Kjölur and Golden Circle Exploration from Reykjavik

Reykjavik , Iceland

Kjölur and Golden Circle Exploration from Reykjavik

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14h

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About this experience

Get ready for a unique experience among awesome and untouched wilderness on this full-day guided tour to the Golden Circle and Kjölur. In a small group of no more than six people, drive in a 4x4 along the remote Kjölur route through the central Highlands, taking in rocky deserts, craggy mountain peaks, volcanoes, and glaciers. Also travel the popular Golden Circle route to the mighty Gullfoss waterfall, Geysir's hot springs, and Thingvellir National Park.

Available options

Kjölur and Golden Circle Exploration from Reykjavik

Pickup included

What's included

Professional guide

Pickup and drop-off

Hot drinks on board

Round trip transportation

WiFi connection

What you'll see

At 8:30am, get picked up from your centrally located Reykjavík hotel. Meet your local guide, jump aboard a comfortable 4x4, and get ready for a 14-hour journey into Icelandic nature.

Driving east out of Reykjavík, join the Golden Circle, a popular tourist trail that takes you to three of the country's national treasures. Stop first at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Thingvellir. This was the site of Iceland's first, viking-era, parliament, established in 930, making it one of the oldest in the world. Here you also have the unique experience of walking between two continents as it is where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet.

From Thingvellir, it's around an hour's drive to the mighty Gullfoss waterfall. Watch in awe as its teeming waters plunge into a 105-foot (32-meter) canyon. Next, head for the Geysir geothermal area and marvel as bubbling Strokkur geyser erupts every five to 10 minutes.

Kjölur, a plateau in the mountainous center of Iceland, is only accessible in summer. With its glaciers, volcanoes, and lava fields, it is like nothing else you have ever experienced; a true gem for nature lovers, far off the beaten track. Discovered by the earliest settlers and recorded in the Book of Settlements, the Kjölur area was known for its outlaws, thieves, ghosts, and evil spirits as the desert and hard conditions of the region provided them a shelter. Hear tales of this remote area as you see natural treasures and breathtaking panoramas along the road near Langjökull, 'The Long Glacier.' If the weather is clear, you will see Hofsjökull, the third largest glacier in Iceland and the largest active volcano in the country.

Take in the view of the mountain massif Kerlingarfjöll with its varied colors, due to the diverse geology of the mountain. The volcanic rhyolite stones of shimmering red brings out the wonderful colors of yellow and green of the numerous hot springs and rivulets. This remote and peaceful place is a favorite of not only hikers and nature lovers, but filmmakers too.

After a full day of exploration, drive back your Reykjavík hotel, arriving back at around 10:30pm.

What's not included

Food and drinks, unless specified

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Important notes

Hotel pickups commence prior to this time

About Reykjavik

Reykjavik is the world's northernmost capital city, known for its vibrant cultural scene, stunning natural surroundings, and unique Icelandic charm. It offers a blend of modern amenities and ancient geothermal wonders, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.

Top Attractions

Hallgrímskirkja

This iconic church is a landmark of Reykjavik, known for its distinctive architecture and towering spire. It offers panoramic views of the city from its tower.

Architecture/Religious 1-2 hours Moderate (ISK 1000 for the tower)

Harpa Concert Hall

A stunning modern concert hall with a glass facade that reflects the surrounding landscape. It hosts a variety of performances and events.

Architecture/Entertainment 1-2 hours Free to enter, performance tickets vary

Blue Lagoon

A geothermal spa known for its milky-blue waters rich in minerals. It's a popular spot for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Nature/Relaxation Half a day Expensive (ISK 49,900 and up)

Reykjavik Art Museum

A museum showcasing contemporary Icelandic and international art. It's housed in a striking building with a glass facade.

Museum 1-2 hours Moderate (ISK 1400)

Perlan Museum

A unique museum located in a glass dome that offers a variety of exhibits, including a glacier exhibit and a planetarium.

Museum 2-3 hours Moderate to Expensive (ISK 3,990 and up)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Plokkfiskur

A traditional Icelandic fish stew made with mashed potatoes, white fish, onions, and béchamel sauce.

Main Course Contains fish and dairy

Hákarl

Fermented shark, a traditional Icelandic delicacy known for its strong smell and taste.

Snack Contains fish

Skyr

A thick, creamy Icelandic yogurt-like dairy product, often served with berries or cream.

Dessert Contains dairy

Rúgbrauð

A dense, dark rye bread traditionally baked underground using geothermal heat.

Bread Vegan

Popular Activities

Glacier hiking and ice climbing Whale watching Snowmobiling on a glacier Caving and lava tunnel exploration Visiting geothermal spas like the Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon Enjoying a traditional Icelandic massage or spa treatment Taking a leisurely walk around Tjörnin Lake in Reykjavik Visiting museums and galleries

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the warmest time of the year with long daylight hours, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The city is lively with numerous festivals and events.

8°C to 13°C (46°F to 55°F) 46°F to 55°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Icelandic
Widely spoken: English, Danish, German
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Icelandic Króna (ISK)

Time Zone

GMT+0

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Iceland is a very safe country with low crime rates. However, it's always important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure your safety.

Important Precautions:

• Keep your valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
• Be cautious when using ATMs, and only use ATMs located in secure, well-lit areas
• Research tour operators and rental companies before booking to ensure they are reputable and legitimate

Getting there

By air

Keflavík International Airport • 50 km (31 miles) from Reykjavik

By bus

BSÍ Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is efficient and affordable, with frequent services and easy-to-use ticketing.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Bustravel, Uber (limited availability)

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Reykjavik Hlemmur Vesturbær

Day trips

Golden Circle

230 km (143 miles) from Reykjavik • Full day

A popular day trip route that includes three of Iceland's most famous attractions: Þingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss Waterfall.

South Coast

150-200 km (93-124 miles) from Reykjavik • Full day or overnight

A scenic drive along Iceland's south coast, offering a variety of attractions, including waterfalls, black sand beaches, and glaciers.

Snæfellsnes Peninsula

240 km (149 miles) from Reykjavik • Full day or overnight

A scenic peninsula known as 'Iceland in Miniature' due to its diverse landscapes, including mountains, glaciers, lava fields, and beaches.

Festivals

Reykjavik Arts Festival • Late May to early June Iceland Airwaves • Early November Reykjavik Winter Lights Festival • Late January to early February

Pro tips

Visit the Blue Lagoon or another geothermal spa for a relaxing and rejuvenating experience
Explore Reykjavik's street art and murals, which can be found throughout the city
Take a day trip to the Golden Circle or another nearby attraction for a taste of Iceland's natural wonders
Try traditional Icelandic food, such as lamb soup, fish stew, and fermented shark
Visit a local brewery or distillery and sample Icelandic craft beer or spirits