Golden Circle & Bruarfoss: Small Group Day Trip from Reykjavik

Summary

Gullfoss mist, tectonic rifts, and a farm stop on Iceland’s Golden Circle

You’ll feel Iceland’s wild contrasts on this Golden Circle day trip from Reykjavik: standing between continents at Þingvellir, feeling Gullfoss spray on your face, wandering down to Bruarfoss’ unreal blue water, and sharing laughs at an Icelandic farm before heading home tired and happy.

What’s the experience like?

Is it weird that the first thing I remember about our Golden Circle day trip from Reykjavik isn’t the waterfalls or volcanoes, but the way our guide Hildur hummed along to some Icelandic pop song as we left the city? Maybe it’s because it felt like we were heading out with a friend, not just joining another tour. The minibus was warm (thank god), and there was this mix of excitement and that low winter light slanting across the road. First stop: Þingvellir. I’d read about tectonic plates before, but actually standing between them—wind biting my cheeks—felt different. Hildur pointed out where the old parliament met, and I tried to imagine people gathering here a thousand years ago in woolen cloaks. The ground smelled faintly of moss and cold stone.

Bruarfoss was next, tucked away down a muddy path (my boots still have some of that Icelandic mud). The water really is that blue—almost fake-looking against all the black rocks and green moss. It wasn’t huge or loud like Gullfoss, but there was something hypnotic about watching it tumble over those lava steps. We just stood there for a while listening to nothing but water and someone’s camera shutter. Then came Gullfoss itself: all mist and thunder, rainbows flickering if you caught the sun at just the right angle. My hands went numb holding my phone for photos, but honestly? Some things you just want to remember without a screen.

I didn’t expect to end up petting sheep on this trip. But after all that wild landscape, stopping at a little farm felt like a reset button—warm barn air, hay sticking to my coat, sheep nuzzling pockets for snacks. One of the farmers let us try saying “bless bless” (bye bye) to her horse; Li laughed when I tried to say it in Icelandic—probably butchered it completely. Last stop was Kerid crater: red rocks circling this shockingly blue lake below. Sunlight hit the moss in patches and made everything look almost painted on.

We rolled back into Reykjavik around five (give or take—the roads can be unpredictable), everyone half asleep or scrolling through photos. I keep thinking about those moments of silence by Bruarfoss or how cold my fingers got at Gullfoss—tiny things that stick with you longer than you’d think.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Golden Circle and volcanic crater

• Pickup from Reykjavik by minibus
• Visit Thingvellir National Park
• See Bruarfoss waterfall
• Visit Gullfoss waterfall
• Explore Kerid volcanic crater
• Return to Reykjavik downtown

Top questions

How long is the Golden Circle day trip from Reykjavik?

The tour starts in the morning with pickup in Reykjavik and returns around 5 p.m., though timing may vary depending on weather and road conditions.

Does this Golden Circle tour include Bruarfoss waterfall?

Yes, this small group day trip includes a visit to Bruarfoss waterfall as well as other key stops like Gullfoss and Kerid crater.

Is pickup included for hotels in Reykjavik?

Pickup is included from designated bus stops in Reykjavik; some hotels require meeting at nearby stops due to traffic restrictions.

Are there restroom stops during the Golden Circle tour?

The itinerary allows for breaks at main attractions where restrooms are available; ask your guide if you need extra stops.

What should I wear for this Golden Circle & Bruarfoss tour?

Dress warmly in layers with waterproof shoes or boots; weather can change quickly along the route.

Is lunch included on this Golden Circle day trip?

No lunch is provided; you can bring snacks or buy food during scheduled stops along the way.

Can infants join this small group Golden Circle tour?

Yes, specialized infant seats are available and infants can ride in prams or strollers if needed.

Will there be Wi-Fi on board during the tour?

Yes, free Wi-Fi is available on the minibus throughout your journey.

What’s included

Your day includes morning pickup from designated bus stops in Reykjavik, comfortable minibus transport with Wi-Fi and Icelandic music onboard, an English-speaking local guide who shares stories along every stop—from Þingvellir’s rift valley to petting animals at an Icelandic farm—and drop-off back downtown by evening.