See the unique natural marvels of Iceland's world-famous Golden Circle on this enjoyable tour of its three most iconic places. First, you'll walk between two continents at Thingvellir (Þingvellir) National Park, a spectacular rift valley packed with Viking history and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Then you'll be thrilled by the soaring fountains of superheated water at the Geysir Geothermal Area and the tremendous two-tier 30-meter waterfall at Gullfoss. Along the way you will be treated to mesmerizing views of Iceland´s landscapes, make sure you have your camera ready! We offer a range of options and departure times to make this a fun-filled experience you'll never forget!
Viking History & Colliding Continents at Iceland´s Þingvellir National Park
Your first stop on Iceland's famous Golden Circle is Thingvellir (Þingvellir) National Park, a place of outstanding natural beauty and the birthplace of the Icelandic Parliament. The Vikings made their laws for a thousand years and celebrated summer festivals in this stunning location. You can walk between the towering North American tectonic plates and Eurasian tectonic plates here, which are splitting apart at the speed of a few millimeters a year. Iceland declared its independence here in 1944, and in 2004, Thingvellir was made a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Imagine yourself walking with Vikings in this magical place!
Bubbling with Excitement at Geysir Geothermal Area
The next adventure on your Golden Circle tour is the world-famous Geysir Geothermal Area in the Haukadalur Valley. The world's geysers take their name from this place – Geysir means “to gush” in Icelandic. Geysir itself erupts very rarely now, but don't worry! Nearby, Strokkur is very active, with fountains of boiling hot water soaring high into the sky every 10 minutes or so. It truly is one of Iceland´s must see attractions. Feel the earth tremble beneath your feet as it prepares to explode, and smell the sulfur in the air! This is where you can really experience Iceland's powerful underground geothermal energy at close quarters. Just watch which way the wind is blowing!
Majestic Gullfoss Falls, the Golden Falls of Hvita River
Your final treat on our Golden Circle tours is a trip to Gullfoss Waterfall, which translates as the "Gold Falls" is a short drive from the Great Geysir. Fed by glacial meltwater from Langjökull Glacier (the Long Glacier), you'll be amazed by this roaring two-tiered waterfall, plunging more than 30 meters and then crashing deep into a rocky canyon. If you visit on a sunny day, you'll see spectacular rainbows rising above the waters, or if you're here in the winter, the falls will be a frozen wonderland instead! Clouds of spray hang in the air, making Gullfoss Waterfall a sensational sight, and there are several viewing platforms so you can experience it at different levels. We'll stop for lunch at the excellent Gullfoss Waterfall Café.
Memories That Last a Lifetime on a Golden Circle tour Iceland
The glittering jewels in Iceland's crown, the Golden Circle is the perfect introduction to the spectacular sceneries that the "Land of Fire and Ice" offers you! With one stunning sight after another, your camera will be clicking all day! Our knowledgeable tour guides will be ready to wow you with fascinating stories of Viking heritage and fun facts to take away from this unforgettable experience.