Golden Circle & Secret Lagoon Small-Group Day Tour from Reykjavik
Description
Combine the popular Golden Circle sightseeing tour with a relaxing trip to the phenomenal Secret Lagoon natural hot springs. Soak in the unique and natural waters of the hot springs and enjoy all the wonders of the attractions that make up the famous Golden Circle - on this 9 hour, small group tour directly from Reykjavik that ensures a more personal experience. Thingvellir National Park, Geysir hot spring area and Gullfoss waterfall are three of the most popular attractions in Iceland and together they combine some of the most iconic landmarks of Iceland.
Tour Options
Itinerary
We'll kick off the day with a morning pick-up from your selected location in the capital city Reykjavík
A quick 40-minute drive to the first stop: Þingvellir (Thingvellir) National Park. This remarkable rift valley, where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates drift apart, showcases both stunning geology and deep history. Here you can explore Althing, Iceland’s original national parliament, admire the Silfra Fissure and Almannagjá rift, and enjoy sweeping views of Þingvallavatn lake—an unforgettable introduction to Iceland’s natural wonders.
Our adventure will then lead us to the breathtaking Gullfoss, aptly named the "golden waterfall," situated at the very edge of the Icelandic Highlands. Cascading gracefully within the canyon of the Hvíta River, Gullfoss is fed by the Langjökull glacier to the north, lending it a majestic aura. As a two-tiered waterfall, Gullfoss seems to vanish into the depths below, with its waters plunging an impressive 32 meters. The waterfall offers a mesmerizing display of nature's power, showcasing the raw forces of Icelandic landscapes. Regardless of the season, Gullfoss captivates with its awe-inspiring beauty, making it a must-see destination on our journey through Iceland's natural wonders.
Next, we’ll explore the Geysir Geothermal Area, the birthplace of the word “geyser.” Wander among steaming vents, bubbling pools, and hot springs, and watch Strokkur—the most active geyser—erupt every 4–10 minutes, sending boiling water 15–20 meters (49–66 feet) into the air.
We’ll unwind at the Secret Lagoon, Iceland’s oldest geothermal pool. Nestled in mossy lava fields, the water stays a soothing 38–40°C (100–104°F) year-round, with a small geyser adding to the charm. Bring your swimwear or rent it on-site for the perfect relaxing end to your adventure.
Our final stop is Kerið Crater, or “The Eye of the World,” a volcanic crater formed over 6,500 years ago. Its bright blue-green lake set against red volcanic rock makes it a must-see. The crater is 886 feet (270 m) wide with walls up to 180 feet (55 m) high, offering stunning views from the rim and a scenic 20-minute hike around the lake. Seasonal changes—from green moss in summer to snow and ice in winter—make it magical year-round.
We'll then head back to Reykjavík where you'll be dropped of from your starting location.
Highlights
What's included
Pickup Locations & Times
Due to traffic regulations, we are unable to facilitate pick-ups from city center hotels or private accommodation. Please note that our pick-up service exclusively caters to locations specified in the pick-up list. Should your pick-up location not appear on our designated list, we politely request that you select the nearest pick-up point from the options outlined. Please be ready at your chosen pick up location at 9:00am and note that it may take up to 30 minutes for your driver guide to arrive.
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- This adventure tour is a small group experience tour offering a more personal experience.
- We recommend that you bring: Warm and waterproof outdoor clothing, head wear, gloves, packed lunch, bathing suit, towel and sturdy shoes.
- Please note that the order of the itinerary can vary whereas the operator reserves the right to swap the order of the attractions due to weather conditions and other related factors.
- *Please note: Due to the Secret Lagoon's closure on May 13-23, we will visit Fontana Spa instead.*
- Total duration includes travel time between stops. Total duration of this day tour is approximately 9 hours.
Reviews(212)
Amazing experience, our guide gave details on many sightings, he was very respectful and kind. He gave a presence of safety, reassuring all our stuff would be safe on the bus with him.
Hi Matthias, thanks for your kind words. Feeling comfortable enough to leave your things on the bus and actually enjoy the stops without worrying is a small thing that changes the whole day. Glad that was the case for you. Arctic Adventures Team
Edgar was a good guide. He was well-informed. In the national park, he guided us from a parking lot to the entrance, so we didn't have to walk back and forth.
Hi there, thank you for the review. Small logistical choices, like routing the walk through the park sensibly, are the kind of detail that makes a long day easier on everyone. Glad the weather held and the day worked well. Arctic Adventures Team
Tour with Edgar was great knowledgeable and honest tour guide. Loads of fun and great places to see.
Hi there, appreciate you sharing this. The right guide pulls a day like this together, and it sounds like yours did exactly that across every stop. Come back any time! Arctic Adventures Team
Edgar was an amazing guide, very knowledgeable, and went the extra mile to make sure we got the most out of the experience
Hi there, so glad to hear this. A guide who goes the extra mile to make sure everyone gets the most out of the day is exactly what we're going for on the Golden Circle and Secret Lagoon trip. Thank you for joining us! Arctic Adventures Team
The hot spring which was so much better than a bath
Hi there, thank you. The Secret Lagoon beating a bath is high praise, and it's a nice warm finish to a Golden Circle day. Arctic Adventures Team
Edgar was amazing, very knowledgeable and so nice !! I recommend him 10000%
Hi there, really glad you shared this. The guide being both knowledgeable and great company is exactly what makes the Golden Circle and Secret Lagoon day work. Hope to see you again Arctic Adventures Team
Edgar did a great job - he was very informative.
Hi Penelope, thank you. Glad the tour met your expectations and that the guide kept things informative along the way. Arctic Adventures Team
Wonderful day trip. Seeing all the best sights. Edgar guide was excellent.
Hi there, thanks so much for this. Glad the Golden Circle day covered all the best sights and that the Secret Lagoon rounded it out nicely. Arctic Adventures Team
Dominca and Laura (sorry If I spelt them wrong ladies) are a special pair. Their chemistry and enthusiasm made this whole trip so fun. We felt like VIPs everywhere we went. The two of them were super knowledgeable and I’m very happy to have had them. I felt safe on the trip and comfortable with every step of the trip and the landmarks we stopped at. We stayed on time. - all the gratitude, Evan and Megan Rudd
Hi Evan and Megan, thank you for the kind review. So glad the day felt special from start to finish, and that you both came away happy! Arctic Adventures Team
Really is a small group! Tour was only about a dozen people. A great tour and our guide was a native Icelander with many interesting stories. Not too much talking but enough to give you a good taste of Iceland. Saw a collapsed volcano, the mid-Atlantic ridge, thermal geysers, and waterfalls. Lots of time at each stop, usually a restroom and a small shop at each stop. This is the most popular tour, so be sure to book well in advance.
Hi there, thank you so much for taking the time to write this. Lovely to hear the tour worked out for you, and that the guide struck the right balance between sharing stories and letting you experience the day. The booking tip is helpful for future readers. Arctic adventures Team
