Pre-Tour: The Golden Circle

Today, we will complete the famous Golden Circle. We will drive a loop between three of Iceland's most celebrated attractions: Þingvellir (Thingvellir) National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall. The tour begins with a stop at Thingvellir, Iceland's first national park. Legend has it that the nation of Iceland began here, and it is where Viking chieftains established the first assembly in 930 AD, meaning it is the earliest known version of a formal parliamentary system in the world. The park also contains unique geology and natural landscapes - it is one of the few places on earth where visitors can observe the continental drift: the spot where the North American and Eurasion tectonic plates are drifting apart. 

After a short walk through the national park, we will drive to the Geysir geothermal area. The Great Geysir erupts less frequently these days, but we will be able to observe Strokkur, the most active geyser in the area. Every 5-10 minutes, Stokkur that spouts hot water and steam roughly 20-25 meters up in the air. 

Next, we'll continue to the beautiful Gullfoss, known as the "Golden Waterfall." This multi-level waterfall is an iconic sight, and it is not unusual to see it accompanied by a rainbow. 

We'll return to Reykjavík via Hveragerði, completing our loop. 

Meals: Breakfast and lunch 

Today is your chance to explore Reykjavík - we will embark on a three-hour tour where you will learn all about the capital of Iceland. First, we'll drive all the way to the outskirts of the city to the Álftanes peninsula, where we will stop at a church. Just a short distance away lies Bessastaðir, the official residence of the Icelandic president. On our way back into the city, we'll stop at Perlan - one of the best view points over the city that is built on top of hot water reservoirs. If the weather is clear, we can see all the way to the distant Snæfellsjökull glacier. 

Back in the town center, we will head for the Hallgrímskirkja church, one of the city's best-known landmarks. There is a possibility for another viewpoint here from the church tower. Then, we will walk from the church through the city center, down to the Laugavegur shopping street, and finally to the Harpa Cultural Center by the old harbour. Along the way, listen to your guide for historical and cultural stories about this fascinating island. 

At the end of the tour we will return to the hotel - or if your marathon package includes a different hotel, you will be dropped off there. The afternoon is free for you to enjoy the city at your leisure. 

Meals: Breakfast 

Please note that the extension is not free of charge. As prices have not been confirmed for 2021, your extension tour booking is only provisional. Once we have the prices set, we will contact you and you will be able to decide whether you would like to keep your booking or cancel it; in case the price is not within your budget.   

• Privately guided Golden Circle bus tour with lunch 
• Privately guided Reykjavík city sightseeing tour 
• 2 nights accommodation in hotel of choice 
• Admission to Perlan observation deck 
• Transportation according to the itinerary 
• Meals according to the itinerary