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(238)
It was a good experience to see the tourist spots in the Golden Circle. All tours go to similar spots, but a smaller group made it easier to get into each spot and not dealing as much with others in the same tour group. Hence, not having the same time schedule to get in and leave, not the same timing for WC. Secret Lagoon is quieter than other lagoon, and is the oldest natural lagoon. So it's special!
Hi there, thank you for the kind review. Glad the small-group format made a difference, and that the Secret Lagoon's character stood out for you. Wishing you safe travels onwards. Arctic Adventures Team
Björgurn Raven was very friendly and kept the tour interesting. The amount of time at each location was well timed.
Hi there, thank you for the kind words. Glad the guide kept the day interesting, and that the pacing at each stop felt right for a short stay. Looking forward to hosting you again. Arctic Adventures Team
Fabulous day. Very knowledgeable and enthusiastic guide for the day.
Hi there, thank you for the kind review. Glad the Golden Circle day was such a fabulous one for you. We hope to host you again soon. Arctic Adventures Team
A great day trip, enjoying the geisers, crater walk, national park, along with a stop off to visit the Icelandic horses, topped off with a soak at Secret Lagoon. Our driver Bjorguin did a fabulous job, very informative and we even got an Icelandic song from him!
Hello Caroline, thank you for the kind review. Glad the day covered so much ground, and that the driver added a nice personal touch. We hope to host you again soon. Arctic Adventures Team
Lovely way to see Iceland in the short time we had available. The stop at Secret Lagoon was very special. Thank you, Edgar, for a wonderful day.
Hi Ilene, making the most of limited time is what the Golden Circle is built for. The Secret Lagoon at the end is the reward for a full day. Glad it felt special. Arctic Adventures Team
Our guide was cherry, personable and well informed. This was a well run trip.
Hi there, glad the day ran smoothly. A warm guide and a well-organized trip makes the Golden Circle easy to enjoy. Thank you for joining us! Arctic Adventures Team
Really enjoyed the tour Edgar was very informative and entertaining. Had a great time.
Hi there, informative and entertaining over a full day is the combination that makes the drive between stops disappear. Very nice to hear you had a great time. Arctic Adventures Team
The secret lagoon was simple and beautiful. The feeling of the loose rocks under feet was like a massage. Sipping champagne while soaking, Devine. Edgar was fun and informative and expertly dealt with PIA customers (unhappy about having to sit in the back of the bus. He took us to several sites and threw in a stop to pet the horses on the way.
Hi Madonna, sipping champagne in the Secret Lagoon while the rocks massage your feet, that's the definition of a day well spent. Glad the horse stop made the cut too. Arctic Adventures Team
Edgar was great. Trip adventures were excellent
Hi Anne, thanks for this. Great trip with great adventures is a clean verdict, glad it came through. Arctic Adventures Team
Edgar was a wonderful driver/tour guide. I really enjoyed the day from beginning to end.
Hi there, really glad the day delivered. The Golden Circle and Secret Lagoon is a reliable combination, and it sounds like yours was a good one. Arctic Adventures Team
