Reykjavik: Golden Circle with Laugarvatn Fontana Admission

Taking a guided tour of Iceland’s Golden Circle is almost a rite of passage for visitors, but how do you find one that offers both comfort and authentic experiences? This particular tour, offered by Iceland Odyssey, promises a private, personalized journey through some of the country’s most famous sights, with the added luxury of including a visit to Laugarvatn Fontana for a soak in geothermal waters. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, I’ve gathered plenty of details and reviews to help paint a clear picture of what you can expect.

What really stands out about this experience are the comfortable transportation with WiFi and snacks, the all-inclusive nature—from admission fees to a gourmet tomato soup—and the personalized guidance from a professional driver and guide. The flexibility of a private group and the option for PRO photography add special touches, making this more than just a sightseeing run.

One potential consideration is the tour’s price point of $1,361 for up to three people, which might seem high; however, when factoring in the private aspect, all entrance fees, and the curated itinerary, many find it offers good value. This tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate comfort, personalized service, and the chance to tick off major sights in one immersive day.

Good To Know

• Private and Personalized: Exclusive experience with a dedicated guide and driver.
• All-Inclusive Pricing: Entrance fees, snacks, and a memorable meal are included.
• Comfortable Transport: Modern van with WiFi, bottled water, and snacks.
• Unique Experiences: Visit to a tomato farm, geothermal baths, and iconic landmarks.
• Efficient Itinerary: Covers the Golden Circle’s highlights in roughly 9 hours.
• Flexible and Hassle-Free: Hotel pickup and drop-off included, skip the lines, and flexible cancellation.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Golden Circle Tour

The Private and Comfortable Setting

One of the standout features of this tour is its private nature. Unlike big bus groups, this experience is tailored for small groups of up to three people, ensuring a more intimate, relaxed atmosphere. It’s a significant advantage for travelers who prefer personalized attention, flexibility in the schedule, and the comfort of a private vehicle. The van itself is described as comfortable, equipped with WiFi, bottled water, and snacks—a small but appreciated touch that keeps everyone refreshed during the long day of sightseeing.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour kicks off with hotel pickup in Reykjavík, which is quite convenient. From there, you’ll hop into your private van for about an hour of scenic drive before hitting your first stop: Kerid Crater. This volcanic crater is known for its vividly colored slopes and lake at the bottom, offering fantastic photo opportunities and about 30 minutes to explore.

Next, you’ll visit Fridheimar, a renowned tomato greenhouse farm. The visit lasts around 30 minutes and includes a delicious tomato soup served with fresh baguette—a highlight for many travelers who appreciate sampling Icelandic farm-to-table produce in a cozy setting. Reviewers often mention how the soup is hearty and flavorful, making it a perfect warming break.

The famous Geysir geothermal area follows. Expect about 45 minutes to walk around and view the erupting Strokkur geyser, which spouts every few minutes, along with other geothermal features. Many find this a fascinating glimpse into Iceland’s volcanic activity. Reviewers highlight the clarity of the water and the impressive eruptions, which are quite photogenic.

Gullfoss waterfall is next, with a 45-minute stop to marvel at the powerful two-tiered cascade. The view of the golden-hued water tumbling over the rocks is breathtaking, especially from the designated viewing platforms. Visitors often comment on how awe-inspiring and raw the natural power feels up close.

Afterward, a visit to Thingvellir National Park offers a chance to walk between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. This UNESCO World Heritage site is not just scenic but meaningful, as it’s also historically significant as the site of Iceland’s parliament’s origins. Expect about 45 minutes here to take in the views and learn a little about the country’s past.

The final highlight before relaxing at Laugarvatn is a stop at Kerid volcano crater—a stunning, vividly colored caldera that’s perfect for photos and quick exploration.

The Ultimate Relaxation: Laugarvatn Fontana

The tour’s pièce de résistance is the two-hour soak at Laugarvatn Fontana. This geothermal spa offers natural hot pools, steam baths, and a peaceful environment to unwind after a day of sightseeing. The reviews emphasize how relaxing and rejuvenating it is, especially after a busy day of walking and exploring. Many travelers enjoy the opportunity to unwind in warm waters with scenic views of the surrounding landscape, making it a fitting end to the tour.

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Why This Tour Stands Out

This experience offers an excellent blend of natural wonders, cultural insights, and relaxation. The inclusion of a professional photographer for optional photos is a nice touch, especially for those wanting high-quality memories without the hassle of capturing selfies in the wind. The local guide is often praised for being knowledgeable and friendly, adding depth and context to each stop.

Transportation and Duration

The 9-hour duration is quite efficient considering the number of attractions covered. The timing is balanced to avoid rushing through sites while still allowing enough time to enjoy each stop. The small group size and private transport reduce the typical bus fatigue, making the day more enjoyable.

Price and Value

At $1,361 for a group of up to three, this tour does lean towards the premium side. However, the all-inclusive nature makes it easier to manage costs and ensures no surprises—admission fees, snacks, and a gourmet meal are covered. For travelers seeking a personalized, hassle-free experience with flexible pickup and drop-off, many feel this offers good value.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for couples, small groups, or solo travelers who prioritize comfort, personalized service, and a relaxed pace. It’s perfect if you want to see all the highlights without the rush and enjoy some downtime in geothermal pools afterward. If you prefer big-group tours with more speed and less customization, this might not be the best fit.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup when you make your booking. You should leave your hotel information and arrive in the lobby about 10 minutes before your scheduled pickup.

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 9 hours, from pickup to return, including transportation, sightseeing, and relaxation.

What’s included in the price?
All entrance fees to Laugarvatn Fontana, Kerid crater, and Thingvellir National Park are included, as well as a tomato soup with baguette, bottled water, snacks, and WiFi on the vehicle.

Are there any additional activities?
The tour primarily covers the main Golden Circle sights and the geothermal bath. Other activities are not included and would need to be booked separately.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, this is a private experience designed for groups up to three people, providing a more intimate and flexible itinerary.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind to flexible travelers.

How experienced is the guide?
The guide is described as professional and licensed, offering insightful commentary on each site.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially for sites like Kerid and Thingvellir. Since the geothermal baths can be warm, bring a swimsuit and towel if you plan to swim.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the itinerary’s nature suggests it could be suitable for older children or teenagers who enjoy outdoor exploration and geothermal pools.

Final Thoughts

This Reykjavik Golden Circle tour combines the best of Iceland’s iconic sights with the comfort of private, tailored service. It’s designed for those who want a hassle-free way to experience the country’s natural beauty, cultural sites, and relaxing geothermal waters in one day.

The inclusion of all entrance fees, gourmet meal, and professional photography adds a level of convenience that many travelers cherish. The small group size and flexible pickup make it ideal for couples or small families looking for a more personal experience.

While the price may seem high for some, the overall value comes from the comfort, curated stops, and memorable moments. If you prefer a leisurely pace, quality service, and genuine relaxation, this tour deserves serious consideration.

To sum it up, this experience is best for travelers who prioritize comfort, personalized attention, and a comprehensive, stress-free way to see Iceland’s Golden Circle. It’s a perfect choice whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to make the most of your limited time in the country. If you’re looking for a blend of adventure, culture, and wellness, this tour hits all the right notes.

You can check if your dates are available here: