Iceland's Golden Circle in Depth

Iceland's Golden Circle in Depth

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5 Days From

$2695

Iceland's Golden Circle in Depth

5 Days Starting and ending in Reykjavik

Visiting: Reykjavik, Reykjanes Peninsula - Hveragerdi, Hveragerdi / Golden Circle, Hveragerdi / South Coast, Thingvellir National Park - Reykjavik

Tour operator:

Intrepid Travel

Tour code:

BIKH

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 12

Physical rating:

Low

Age range:

15-99 years

From: $2695

NB: Prices correct on 07-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Pursue mother nature’s most spectacular show on a five-day winter adventure of Iceland’s southern coast. Experience the highlights of Iceland’s Golden Circle – soaking in the steamy geothermal waters of the Secret Lagoon and marvelling at the eruptions of the Strokkur Geysir, before strapping on the crampons and hiking across the Solheimajokull Glacier and feeling the mist of pristine waterfalls on your face. Rug up in your finest thermals and search the night sky for dancing lights.

Highlights

  • See the sights that make Iceland’s famous Golden Circle so celebrated, from Gulfoss Waterfall to Strokkur Geysir and Thingvellir National Park.

  • There are few things more quintessentially Icelandic than soaking in a geothermal pool – experience it for yourself during a visit to the lesser-known Secret Lagoon.

  • Get a taste for Iceland’s local flavours with a visit to a workshop where they use native ingredients to make herbal teas, jams and salts, all created by a family of sustainability champions.

  • Stand in the spray of Iceland’s most iconic south coast cascades – from the thundering Skogafoss to the enchanting Seljalandsfoss.

  • Explore one of Europe’s largest ice caps on an adventurous walk over the alien landscape of Solheimajokull Glacier.

  • Make the most of Iceland’s long winter nights by tracking down the shimmering lights of the aurora borealis.

  • Explore one of Europe’s largest ice caps on an adventurous walk over the alien landscape of Solheimajokull Glacier, and bask in the spray of the spectacular Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss falls.

  • By travelling on this trip, you’ll learn about our Intrepid Foundation partner, Eden Reforestation Projects. Donations help them provide local employment opportunities and tackle climate change one tree at a time as they restore forests across 10 different countries. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Itinerary

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Day 1: Reykjavik

Location: Reykjavik

Accommodation: Hotel

Welcome to Iceland! Your adventure begins in Reykjavik, the world’s northernmost capital and an eclectic place full of charm. At 6 pm you’ll meet your local leader and travel companions at an important welcome meeting at your hotel. If you arrive in Reykjavik with time to spare, why not hit the streets and explore the city's quirky boutiques and cosy cafes. After your welcome meeting, you may like to head into town with the group and get to know each other over dinner.

Day 2: Reykjanes Peninsula - Hveragerdi

Location: Reykjanes Peninsula - Hveragerdi

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch

Wake up and take a moment to breathe in the fresh Icelandic air before heading out towards the Reykjanes Peninsula. Stop at family-run workshop where they use native Icelandic ingredients to make herbal teas, jams and salts. Tour their production area and learn more about their sustainability initiatives while sipping on a cup of their delicious tea. Next up you’ll see the Bridge between Continents, a footbridge that spans a fissure between the North American and Eurasian continental plates, and visit the eerie mud pools and steam vents of Gunnuhver, named for the angry ghost that is believed to have been trapped in the hot springs 400 years ago. A steaming bowl of lobster soup awaits you in the fishing village of Grindavik for lunch (vegetarian alternatives available), before you continue to Strandarkirkja, a Lutheran church that has been a landmark for seafaring travellers since the 12th century. After a busy day you’ll head for your accommodation near the town of Hveragerdi. This evening will be a good opportunity to turn your head to the skies in search of the Northern Lights.

Included Activities:
-Reykjanes Peninsula - Herbal tea and salt workshop visit
-Reykjanes Peninsula - Gunnuhver hot springs
-Reykjanes Peninsula - Bridge between Continents
-Reykjanes Peninsula - Strandarkirkja

Day 3: Hveragerdi / Golden Circle

Location: Hveragerdi / Golden Circle

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Today is all about exploring Iceland’s famous Golden Circle. Head to the geyser geothermal area to check out Strokkur and watch as the geyser swells with blue water before erupting and shooting some 20-30 metres in the air. Marvel at the immense beauty and sheer power of the Gullfoss double waterfall on the Hvita River. After witnessing these natural wonders, it’s time to reap the benefits of Iceland’s geothermal activity for yourself, with a soak in the warm waters of the Secret Lagoon. Fed by various hot springs in the surrounding area, this spot is the oldest pool in Iceland – though it’s had a facelift since first opening in 1894. Once you're fully destressed (or before your fingertips start to prune), head back to your accommodation, and depending on the weather, rug up in warm clothing and head out in search of the northern lights.

Included Activities:
-Golden Circle - Strokkur Geysir
-Fludir - Secret Lagoon
-Golden Circle - Gullfoss Waterfall

Day 4: Hveragerdi / South Coast

Location: Hveragerdi / South Coast

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast, dinner

Start the day by visiting the magical Seljalandsfoss waterfall and take a walk behind its cascade for a different perspective, followed by the powerful Skogafoss waterfall, one of Iceland's biggest at a width of 25 metres and a drop of 60 metres. From here embark on a short hike to another breathtaking waterfall, Kvernufoos, hidden in a nearby valley, and unbeknownst to most. The waterfall is framed by moss-coated cliffs of lava rock, adding to its otherworldly appearance. After you’ve had your fill of gorgeous waterfalls, prepare to take a walk on one of Europe's biggest ice caps – the mighty Solheimajokull Glacier. No experience is necessary to partake in the hike – your guide will brief you on all you need to know so you can explore the icy caves and crevasses safely. This evening you’ll enjoy a comforting dinner at your accommodation before looking to the skies in search of dancing lights.

Included Activities:
-South Coast - Kvernufoss Waterfall Hike
-South Coast - Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
-South Coast - Skogafoss Waterfall visit
-South Coast - Solheimajokull Glacier Hike

Day 5: Thingvellir National Park - Reykjavik

Location: Thingvellir National Park - Reykjavik

Meals Included: breaksfast

It’s time to head back to Reykjavik. En route, stop at Thingvellir National Park to see the Parliament Plains, the site of Iceland’s first parliament. Thingvellir also contains the Silfra fissure, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are slowly pulling apart, the resulting gap partly filled with fresh water and clearly visible. Once you get back to Reykjavik, your leader will take you out on a walking tour to discover more of the history and culture of this fascinating city. Once this concludes, you will say your goodbyes and your adventure will come to an end.

Included Activities:
-Reykjavik - Leader-led walking tour
-Golden Circle - Thingvellir National Park

Optional Activities:
-Reykjavik - Silfra Fissure Snorkelling Day Trip inc return transfer from Reykjavik
-Reykjavik - Lava Tunnel Tour
-Reykjavik - Settlement Exhibition
-Reykjavik - Whales of Iceland Museum
-Reykjavik - Saga Museum
-Reykjavik - Harpa Concert Hall - Free
-Reykjavik - Maritime Museum

What's Included

  • Accommodation
    Hotel (4 nights)

  • Reykjanes Peninsula - Herbal tea and salt workshop visit

  • Reykjanes Peninsula - Gunnuhver hot springs

  • Reykjanes Peninsula - Bridge between Continents

  • Reykjanes Peninsula - Strandarkirkja

  • Golden Circle - Strokkur Geysir

  • Fludir - Secret Lagoon

  • Golden Circle - Gullfoss Waterfall

  • South Coast - Kvernufoss Waterfall Hike

  • South Coast - Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

  • South Coast - Skogafoss Waterfall visit

show more

What's Not Included

  • Tipping and Gratuities

  • International Travel

Transport

  • On this trip we are travelling in our own private minibus as this allows us to reach some more off the beaten path destinations and gives us flexibility which would not be possible by public transport. Please note that there are some long travel days and some rough stretches on gravelly and windy roads. On some days we depart early in the morning to ensure we optimise our time. All our vehicles in Iceland have complimentary Wi-Fi.

Accommodation

  • The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline only and may change. On some occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our preferred accommodation. In these cases, we will use a similar standard of accommodation.
  • Throughout the trip, we request that our properties prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However, this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination or on some trips, have use of shared day rooms until all rooms are available.

Important Information

  • 1. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights of your trip and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
  • 2. This trip starts in Reykjavik on Day 1 at 6pm. This trip finishes in Reykjavik at approximately 2pm on Day 5. Please do not book any flights until after 6pm.

Mode of Transport

  • On this trip we are travelling in our own private minibus as this allows us to reach some more off the beaten path destinations and gives us flexibility which would not be possible by public transport. Please note that there are some long travel days and some rough stretches on gravelly and windy roads. On some days we depart early in the morning to ensure we optimise our time. All our vehicles in Iceland have complimentary Wi-Fi.

Check out our Q&As

  • Is this trip right for you

    The northern lights are most visible during the colder months, when temperatures can reach -15 °C or below and snow is very likely. It's important to bring appropriate clothing such as a down jacket, thermals layers, gloves and suitable footwear.

    While there is a strong chance of seeing the northern lights in all their colourful glory (thanks to the high latitude, time of year and itinerary), nature makes no guarantees. On the rare occasion that your leader must alter the itinerary due to adverse weather, alternative activities will be offered.

    A remote location and high-performing currency are just two reasons Iceland can be an expensive destination. This affects things like museum entrance fees and outdoor activities but is especially noticeable when eating out. Your leader will be able to advise on ways to get the best value during your visit.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers around the world for over 30 years

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Since 2002, The Intrepid Foundation has supported over 130 organisations across the world. We’re creating positive impact through the joy of travel, community and connection.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Over 50% of traveller travel solo with Intrepid. You can choose to share a room with another solo travelle of the same sex for no additional charge, or choose to pay a single supplement if you’d like your own room. Please request this when booking, and we will secure you a single supplement wherever possible. Please note, if you are booking a last-minute trip, it may be harder for us to secure a single room

Reviews of this operator

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Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    Intrepid Travel allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 56 days before the start of the tour.

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Intrepid Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform intrepid travel, 56 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Intrepid Travel requires a minimum deposit of 400 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 56 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of intrepid travel charges.

    Up to 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 55 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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