passing Through Charming Towns

While these towns are mainly driven past, their inclusion offers a glimpse of Icelandic daily life and the countryside’s gentle charm. It’s a good chance to get your first taste of Iceland’s landscape change from urban to rural.

Seljalandsfoss: A Waterfall to Remember

Your first major stop is Seljalandsfoss, one of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls. What makes Seljalandsfoss special isn’t just its height, but the ability to walk behind the water curtain—an experience that’s truly unforgettable. Expect to get a little mist on your face, so bring waterproof gear if you want to stay dry. Reviewers highlight that “the path behind the waterfall offers a unique perspective and fantastic photo opportunities,” emphasizing how this stop sets a magical tone for the day.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Dyrhólaey & Reynisfjara Beach: Black Sand and Basalt Columns

Next, you’ll visit Dyrhólaey, a striking arch-shaped rock formation offering panoramic views of the South Coast. It’s also a good spot for birdwatching, especially puffins in season. Just a short drive away is Reynisfjara, Iceland’s world-famous black sand beach. The towering hexagonal basalt columns and the Reynisdrangar sea stacks provide dramatic scenery—perfect backdrops for memorable photos. One reviewer describes Reynisfjara as “a landscape straight out of a postcard,” noting the powerful Atlantic waves crashing against the shore, which is both awe-inspiring and a reminder of Iceland’s raw power.

Sólheimajökull Glacier: Close Encounters with Ice

The tour takes a turn towards Sólheimajökull, where you’ll get a closer look at an active glacier. While some might opt for a glacier hike (not included), the stops here allow viewers to appreciate the scale and beauty of Iceland’s ice landscapes. Guests mention how “standing near the glacier front gives you a sense of the wilderness and durability of this icy giant,” making it a highlight for nature lovers.

Skógafoss: Power in Motion

The iconic Skógafoss waterfall is next, renowned for its impressive cascade and the rainbow often visible in its mist. Visitors can climb the staircase for a bird’s-eye view or enjoy the thunderous roar from below. Many say that Skógafoss “feels like standing beneath a giant’s waterfall,” and the chance to get close to the water makes it one of the most visceral stops on the tour.

Golden Circle Highlights: Geysir, Gullfoss, and Þingvellir

In the afternoon, the tour shifts gears to the Golden Circle. First up is Geysir, home to Strokkur, which erupts every few minutes, sending water jets high into the air—an exhilarating sight. Next, Gullfoss offers a double cascade of powerful water plunging into a deep canyon, providing stunning photo opportunities and a sense of Iceland’s geothermal strength.

Finally, Þingvellir National Park stands as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Walking between the tectonic plates of North America and Eurasia, you’ll appreciate the geological significance and the history of Iceland’s first parliament. Reviewers appreciate this stop for its combination of natural beauty and cultural importance, with one saying, “It’s surreal to stand at the edge of a rift that’s slowly growing apart.”

Ending the Day: Return to Reykjavík

The tour concludes with a return trip to Reykjavík, with plenty of time to debrief, share photos, or plan the rest of your trip. The private nature of the tour ensures you’re not rushed, making for a relaxed end to a full day.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

For the price of $1,535 per group, you get a highly personalized, private experience that covers nearly every major landscape Iceland has to offer in a single day. This includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking guide, and all taxes and fees. Compared to group tours, you gain the flexibility to spend more time at each stop and tailor the experience to your interests, especially if you’re keen on photography or want a more leisurely pace.

Transportation & Comfort

The tour uses a private vehicle, which is a significant upgrade over large group buses, providing a quieter, more comfortable ride. The driver-guide, often praised for their knowledge and friendly attitude, enriches your understanding of Iceland’s geology, culture, and history. As one traveler noted, “Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable, sharing stories I hadn’t read in books.”

Timing & Duration

This 14-hour journey is long but well-structured. It starts early enough to maximize sightseeing without feeling rushed, and the flexible timing allows you to linger at spots that captivate you most. The long daylight hours during Iceland’s summer months make this feasible, but it’s a full day, so prepare accordingly.

Authentic Experience & Personal Touch

Since the tour is private, you’ll avoid the crowds common on larger buses. Many reviewers find that this enhances their connection with the landscape and allows for spontaneous stops or photo breaks. The guides’ local insights, along with their tips on the best viewpoints or photo angles, elevate the experience beyond standard tours.

The Balance of Highlights and Practical Details

The Stops: A Mix of Iconic and Intimate

Each stop on this tour offers something unique. Seljalandsfoss’s behind-the-water view sparks awe, while Reynisfjara’s powerful waves remind you of Iceland’s untamed beauty. The glacier and waterfalls provide a visceral connection to the landscape, and the Golden Circle’s geothermal wonders showcase Iceland’s volcanic energy.

Flexibility & Personalization

One of the tour’s biggest advantages is its flexibility. If a particular spot captivates you or the weather shifts, the guide can adapt the schedule—something that’s harder to achieve on large group tours. This personal approach makes the experience more meaningful and comfortable.

Limitations & Considerations

Given the packed itinerary, it’s a long day—expect to be on the move for most of it. Some travelers note that more extensive glacier activities or additional optional experiences are not included, so if you’re seeking a hands-on glacier hike or snowmobiling, you’ll need to book those separately.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This private combo tour is perfect for those who want an all-encompassing, flexible, and intimate Iceland experience without the hassle of large group tours. It suits families, couples, and photography enthusiasts eager to capture Iceland’s diverse scenery with minimal crowds. Travelers who appreciate expert guides with local knowledge will find this especially rewarding.

The Sum Up

This Private Golden Circle and South Coast tour offers a compelling way to see Iceland’s most iconic sights in one day, with the comfort and flexibility of a private experience. It’s a fantastic option for those looking to maximize their sightseeing without feeling rushed, all while enjoying personalized attention from knowledgeable guides.

The combination of powerful waterfalls, dramatic beaches, glaciers, and geothermal wonders makes it a well-rounded introduction to Iceland’s “fire and ice” landscape. The value lies not only in the sights but in the relaxed, tailored approach that lets you take your time and truly absorb the scenery.

While it’s a full-day commitment, the experience’s depth and quality make it worthwhile. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler wanting a curated day, this tour captures the essence of Iceland in one memorable trip.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
Yes, the tour is great for families, as it offers a private, flexible schedule and stops at iconic, photogenic sites that kids and adults alike will enjoy.

Can I customize the stops or timing?
Since it’s a private tour, your guide can adapt the schedule to some extent, allowing for more time at your favorite sites or to skip less interesting stops.

What should I bring for the glacier stop?
While the tour doesn’t include glacier hiking, bringing waterproof clothing and sturdy shoes is advisable to stay comfortable when viewing the glacier.

How long is the total driving time?
The entire day involves quite a bit of driving—roughly 14 hours—so be prepared for a long day on the road with plenty of stunning scenery.

Are meals included?
No, meals and snacks are not included. You’ll want to bring a packed lunch or plan to purchase food at stops along the way.

What language is the guide speaking?
The guide speaks English, providing informative commentary and answering questions throughout the day.

This tour offers a thorough, personal exploration of Iceland’s stunning landscapes, combining well-known highlights with the comforts of a private experience. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want a comprehensive, flexible, and memorable Iceland adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: