Question 1

How much does it cost to see the Golden Circle in Iceland?

Accepted Answer

The cost will depend on which tour you choose. Each package is priced individually, depending on what’s included, how long it lasts, and any other extras.

Check out the individual tour pages for up to date prices.

Question 2

Where to stay on the Golden Circle?

Accepted Answer

Most visitors explore the Golden Circle while staying in Reykjavík. As the city is such a short distance away—and as it boasts a range of high-quality accommodation—it might be the best option for you too.

Question 3

Is there a lot of walking on the Golden Circle tour?

Accepted Answer

There are opportunities for walking at each of the destinations in the Golden Circle. And while you don’t have to walk too much if you don’t feel up to it, a little bit of walking is to be expected.

For example, at Gullfoss, you’ll need to walk for about 10 minutes from the carpark to reach the waterfalls. You’ll have to walk for a few hundred metres to reach Geysir too.

At Þingvellir, you can walk as far or little as you like, but you’ll need to go further than at the other sights. For example, the main highlights can be covered in a 40 minute walk. But if you want to see more, a longer walk takes about an hour and a half.

Question 4

What to see on the Golden Circle?

Accepted Answer

The most famous sights on the Golden Circle are Þingvellir National Park, Gullfoss Waterfall, and Geysir—a trio of true natural wonders. However, there’s a lot more to see if you put the time aside.

For example, there’s Friðheimar greenhouse and restaurant, an innovative agricultural project serving up incredible locally grown cuisine. Or there’s Sólheimar, the eco-village and artistic community.

Don’t miss other sights, such as Kerið crater, the stunning bowl with a lake in the bottom. The Langjökull glacier is another great place to see while you’re on the Golden Circle route too. Many people explore on a snowmobile or monster truck.

While they’re not technically on the Golden Circle, make sure you visit the Sky Lagoon or the Blue Lagoon too.

Question 5

How long is the drive from Reykjavík to Golden Circle?

Accepted Answer

The journey to the Golden Circle from Reykjavík takes about an hour. But you should also expect some travel between sights.

Overall, the Golden Circle route is about 230 kilometres (140 miles), between Þingvellir, Gullfoss, and Geysir. You will be travelling for a minimum of three hours.

Question 6

Is Secret Lagoon part of the Golden Circle?

Accepted Answer

While the Secret Lagoon is located in the same region as the Golden Circle, it’s not typically part of the classic itinerary. That said, if you would like to visit the Secret Lagoon, it’s very easy to add it to your trip!

Question 7

How many days for the Golden Circle in Iceland?

Accepted Answer

That depends on how long you’ve got and what you want to see.

Most people explore the Golden Circle in just a single day, usually from Reykjavík. But you can add extra experiences to your tour, taking you to ice caves, Jökulsárlón, and even to the north coast.

Question 8

How long does it take to do the Golden Circle tour in Iceland?

Accepted Answer

You can take as long as you would like to see the Golden Circle in Iceland. There are a range of tours available to best suit your needs.

The most popular Golden Circle tour is the day tour from Reykjavík. You’ll leave the city in the morning and be dropped back in the evening—giving you the day to explore the sights.

If you’re short on time, you can do it more quickly. For example, express tours show you the main destinations in just over six hours.

Or, take it more leisurely. Combine your Golden Circle visit with a stop at the Blue Lagoon, the Friðheimar greenhouse and restaurant, or other sights in the area. Many tours can involve overnight stays, too.

Question 9

Can you do the Golden Circle in one day?

Accepted Answer

One of the most popular ways to see the Golden Circle is with a day tour from Reykjavík. It’s a really convenient option to see some of the most famous sights in Iceland while keeping a base in the capital.

You can join us at the BSÍ bus station in Reykjavík in the morning (or we can pick you up from your accommodation) and we’ll drop you back in town at the end of the day.

Question 10

Is the Golden Circle in Iceland worth it?

Accepted Answer

The Golden Circle is one of Iceland’s most famous destinations, and it’s definitely worth a visit when you’re in the Land of Ice and Fire.

Where else would you see geysers shooting water into the sky above your head? Or walk in the great trench between Europe and North America?

If there’s one thing you should do while in Iceland, it’s this.

Question 11

Does the Golden Circle tour include Blue Lagoon?

Accepted Answer

The Golden Circle tour doesn’t include the Blue Lagoon as standard. Typically, visitors to Iceland choose to visit the Blue Lagoon separately.

However, it’s very easy to combine the two sights. With a Golden Circle tour and Blue Lagoon package, you can visit both on the same day.

Question 12

How to dress for the Golden Circle Iceland?

Accepted Answer

No matter the season you’re visiting in, the first thing to know about Iceland is that the weather is very changeable. That means that when you’re visiting the Golden Circle—or joining any tour in fact—you’ll need to be prepared for any weather.

Generally, we suggest you wear warm layers, sturdy shoes, and a waterproof and windproof jacket. It’s better to be prepared, even if you don’t need it.

Question 13

Do I need hiking boots for the Golden Circle?

Accepted Answer

We always recommend that you wear hiking boots—or at least sturdy, reliable shoes—when visiting the Golden Circle. You’ll be outside in the Icelandic outdoors, after all, and the terrain can sometimes be challenging.

For example, throughout the day, you’ll be walking on rocks, grass, and paths in a national park. It’s sensible if you wear shoes that can handle these changing environments.

Question 14

What is included in a Golden Circle tour?

Accepted Answer

What’s included in your Golden Circle tour will depend on which tour you book. However, as standard, you can expect transportation to the sites plus admission. On every tour, you’ll also benefit from expert guidance and local knowledge.

If you want to add other destinations or experiences to your tour—for example the Blue Lagoon or glacier snowmobiling—these will be covered in the cost too.

Question 15

Can you do snowmobiling in Iceland in summer?

Accepted Answer

You can go snowmobiling in Iceland even in the summer. The ice caps have snow on them all year round and they’re a great place to visit in any season. We run snowmobiling tours throughout the year.

Question 16

Is there a weight limit for snowmobiles in Iceland?

Accepted Answer

There is no weight limit for riding on a snowmobile. In fact, on most snowmobile tours, you’ll likely be riding with two people per vehicle.

However, you will need to be of a reasonable level of fitness to take part in the tours. And you’ll need to be able to fit into the gear we provide.

Question 17

Can you snowmobile in Iceland in December?

Accepted Answer

December is a great time for Iceland snowmobile tours. While up on the glaciers there’s snow in Iceland year round, December is one of the best months for fresh powder. Take a snowmobile tour to see Iceland at its wintry best.

Be aware that the winter months in Iceland have quite volatile weather. That means that we may have to rearrange snowmobile tours at short notice.

Question 18

Can you rent snowmobiles in Reykjavík?

Accepted Answer

Snowmobiles are available to hire in Reykjavík as part of a guided tour. However, you won’t be able to rent snowmobiles to drive them around by yourself.

The simple reason for that is that snowmobiling poses plenty of risks, particularly if you don’t know the local landscape and have never driven before.

Question 19

Can you snowmobile all year round in Iceland?

Accepted Answer

Snowmobiling is possible throughout the year in Iceland. That’s because the ice caps have permanent snow. Go snowmobiling and get a taste of winter, even in Iceland’s summer!

Question 20

What if I'm prone to getting cold? Will the provided gear be sufficient?

Accepted Answer

While we provide insulated suits, helmets, gloves, and balaclavas for added warmth, we recommend wearing warm, layered clothing underneath, especially if you tend to feel cold easily.

Question 21

Can I bring my own snowmobile gear?

Accepted Answer

While we provide comprehensive snowmobile gear, you're welcome to bring your gear if you prefer. However, please ensure that your gear meets safety standards and is appropriate for snowmobiling.

Question 22

Can I bring my backpack on the snowmobile?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can bring a small backpack with essential items. However, it's recommended to keep it securely fastened to prevent any interference while operating the snowmobile. This is especially convenient for carrying snacks, water, and other necessities to keep you refreshed during the adventure.

Question 23

Is snowmobiling in Iceland worth it?

Accepted Answer

Imagine racing across an icy desert with the wind in your hair, while exploring the secrets and surprises of the wilderness. On a snowmobiling tour in Iceland, you can do exactly that.

Is it worth it? Definitely! For many, it’s the highlight of their trip to Iceland. Ask yourself this: how often do you get to drive a snowmobile at home?

Explore our tours to find an experience you’ll remember forever.

Question 24

Is it safe to snowmobile on glaciers?

Accepted Answer

It’s perfectly safe to ride snowmobiles on glaciers as part of a tour.

Glaciers are harsh and volatile landscapes, with frequently changing conditions. We don’t recommend you visit them without a guide no matter whether you travel on foot, skis, or snowmobile.

That said, with a guide, they’re perfectly safe. Your guide will show you the best and most secure areas to visit and ensure you have the skills and equipment to stay safe out in the elements.

Question 25

Will there be breaks during the snowmobiling ride?

Accepted Answer

The snowmobiling tour includes stops at notable points of interest, allowing you to marvel at the surroundings and take a breather from the exhilarating ride.

Question 26

Is prior snowmobiling experience necessary to join the tour?

Accepted Answer

No prior snowmobiling experience is required. The tour is designed to accommodate participants of all skill levels. Our experienced guides will provide a brief safety overview and basic instructions before the adventure begins. A valid driver's license is needed to operate a snowmobile.

Question 27

Are the balaclavas provided for the snowmobiling tour clean?

Accepted Answer

Yes, all provided balaclavas are thoroughly cleaned and sanitized after each use to ensure your comfort and hygiene.

Question 28

Can you snowmobile in Iceland in September?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can go snowmobiling in Iceland in September. While this is probably the period of the year with the lowest snow coverage, Iceland has areas of permanent snow year-round. That means that you can go snowmobiling whenever you visit Iceland.

Question 29

Where is the best place to snowmobile in Iceland?

Accepted Answer

Two of the best places to go snowmobiling in Iceland are Langjökull and Mýrdalsjökull. These are two of Iceland’s largest ice caps, with the most reliable snow throughout the year.

The second largest ice cap in Iceland, Langjökull can be very easily reached from Reykjavík. It’s just a short distance from the Golden Circle too, making it really convenient if you want to add snowmobiling to your sightseeing tour.

Mýrdalsjökull is at the heart of the south coast, next to the village of Vík. While it’s not as large as Langjökull, it’s just as spectacular.

Question 30

What should you carry on any snowmobile ride?

Accepted Answer

There aren’t many specific things that you’ll need to bring with you when you go snowmobiling.

A valid driving licence is perhaps the most important, because we’ll need to see that you can drive before your ride. Warm clothes and your camera are otherwise all you’ll need to remember.

We’ll equip you with everything else you need for your trip, including a helmet and any safety equipment you need for the snow.

Question 31

What do you wear to snowmobile in Iceland?

Accepted Answer

Your priority while snowmobiling will be to stay warm, particularly in winter. We’ll provide overalls, a helmet, and goggles. But warm layers, a warm, windproof, and waterproof jacket, and gloves and warm socks will all be a must.

Question 32

What is the best month to snowmobile in Iceland?

Accepted Answer

You can go on a snowmobiling tour in Iceland throughout the year. Iceland’s ice caps are white and snowy all year round and can give you a taste of Iceland’s winter landscapes even in the summer. Head up to Langjökull and Mýrdalsjökull and you’ll find a thrilling world to explore.

We run snowmobile tours daily. Just be aware that, if the weather is bad—particularly during winter—we may have to cancel these at short notice. You will be heading to some of the wildest landscapes on Earth, after all!

Question 33

Is there a speed limit for snowmobiles in Iceland?

Accepted Answer

Snowmobiles can go incredibly fast, with some reaching up to 100 kilometres (160 m/h), or more. However, you won’t be going this fast yourself. Instead, expect to reach speeds of about 70 km/h (43 m/h).

The Ultimate Golden Circle Iceland Adventure

Need to know

Requirements

Tour itinerary

Pick-up in Reykjavík

Thingvellir National Park

Gullfoss Waterfall

Geysir Geothermal Area

Langjökull Glacier

What’s included and what to bring on this tour

Included

Not included

Are you wondering about something?

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