Tours from Reykjavik, Iceland: Exploring the Best of Icelandic Wonders
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Iceland, known for its dramatic landscapes, geothermal wonders, and unique cultural heritage, attracts travelers from all over the world. At the heart of this breathtaking country lies Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital and the ideal base from which to explore the island’s natural beauty. Whether you're an adventure seeker, a nature enthusiast, or a history buff, Reykjavik offers a plethora of tour options that promise to showcase the very best of Iceland. Tours from Reykjavik Iceland From the iconic Golden Circle to glaciers, volcanoes, and the elusive Northern Lights, there’s something for everyone in Reykjavik’s surrounding wonders. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through some of the most popular tours available from Reykjavik, each offering a unique way to experience Iceland.
1. The Golden Circle Tour
One of the most popular and well-known tours from Reykjavik is the Golden Circle route, which covers approximately 300 kilometers (186 miles) of stunning Icelandic scenery. This circular route provides an excellent introduction to Iceland’s diverse landscapes, including active geysers, spectacular waterfalls, and geothermal areas. The three main stops along the Golden Circle are:
Þingvellir National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Þingvellir is not only historically significant but also geologically fascinating. It’s where the world’s oldest parliament was founded in 930 AD and where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. The park offers dramatic landscapes, with rift valleys and clear-blue lakes, and it is one of the few places on Earth where you can see these plates pulling apart.
Geysir Geothermal Area: Home to the famous Strokkur geyser, which erupts every few minutes, the Geysir geothermal area is a must-see for those interested in Iceland’s geothermal activity. Watching the geyser erupt in a plume of steam and hot water is an awe-inspiring experience.
Gullfoss Waterfall: One of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls, Gullfoss, also known as the "Golden Falls," is a two-tiered cascade that plunges into a dramatic canyon. The view from the observation deck is breathtaking, and the sound of the water crashing down creates an unforgettable experience.
The Golden Circle can be completed in a single day, making it an ideal option for first-time visitors to Reykjavik who are short on time.
2. The South Coast Tour
For those who want to explore Iceland’s stunning coastline, the South Coast tour from Reykjavik is an essential choice. This full-day tour takes visitors along the southern shoreline, where they’ll encounter black sand beaches, glacial rivers, towering waterfalls, and majestic glaciers.
Key stops along the South Coast include:
Seljalandsfoss Waterfall: A unique waterfall, Seljalandsfoss allows visitors to walk behind the cascading water, offering a perspective that few other waterfalls can provide.
Skógafoss Waterfall: Another awe-inspiring waterfall on the South Coast, Skógafoss is one of Iceland’s largest and most photographed waterfalls. Its powerful flow creates a mist that often produces rainbows on sunny days.
Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach: Known for its dramatic basalt columns and the striking Reynisdrangar sea stacks rising from the ocean, Reynisfjara is one of the most photographed beaches in Iceland. The area is also home to nesting puffins during the summer months.
Sólheimajökull Glacier: For those interested in glacier hiking, a visit to Sólheimajökull Glacier is a must. Guided glacier walks are offered to safely explore the ice and crevasses, providing a thrilling adventure in a surreal environment.
The South Coast tour is an excellent way to experience some of Iceland’s most famous natural wonders in a day, with plenty of opportunities for photography and exploration.
3. Northern Lights Tour
One of Iceland’s most magical phenomena is the Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis. These colorful displays of light in the Arctic sky are best seen between September and March, and Reykjavik is an excellent base for exploring this natural wonder. Northern Lights tours from Reykjavik typically take visitors out of the city to areas with minimal light pollution, increasing the chances of witnessing the ethereal lights.
Northern Lights tours vary in style, from bus tours to private jeep tours or even super jeep excursions that venture into more remote regions. The lights themselves are a mystical experience, appearing in hues of green, purple, and sometimes even red. While sightings are never guaranteed, the tours maximize your chances by heading to areas with clear skies and optimal viewing conditions.
For those who want to capture the lights on camera, many tours offer photography guidance to help you take the perfect shot of the vibrant auroras.
4. Glacier Lagoon & Diamond Beach Tour
For those with an interest in Iceland’s glaciers, the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and nearby Diamond Beach should be on your itinerary. Located along Iceland’s southeast coast, these two natural wonders are accessible on a full-day tour from Reykjavik.
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon: This serene lagoon is filled with large icebergs that have calved from the nearby Breiðamerkurjökull glacier. The icebergs float in the lagoon, creating a surreal, tranquil atmosphere. Boat tours are available, allowing visitors to get up close to the icebergs and experience the lagoon from the water.
Diamond Beach: Just across the road from Jökulsárlón, Diamond Beach is where chunks of ice from the lagoon wash up on the shore, creating a striking contrast against the black sand. The sight of glistening ice on the beach, with the Atlantic Ocean in the background, is truly a photographer’s dream.
The Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach tour is a long day trip, but the stunning landscapes and unique beauty of these natural wonders make it a memorable experience for any visitor to Reykjavik.
5. Blue Lagoon Tour
If you’re looking for relaxation amidst Iceland’s geothermal activity, the Blue Lagoon is a must-visit. Located about 45 minutes from Reykjavik, the Blue Lagoon is a geothermal spa known for its milky blue waters rich in silica and sulfur. The warm waters have therapeutic properties, and visitors can enjoy a rejuvenating soak while surrounded by stunning lava fields.
A Blue Lagoon tour often includes transportation from Reykjavik, and some packages offer additional perks such as spa treatments, face masks, or a meal at the lagoon’s restaurant. The combination of the soothing waters and the otherworldly landscape makes for a relaxing and revitalizing experience.
6. Icelandic Horseback Riding Tour
To experience Iceland’s unique equestrian culture, a horseback riding tour offers a fun and authentic way to explore the countryside around Reykjavik. Icelandic horses are a special breed known for their sure-footedness and friendly demeanor. These small yet strong horses are ideal for riding across Iceland’s diverse terrain, from volcanic fields to grassy hills.
Several tour operators offer guided horseback rides, with options ranging from short excursions to longer multi-hour treks. Riders can enjoy the Icelandic countryside from a unique perspective while learning about the history of the breed and Icelandic farming traditions.
7. Cultural and Historical Tours in Reykjavik
While Reykjavik is often viewed as a launchpad for outdoor adventures, it also boasts a rich cultural and historical scene. Several tours are available to explore the city’s landmarks, including:
Hallgrímskirkja Church: This iconic church is one of Reykjavik's most recognized landmarks. Visitors can ascend the tower for panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes.
National Museum of Iceland: For history buffs, the National Museum offers a deep dive into Iceland’s past, including its Viking roots and cultural evolution.
Reykjavik’s Old Harbor and Harpa Concert Hall: A walking tour around the Old Harbor offers insight into Reykjavik’s maritime history, while the striking architecture of Harpa Concert Hall showcases modern Icelandic design.
Conclusion
Tours from Reykjavik offer travelers the chance to experience the diverse and awe-inspiring natural wonders of Iceland. From the iconic Golden Circle to glacier lagoons, volcanoes, and the Northern Lights, there is no shortage of adventure. Whether you're looking to explore Iceland's rugged landscapes, relax in the geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon, or delve into Reykjavik's cultural heart, there is something for everyone in this remarkable country. A tour from Reykjavik is the perfect way to begin your Icelandic adventure.
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