Review: 2-Day Private Tour – Golden Circle & South Coast, Iceland

So, you’re thinking of seeing Iceland, are you? And doing it in style? Well, you might be weighing things up – like, is a private tour of the Golden Circle and South Coast worth it? I’ve just come back from doing exactly that, and, well, let me tell you all about it.

Why Go Private, Anyway?

Why choose a private tour at all, then? Good question! Look, you might save some money if you choose a group tour. That said, group tours move at a, you know, group pace. This can mean rushing through places, or, actually, skipping some cool stops because there is no time. Plus, that sometimes-awkward small talk with total strangers? Maybe that is not for you. With a private tour, it’s like you’re the boss. Very similar to having a personal adventure creator. Want more time at a specific waterfall? Just tell your guide. Craving some authentic Icelandic hot dog? They will take you to the best spot. So, it’s like having a trip custom made just for you.

Day 1: Golden Circle’s Sparkling Gems

Day one kicks off with the classic Golden Circle route, that’s true, yet with a twist of private-tour magic, of course! First stop: Þingvellir National Park. The history there? Amazing! Did you know it is where the Icelandic parliament was founded way back in 930 AD? That is quite impressive! A guide will actually walk you through the geological wonders, too; it’s where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet, or, rather, pull apart. Next up? Geysir geothermal area, home of Strokkur geyser. And it erupts every few minutes, like it’s on a schedule. Seeing that hot water blast into the air is, well, awesome. Then there’s Gullfoss waterfall, it’s majestic, really. The sheer power of the water thundering down those two tiers is really quite something. In this specific tour you won’t see a gift shop since you won’t waste your time doing some nonesense like that!

Day 2: South Coast Wonders and Black Sands

Day two means heading along the South Coast, and it’s totally different scenery from the Golden Circle, to be honest. Think black sand beaches, powerful waves, and views that seem to go on forever. Seljalandsfoss is the first stop of the day and is special. You can, as a matter of fact, walk behind the waterfall (weather permitting, of course!). Makes for some unreal photos. Just a short drive away is Skógafoss, another huge waterfall. If you are feeling energetic you might be able to climb the stairs next to it for a spectacular view from the top, or, really, get up close and personal. After the waterfalls, it’s on to Reynisfjara black sand beach. The basalt columns are super cool and Dyrhólaey arch is located nearby. The sea stacks out in the ocean look really spectacular, in a way. That said, respect the ocean here – the waves can be, basically, deadly. That’s why you need a guide, really. The views are unreal, and having someone there to give you the background and keep you away from any dangerous spots really just takes the worry away. Then it’s time to go to the basalt column cave to see puffins during puffin season and explore the rock formations. You will go back to your accomodation after this stop to rest from the South Coast trip.

The “Wow” Factor – Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Here comes something very special, like the absolute highlight for some people! Is the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. A lot of tours, perhaps even the majority, would try to squeeze this place to the day before. This particular private tour doesn’t. This gives a much calmer drive without any rushing. So it’s possible to actually stop where you want, take that photo and visit a local restaurant. Just being by the water is hypnotic. Seeing the icebergs drift out to sea, sparkling? Just wow. Diamond Beach, just across the road, is another very unique site. The icebergs wash up on the black sand here and are quite spectacular when they sit there in the beach glittering. Now that is a sight you will, actually, remember forever, very likely.

The Guide Makes all The Difference

Don’t forget: with any tour, it is really all about the guide. The guides are, usually, locals, full of knowledge and stories about Iceland. They know all the best spots, all the best times to be somewhere, and how to dodge the biggest crowds. And because it’s a private tour, the guide is able to concentrate 100% on you. Want to know about Icelandic folklore? They’ve got you covered. Interested in the local geology? They can really talk about it for hours. The guide doesn’t just drive; they, basically, bring Iceland to life.

Was It Worth It? My Conclusion

The burning question: was this particular two-day private tour worth the money? For me, the answer is absolutely yes. Sure, it is quite an investment, really. That said, what you get is worth paying for: personalized experience, flexibility, insider knowledge and seeing some unreal sights in style and comfort. If you’re the kind of traveler who likes being in control, hates being rushed and wants more than just a snapshot view of Iceland, then, like, a private tour is, arguably, something to look at. I really think it’s an incredible way to see some of the most gorgeous scenery and natural beauty in the world. Just a thought!

#Iceland #GoldenCircle #SouthCoast #PrivateTour #TravelReview