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Golden Circle Tours and Vacation Packages

  • Atlantic tectonic plates, Thingvellir National Park UNESCO World Heritage Site, Iceland
  • Gullfoss Waterfall, Iceland
  • Geyser Strokkur, Geysir National Park, Iceland

After Reykjavik, the most popular activity on an Iceland vacation is usually the Golden Circle tour easily done in half a day from Reykjavik but perhaps more interesting if taking a full-day tour or on a self-drive vacation. Generally, the distance covered on the tour is around 300 kilometres/186 miles. There are three major attractions which are all within 100 kilometres/60 miles of Reykjavik.

Thingvellir National Park is 40 kilometres/25 miles from Reykjavik and is a UNESCO World Heritage site because of its historical, cultural and geological significance. It lies in a valley that is the boundary between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. It is also the site of Iceland’s first parliament established in 930 AD. The parliament met here until 1798. There are no real visible remains but signposts and a visit to the visitor's centre give an idea about it.  

The next stop is usually the Gullfoss Waterfall which is exceptionally beautiful. On looking at the waterfall from the viewing platform, one gets a bird’s eye view of the tumbling and rushing waters and a feel for the force and power of nature. The water falls down 32 metres/104 feet in two stages into a rugged canyon where the walls are as high as 70 metres/230 feet in height. 

Possibly the highlight of the Golden Circle on an Iceland tour is the opportunity to see geysers/hot springs in action. The highly active Geysir Hot Spring area has boiling mud pits and exploding geysers. The most active is Strokkur which spouts water 30 metres/100 feet into the air every few minutes. It has been known to reach 40 kilometres/125 feet in height. One can get fairly close to it. The other major geyser is Geysir is not far from Strokkur and is less active. 

The Visitor Centre is close to the geysers and offers an interactive multimedia exhibition about the complete Golden Circle area including the history and the nature of Thingvellir. 

 

Iceland Vacation Information

At Goway we believe that a well-informed traveller is a safer traveller. With this in mind, we have compiled an easy-to-navigate travel information section dedicated to an Iceland vacation. 

Learn about the history and culture of Iceland, the must-try food and drink, and what to pack in your suitcase. Read about Iceland's nature and wildlife, weather and geography, and 'Country Quickfacts' compiled by our travel experts. Our globetrotting tips, as well as our visa and health information, will help ensure you're properly prepared for a safe and enjoyable trip. The only way you could possibly learn more is by embarking on your journey and discovering Iceland for yourself. Start exploring...book your Iceland vacation today!

Extend your Stay

Consider an additional stopover to your Iceland tours on one of Goway's other European tours. This can be done stopping over en route in Iceland to or from Europe.

Golden Circle

  • Highlights of Reykjavik

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Enjoy a spectacular visit to the Land of Fire and Ice on this excellent trip based out of Iceland's funky capital, Reykjavik. Take in the highlights of the Golden Circle, including Geysir and Gullfoss, spelunk into the dormant remains of a volcano, enjoy a foodie-themed walking tour, and cap off your stay with a relaxing dip in the waters of the Blue Lagoon.
    Duration:
    5 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 1,686
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Stopovers/City Breaks, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Iceland See Trip Details

  • Scenic South Iceland

    FIRST-CLASS | SMALL GROUP: Experience Iceland's wonders and adventures like a local. Visit the most fascinating and scenic highlights of South Iceland on this guided small group tour. A fantastic introduction into Iceland's volcanoes and glaciers, learn from a professional local guide as you visit unique natural attractions including black sand beaches, hot springs, waterfalls, vast volcanic areas and jagged bird cliffs.
    Duration:
    5 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 3,049
    Trip Type:
    Small Group Touring
    Iceland See Trip Details

  • Reykjavik Signature

    DELUXE | PRIVATE-GUIDED: On this customizable adventure, you're invited to experience the Land of Fire & Ice during the best time of the year. With an aim to catch the elusive, astounding Northern Lights by sea, begin your trip with a plunge into the shimmering Blue Lagoon, relax in deluxe accommodations throughout your stay, sample local beers, tour the Golden Circle and explore the belly of a dormant volcano.
    Duration:
    4 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 3,216
    Trip Type:
    Luxury and Beyond, Private Experiences, Stopovers/City Breaks, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Iceland See Trip Details

  • Reykjavik and the Golden Circle

    DELUXE | TAILOR-MADE: Discover trendy Reykjavik and the beautiful scenery of the Golden Circle and South Iceland on this introductory tour of Iceland. Based in Reykjavik, you’ll experience a taste of the city’s culinary scene before exploring Solheimajokull, the Golden Circle, and the subterranean chambers of Thrihnukagigur Volcano.
    Duration:
    5 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 3,789
    Trip Type:
    Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Iceland See Trip Details
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