Itinerary

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  Pick-up

  Day 1 - Reykajvik

  Your adventure starts with our swift and efficient pickup service. We offer direct pickups from a wide range of designated locations across the capital region. Our goal is to complete the pickup process promptly, allowing us to dedicate the remainder of our time together to exploring the marvels of the Golden Circle.

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  Day 1 - Golden Circle

  With an estimated age of approximately 3000 years, the Kerið volcanic crater presents a truly impressive spectacle. This exceptionally well-preserved caldera boasts a diameter of 170 meters and a depth of 55 meters. Nestled at the crater’s base lies a mesmerizing aquamarine blue lake.

  Visitors to Kerið have the option to observe this natural wonder from its rim or descend towards the water’s edge via a wooden staircase. Regardless of the vantage point chosen, the grandeur of Kerið is sure to leave a lasting impression.

  To ensure the preservation and protection of this site, a modest entrance fee has been introduced in recent years, and it is already included in your tour price.

  At Friðheimar farm, you’ll experience Icelandic horses and geothermal horticulture. Meet the unique Icelandic horses known for their strength and unique gaits. Explore the greenhouse powered by geothermal energy, where you’ll learn about tomato cultivation under powerful sun lamps. Enjoy a guided greenhouse tour and sample the produce before a leisurely lunch (not included in tour price).

  Gullfoss, or the “Golden Falls,” is among Iceland’s mightiest waterfalls. Fed by meltwater from Langjökull glacier, Hvítá glacier river creates this awe-inspiring cascade. In winter, it flows at 80 cubic meters per second, rising to a massive 140 cubic meters per second in summer. Prepare to be drenched by the waterfall’s spray, a small price to pay for witnessing nature’s force.

  The English word “geyser” originates from Icelandic, and our next stop is the Geysir geothermal area. Situated in Haukadalur valley, while Geysir itself no longer erupts naturally, its younger sibling, Strokkur, performs reliably every 5 to 10 minutes. Strokkur’s bubbling buildup creates anticipation before it shoots boiling water and steam up to 20 meters high. Aside from Strokkur, visitors can explore walking paths and witness the park’s famous boiling hot springs and steam vents.

  Our final destination is Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its geological and historical significance. Positioned in the rift valley between the North-American and Eurasian tectonic plates, Thingvellir showcases the remarkable impact of continental drift, with these plates drifting apart by up to 2cm each year, resulting in a dramatic and unparalleled landscape. Almannagjá, a canyon between the plates, allows visitors to stroll seamlessly between the two continents.

  Thingvellir also holds historical importance as the initial location of the Icelandic Althingi, the world’s oldest ongoing parliament. Descendants of the first settlers convened here, resolving disputes, with chieftains traveling for days or weeks to represent their tribes. This assembly persisted from 930 AD until 1798, when it was relocated to Reykjavík.

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  Day 1 - Reykjavik

  After walking through the park, we return to Reykjavík where guests are dropped off at designated hotels and bus stops.

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  Day 2 - Reykjavik

  Our second day tour starts with efficient pick-up service from various designated locations across the capital area, encompassing hotels, guesthouses, and bus stops. As we gather all passengers on board, our journey unfolds towards the east of the city, embarking on a captivating exploration of the south coast’s prominent attractions.

  This route primarily presents a juxtaposition of mountains on one side of the bus and the often windswept North Atlantic seacoast on the other. Over millennia, the forces of glacial and sea erosion have played a pivotal role in shaping this diverse and dramatic landscape. It showcases glaciers, volcanoes, black sand beaches, and extensive lava fields adorned with moss. This intriguing contrast offers a varied day tour that provides glimpses of the finest facets of Icelandic nature.

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  Day 2 - South Coast of Iceland

  Our first destination of the day is the magnificent Skógafoss waterfall. This impressive natural wonder stands at a height of 60 meters and cascades from ancient sea cliffs, with the iconic Eyjafjallajökull volcano gracing the backdrop. The sheer magnitude of Skógafoss’s descent makes it a truly awe-inspiring sight.

  The picturesque village of Vík is located east of Skógafoss and is renowned for its captivating church and breathtaking views of the Reynisdrangar sea rock formations. Despite its small size, Vík offers a welcoming haven for tired travelers to replenish their energy. It’s also an excellent opportunity to acquire locally crafted souvenirs to commemorate your visit to Iceland.

  A brief stroll from the village along a scenic path takes you to the Vík black sand beach, providing you with the closest vantage point to admire the Reynisdrangar Sea-Stacks. According to local folklore, some more spiritually inclined individuals believe these stacks to be the petrified remains of trolls.

  Reynisfjara black sand beach is a renowned natural wonder in Iceland, earning a spot on National Geographic’s list of the world’s top 10 non-tropical beaches. This striking shoreline boasts ebony sands crafted by the relentless forces of the sea, resulting from the erosion of black volcanic rocks.

  During your visit, you’ll also encounter the peculiar and surreal basalt column wall. It’s a quintessential Icelandic experience to ascend these columns and strike a pose for memorable photographs. The beach’s captivating cave adds to its wonder and serves as a popular location for wedding photoshoots, with good reason.

  Exploring this area offers you an alternative perspective of Reynisfjara and Dyrhólaey. However, it’s essential to exercise caution, as the region is known for sneaker waves. Please follow your guide’s safety instructions, as the area can be quite rugged and exposed to strong winds. Be sure to dress warmly to stay comfortable in this unpredictable coastal environment.

  Sólheimajökull, an outlet glacier of Mýrdalsjökull icecap, descends 8km from its parent glacier, showcasing climate change effects. Despite its fascinating and eerie beauty, the glacier now requires a 20-minute walk from a nearby parking lot due to its retreat. Over the years, the glacier has melted rapidly, leaving behind unique features like moraines, steep mountains, large rock boulders, and a small glacier lagoon. The ice’s color varies and can even appear distinctly blue after rainfall, highlighting the immense influence of these powerful glaciers on the landscape.

  Seljalandsfoss, a famous Instagram spot, boasts a path leading around and behind the waterfall. Fed by Eyjafjallajökull glacier-capped volcano, it’s a top Icelandic attraction. Nearby, find the hidden gem, Gljúfrabúi waterfall. Raincoats and sturdy shoes are essential, especially if you plan to walk behind the waterfall. This marks the end of our tour, and we commence our journey back to the city, where your Icelandic adventure can continue.

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  Day 2 - Reykjaivk

  We are heading back to Reykjavik after this wonderful day exploring the beauty of South Iceland.

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  Day 3 - Northern Lights Hunt

  When purchasing a ticket for this tour, you’ll receive an exciting bonus: a complimentary ticket to the Aurora Reykjavík Museum located in downtown Reykjavík.

  The museum is open throughout the day, and you can choose to be picked up for the tour from there if you prefer. It serves as an excellent introduction to the science and magic of the Northern Lights. This multimedia exhibition features interactive displays and an educational center explaining how different cultures perceive and interact with the Northern Lights. Additionally, you can find valuable information on the best camera setups to capture lasting memories of your Icelandic experience.

   

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  Day 3 - Northern Lights Hunt

  Reykjavik city’s high light pollution levels make it challenging to observe the aurora effectively. Thus, our tour ventures into the dark countryside, where you can enjoy an optimal aurora viewing experience. Our knowledgeable Northern Lights Team and guide will ensure a memorable outing by imparting essential information about this natural phenomenon and taking you to prime locations for witnessing the Aurora Borealis. Trust the BusTravel Iceland team to go the extra mile to create an exceptional night for you.

  The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon known for their wild and unpredictable nature. To chase the lights successfully, patience and appropriate warm clothing are essential. During our evening tour, we offer comforting hot chocolate and classic Icelandic snacks to enhance your experience. Please ensure you dress warmly, as spending time outside in the Arctic winter requires proper clothing.

  While Iceland provides favorable conditions for Northern Lights viewing, sightings cannot be guaranteed due to their unpredictable nature. If you are unlucky and don’t see the lights on our tour, we offer a free rescheduling to another evening. Your guide will provide details on how to rebook if necessary. This offer is valid for three years from your first tour departure date.

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  Drop-off

  Day 3 - Reykjavik

  After the tour, we’ll return you to Reykjavik and drop you off at your chosen location. Please note that the tour’s duration is typically 3-4 hours but may vary depending on evening weather conditions.