The Golden Circle is more than just a route: it’s a journey into the heart of Iceland’s most spectacular and accessible natural wonders.
This classic day trip from Reykjavik covers a loop of roughly 300 kilometres, weaving through a landscape shaped by volcanic activity, glacial forces, and centuries of rich history.
It’s the perfect introduction to Iceland for first-time visitors, offering a blend of dramatic scenery, geological marvels, and cultural heritage.
Along the way, you’ll encounter three unforgettable highlights. Each one is unique, awe-inspiring, and deeply connected to the raw energy of Icelandic nature:
Thingvellir National Park
Step into history and geology at Thingvellir, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates are slowly pulling apart.
Walk between continents and explore the rift valley where Iceland’s first parliament was founded over a thousand years ago.
Thingvellir National Park is a place where nature and history meet dramatically.
Geysir Geothermal Area
Feel the earth’s energy beneath your feet at the home of geysers!
While the original Great Geysir now sleeps, its younger sibling Strokkur erupts every 5–10 minutes, shooting steaming water high into the air.
The surrounding area bubbles and steams, creating an otherworldly atmosphere that’s both wild and amazing.
Gullfoss Waterfall
No visit to the Golden Circle is complete without witnessing the power of Gullfoss, the “Golden Falls.”
This two-tiered waterfall crashes into a rugged canyon with thunderous force, often casting rainbows in the mist on sunny days.
It’s a place that makes you stop, stare, and feel the true force of nature.
Discover The Golden Circle, the EastWest way
The Golden Circle experience doesn’t stop there. If this glimpse into Iceland’s natural wonders has sparked your wanderlust, join EastWest on a small-group Golden Circle tour from Reykjavík.
In addition to the classic highlights, we include a few special extras that we truly enjoy sharing with our guests:
Friðheimar Greenhouse: a taste of innovation
Friðheimar is a unique geothermal greenhouse where tomatoes are cultivated year-round.
Enjoy a delightful lunch amidst the lush greenery, savouring dishes made from the freshest ingredients, and learn about sustainable farming practices in Iceland’s challenging climate.
Efstidalur Dairy Farm: ice cream with a view
Nestled in the countryside along the Golden Circle route, Efstidalur is a charming family-run farm where tradition meets taste. Here, guests can savour freshly made ice cream crafted from the farm’s own dairy, all while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding Icelandic landscape, and even glimpsing the cows themselves through large windows beside the café.
It’s a sweet and authentic stop that adds warmth and flavour to your journey.
Kerið Crater: a volcanic marvel
Kerið is a striking volcanic crater lake known for its vivid red slopes and vibrant blue waters.
Formed over 3,000 years ago, it offers a picturesque setting that’s perfect for photography and reflection.
Conclusion
To sum it up, the Golden Circle is a must. It captures the essence of the island in just one day: roaring waterfalls, ancient history, geothermal power, and unforgettable landscapes.
What sets our tour apart isn’t just the incredible destinations: it’s the way we bring them to life. It’s not only about the places we visit, but the care and experience we bring to every step of the journey.
With EastWest, your adventure is personal, flexible, and full of moments you’ll remember long after you leave.
Let the land of fire and ice surprise you.
