The Golden Circle is, without a doubt, Iceland’s most popular tourist route. It covers about 190 miles and can be done as a day trip from Reykjavik.
It is ideal for those who want to experience the raw nature of Iceland in a short period of time.
My husband and I were able to experience the best of the Golden Circle Route during a short layover we did on Iceland last May.
We ended up amazed since we had the opportunity to see a lot without feeling rushed. We saw things we have never seen before and at the end of the day, we were ready to see more of Iceland.
This is the Golden Circle from my perspective. Remember what I repeat over and over, even though this is a popular route, it is still a route full of remarkable natural wonders. Own your trip, move at your own pace and dare to see these places from different perspectives!
And, before venturing deeper into the country, make sure you read my article about 25 Things I Wish I Knew Before Visiting Iceland.
Table of Contents
The Golden Circle Route Iceland!
Þingvellir National Park
Þingvellir National Park (also written as Thingvellir) was founded in 1930 as a protected national shrine for all Icelanders. The natural and historical characteristics of this area were reason enough to obtain World Heritage Status in 2004.
A lot of people know about the park but, in my opinion, there is not a lot of information about what you can see and do in the park.
Here are some ideas:
Junction of Tectonic Plates
The park lies within a belt of volcanic activity and fissures which passes across Iceland, a part of the mid-Atlantic Ridge, the junction of the American and Eurasian tectonic plates.
Over the past 10,000 years, the earth’s crust has been subsiding and diverging in here. The plates move at a rate of 3mm annually.
Hard to believe but it is happening! And, you can walk between the areas that are “separating.”
Logberg (Law Rock)
After Iceland was settled, plans were made for a formal government structure. The first general assembly came together for the first time at Þingvellir in 930 AD. For many years, this assembly was Iceland’s legislature and highest court. Because of that, Logberg is considered the place where the first legislature or parliament in the history of humanity took place.
In 1622, Iceland submitted to the Kingdom of Denmark. They gained independence in 1944 and the moment was marked at Logberg.
Oxarafoss
The Oxara (Ax) River crashes into a waterfall before moving towards the main areas of the park. The waterfall is located about 2 km from the park’s entrance. The walk is easy and well worth the extra minutes. Plus, it gives you more opportunities to appreciate the park’s beauty (and more of those awesome tectonic plates).
To make things more interesting, there are several legends of how the spot got its name. Some say bandits and lawbreakers were executed (by decapitation) in here. Others say a terrorizing troll was killed in here and that is the reason why the water turns red once a year.
Silfra
Ok, so you can walk between tectonic plates but you can also swim between them. Silfra is a rift located in the lake in the park. Several companies take visitors to enjoy the excellent underwater visibility (with a dry suit, of course).
Þingvellir Church
This famous, little church is visible from many parts of the park. You can walk to it while passing through fissures and rock formations.
Details
- There is no entrance fee to visit the park
- A visitor’s center is located next to the main parking lot. It has information about the park, restrooms and a small area selling sandwiches, yogurt, drinks, etc.
- Do not expect to have full services (restaurants, gas stations) within the park
Haukadalur Geothermal Field
The name Haukadalur may provoke some blank stares but this is the actual name of the place where the famous geysers are located.
Well, it is not all about geysers (even though they may be the coolest folks in here). This field has mud pools, fumaroles, hot springs and colorful earth tones.
You know you have arrived at the area since you start to see massive clouds of steams (and that rotten egg smell).
This is the place where the famous Geysir lies. He can spray water up to 70 meters and the English word “geyser” derives from his name. There is only a problem. Geysir has been dormant for decades. It would be a miracle if you see him erupting.
But, you do not have to worry because a geyser named Strokkur is in charge of putting up a show every 10 to 12 minutes. Seeing him making an eruption was my favorite experience of the day.
My camera is able to take 3 pictures per second. Using this feature, I was able to catch several eruptions. It is not easy to show the entire sequence in here but I am presenting some photos so you can get the idea. Sadly, I was not able to catch the geyser’s bubble before it exploded (in my photos, you can see part of the bubble surrounding the water spray).
Try to ignore Strokkur for a bit (very difficult) and take a look at the other features of the field. There are other geysers with names such as Sódi, Smiður, Fata Óþerrishola, Litli Geysir (the small Geysir) and Litli Strokkur (the small Strokkur).
Do not miss the beautiful hot spring called Blesi.
Details
- There is no entrance fee for this geothermal field
- Across the field, you will find a gas station, small market, souvenir shop and restrooms. There is an area to sit down and relax
- There are several restaurants and hotels located nearby
Gullfoss
Tectonic plates. Geysers. How can this part of Iceland get better? Well, what about a massive waterfall.
Gullfoss (Golden Falls) may be Iceland’s most famous falls. Once you have seen it, you will understand why.
The Hvítá River rushes southward, and about a kilometer above the falls it turns sharply to the right and flows down into a wide curved three-step “staircase” and then abruptly plunges in two stages into a crevice 32 meters (105 ft) deep. The two stages of the waterfall and the crevice can be seen from several viewpoints along the massive water flow.
You can get close, very close. I have discussed many times how I am afraid of almost anything. After seeing the power of the water from afar and taking into consideration the thick spray and strong wind, I decided not to get close.
My husband decided to go and then, I decided to follow him. It wasn’t as scary as I thought but I was very impressed by how much water was rushing into the crevice or canyon.
Then, it was time to walk towards the highest viewpoint of the area. The wind was crazy strong (my eyes and mouth got so dry!) but I was able to get some good shots.
Details
- There is no entrance fee to see the waterfalls
- There are a café and restaurant on site. Restrooms are located on site too
Kerið
While in the area, I will recommend visiting Kerið, a volcanic crater lake located in the Grímsnes area. Some consider the crater part of the Golden Circle while others say it lies outside of its boundaries.
Either way, I believe it is a great place to keep feeding the volcanic fascination of visitors. The crater was probably formed by a small magma chamber beneath the crater being emptied towards the end of the eruption, resulting in a collapse.
Beneath a certain level, cavities and fissures in the rock are filled groundwater and rise and fall according to changes in that groundwater.
You can walk along the crater rim and descend to the water area.
Details
- There is a fee of about three dollars / two Euros per person to enter the crater
- You enter at your own risk
- There are no services around (but the crater is located very close to the city of Selfoss)
How do you access the Golden Circle?
Rent a car or take a guided excursion. I recommend renting a car since you are going to be able to set your own schedule for the day.
How about directions to reach these stops?
People tend to start the day at Þingvellir National Park and continue moving clockwise (remember it is the Golden Circle).
The most “complicated” part will be reaching the park from Reykjavik. Once at the park, there are multiple signs directing visitors to the next attraction on the circle.
Things will be piece of cake if you have a GPS. If you choose not to use a GPS, drive from Reykjavik to Mosfellsdular. You can rely on a combination of directions extracted from Google Maps and an actual map (bought beforehand). Do not rely on Google directions alone (I did it and it ended badly).
How long will the drive take?
Expect to spend an entire day driving around. The drive without stops take 2 to 3 hours but that is not the idea! If you have a short day (winter) you may need to get an early start.
What are other stops on the Golden Circle Route?
Here are other cool places to check out on the route:
- Þórufoss – Waterfall
- Efsti-dalur – Believe it or not, homemade ice cream!
- Faxi Waterfall
- Gamla Laugin – natural geothermal pool
Jeannie from Life With a View has an excellent article on off-the-beaten-path stops on the Golden Circle.
When is the best time to visit the Golden Circle Route in Iceland?
The Golden Circle can be accessed during all seasons. Take into consideration you will need to rent a car depending on the weather conditions. We visited during late spring and a compact worked well because there was no ice on the streets. You may need a 4 x 4 when other conditions are present. Also, keep in mind you will have almost 24 hours of light during summer and a short period of daylight during winter.
What else should I know before embarking on the journey?
Because of the popularity of the route, you will be able to drive around (or somebody else may be making the driving) without any major preoccupations.
Once again, I will recommend you read my article on 25 Things I Wish I Knew Before Visiting Iceland. It will really prepare you for Iceland in general.
Have you experienced the Golden Circle Route? What are your recommendations?
If you have enjoyed this article, please share it with others!
And, remember cool people are always ready to pin.
Indah Nuria Savitri says
I really want to go to Iceland! Truly a great wonder of the world
Ruth says
That is true! Want to see more of the country for sure!
shere says
We would love to visit Iceland, I’m just doubting about the time of the year. In spring/summer, the days are longer, but there aren’t any auroras. If you go to see the auroras, they will be short and also very cold. What a dilemma!!
Ruth says
That is true! A lot of people want to see the auroras but then there is not going to be a lot of daylight to do other things. I really do not want to experience the winter in Iceland, so, I will pass the auroras for now.
Ruth Daly says
Loved seeing your photos of the Golden Circle especially Gullfoss. It was partly frozen when I was there, and the walkways were so icy that I didn’t venture on the path right beside the falls. I’d really like to go back during summer to see how different it is.
Ruth says
I know what you mean since there are areas without guardrails. I can see how the paths can turn dangerous in winter.
image-in-ing: weekly photo linkup says
Magnificent photos – it makes me want to visit there!
Thanks for linking up at https://image-in-ing.blogspot.com/2017/08/oooh-baby.html
Ruth says
Hope you are able to visit one day!
KVVS MURTHY says
Speechless. Awesome action in nature.
Ruth says
I was speechless too! I couldn’t believe the number of things I saw in a single day.
Jeanna says
You got fantastic and impressive eruption shots. My biggest complaint about my camera is its slowness. I also dug the winding shots of water, trails and boardwalks.
Ruth says
I love those eruptions shots. I have like 12 per eruptions and it looks pretty cool when you start to see them one after the other one. My older camera used to be slow. I upgraded not that long time ago. I still have the other one because the zoom is really good.
Sallie (FullTime-Life) says
Amazing place Ruth! I have heard about how beautiful Iceland is — and now from your pictures I know! You led us on a wonderful tour full of great information.
Ruth says
Thanks Sallie! Iceland is a special place. For me going there was a dream come true.
Carol says
Wow! I feel like I’ve been on vacation through an unreal landscape. Beautiful post.
Ruth says
Thanks Carol! I am glad you enjoyed the post.
ladyfi says
Gorgeous scenery and shots. Iceland is definitely on my to-visit list.
Ruth says
Well, if I am correct, you do not live that far form the country. It should be a short flight from you.
Shareen says
So amazing! Iceland is one of my favorite places.
Ruth says
It has become one of my favorite places too. It feels surreal I was able to go.
Kacy says
The Golden Circle sounds fabulous! I definitely hope to do the Iceland layover one of these days!
Ruth says
A layover is the perfect way to get familiarized with the country. Or, you can spend a few days there if you do not have the budget for a longer stay.
suvarna says
The more I ready (and see) of iceland, the more desperate I become to get there! The photo of the little church is stunning!
Ruth says
Isn’t that church so beautiful! I didn’t walk to it, so, I am assuming it is not that small as I think (but most churches in Iceland are very small).
Michelle | michwanderlust says
Everything you highlighted is just so amazing! The waterfalls look simply gorgeous and the geysers – I think you did a great job capturing their majesty! I’ve been to a similar place in Japan and the smell of rotten eggs was so overpowering, I couldn’t wait to get out of there.
Ruth says
You have to tell me more about the place in Japan. It would be interesting to learn about more places where the volcanic activity can be seen.
Lolo says
I’m always so shocked at how much of a different world Iceland is! That geyser is impressive! I was quite sad because Old Faithful in Yellowstone didn’t quite “get it up” enough to impress me when I was there! #WanderfulWednesday
Ruth says
Really? I think Old Faithful is twice higher (or even more) than Stokkur. Maybe the eruption you saw wasn’t that impressive. Wonder if it has to do with certain conditions like time of the year or other things.
jin says
I was in Iceland a few years ago and I can attest that the Golden Circle is a must do when in Iceland! Love your photos!
Ruth says
Great! I think it is a must if it is your first time in Iceland.
Jesh StG says
Wow , raw beauty – I love it! Only was in Iceland once on a lay over and bought a beautiful sweater-coat there! Am thrilled you do not only travel but think about deep things. The geysers and craters and water views – so beautiful, and off the grid!!
Hope you open up your meme/challenge tomorrow – your post is worth seen by others!
Now I think about it, please consider linking to All Seasons (the link is open each Sunday through Wednesday till 7 pm) and it’s about the experience in the season – you have plenty:)
Ruth says
Thanks Jesh! I like to travel but I like to reflect on what I learn from my travels. It will be heartbreaking to go to places like these and not learn about what causes them and why they are the way they are. Will try to check the link.
Lydia C. Lee says
Very interesting – I’m hoping to get to the Northern Lights and wondering how to do it. Wonder if this landscape is open in winter?
Ruth says
Yes, all these places are open during winter. You have to find more info about weather conditions during winter. Your rental car agency should be able to help you out with the details. Tour companies take you to these places if you decide not to rent a car.
Jessica Carpenter says
Looks beautiful! I definitely want to visit. I had no idea you could do so much in one day! You’ve got me thinking I should plan a 2-3 day layover next time I go to Europe! I want hot springs!
Ruth says
I visited in May and days are long in that month (sun was setting at 11:00 p.m.) Therefore, you can fit a lot during the day. Since these are natural attractions, they do not have a closing time.
lisa says
My first time reading a blog about Iceland! It looks amazing, your pictures took me right there. I would love to visit one day. Those waterfalls and the land looks so untouched. Thanks for all the helpful information.
Ruth says
Lisa, I am glad you liked it. Iceland it an excellent place for nature lovers. It is incredible how the land is in there.
Vanessa says
I’m still bummed over the fact that I only had one day in Iceland when I visited so now my bucket list has been filling up with places I still like to see there. So much that I’d need to spend at least a month in Iceland now to see it all!!
Ruth says
No kidding! I think you need 10 days to two weeks to drive around the island. And, that is pushing it. I will like to go back and see more. I know there are even more neat places close to Reykyavik.
Rhonda Albom says
The Golden Circle is stunning and reminds me of many parts of New Zealand. The meeting of the tectonic plates is fascinating and a reminder of the forces at work that created all the geothermal features you showed in your photos. Iceland is on my bucket list but is about as far away from me as you can get.
Ruth says
Well Rhonda, I do not like to compare one place to another but you may have seen a lot of nature extremities in New Zealand. So, I assume you have seen a lot of beautiful features that may not be available in other countries.
Isabel says
Such a through post. Def will be saving this for later! Just in case I have a layover soon 😉
Ruth says
Yes! You should plan a layover soon!
Radhika says
With every Iceland post I am entranced further on the country’s vast landscapes and landforms. Your pictures capture them so beautifully! Dying to visit Iceland soon!
Ruth says
Thank you! It is easy to be an “awesome” photographer in a place like Iceland.
Molly says
What an amazingly stunning landscape.
Mollyx
Ruth says
Glad you liked it Molly!
NieNie says
Your photos are absolutely stunning. You definitely sold me on wanting to visit.
Ruth says
Great! I am happy about that! Hope you visit soon.
Paul and Carole says
Love your photos and great capture of the geyser exploding! Iceland is definitely an interesting and stunning place to visit. Great post. #feetdotravel
Ruth says
Thanks you! Iceland is worth exploring. I am looking into fitting more nature on my travels before the end of the year.
Marcelle says
Oh my, this looks pretty chilly to me 😉 But what a beautiful wild landscape. I’d love to explore Þingvellir National Park and maybe to do a trail ride on Icelandic horses!
Ruth says
It wasn’t that bad! The temperature was around 60 F. Sometimes, it felt colder because of the wind. But, nothing to do with New York in winter.
Kathy Marris says
Wow! I’m dumbfounded. What a remarkable country. I can’t get over how incredible the landscapes are in Iceland. The geysers in particular are amazing!
Ruth says
Ha, that is a great way to put things in perspective. It is really incredible and I am grateful for the opportunity to visit.
Sapna says
Everyone talks about Northen lights in Iceland. It is nice to know the other interesting places in Iceland. I loved your pictures of Geysers. Such a beautiful phenomenon of nature. The blue color of the water in one of your picture is looking totally different from other pics.
Ruth says
The Northern Lights may be great (I have never seen them) but there is plenty more to see. The country has different offering depending on the season.
jill says
Iceland looks to be stunning – I would love to see for myself someday. I love your geyser photos – how cool!
Ruth says
The geyser was the best! I think it was my favorite part of the trip (the glacier was pretty cool too). Now, I would like to see the geysers of Yellowstone.
sophie says
Iceland looks total fun! I have been waiting to visit Iceland since long! it looks more cool from your camera lens! Thanks for sharing this amazing piece! loved reading this! Cheers!
Ruth says
Thanks a lot! Yes, it is fun and surprising. Hard to believe so much beauty is concentrated in one place.
Anisa says
Wow the scenery truly is stunning. I love waterfalls and there seem to lots there. The Golden Circle is definitely one of the things that makes me want to go to Iceland. I will definitely do it as a self tour, your post is really helpful. I am pinning for future reference. Thanks for sharing on #TheWeeklyPostcard.
Ruth says
I love waterfalls too and this is paradise for people like us. Tons of water move from the icy center towards the coast. A lot of those flows create waterfalls. They are everywhere! You can stop looking at them.
Trekking with Becky says
Wow! I had no idea about Iceland’s Golden Circle. The more I learn about Iceland, the more I want to go.
Ruth says
That is true! The more I learn about the island, the more I want to explore.
budget jan says
There are so many exceptional photos in this post. They are certainly giving me travel lust for this beautiful place.
Ruth says
Oh, thanks Jan! I took so many photos of the places we visited. I had to take a little piece home.
Pat says
This was so interesting. The geysers and hot pools reminded me of Yellowstone national park in the US, and the landscape also reminded me of former volcanic areas in Colorado. This would definitely be a place I’d like to see one day, Ruth.
Ruth says
Pat, the interesting thing is that I have not visited those places in the US. I need to see more (way more) of the country.
Shweta says
Nice photos. Iceland is definitely on my to-visit list. Soon….
Ruth says
Hope you make it there as soon as possible.
Lyn aka The Travelling Lindfields says
Iceland looks stunning. I love wild landscapes and Iceland seems to have them in spades.
Ruth says
One thing is for sure: Iceland will not disappoint in terms of variety and superlatives.
Amanda - EatWorkTravel says
We visited in January when the area was covered in snow. It is so interesting to see photos during a different time of year and makes us want to go again to see the area more lush! Thanks for linking up to #weekendwanderlust
Ruth says
I can imagine how different it would be in winter. I am sure it looks like a different world with all the snow and ice around.
Urska | Sliva says
Would love to visit Iceland once, already gathering the money 😀 The Golden Circles looks amazing!
Ruth says
It is a good idea to save before going. The prices are high but it such a beautiful trip.
beatravelling says
Good choice! I so regret we didn’t venture out on our own. Would have been so much better than the tour we ended up doing.
Ruth says
When you went? I know people who have had good experiences with tours but for me it was way cheaper to rent a car. Plus, I ended up staying in a place as log as I wanted.
Mel | The Wandering Darlings says
Oh god this post is just more reasons I need to get to Iceland!! Your photos are stunning and what amazing landscapes to be in. The natural world pulled out all the stops in Iceland m. Fab post!!
Ruth says
Thanks Mel! I am grateful for the opportunity I had to witness all of these . It was special for sure.
Jessica @ Independent Travel Cats says
Hi Ruth, Some lovely places along the Golden Circle – such amazing landscapes. We were there over the winter for about 12 days I think and got to see so many spots along the western and souther part of Iceland – the Golden Circle is definitely a must see area! We didn’t see Kerid though, looks beautiful! Need to check it out when we return and also the northern and eastern parts of the island! ~ Jessica
Ruth says
Jessica, that is an awesome amount of time. It would be incredible to stay in Iceland for more than a week. There is still a lot I want to see.
Julia says
I did part of the Golden Circle when I was there one winter, and your pictures have me wanting to go back asap!!
Ruth says
Thanks Julia! I think everybody that visits want to go back.
Kelly says
Thank you so much for sharing this with me! I love the raw and untamed beauty of Iceland and all its waterfalls and geothermal fields. Also love how you said to own your trip and go offthe beaten path and at your own pace. Totally want to road trip it when I get there.
Ruth says
Glad you enjoyed the trip Kelly. Owing the trip is so important. A lot of people follow what others do. I was surprised by how different Iceland is from the “usual” photos. There is way more there than what other do.
Anda says
Your pictures of the geyser came out great, even though you say didn’t catch it at its highest peak. Seeing it reminded me of the geyser in Northern California, up in St. Helena (the Old Faithful). Iceland’s landscape looks very beautiful, but it seems kind of sad and desolate, don’t you think so? I
Ruth says
Anda, I wasn’t able to capture the initial bubble. That is the difficult part since your reflexes have to be fast. I haven’t though about the geyser in California. That would be cool to see.
Michael - The Boys Abroad says
Ah we’ve been looking for some solid information about doing the golden circle ourselves and this ticks all the boxes!! Looks like an amazing trip and you can time it so much better than a your I’m sure.
Thanks for such a comprehensive resource!!
Ruth says
Oh that sounds great! Remember to read my post about 25 things I wish I knew before visiting Iceland. That post is full of good info.
Kreete | AdventurousTrails says
I can totally see why this is a popular circle for people visiting Iceland. You can certainly see a lot in a day and wow! The photography is just stunning. I need to go to Iceland to check this beauty out myself!
Esther says
Wow, beautiful! I also like the idea of exploring yourself, as you can just stay of linger however long or short you’d like!
#YourWeeklyPostcard
Jacky says
Beautiful pictures, can’t wait to visit Iceland myself 🙂
eileen g says
This is a really good review of the Golden Circle. I agree that even though it’s “touristy” one should do it. It’s a good overview of Iceland history and it’s unique physical features. There are alway trade-offs between driving yourself and taking a tour for this kind of thing — having more time and control vs not having to find your way and having a guide. I’m glad you had a good experience driving.
Jim ~ ReflectionsEnroute says
I really want to to the diving in the tectonic plates around Silfra. That looks so amazing! You did a great job capturing, and sharing, your trip to Iceland! Thanks for linking in to #wkendtravelinspiration
Katy says
Iceland is really raw and unfettered nature at its very best isnt it. I’d love to visit and watch those geysers. So mesmerising. I’d definitely do a self drive tour so this post is invaluable Ruth. Thanks for sharing on #FarawayFiles
Shona says
You’ve given me more reasons to visit Iceland. It’s worth going just to see that guyser going off every 12 or so minutes, but then there’s the waterfall, hot springs and the most incredible colours in the earth and flora. Your pics are fantastic!
Barry says
Iceland has some great places and so many natural spots to see. Love some of the pictures in your post – it was almost as I was on the trip too. Can’t wait to visit Iceland again soon.
Rob+Ann @TravelLatte(.net) says
Wow, from a natural history perspective, Iceland is just amazing. How awesome to think that you were standing at a point between tectonic plates! And then the waterfalls and geysers, plus that beautiful crater – what a day! Thanks for sharing it on #WeekendWanderlust and #TheWeeklyPostcard.
Erin Gustafson | Oregon Girl Around the World says
WOW! Amazing pictures of the geysers! I love the idea of doing a self tour and taking it at your own pace to see Iceland’s stunning nature. Thank you for sharing with #FarawayFiles, Erin
James says
I have experienced the Golden Circle Tour, your photos brought back so many memories. I enjoyed the tour as well and would love to take it in summer when everything is green. You took some good photos, especially the one with the Geysir in action!
Travel Lexx says
Really comprehensive guide and some fantastic photos! I keep seeing videos of people diving between the tectonic plates and that sounds incredible! Iceland is so stunning and you’ve captured its beauty perfectly. Thanks for sharing
Siddharth and Shruti says
We visited Iceland in winter in 2016. Golden circle is definitely a must see! Can you believe that we missed on the Kerid crater! We want to visit it summer again anyway! Your photos just refreshed our memory.
Michelle Nguyen says
Heading to Iceland in a few weeks and so happy I came across this post! Gullfoss is definitely on the list to of sights to see! Your photos are amazing! =)
Absolute Scenes says
Travelling round the ring road in Iceland next summer for 10 days and and can’t wait! Your blog post and photos have got me really excited.
Kate says
We like to end our Golden Circle day and the Gamla Lagoon, or Secret Lagoon. It’s smaller and more rustic than the Blue Lagoon, but much less crowded especially if you go after 4:00 PM. Your pictures are awesome, many of mine have the backs of heads in them from fellow tourists who jumped into my view right as I was taking a shot. Also, your 25 things to know is right on, wish I had seen something like that before we traveled there the first time. The sticker shock and sheer amount of tourists there is crazy. And I would agree, traveling there for only a short time the first time you visit is advisable. You can get a feel for it and go back if you need another fix. This time we are taking our son to show him, but are only staying for 22 hours.
Erin says
Enjoyed reading several of your Iceland articles. I’ve never been so all of it was great info! I had no idea how expensive everything is – gas being $8 a gallon (probably even more now), food and other essentials. Something I will definitely have to budget for. I have saved this post for later – I now have to see the Golden Circle Route. Sounds like an amazing adventure!