9 hours
Easy
Discover Iceland’s Golden Circle: A Journey Through History and Nature
Embark on an unforgettable adventure along the Golden Circle, Iceland’s most iconic route. Just a stone’s throw from the capital, this journey offers the perfect blend of breathtaking natural landscapes and fascinating stories that transport us from the time of the first settlers to the present day.
First Stop: Thingvellir – Where History Comes to Life
Our tour begins at Thingvellir National Park, a gem of great historical and geological value. Here, in 930 AD, Iceland’s first parliament was founded, making it one of the oldest in the world. For centuries, the island’s leaders gathered annually to debate and proclaim laws.
But Thingvellir isn’t just a witness to human history – it’s also the meeting point of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. Walking through this land is literally a stroll between continents. The visit concludes with a walk to Öxarárfoss, an artificial waterfall created in the 10th century to provide water to the parliament attendees.
Efstidalur: Authentic Icelandic Flavors
Our next stop takes us to Efstidalur, a family-run dairy farm where we indulge in organic, homemade ice cream. Alongside this sweet treat, we admire views of the majestic Mount Hekla and get up close to Icelandic cows, horses, and dogs. A perfect experience for all ages, where nature and tradition come together.
Geothermal Wonders: Geysir and Gullfoss
We continue to the Geysir geothermal area, where Strokkur surprises us with eruptions every few minutes. Right after, we head to the mighty Gullfoss waterfall, whose roaring waters create a mesmerizing spectacle for every visitor.
Meet Icelandic Horses at a Traditional Farm
After these geothermal wonders, we visit a local horse farm to meet Iceland’s unique breed of horses. Known for their gentle temperament and distinctive tölt gait, these horses are an integral part of Icelandic culture. We’ll learn about their history, interact with them, and witness a short demonstration of their famous movements.
Kerid: A Crater Full of Color and Life
To end the day, we visit the Kerid crater lake. Its crystal-clear waters rest in a 3,000-year-old caldera, surrounded by vibrant colors that shift with the sunlight.
A Personalized and Comfortable Experience
This tour is conducted in a small-group minibus (maximum 19 people), allowing for personalized attention and a closer connection with our guide. Throughout the day, we share stories and insights that enrich the experience, bringing each stop to life.
Get ready for a day filled with natural wonders and Icelandic culture – a journey that will leave a lasting impression on your heart.
The schedule and availability of attractions may vary based on road or weather conditions, and adjustments to timings may be necessary to accommodate the limited daylight during winter.
Iceland's weather is unpredictable, so we recommend dressing appropriately for the conditions.
We'll make stops for lunch and snacks during the tour but these are not included. You can also bring a packed lunch.
Nordur Travel reserves the right to postpone or cancel tours if weather or other hazardous conditions pose a risk to client safety.
Given the length and structured itinerary of this tour, we advise against bringing infants (0-3 years old). For a more suitable experience with young children, we recommend our Private version of this tour