Reykjavík: Golden Circle & Extra Waterfalls Small Group Tour

The best thing about this 11-hour Iceland day tour is the amount of scenery packed into one trip. You get the big Golden Circle sights, then add Skógafoss, Seljalandsfoss, and Faxafoss, giving you a fuller look at southern Iceland than a basic three-stop outing.

I like the mix of famous sights and quieter stops, especially walking behind Seljalandsfoss and seeing Kerið’s red volcanic sides around its teal-blue lake. I also like the small-group format, which can mean a 19-seat bus or, on some departures, a minivan with a guide such as Evo.

The tradeoff is time. This is a long route with many stops, so you may need to keep moving. One recent departure felt rushed, with short visits and a cramped full bus. Bring good rain gear, pack food, and be ready for a full day on your feet.

Quick takeaways before you book

• Seven major sights in one day: The route includes Skógafoss, Seljalandsfoss, Faxafoss, Gullfoss, Geysir, Kerið crater, and Þingvellir.
• A proper waterfall day: You can stand before the force of Skógafoss, walk behind Seljalandsfoss, and pause at two Golden Circle falls.
• Strokkur erupts every few minutes: You do not need to wait long for the main event at the Geysir hot springs.
• Small group does not always mean tiny: Some departures use a minivan, while others use a full 19-seat bus.
• Expect moderate walking in Icelandic weather: Warm layers, waterproof clothing, sturdy shoes, water, and a camera are sensible.
• Best for first-time visitors: You cover a large sweep of southern Iceland without arranging a rental car or driving yourself.

Why this route works for a first Iceland day

Iceland’s most popular sights are spread across open countryside, and seeing them independently takes careful planning. This tour solves the transport problem in one long day from Reykjavík, with pickup between 8:00 and 8:30 and return after the final drive back from Þingvellir.

The route combines two areas that are often sold separately: the South Coast waterfalls and the Golden Circle. That is the main reason to choose it. A standard Golden Circle trip usually centers on Þingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss. Here, you also see Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss, then add Faxafoss and Kerið.

That extra coverage comes with a price beyond the $163 fare: your time at each stop is limited. The listed stops range from about 20 to 50 minutes, with long stretches on the road between them. I would choose this trip for variety, not for slow photography or long walks.

The English-speaking guide provides explanations during the drive and at the sights. Guides have included Evo, who is described as a positive, accommodating driver and guide, and who has helped older visitors move at a comfortable pace. That personal attention is most valuable when weather changes or when someone in the group needs a little more time.

From Reykjavík to Skógafoss

Pickup covers a broad list of Reykjavík hotels, hostels, and bus stops. Downtown traffic rules mean you may be directed to a designated bus stop rather than collected directly at your hotel, so check your email before leaving and be ready at 8:00.

The first part of the route is a scenic drive through southern Iceland, with a short break in Hveragerði. This is mainly a chance to stretch, use facilities, and take a photo before the longer drive toward the South Coast.

Skógafoss is a strong first major stop. Water drops in a broad, powerful curtain, and the viewing area lets you feel its scale almost at once. You have about 30 minutes here for photos, a short walk, and a closer look.

The spray can be heavy, especially when the wind shifts. Keep your camera protected and do not rely on a hood alone. The waterfall is easy to reach, but the short stop means you should decide quickly whether you want close-up spray photos or a wider view.

Walking behind Seljalandsfoss

The second waterfall, Seljalandsfoss, offers the day’s most unusual viewpoint. A path leads behind the falling water, so you can look outward through the curtain toward the countryside.

This is the stop where rainproof clothing matters most. Even on a clear day, spray can soak your jacket, trousers, shoes, and camera. Waterproof outerwear is much more useful than an umbrella, which is awkward in wind and on a wet path.

You get about 30 minutes here. That is enough for the walk behind the waterfall when conditions allow, but you should not expect a long hike or extended time at nearby falls. Wear shoes with a solid grip, since wet ground can make the path slippery.

Seljalandsfoss rewards people who participate rather than simply stand at a lookout. I would keep your phone in a waterproof pocket until you are ready to shoot, then take a quick series of photos and move on when the guide signals.

Kerið and the colors of a volcanic crater

After the South Coast waterfalls, the bus turns toward the Golden Circle. Kerið is a volcanic crater with red and orange slopes surrounding a teal-blue lake. The color contrast is one of the day’s most striking visual changes, especially after the gray rock and white water of the coast.

The visit lasts about 20 minutes. You can walk around part of the rim, look down into the crater, and take photos from above. The entrance fee is included, which is useful because this stop has a separate admission charge.

Do not expect a long crater walk on this schedule. Kerið works well as a compact stop between the larger waterfalls and the geothermal area. If you prefer a relaxed pace, this is one place where the clock may feel tight.

Faxafoss, the quieter waterfall stop

Faxafoss receives less attention than Gullfoss, but it helps break up the day. The river widens and drops over a low, broad fall, creating a calmer viewing experience than the dramatic walls of Skógafoss or Gullfoss.

You have about 20 minutes here for a short walk and photos. That is enough to appreciate the water and the surrounding views, though not enough for a long riverside wander.

I like the inclusion of Faxafoss because it gives the day some variety. You are not simply checking off the same type of waterfall again and again. Still, if you want maximum time at the biggest sights, this is one of the briefest stops and may feel less essential.

Gullfoss, the Golden Circle’s big show

Gullfoss is the most forceful waterfall on the Golden Circle route. The river drops in two stages into a deep gorge, and viewing paths provide several angles across the rushing water.

The visit lasts about 45 minutes, giving you more time than at Faxafoss or Kerið. You can walk between viewpoints, take wide photos, and pause to watch the water disappear into the canyon.

Wind and spray are common, so keep your rain shell handy even if the sky looks bright. The paths are not a wilderness trek, but you will be walking and standing outdoors. Comfortable shoes make a real difference after the earlier waterfall stops.

Gullfoss is one of the places where the tour’s packed schedule feels justified. It is large, loud, and easy to appreciate without a long explanation. Your guide adds context, but the river does most of the talking.

Strokkur erupts on a short wait

At the Geysir hot springs, the star is Strokkur. It erupts every few minutes, sending a column of hot water into the air. You can wait near the marked viewing area and usually see several eruptions during the 45-minute stop.

The ground around the springs steams and bubbles, and the smell of sulfur is part of the experience. Stay on the marked paths and keep children close, since these are active geothermal areas with very hot water.

The stop also includes time for sightseeing and shopping. Food and drinks are not included in the tour price, so this may be a useful place to buy something if you did not bring lunch. Even so, do not count on a long meal break. The day continues to Þingvellir after the geothermal visit.

Þingvellir closes the day with history and geology

Þingvellir National Park is the final major stop, with about 50 minutes to walk, take photos, and hear about its importance. It is the birthplace of Iceland’s first parliament and also a major geological site.

Here, the ground tells two stories at once. You learn about Iceland’s early political gatherings while seeing the effects of the country’s volcanic geology. The open views and rock formations give the final stop a different mood from the waterfalls and hot springs.

This is a good place to save a little energy. After hours on the road, you may be tired, and the park requires walking outdoors. The entrance fee is included, as is transport and the guide’s commentary.

The order of stops may not always feel leisurely because the route covers so much ground. A recent departure was changed to include Fridheimar tomato farm instead of the extra waterfalls, and the group felt it had too little time at the main sights. That kind of substitution is worth keeping in mind when comparing tours. Confirm the planned route close to departure if the extra waterfalls are your main reason for booking.

What the $163 price really buys you

At $163 per person, the fare is not simply paying for a seat on a bus. It covers pickup and drop-off in Reykjavík, transport for an 11-hour route, an English-speaking guide, Þingvellir admission, Kerið entry, and visits to all the listed waterfalls and geothermal sights.

The value is strongest if you want to see many major places without driving. Iceland’s weather can change quickly, and a guide takes care of the route while you watch the countryside. You also avoid arranging separate admissions and figuring out how to connect the South Coast with the Golden Circle in one day.

The value is weaker if you want solitude, long walks, or detailed photography. A full 19-seat bus can feel cramped when everyone has coats and bags. One departure had small seats and a full vehicle, while other departures used a minivan and felt much more personal.

The group format can also change your day in a good way. A minivan allows easier conversation and may offer more room. On some departures, a small group may be upgraded to a private outing if another excursion is canceled. That is a pleasant possibility, but it should not be treated as a guaranteed feature.

Comfort, timing, and what to pack

This is an all-weather tour. Bring warm layers, waterproof clothing, a hat, water, comfortable clothes, and shoes that can handle wet paths. A sun hat is also listed, which makes sense in Iceland’s changeable conditions.

Food and drinks are not included. Pack a lunch and snacks unless you are happy to buy food during a stop. Eating on the bus may be restricted by the operator, so do not plan on a full picnic in your seat.

The tour is wheelchair accessible, but the day still includes a moderate amount of walking at waterfalls, Kerið, Geysir, and Þingvellir. Ask for practical details before booking if you need a specific type of assistance, since access can vary from one outdoor site to another.

Do not bring pets, alcohol, or drugs. Smoking is not allowed in the vehicle or indoors, and intoxication is not permitted. These rules matter on a long shared ride.

The tour operates in all weather. That is good news for your schedule, but it means you should dress for rain even when Reykjavík looks clear. A poor microphone can also make commentary hard to hear in a full bus, so sitting near the front may help if you want to catch every explanation.

Who will enjoy this tour most?

I would recommend it to a first-time visitor who has one free day and wants the broadest possible introduction to southern Iceland. You see waterfalls, geothermal activity, a volcanic crater, a national park, and major historical sites in one organized outing.

It also suits you if you prefer not to drive, are comfortable with a full schedule, and want a guide to handle roads and timing. Older visitors can do well with the right guide, though you should be honest about your walking speed and ask for help when needed.

I would choose another option if your priority is a slow pace. The 20-minute Faxafoss and Kerið stops are short, and the long drives leave limited spare time. A private or smaller minivan departure may feel better if you value space and personal attention.

Weather-sensitive photographers should also think carefully. The route offers excellent photo subjects, but you may have only a few minutes at some viewpoints. Protect your equipment and decide in advance which stops matter most to you.

Should you book it?

Book this tour if you want maximum variety in one day and accept a brisk schedule. The combination of four waterfalls, Kerið, Geysir, and Þingvellir gives you a strong first look at Iceland for $163, with transport, guide service, and key admissions included.

Skip it if you want a quiet, unhurried day or dislike long hours in a vehicle. Before paying, check the pickup instructions, confirm the route, and prepare for the possibility of a 19-seat bus rather than a minivan. With waterproof clothing and realistic expectations about timing, this is a practical way to see a lot of Iceland in a single day.

FAQ

How long is the tour?

The tour lasts 11 hours, including pickup in Reykjavík, travel between sights, visits, and return drop-off.

What sights are included?

The route includes Skógafoss, Seljalandsfoss, Faxafoss, Gullfoss, Kerið volcanic crater, Geysir hot springs, and Þingvellir National Park.

Can I walk behind Seljalandsfoss?

Yes. The tour includes time to visit Seljalandsfoss, where you can walk behind the waterfall when conditions allow. Bring rainproof clothing because you will likely get wet from spray.

Is food included?

No. Food and drinks are not included, so bring water and consider packing food for the day.

What language does the guide speak?

The live guide speaks English.

Is hotel pickup available in Reykjavík?

Pickup and drop-off are included at listed Reykjavík hotels, hostels, and bus stops. Due to downtown traffic restrictions, you may be assigned a nearby bus stop instead of direct hotel pickup.

What happens if the weather is bad?

The tour operates in all weather conditions. You should bring warm clothing, waterproof layers, rain gear, and comfortable shoes.