Golden Circle & Langjökull Glacier: Private Super Jeep Day Trip

Summary

Super Jeep adventure from Reykjavik to Gullfoss, Geysir and glacier

You’ll stand at Þingvellir between continents, watch Strokkur erupt at Geysir, get misted by Gullfoss waterfall and ride out toward Langjökull glacier in a Super Jeep — all with a local guide who actually seems happy to answer your weirdest questions. This private day trip from Reykjavik includes pickup and plenty of moments you’ll want to remember later.

What’s the experience like?

Our guide, Jón, was already grinning when he picked us up in Reykjavik — he’d brought coffee in a battered thermos and told us to buckle up for “proper Icelandic roads.” I liked him right away. The first stop was Þingvellir, where the wind felt sharp enough to wake you if the coffee hadn’t. Jón pointed out the spot where Iceland’s parliament started (930 AD, can you believe it?) and we stood right on the edge of two continents. The ground was crunchy with frost and I kept thinking how strange it was to feel so small but kind of important at the same time. A raven landed nearby, cocked its head at us, then flew off like it had somewhere better to be.

We bumped along past Laugarvatn — Jón said locals swim there even in winter because of the geothermal heat — and made it to Geysir. Strokkur’s eruptions were louder than I expected; I actually flinched the first time it shot up. The air smelled faintly of eggs (that sulphur thing), but after a while you just accept it as part of being here. Someone tried to pronounce “geysir” properly and Jón laughed so hard he nearly dropped his phone. After that we drove on to Gullfoss waterfall, which is honestly massive — I got sprayed just standing near the edge. The sound is sort of like thunder but steadier, more patient.

The real surprise was heading into the highlands for Langjökull glacier in this hulking Super Jeep. There’s something about driving over those rough gravel tracks with snow all around that makes you feel…well, a little wild? We didn’t do the snowmobile add-on (maybe next time) but just standing on that ice under a sky that can’t decide if it’s blue or grey — I still think about that view sometimes when I’m stuck in traffic back home.

On the way back we passed sleepy farms and shaggy horses that seemed completely unbothered by the cold. It wasn’t one of those tours where everything feels staged or rushed — Jón let us linger when we wanted, and answered every odd question (“Do elves really live here?”). So yeah, if you’re looking for a Golden Circle day trip from Reykjavik that doesn’t feel like everyone else’s version, this is probably it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Golden Circle and Langjökull Glacier Tour

• Start at Þingvellir National Park
• View Mid-Atlantic continental divide
• Pass geothermal Laugarvatn lake
• Visit Great Geysir hot spring area
• Watch Strokkur geyser erupt
• Drive to Gullfoss waterfall
• See Gullfoss waterfall in two stages
• Drive up gravel track to Langjökull glacier
• Optional snowmobile ride on glacier
• Descend and cross South Iceland farmland
• Return to Reykjavik

Top questions

How long does the Golden Circle & glacier day trip take?

The private Super Jeep tour lasts 8-9 hours including all main stops.

Is hotel pickup included for this tour?

Yes, hotel or port pickup and drop-off are included in Reykjavik.

What attractions are visited during this Golden Circle day trip?

You visit Þingvellir, Geysir hot springs area, Gullfoss waterfall, Highland road and Langjökull glacier.

Can infants or small children join this private tour?

Yes, specialized infant seats are available and children can use a pram or stroller.

Is there an option for snowmobiling on Langjökull glacier?

A snowmobile ride can be arranged if pre-booked; it's weather dependent.

Are service animals allowed on this tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed during the Golden Circle tour.

Is public transportation nearby for meeting points?

Yes, public transportation options are available close to pickup locations.

What should I wear for a day trip to Langjökull glacier?

Dress warmly with layers; waterproof shoes and windproof jackets are recommended due to changing weather conditions.

What’s included

Your day includes private Super Jeep transport with a knowledgeable driver-guide from Reykjavik, hotel or port pickup and drop-off for convenience, plus all main sightseeing stops at Þingvellir, Geysir hot spring area, Gullfoss waterfall and Langjökull glacier before returning in the evening.