Reykjavik Golden Circle & Northern Lights Superjeep Day Trip

Summary

Gullfoss spray, Strokkur eruptions & chasing auroras from Reykjavik

You’ll ride from Reykjavik through Thingvellir’s rift valley, feel Gullfoss’ icy mist on your skin, watch Strokkur erupt right in front of you, and end by chasing Northern Lights under a huge Icelandic sky—with hot drinks and stories from your local guide along the way.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was how the Superjeep tires crunched over the icy street outside my Reykjavik hotel—like biting into cold toast. Our guide, Jón, greeted us with a quick smile and handed out mugs of coffee that steamed up the windows. I’d read about Thingvellir before but standing there, boots sinking into soft moss, it felt different. The wind smelled faintly of minerals (or maybe that’s just Iceland), and Jón pointed out where two continents actually pull apart. He told us about the world’s oldest parliament right there—930 AD!—but honestly I was distracted by how quiet it all was except for someone’s laughter echoing off the rocks.

Strokkur was next. I thought I’d be ready for it, but when that geyser shot up—blue bubble then sudden whoosh—I jumped and nearly spilled my drink. The air tasted like eggs (Jón said sulfur, but “eggs” is closer), and everyone kind of shuffled back at once, grinning. Gullfoss came after—a short drive but it felt like entering another world. You get close enough to feel the mist on your face, which is freezing but sort of wakes you up in a good way. There were rainbows over the gorge even though the sky was mostly gray; someone next to me tried to take a photo but just ended up laughing because their lens fogged up.

After dark we went hunting for the Northern Lights. Jón drove us way out past any streetlights—he said he checks forecasts every day to pick the best spot. We waited in silence for a while (except for some shuffling and nervous jokes). When green ribbons finally started moving across the sky, nobody said anything at first. It didn’t look real… more like paint swirling above us. I still think about that moment sometimes when things get noisy back home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Golden Circle and Northern Lights tour

• Pickup from Reykjavik hotel
• Travel to Thingvellir National Park
• Explore Thingvellir and lake
• Visit Geysir geothermal field
• Watch Strokkur geyser erupt
• See Gullfoss waterfall
• Chase Northern Lights at night
• Return to Reykjavik hotel

Top questions

How long is the Golden Circle & Northern Lights Superjeep tour?

The tour lasts approximately 10 hours including all stops and travel time.

Does this Reykjavik day trip include hotel pickup?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off in Reykjavik are included in your booking.

What attractions are visited on this Golden Circle tour?

The tour visits Thingvellir, Geysir geothermal area (including Strokkur), and Gullfoss waterfall before heading out to see the Northern Lights.

Are hot drinks provided during the Superjeep tour?

Yes, hot drinks are served on board during the trip.

Is WiFi available during this Golden Circle day trip?

Yes, there is WiFi connection available on board during your journey.

Can infants join this Golden Circle & Northern Lights tour?

Infants and small children can join; prams or strollers are allowed and specialized infant seats are available.

Will we see the Northern Lights for sure?

Sightings depend on weather conditions; guides choose locations based on daily forecasts for best chances.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Reykjavik, guidance from a knowledgeable local driver throughout Thingvellir, Geysir/Strokkur, and Gullfoss stops, plus hot drinks served onboard and WiFi connection as you chase the Northern Lights late into the evening before returning to your hotel.