Private Golden Circle tour in Iceland

Private Golden Circle tours typically range from $800-1,200 for groups up to 8 people, making it cost-effective for families or small groups. The price includes private transportation in comfortable vehicle, expert local guide, pickup and dropoff from your Reykjavik accommodation, flexible itinerary customization, Kerið Crater admission, and often complimentary treats like geothermal bread and ice cream. Optional add-ons like Secret Lagoon or extended tours (Northern Lights, additional stops) may increase the price due to longer duration and additional guide/vehicle time. We’ll provide exact pricing when customizing your itinerary.

Some optional add-ons have their own admission fees (Secret Lagoon ~$35/person, Friðheimar lunch costs vary). Additionally, adding stops that significantly extend your tour duration may increase the overall tour price since it requires additional guide time and vehicle usage beyond the standard 7-8 hour tour. We’re always transparent about pricing – when you request customizations, we’ll provide you with the exact cost breakdown so there are no surprises. Many guests find the added experiences well worth the modest additional cost!

Absolutely. Private tours offer flexible scheduling (start when YOU want), personalized attention from your guide, ability to spend more time at locations you love, and skip crowded tour buses completely. You set the pace entirely. Plus, our private tours include MORE than basic Golden Circle – you get Kerið Crater, geothermal bread experience, and farm ice cream that group tours skip. For families or groups of 4+, the per-person cost difference is surprisingly small (~$250 more per person) but the experience quality is dramatically better. You’ll save 2-3 hours compared to group tours and actually enjoy your day rather than rushing between stops.

You can book directly through our website using the booking form on this page, email us at tours@icelandhighlights.com, or contact us through our website. We typically require 24-hour advance notice but can often accommodate last-minute requests based on guide availability. We recommend booking 7+ days ahead during peak summer season (June-August) for best selection of departure times.

Your tour includes private vehicle (comfortable SUV or minivan) with professional English-speaking driver-guide, direct pickup and dropoff from your Reykjavik accommodation, all fuel and parking fees, WiFi onboard, completely flexible itinerary, Kerið Crater admission, and typically complimentary geothermal bread tasting and ice cream at Efstidalur farm. The main Golden Circle sites (Þingvellir, Geysir, Gullfoss) are free to visit. Additional costs are only optional add-ons you choose and your lunch/dinner if you want a meal stop.

Yes, that’s the beauty of private tours! Want to add the Secret Lagoon for a relaxing soak? Skip Kerið because you’ve seen it before? Add lunch at Friðheimar tomato greenhouse? Extend with Northern Lights hunt in winter? Spend extra time at Gullfoss for photography? Just let us know your preferences when booking or discuss with your guide. We can adjust timing, add stops, skip stops, or completely redesign the route to match your interests, energy level, and schedule. It’s YOUR day!

Private tours offer complete flexibility in timing and stops, personalized guide attention (not shared with 40 strangers), and comfortable pace you control. You get direct hotel pickup and start immediately. Our private tours also include Kerið Crater, geothermal bread experience, and ice cream stop that most group tours don’t offer. Group tours follow fixed schedules with 20-40 people, limited time at each stop (often 15-20 minutes), and waste 45+ minutes collecting passengers from multiple hotels across Reykjavik. With private, you might spend 60 minutes at Þingvellir if you love it, or 20 minutes if you want to move on. With groups, everyone gets the same allocated time regardless of interest.

Private tours eliminate navigation stress, provide expert local knowledge and storytelling, handle all parking and logistics, and are ideal for winter visitors when roads can be icy. Your guide shares Iceland’s history, geology, and culture in ways you’d never learn driving yourself, plus takes you to authentic experiences like geothermal bread tasting and the best ice cream farm. You also get recommendations for restaurants and other activities. Self-driving offers more freedom to extend beyond Golden Circle and is cheaper for solo travelers or large groups (8+), but requires winter driving confidence if visiting November-April, and you miss the educational component, local insights, and special stops. For first-time Iceland visitors, we strongly recommend private tours for the learning experience and authentic cultural touches alone.

Our standard comfortable vehicles accommodate up to 8 passengers perfectly with plenty of room for winter jackets and bags. For larger groups (9-15 people), we can arrange minibuses or multiple vehicles. Solo travelers are absolutely welcome too – many solo visitors choose private tours for the personalized attention and flexibility. For groups of 4-6 people, private tours are especially cost-effective as the per-person price becomes very competitive with group tours while offering dramatically better experience and more included stops.

Typically 7-8 hours depending on your pace and interests. Since it’s your private tour, we can adjust timing completely. Want to finish in 6 hours because you have evening plans? We’ll keep it moving. Want to extend to 9-10 hours to include Secret Lagoon and leisurely lunch? No problem. This flexibility is impossible with group tours that follow rigid 9-10 hour schedules (including all the passenger pickup time). Most guests find 7-8 hours to be the sweet spot – enough time to truly experience each stop, enjoy the geothermal bread and ice cream, and not feel rushed.

YOU choose! Most guests prefer 9am starts (perfect for seeing attractions in good light and avoiding crowds), but we accommodate early birds (7am departure for photographers who want morning light) or late risers (10-11am starts work great). We pick you up directly from your Reykjavik accommodation at your preferred time. This is a huge advantage over group tours with fixed 8am departures that require bus terminal arrival by 7:30am.

Yes, and winter private tours are actually ideal! Your expert guide navigates potentially icy roads safely while you relax and enjoy stunning snow-covered landscapes. We provide crampons (ice cleats) for walking on icy paths at waterfalls. Winter Golden Circle offers magical frozen waterfalls, snow-covered Kerið Crater, possibility of Northern Lights on evening tours, and far fewer tourists. The roads are maintained well but can be challenging for those unfamiliar with winter driving – this is when private tours really shine compared to self-driving.

Yes! We operate private Golden Circle tours daily throughout the entire year, 365 days including Christmas and New Year’s. Each season offers unique experiences: winter brings Northern Lights possibilities and frozen waterfalls (Nov-Mar), spring features powerful waterfalls from snowmelt (Apr-May), summer offers midnight sun and lush green landscapes (Jun-Aug), and autumn provides gorgeous fall colors and fewer crowds (Sep-Oct). Your guide adapts commentary and timing to seasonal conditions and opportunities. The geothermal bread and ice cream stops are available year-round!

Our private Golden Circle tours include MORE than the basic route! Standard stops: Þingvellir National Park where you walk between tectonic plates (45-60 minutes), Laugarvatn for geothermal bread experience (20-30 min), Geysir geothermal area with erupting Strokkur geyser (30-45 minutes), Gullfoss waterfall (30-45 minutes), Efstidalur farm for Iceland’s best ice cream (15-20 min), and Kerið volcanic crater with vivid blue lake (15-20 min). Because it’s private, we can easily add popular extras: Secret Lagoon for hot spring bathing, Friðheimar greenhouse for lunch among tomato plants, Faxi waterfall, or Northern Lights hunt in winter. Just tell us what interests you!

Kerið Crater is INCLUDED in our private Golden Circle tours! We always stop here because it’s one of Iceland’s most photogenic spots with its dramatic aqua-blue lake and vivid volcanic colors. The admission is covered by Iceland Highlights – no extra fees. You’ll have 15-20 minutes to walk around the rim and take photos. Most group tours either skip Kerið entirely or charge it as an add-on.

At Laugarvatn, we stop to taste traditional Icelandic rúgbrauð (rye bread) that’s been baked underground using natural geothermal heat. You’ll watch as the bread is pulled from the hot ground where it’s been baking for 24 hours, then taste this unique sweet, dense bread – often with Icelandic butter. It’s a delicious example of how Icelanders have used geothermal energy for centuries. This stop is typically covered by Iceland Highlights as our treat to you – a taste of authentic Icelandic culture that most tourists miss!

Absolutely! The Secret Lagoon is one of our most popular add-ons. We’ll adjust your timing to include 1-2 hours of relaxation in this natural hot spring (Iceland’s oldest swimming pool, dating from 1891). The entry fee is about $35 per person. Just bring your swimsuit and towel (or rent towels there). Many guests find this the perfect way to relax after walking around the Golden Circle sites and enjoying geothermal bread and ice cream. We recommend adding it as your final stop so you can soak away any tiredness.

Friðheimar (the famous tomato farm restaurant) can be added to your private itinerary – it’s a fantastic lunch stop! You’ll need to book your table in advance (they’re very popular), and we’ll coordinate timing perfectly. Most guests love having lunch surrounded by tomato plants and trying their legendary tomato soup with fresh-baked bread. This adds about 1 hour to your tour. If you don’t do Friðheimar, we already include ice cream at Efstidalur farm, but you’re welcome to add a full meal there too. Your guide will recommend the best options for your preferences.

With private tours, YOU decide! Typical timing: Þingvellir (45-60 minutes to walk the rift and see Öxarárfoss waterfall), Laugarvatn geothermal bread (20-30 min), Geysir (30-45 minutes to see multiple eruptions), Gullfoss (30-45 minutes to view from multiple platforms), Efstidalur ice cream stop (15-20 min), and Kerið Crater (15-20 min). But if you’re a photographer and want 90 minutes at Gullfoss for perfect light – no problem. If you want to skip the ice cream and spend more time at Kerið – also fine. This flexibility is impossible with group tours where everyone gets the same rigid timing regardless of interests.

For winter evening tours (September through March), we can absolutely extend your tour into Northern Lights hunting after completing the Golden Circle stops. This works best with afternoon starts (1-2pm) so you finish the main sights by sunset, then continue to dark locations for aurora viewing. Clear, dark skies are required – your guide will check forecasts and solar activity. This typically extends your tour to 9-11 hours total but combines two Iceland must-dos in one day. You’ll still get to experience the geothermal bread, main sights, and Kerið before hunting for auroras. Summer Northern Lights are impossible due to 24-hour daylight.

Yes! All our guides are fluent in English and many speak additional languages (German, French, Spanish, Italian, Chinese). They’re certified by Icelandic tourism authorities and deeply knowledgeable about Iceland’s geology, history, culture, and folklore. Your guide will tailor their commentary to your group’s interests – whether that’s detailed geology explanations, Viking history, photography tips, or restaurant recommendations. They’ll also share the stories behind geothermal bread and take you to the best local spots. Feel free to ask endless questions – that’s what private tours are for!

Comfortable SUVs or minivans depending on your group size (we match vehicle to your needs – never too large or too small). All vehicles have excellent heating for Icelandic weather, WiFi for staying connected, and are equipped for year-round Icelandic road conditions including winter driving. You’ll have plenty of room for winter jackets, bags, and duty-free shopping. Much more comfortable than sitting in assigned seats on a large tour bus with 40+ people.

Tipping isn’t expected or required in Iceland (we pay our guides well!), but it is appreciated for exceptional service. If your guide goes above and beyond – sharing great local recommendations, taking amazing photos of your group, adjusting the itinerary perfectly to your needs, treating you to geothermal bread or ice cream – a tip of 10-15% is generous and welcomed. Many guests simply round up or add extra based on their experience. Never feel pressured to tip; genuine appreciation and positive reviews mean just as much to our guides.

Each season has its magic! Summer (June-August) offers 20+ hours of daylight, lush green landscapes, and warmest weather – perfect for long photography sessions. The geothermal bread and ice cream taste even better in the sun! Winter (December-February) brings snow-covered scenery, frozen waterfalls, dramatically beautiful Kerið Crater with snow, and Northern Lights possibilities on evening tours. Spring (April-May) features powerful waterfalls from snowmelt and baby lambs in fields. Autumn (September-October) offers stunning fall colors and fewer crowds. Honestly, there’s no bad time – it depends on what you want to experience. Private tours work beautifully year-round.

Layer up using the “onion layer” approach! Start with thermal base layer, add warm mid-layers (fleece or wool), top with waterproof windproof jacket. MUST-HAVES: sturdy waterproof hiking boots (paths can be muddy or icy), warm hat, gloves, and scarf (even in summer – Gullfoss gets windy!). In summer, you’ll still need layers as weather changes rapidly. In winter, hand/foot warmers are clutch. Your guide will have the vehicle heated perfectly for warming up between stops. Icelanders say “there’s no bad weather, only bad clothing!” And don’t worry – you’ll be inside for the geothermal bread and ice cream tastings!

Your private guide will adjust the itinerary for safety and best experience possible. In severe weather, certain roads may close (we monitor conditions continuously) – we’ll reschedule for another day or offer alternative routes/destinations at no extra charge. Light rain? We’ll provide tips for keeping cameras dry and still enjoy the tour (Iceland’s waterfalls look dramatic in rain!). The advantage of private tours is flexibility – we can modify plans on the fly, unlike group tours that must stick to schedule regardless of conditions. The geothermal bread and ice cream stops are available in all weather!

Perfect for families! Private tours let you take bathroom breaks whenever needed, adjust pace for little legs, and your guide can tailor stories and facts for kids’ ages. Children LOVE watching Strokkur geyser erupt, walking between continents at Þingvellir, tasting geothermal bread, and getting ice cream at the farm. We provide car seats (booster seats, infant seats) upon request at no charge. You can also pack snacks, take rest breaks, or skip stops if kids are tired. This flexibility makes family travel so much easier than rigid group tours. Plus, the ice cream and bread make kids super happy!

Þingvellir has paved paths suitable for wheelchairs to the main viewpoints, and Geysir area has paved walkways to see Strokkur eruptions up close. Gullfoss has more limited accessibility (upper viewpoint is reachable but lower platforms require stairs). Kerið Crater has paths around the rim but they can be uneven. Laugarvatn and Efstidalur are accessible. We’ll work with you to maximize accessibility and can suggest alternative stops or viewpoints if needed. Some mobility is required but we can adjust the tour to accommodate various accessibility needs. Please inform us when booking so we can prepare the best itinerary and appropriate vehicle.

Absolutely! Private tours are ideal for seniors because you completely control the pace – walk slowly, rest on benches when needed, and your guide will assist at each stop. Most walking is optional (you can see Gullfoss from upper viewpoint without stairs, Geysir from paved paths, Þingvellir from parking area viewpoints, Kerið from the top). The geothermal bread and ice cream stops are very easy with minimal walking. We provide vehicles with easy entry/exit. Many of our guests are active seniors who appreciate the personalized attention and ability to go at their own comfortable pace without keeping up with a large group.

You’ll enjoy complimentary geothermal bread tasting at Laugarvatn and ice cream at Efstidalur farm (typically our treat!), but full meals aren’t included in the tour price. This gives you flexibility to choose where and what to eat based on your budget and preferences. We schedule a lunch stop if desired and your guide will recommend excellent options matching your taste (traditional Icelandic, casual cafes, Friðheimar greenhouse restaurant). Lunch typically costs $20-40 per person depending on venue. Many guests prefer this flexibility over pre-set group tour meals everyone must eat regardless of dietary needs or appetite.

Popular lunch options include Friðheimar greenhouse restaurant (famous for tomato soup served among tomato plants – book ahead), Efstidalur farm (you can have a full meal there in addition to ice cream), Gullfoss cafe (convenient but basic), or traditional restaurants in Reykholt area. Your guide knows the best spots for your preferences – quick and cheap, unique experience, or traditional Icelandic cuisine. We coordinate timing perfectly so you’re not rushing through meals. Since you already get geothermal bread and ice cream treats, some guests prefer to just have a light lunch. Dietary restrictions? We’ll find suitable options.

Absolutely! Many budget-conscious guests pack lunch from Reykjavik supermarkets to save time and money. We’ll find scenic picnic spots with great views. Your vehicle has cupholders for drinks and space for coolers. Some guests bring snacks for the road (Iceland is expensive, so packing granola bars, fruit, etc. is smart). Since we provide geothermal bread and ice cream, you might only need to bring lunch and drinks. This is another private tour advantage – do whatever works for YOU. Group tours typically require everyone to stop for lunch at the same restaurant whether you’re hungry or not.

We’re a locally owned and operated family business based right here in Reykjavik (not an international booking platform taking commissions). Since 2016, we’ve been offering completely flexible private tour itineraries customized to each traveler’s unique interests and pace. Our certified guides are passionate local experts who love sharing Iceland’s stories, geology, and hidden gems – including authentic experiences like geothermal bread and the best farm ice cream. We provide direct pickup from any Reykjavik accommodation, comfortable modern vehicles, and the personalized service you’d expect from a family-run company. We include MORE stops than basic Golden Circle tours (Kerið Crater, geothermal bread, ice cream) often at no extra charge. We specialize in creating authentic, memorable experiences – not herding tourists through cookie-cutter itineraries. Explore all our Golden Circle tour options to find your perfect Iceland adventure.