While group tours provide a convenient way to see the private golden circle tour Iceland highlights, they often come with a rigid schedule and the logistical constraints of a full bus. For a UK traveller, accustomed to a certain level of comfort and independence, a private tour provides a welcome escape.
Flexibility and Customisation: This is the primary advantage. A private tour itinerary is tailored to your interests. Want to spend an extra hour photographing the thundering Gullfoss waterfall? Or perhaps skip a stop to spend more time soaking in the Secret Lagoon? Your guide is there to cater to your preferences. It's your day, at your pace.
Expert, Personalised Guidance: A dedicated, local guide is more than a driver; they are a storyteller. They can share in-depth knowledge about Iceland's sagas, geology, and folklore, providing a context that's often lost in a larger group. You can ask questions, engage in conversation, and gain a deeper understanding of this unique country.
Comfort and Convenience: Private tours typically use a comfortable vehicle, such as an SUV or a minivan, ensuring a much more relaxing journey. You'll be collected directly from your hotel or even the airport, and there’s no waiting for other passengers. It’s a seamless, door-to-door experience.
A Tailored Itinerary: Beyond the Main Three
While the classic Golden Circle stops—Þingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall—remain the core of any tour, a private experience allows you to weave in hidden gems.
Þingvellir National Park: Your guide can take you to lesser-known trails, offering different perspectives on the continental rift valley and the ancient parliament site. You might also have the option to add on a snorkelling or diving excursion in the crystal-clear waters of the Silfra fissure.
Geysir Geothermal Area: Instead of just watching Strokkur erupt, a private tour can allow time to explore the smaller, bubbling hot springs and mud pots at your leisure.
Gullfoss Waterfall: With a private guide, you can choose to visit at a less crowded time of day, allowing you to fully appreciate its raw power without the crowds.
Other potential stops on a private tour include:
Kerið Volcanic Crater: A visually stunning volcanic lake with vivid red slopes.
The Secret Lagoon: One of Iceland’s oldest natural swimming pools, offering a more serene and authentic geothermal experience than the more famous Blue Lagoon.
Friðheimar Tomato Farm: A unique and delicious stop where you can enjoy a fresh, local meal in a geothermally heated greenhouse.
Booking Your Private Tour from the UK
Numerous tour operators in Iceland, and UK-based travel agencies, offer private Golden Circle tours. A quick online search will reveal a range of options, from luxury vehicles to Super Jeeps that can take you to even more remote locations.
When booking, ensure you check what is included in the price. This typically covers the vehicle and a professional driver/guide, but extra costs such as entrance fees to attractions like Kerið or meals are often not included. Many providers also offer a "layover tour" option, where you are picked up from the airport, go on the tour, and are dropped off in Reykjavík, making it an efficient way to start your holiday.
While a private tour is a greater financial investment than a group tour, the value lies in the freedom, knowledge, and comfort it provides. For the discerning UK traveller, it's the perfect way to truly connect with Iceland's extraordinary landscape on your own terms.
