Review: Golden Circle, Lava Tunnel & Hidden Gems in Reykjavik

Alright, so you’re pondering a trip to Iceland, and that Golden Circle keeps popping up, right? Well, like everyone seems to say, it’s almost a “must-do,” and lots of tour companies offer spins on that popular route. This review focuses on one that attempts to pack it all in – that “Reykjavik Best of Golden Circle Hidden Gems Lava Tunnel” tour. I mean, that is certainly a mouthful. I will break down what that tour offers, sharing my experiences, and, you know, help you figure out if it’s the right pick for you. Seriously.

What’s the Deal with the Golden Circle?

Basically, the Golden Circle is a loop that is very popular. That features a trio of very amazing stops close to Reykjavik. We’re talking Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall. Thingvellir is, you know, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet and, frankly, pull apart – pretty darn neat to actually stand there. I mean, you are basically straddling two continents! Then there’s Geysir, like, that place with erupting hot springs, including Strokkur, which is pretty faithful, blasting water sky-high, just about every few minutes. Finally, Gullfoss is a majestic waterfall; so powerful that it seems to just plummet into a rugged canyon. That whole Golden Circle is fairly accessible. And, you know, for visitors wanting to get a good sense of Iceland’s natural beauty; this hits several high notes in that arena.

The “Best of” Additions: Seeing More Than the Usual Suspects

Alright, “Best of” is a rather bold statement, you know? Many Golden Circle tours basically stick to the main attractions I mentioned, so some tours try and set themselves apart by throwing in some extra stops, sort of, to sweeten that deal. With this tour, it’s almost, you know, “hidden gems.” This tends to mean visiting some smaller attractions, maybe a picturesque lake or, say, a spot with unique geological formations. It is an attempt to get you off the super-trodden tourist path, even if only a bit. Now, that level of “hidden” is, might be, up for discussion, as many spots that are highlighted become much more known as these things get much popular, I guess. It’s a question of whether these spots genuinely offer something different from the really famous sites. So you get a feel for more Iceland charm.

Into the Earth: Exploring the Lava Tunnel

And here’s the kicker – the lava tunnel. The tour adds a visit to a lava tube, typically Leidarendi or Raufarhólshellir, too, it’s almost the latter since it’s pretty accessible year-round. You’re heading underground here, see, exploring the innards of an ancient lava flow. Think strange rock formations, that colored rock by mineral deposits. And complete darkness, which can be really cool! It can also be kind of claustrophobic if you, maybe, dislike tight spaces. Guides, you know, often share the geology behind such places and the folklore connected with them. This, arguably, can really add a totally different dimension to that Icelandic experience.

What a Tour Day Looks Like: My Actual Experience

Right, so, as a matter of fact, here is how the tour went. Early start in Reykjavik; they scooped me up in a moderately comfy bus. Thingvellir was our initial stop. So, seeing the continental divide and learning all that about Icelandic history associated with it was actually interesting, even, even though it was a bit crowded. Onward to Geysir, you see, that erupting Strokkur did its thing, providing photo ops, while dodging any rogue bursts of hot water. Lunch followed. It was pretty basic – there was an option to grab a bite at the Geysir center before going onto the majestic falls of Gullfoss. Those falls, though… seriously, those falls made a mark! Then the “hidden gem” part came along, where we stopped by a peaceful lake. A very pretty contrast from that more forceful landscape, though arguably not that much of a ‘hidden gem’ any more. After that, onto the lava tunnel, where helmets and headlamps were definitely a must. Creeping down into that tunnel, that strange silence and those unusual rock formations were all very wild! I mean, a long day; so after that they took us back to Reykjavik.

Things That Stood Out (The Good and Maybe Less So)

So, what really struck me about this tour? First, that lava tunnel portion definitely gives you something different from that usual Golden Circle run. I mean, actually getting under the ground and seeing this geologic action up-close, really set it apart. Next, that guide! They had some great knowledge, told cool stories and, basically, handled that large group quite skillfully. One thing: that pacing might be very fast for some. Jamming that Golden Circle and those extras can mean, potentially, shorter times at some of those sites. That lunch situation too – grabbing something quick at a tourist stop – maybe isn’t for that serious foodie. Be aware.

Who Should Seriously Consider This Tour?

Okay, so this is for folks wanting a lot packed into a single day. If your travel time is just limited and you are aiming to hit those high points and something unique? The lava tunnel twist might very well appeal. Think that the people that would, genuinely, dig this, is that folks interested a bit in geology, not to mention anyone looking for that cooler photo opportunities in, like, crazy settings. Should you favor wandering places leisurely? Then this whirlwind affair possibly is not going to be the right option.

Making It Happen: Practical Pointers

Booking ahead of time online is, you know, your best bet to actually nail down a spot, notably in peak season. Layering up is actually critical, like no matter what that time of year! Icelandic weather is very unpredictable. Solid shoes, mainly, that walking within the lava tunnel could very well be slippery. Bringing that own water bottle, plus, basically, snacks might be good since that food options tend to be at those stops, at times. Oh, and you know, fully charge that camera or phone. You might be wanting plenty of pictures. Of course.

What About Other Options for Seeing the Golden Circle?

Okay, so there are tons of ways to tackle the Golden Circle, not just this packed tour. If you fancy something a bit more flexible, and perhaps less rushed, renting a car could be a very great option. That way, you set your own tempo, can linger longer at spots you really like, or stop at random roadside attractions that grab your attention. On the flip side, you are doing all that driving. Some other organized tours focus just on that main Golden Circle sights, maybe giving more time at each place. And you get those guiding services. If you are trying to see that Northern Lights too, you could consider doing a combo Golden Circle and Northern Lights tour during that winter months. Weigh up what means the most to you – convenience, customization, in-depth experience – and that should nudge you in that right direction.

So, Final Thoughts: Worth It?

Seriously, that “Reykjavik Best of Golden Circle Hidden Gems Lava Tunnel” tour is just a solid way to see a fair bit of Iceland’s charm should you be just short on time and wanting diverse experiences. While that ‘hidden gems’ piece might not be like trekking to completely unheard-of spots, this lava tunnel will definitely provide a distinctive touch. This trip really comes down to priorities; that pace will challenge some. So hopefully, my review has given you that perspective to find if it suits your Icelandic dreams!

FAQs About This Tour

Is lunch included in this tour?

Lunch generally isn’t part of that tour fee. Often you are given a break at that Geysir area, where there’s a food hall offering different options, but that’s extra money. Grabbing a snack beforehand probably isn’t the worst plan.

Will I be really cold in that lava tunnel?

Yeah, the temperature inside that lava tunnel probably hovers around freezing point. Dressing warmly – layers are a must – might keep you comfortable while down there.

Is the tour really strenuous? I have some mobility problems.

It is probably rated moderate in terms of intensity. Expect a bit of walking at each site. The lava tunnel could very well be uneven terrain underfoot, so do think about that if you do have any kind of mobility considerations. Asking the tour operator can, possibly, give you extra details to assist that decision.

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