Small Group tour from Reykjavik: Golden Circle with 7 Stops

Discover Iceland’s Golden Circle in Comfort and Style

If you’re planning a trip to Iceland and want to see some of its most iconic sights without the crowds or hassle of a large tour, this small group tour from Reykjavik might be just what you need. Covering seven major stops in around nine hours, it promises an intimate experience with knowledgeable guides who bring Iceland’s landscapes and stories to life.

What makes this tour stand out for us? First, the small group size of no more than 19 guests ensures you’ll get a more personal touch and unobstructed views. Second, the inclusion of unique stops beyond the usual sights, like the Efstidalur dairy farm and Kerið Crater, add interesting local flavor and photo opportunities. Third, positive reviews highlight the guides’ friendliness and expertise, making the day both informative and fun.

One thing to consider is that the tour doesn’t include lunch, so you’ll want to plan accordingly, especially if you’re hungry after all the walking and sightseeing. This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive yet relaxed day exploring Iceland’s natural wonders with a friendly group and a knowledgeable guide.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Intimate Group Experience: Up to 19 guests, ensuring personalized attention
• Comprehensive Itinerary: Covers major highlights plus unique stops like a tomato farm and Kerið Crater
• Expert Guides: Highly praised for friendliness and knowledge, with some guides speaking multiple languages
• Value for Money: At $110, it offers a full day of sightseeing with transport, guide, and seven stops
• Timing & Convenience: Includes pick-up and drop-off from Reykjavik, making it easy to join
• Limited Food Options: No lunch included, so plan to bring snacks or eat beforehand

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Þingvellir National Park – A UNESCO World Heritage Site

The tour kicks off with a visit to Þingvellir, a site that’s both historically significant and geologically dramatic. Standing between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, you’ll get a sense of Iceland’s volcanic backbone and continental split. Past visitors mention how walking between the plates feels like stepping into another world — a truly unforgettable experience.

Your guide will share stories about Iceland’s ancient parliament, the Alþingi, which gathered here over a thousand years ago, making it a birthplace of democracy. This mix of natural beauty and historical importance makes Þingvellir a must-see.

Öxarárfoss Waterfall – A Picture-Perfect Detour

A brief walk from the main site, Öxarárfoss offers a charming cascade that’s easily accessible. Reviewers mention how this stop provides fantastic photo opportunities and a peaceful break before moving on to the next highlights. Expect a short, scenic walk and some great shots of the waterfall with Iceland’s rugged landscape in the background.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Efstidalur Dairy Farm – A Taste of Local Life

One of the tour’s unique features is a stop at Efstidalur II, a family-run farm. This is a chance to see Icelandic farm life firsthand, interact with animals, and snap some photos of the charming setting. Reviewers appreciated this stop for breaking up the day and offering a more local perspective. You might even get to sample some fresh farm products, adding a delightful taste of Icelandic rural life.

Geysir Geothermal Area – Nature’s Hot Show

Next, the tour ventures into Geysir, the area that put Iceland on the map for geothermal activity. Here, Strokkur geyser erupts every few minutes, shooting hot water high into the air, much to everyone’s delight. You’ll walk around bubbling hot springs, steaming vents, and vibrant mineral deposits, which make for fantastic photos.

Most reviews note how impressive Geysir is in action, with some mentioning how the guides help you understand the geothermal processes. It’s a lively and dynamic stop, perfect for witnessing nature’s raw power.

Gullfoss Waterfall – Iceland’s Golden Cascade

No Golden Circle tour would be complete without Gullfoss, a double-tiered waterfall that’s often described as breathtaking. On sunny days, you might catch a rainbow arching over the mist — a photo you’ll want to keep forever. The park’s well-maintained viewing platforms give you multiple perspectives, and the guides are full of interesting facts that add depth to the scenery.

Reviews praise the stunning views and the chance to feel the sheer force of the water. It’s a highlight that captures Iceland’s wild beauty perfectly.

Friðheimar Tomato Farm – A Green Oasis

A quirky and memorable stop on this tour is Friðheimar, an innovative greenhouse where Icelanders grow tomatoes year-round. Walking into the lush, vibrant greenhouse is a visual treat, and you’ll learn how Iceland’s farming techniques adapt to harsh climates. The farm’s setup allows for fresh produce regardless of outside temperatures, showcasing Iceland’s ingenuity.

The 75-minute visit includes some free time to explore, take photos, and perhaps enjoy a light snack or drink made from tomatoes. Reviewers mention that this stop introduces a completely different aspect of Icelandic life and adds a touch of comfort and freshness to the day.

Kerið Crater – A Volcanic Masterpiece

The day winds down at Kerið, a volcanic crater lake famed for its vivid red slopes and turquoise waters. Walking around the rim offers panoramic views, while descending to the water’s edge reveals the crater’s scale and striking colors. It’s a great spot for reflection and photography, especially as the sun starts to lower.

Visitors appreciate how the crater looks surreal, almost like a painting. It’s a fitting finale—an otherworldly landscape that encapsulates Iceland’s volcanic heritage.

Practical Aspects of the Tour

Transportation and Group Size: Traveling in a comfortable minibus with a maximum of 19 people, you’ll avoid the large crowds common on bigger tours. Reviews emphasize how this creates a relaxed atmosphere, allowing more interaction with guides and fellow travelers.

Timing and Pacing: The total duration is 9 hours, with timed stops designed to balance sightseeing with leisurely exploration. The pickup points are conveniently spread across Reykjavik, making it simple to join the tour without extra logistics.

Cost and Value: At $110 per person, the tour offers a full day packed with seven stops, transport, and a guided experience. Compared to other options, the small group size and inclusion of lesser-known stops make this a compelling choice for travelers seeking quality over quantity.

Food and Additional Costs: Keep in mind that lunch isn’t included, so bringing snacks or eating beforehand is recommended. The stops at farms and natural sites are largely sightseeing and photo opportunities rather than dining spots.

Authentic Insights from Past Travelers

Many reviewers highlight the guides’ friendliness and expertise as the biggest plus. One mentioned that the guide, Kel, was “concise, very clear, perfect English, friendly, excellent driver, understanding, flexible.” Such personal touches make a difference when navigating a busy sightseeing route and sharing Iceland’s stories.

Others noted the stunning views at Gullfoss and Kerið, with one writer mentioning “the waterfall was so beautiful, I even saw a rainbow,” emphasizing how memorable the scenery can be. The farm stop at Efstidalur received praise for offering a genuine taste of Icelandic rural life, not just the typical tourist spots.

However, a few reviewers pointed out issues like transportation inconveniences or lack of included meals, reminding us that no tour is perfect. It’s worth considering your appetite and comfort expectations when booking.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a personalized, well-rounded day of sightseeing without feeling rushed. The small group setting suits those who appreciate more interaction with guides and fellow travelers. Nature lovers will enjoy the variety of landscapes, from waterfalls and geysers to volcanic craters and farms.

It’s especially good for those seeking a mix of natural beauty and local culture, in an accessible, affordable package. If you’re short on time but want to see the highlights of the Golden Circle with authentic touches, this tour checks many boxes.

The Sum Up

This small group tour from Reykjavik offers a thoughtfully curated day exploring some of Iceland’s most famous sights plus a few hidden gems. The combination of expert guides, manageable group size, and diverse stops makes it a great choice for anyone wanting a balanced, engaging experience.

While it doesn’t include lunch, the stops at farms and scenic sites provide plenty of opportunities to soak in the landscape and learn about local life. The overall value, especially considering the door-to-door convenience and the insights shared by guides, makes this tour an attractive option for travelers who prefer a relaxed, personal journey through Iceland’s highlights.

If you’re after memorable scenery, local flavor, and guided ease, this tour is a solid pick—especially for those who want to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more intimate look at Iceland’s natural wonders.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, from pickup in the morning to return in the late afternoon or early evening.

Are meals included?
No, lunch and snacks are not included, so you may want to bring some food or plan to eat before or after the tour.

What is the group size?
A maximum of 19 guests, which helps create a more personal experience with your guide.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses a comfortable minibus, suitable for sightseeing and with enough space for all guests.

Can I join the tour from any location in Reykjavik?
Pick-up points are available at 16 different locations across Reykjavik, making it easy to find a convenient spot.

Is the tour suitable for mobility-impaired travelers?
No, it’s not recommended for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, as some stops involve walking on uneven terrain.

This detailed guide should help you decide if this Golden Circle tour suits your Iceland adventure. With its mix of natural wonders, local stops, and friendly guides, it promises a day of both awe and insight—an experience worth considering for your trip.

You can check if your dates are available here: