Absorb the Golden Circle Extended.
| Private Tour |
Embark on an extended private Golden Circle tour, exploring Iceland’s natural wonders and cultural sites beyond the classic route, with additional stops and unique attractions
Highlights.
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The volcanic crater lake Kerið is a stunning natural wonder located in Iceland. This beautiful lake is nestled within the Kerið volcanic crater, formed over 3,000 years ago due to a volcanic eruption. With its vibrant blue-green waters and steep red and black volcanic walls, Kerið offers a mesmerizing sight for visitors.
Approaching the crater, you'll be greeted by the striking colors of the landscape. The contrast between the vivid blue-green waters of the lake and the surrounding red and black volcanic walls creates a visual spectacle that is truly awe-inspiring. These colors are even more pronounced at certain times of the day, especially when sunlight hits the water's surface, creating a shimmering effect that adds to the overall beauty of the scene.
One of the best ways to experience Kerið is by walking along the crater's rim. As you walk, you'll be treated to panoramic views of the lake and its surroundings. From this vantage point, you can truly appreciate the crater's scale, depth, and the lush greenery surrounding it. It's a great opportunity to take stunning photographs and capture the essence of this unique natural wonder.
But Kerið is not just about its visual appeal. It's also a place where you can witness the powerful forces of nature at work. The volcanic activity that formed the crater left behind fascinating geological formations that tell the story of Iceland's turbulent past. As you explore the area, you'll come across layers of volcanic rock and ash, evidence of the intense volcanic activity that once shaped this land. It's a reminder of the dynamic nature of our planet and a testament to the incredible forces that have shaped Iceland over thousands of years.
Visiting Kerið is a unique experience that allows you to deeply connect with nature. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a photography lover, or simply someone who appreciates the world's beauty, Kerið is a must-visit destination. It's a place where you can immerse yourself in the wonders of Iceland's natural landscapes and gain a deeper understanding of the geological processes that have shaped our planet.
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Faxi is a stunning waterfall tucked away in the magnificent landscapes of Iceland. Situated on the Tungufljót River in the southern region of the country, Faxi is a hidden gem that offers a peaceful and picturesque experience for visitors.
With a width of approximately 80 meters and a height of around 7 meters, Faxi may not be as grand as some of Iceland's larger waterfalls, but it possesses its special charm and beauty. The cascading waters gracefully flow into the river below, creating a mesmerizing display that captures the senses.
The surrounding environment of Faxi is truly breathtaking. Lush greenery covers the landscape, enhancing the visual appeal of the waterfall and providing a serene atmosphere. As you approach Faxi, you'll be greeted by the soothing sound of water rushing over rocks, creating a symphony of nature's melodies.
To fully appreciate the wonder of Faxi, several viewpoints offer stunning vistas of the waterfall. Whether you admire it from a distance or venture closer to feel the mist on your face, each perspective provides a unique encounter with the enchanting power of nature.
For those who want a more immersive experience, well-maintained walking paths and observation decks allow you to get up close and personal with Faxi. Feel the energy of the flowing waters as you stand just steps away, and take in the awe-inspiring beauty surrounding you.
Faxi is not only a destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers but also a sanctuary for those seeking peace and tranquility. The peaceful ambiance of the waterfall invites visitors to pause, reflect, and connect with the natural world. It's where you can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and find a moment of serenity amidst Iceland's stunning landscapes.
While Faxi may not be as widely recognized as some of Iceland's more famous waterfalls, its understated elegance and peaceful atmosphere make it a hidden gem worth exploring. Whether you're a passionate photographer, a nature lover, or simply someone who appreciates the world's beauty, a visit to Faxi is a must on your Icelandic itinerary.
Discover the magic of Faxi, capture breathtaking photos, and allow yourself to be swept away by the raw beauty of this remarkable waterfall. It's a destination that will leave a lasting impression on your heart and create enduring memories of your time in Iceland.
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The Geysir hot springs geothermal area in Haukadalur (also known as Hawks' Valley) boasts a collection of colorful hot springs and mud pools. The main attraction, Strokkur (also known as Churner), is the only spouting hot spring in the area, making it the only one of its kind in Europe. Every 5-8 minutes, scalding geothermal water is spouted up to 30 meters into the air from Strokkur, so it's best to stay upwind to avoid getting drenched by the hot water and steam when it spouts.
Geysir (also known as Spouter) is Iceland's most famous geological phenomenon and is the namesake for all other hot springs worldwide. Although it has been dormant since 2016, earthquakes in the area and volcanic activity in Iceland could cause Geysir to awaken, and the other hot springs in the geothermal area could show changes in behavior.
Other notable hot springs in the area include Blesi (Blaze), which is a blue hot spring due to dissolved silica coming in contact with the atmosphere, and Konungshver (The King's Hot Spring), which is the largest and most attractive hot spring in the area. Konungshver was named after King Christian IX's visit in 1874 when Iceland was under the reign of the Kingdom of Denmark.
A short and easy hike up to an observation platform on Laugarfell (Hot Spring Hill) provides a panoramic view of the entire geothermal area of these hot springs.
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Gullfoss, known as Golden Falls, is a spectacular waterfall in Iceland. It is believed to have been named after the golden hue of its glacial water. The waterfall is located in a narrow gorge of basalt lava columns and is part of the third-longest river in Iceland, the Hvítá (White River). The river flows from its source, Hvítárvatn (White River Lake), fed by the glacial water from the second-largest glacier in Iceland, Langjökull (Long Glacier). Gullfoss consists of two cascades, which form a tiered three-step "staircase," with the white glacial water plunging 32 meters down into the 2.5 km wide basalt gorge known as Gullfossgljúfur (Golden Falls Gorge).
Visitors can take a walking trail next to Gullfoss to reach the lower 21-meter cascade and the upper 11-meter waterfall. On sunny days, the spraying water from Gullfoss creates a rainbow, sometimes even a spectacular double rainbow.
Sigríður Tómasdóttir, born in 1871, was the daughter of the farmer Tómas Tómasson, who lived at the Brattholt farm. Gullfoss belonged to her father's land. However, in the early 20th century, Tómas was tricked into renting Gullfoss to foreign investors who planned to build a hydroelectric power plant to generate electricity. Sigríður loved Gullfoss more than anything else, so she took the investors to court to annul their contract and protested their plans of harnessing Gullfoss by threatening to throw herself down the waterfall if it were to be exploited and destroyed. Sigríður went barefoot on a 120-kilometer protest march from Gullfoss to Reykjavik to draw attention to her protests. After her rally on unpaved mountain roads, Sigríður was bleeding from her soles and in bad shape. She lived to be 86 and died in 1957, spending her entire life on the Brattholt farm. She is regarded as Iceland's first environmentalist and activist and one of the first guides for those visiting Gullfoss. Thanks to Sigríður, Gullfoss was saved, and today, it is owned by the state of Iceland for preservation, becoming a permanent nature reserve in 1979. It is among the most visited attractions in Iceland and is part of the Golden Circle. A memorial sculpture honoring Sigríður is located by the walking path leading up to Gullfoss.
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Brúarfoss is a stunning waterfall located in the captivating landscapes of Iceland. Its name means "Bridge Falls" in Icelandic, derived from the bridge that once spanned the river near the waterfall. This hidden gem is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers who want to experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Iceland's natural wonders.
What sets Brúarfoss apart from other waterfalls is its strikingly vibrant blue color derived from the glacial meltwater flowing from the nearby Langjökull glacier. The waterfall creates a mesmerizing display of narrow streams as it cascades down, weaving through rugged rock formations and lush vegetation.
Photographers are particularly drawn to Brúarfoss for its photogenic qualities. The contrast of the vibrant blue against the surrounding greenery and dark rocks makes for stunning compositions. Whether capturing long exposure shots to create a silky smooth effect on the cascades or framing the waterfall against the dramatic Icelandic landscape, Brúarfoss offers endless opportunities to capture breathtaking photos.
Exploring the area around Brúarfoss is also a delight. The picturesque surroundings invite visitors to take leisurely walks, immerse themselves in the beauty of the untouched Icelandic wilderness, and spot native bird species soaring through the sky or grazing sheep on the rolling hills nearby.
To fully appreciate the magnificence of Brúarfoss, it is recommended to visit during the quieter hours of the day, as the waterfall can become crowded with tourists. This allows for a more intimate experience where one can genuinely connect with Iceland's natural wonders.
Brúarfoss is a testament to Iceland's natural landscapes' raw and captivating beauty. Its vibrant blue waters, picturesque setting, and serene atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to explore the wonders of this extraordinary country.
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The Thingvellir National Park was established in 1930 and was the first national park in Iceland. In 2004, it became the first UNESCO World Heritage Site in Iceland due to its cultural heritage from the Viking era and the significance of its history and nature.
Þingvellir, which means "Parliament Grounds" in English, is a fracture zone located on the tectonic plates of the North American and Eurasian continents. The Mid-Atlantic Ridge runs through Iceland from its northeast to its southwest corner, forming a depression approximately 40 km long and 10 km wide. These boundaries are only visible above ground in a few locations in Iceland. Almannagjá, also known as "Public's Rift," forms the eastern boundaries of the North American plate, while Hrafnagjá, or "Raven's Rift," begins the western bounds of the Eurasian plate. The area between these two rifts slowly subsides, pulling apart by about 3-4 millimeters yearly.
Alþingi, or "General Assembly," is the Icelandic parliament, which the Vikings established in AD 930. It is the oldest parliament in the world. Icelanders would gather there every summer until 1798 to set laws, settle disputes, trade goods, and carry out punishments and executions. At Althingi, the Icelandic nation agreed to adopt Christianity in AD 1000, superseding the heathen religion Asatru. On 17 June 1944, after centuries of being under the reigns of the Kingdoms of Norway and Denmark, the establishment of the Republic of Iceland was declared in force.
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Discover a hidden treasure that only a few visitors have the opportunity to experience. Please note that the availability of this hidden gem may be subject to weather conditions and accessibility. It's an extraordinary addition to the Golden Circle tour, offering an exclusive experience reserved for those fortunate enough to uncover it.
Information.
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National Park entrance fee
Parking fees
Pickup & drop-off within the Reykjavik Capital Area
Private transport in an air-conditioned vehicle
Knowledgeable & experienced English-speaking driver-guide
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Food & drinks (your private driver-guide can recommend stops for lunch and refreshments during the tour)
Entry or admission fees
Tip or gratuity
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Please respect nature - do not throw out trash or walk on any moss.
For environmental responsibility purposes, you do not need to print out your e-ticket.
Your private driver-guide can always recommend different restaurants in the area and make stops on the way so you can purchase food/snacks/drinks, but you are also welcome to bring a packed lunch.
The total duration of this tour is dependent on the time spent at each stop.
Road conditions or adverse weather could make some stops inaccessible during winter, so the itinerary may need to be altered if necessary.
Dress according to the weather by wearing warm and wind-/waterproof clothing in layers and bring gloves and a hat.
Wear suitable footwear, preferably waterproof with a good grip, in case of slippery conditions due to ice, rain, or gravel paths.
We may occasionally need to alter the tour itinerary due to unpredictable weather and road conditions in Iceland, especially during winter. The weather in Iceland can be quite unpredictable.
Description.
The weather can be unpredictable in Iceland, so during winter, you may expect us to occasionally alter the tour itinerary if weather/road conditions are unfavorable.
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Iceland's Golden Circle on our extended private tour. This full-day tour is designed to immerse you in the region's stunning natural beauty and rich history, allowing you to explore some of Iceland's most iconic and breathtaking landmarks.
Begin your adventure with a visit to the magnificent volcanic crater lake of Kerið. Marvel at the vibrant blue waters and the picturesque surroundings of this natural wonder as you learn about its geological history and significance.
Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of the Faxi waterfall, also known as "The Horse's Mane." Stand in awe as you witness the mighty cascade of water as it plummets down a wide river, creating a mesmerizing display of nature's force.
Prepare to be amazed as you step into the geothermal area of Geysir. Observe the famous Strokkur geyser erupting with dramatic force, shooting boiling water high into the air. Learn about the geothermal activity that shapes this unique landscape and the geological forces at play.
Marvel at the grandeur of Gullfoss, one of Iceland's most iconic natural wonders. As you stand on the edge of this majestic waterfall, feel the mist on your face and hear the thunderous roar as the water plunges into a rugged canyon. Capture the perfect photo of this breathtaking sight.
Discover the hidden gem of Brúarfoss, a waterfall known for its vibrant turquoise color and picturesque surroundings. Stroll along the trail and be enchanted by the tranquil beauty of this lesser-known spot away from the crowds.
Explore the Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site of immense historical and geological significance. Walk between North America's and Eurasia's tectonic plates, experiencing the unique sensation of standing on two continents simultaneously. Learn about the park's role in Iceland's history and its importance as the world's first parliament site.
Experience the thrill of visiting a secret location (when accessible), adding an element of surprise and adventure to your tour. This undisclosed spot will leave you in awe as you uncover another hidden gem of Iceland's Golden Circle.
Join us on our extended Golden Circle tour and create lasting memories as you discover the incredible landscapes, captivating history, and cultural treasures of the Golden Circle.
Select Your Date.
Or contact us here for a tailored experience. Every tour takes you to the highlights of its area - yet there are so many other spectacular locations to explore on the way.
FULL REFUND IF CANCELLED UP TO 48 HOURS PRIOR TO YOUR DEPARTURE