Golden Circle & Geothermal Energy Tour | IS-AA-GRC

This Golden Circle & Geothermal Energy tour is designed to both educate and entertain. During this exquisite tour, you will visit some of the most exciting places related to green living, among the Golden Circle's main attractions.

Our tour will begin with a pick-up from Reykjavik and head to Hellisheiðarvirkjun, The Geothermal Energy Exhibition. This exhibition, located at the Hellisheiði geothermal power plant, allows visitors to learn about how Icelanders have been using geothermal energy for hundreds of years and how recent and future developments can make Hellisheiði one of the world's greenest energy sources. 

Next, we will make a short stop at Ljósafossvirkjun, a hydro-based power plant. It's an exciting sight and great for pictures, as the waters run down with a tremendous force. 

Our next destination is Sólheimar Eco Village. The amiable staff at Sólheimar will tell you all about sustainable development in Iceland. After an exciting and insightful lecture, we'll have a walk around the area and visit a greenhouse. 

After spending the first part of the day learning about a way of sustainable living, we will visit each of Golden Circle's gems - Gullfoss waterfall, Geysir, and Þingvellir National Park. 

Translating to "Golden Falls," Gullfoss is truly Iceland's most iconic and beloved waterfall. It cascades down in two stages, approximately 32 meters (105 feet) high. Gullfoss is part of the Hvítá river, which originates from the Langjökull glacier. During the summer, on sunny days, you can even spot a rainbow over the majestic waterfall, which is a truly breathtaking view to see. 

Next on our list is Geysir - nature's phenomenon, after which all other existing geysers gained their name. Geysir is located in Haukadalur Valley, known for its geothermal activity. Although Geysir itself is rarely active these days, its "little brother," Strokkur, shoots up boiling water from 20 meters (65 feet) to 40 meters (130 feet) high. The Strokkur is very active, erupting every eight to ten minutes, so always have your camera ready!

Last but not least from our itinerary is Þingvellir National Park, where Iceland's first parliament was held in 930 and continued to be held there for the following 868 years. This place of rich history is considered the birthplace of the nation. Thingvellir sits in an outstanding location between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates drifting apart. Due to its unique location and breathtaking scenery, Thingvellir was also chosen as a shooting place for the famous HBO series "Game of Thrones."