Top 5 Must-Do Golden Circle Highlights

1️⃣ Þingvellir (Thingvellir) National Park ▪️ Straddle Two Continents: Stand on the rift between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates—a "scar on Earth" for epic sci-fi shots! ▪️ History Buffs’ Dream: Explore the 930 AD open-air Viking parliament site (where Iceland’s independence was born) and touch ancient lava rocks. 📸 Photo Hack: Wear a bright jacket and pose in Almannagjá Gorge—wide-angle shots amplify the "torn Earth" effect! 2️⃣ Geysir Geothermal Area ▪️ Eruption Countdown: Strokkur geyser blasts 20-40m (65-130ft) every 8-10 mins—watch the eerie blue bubble before it explodes! ▪️ Secret Angle: Shoot from the side/back for a steam-shrouded "alien battlefield" vibe (burst mode recommended!). ⚠️ Warning: Stay upwind—boiling spray can drench you + fog your lens! 3️⃣ Gullfoss (Golden Falls) ▪️ Twin Waterfall Thunder: The Hvítá River plunges 32m (105ft)—chase rainbows on sunny days or go moody with monochrome filters! ▪️ Foodie Bonus: The visitor center’s lamb soup (with unlimited refills!) + rye bread = ultimate windproof fuel. 📸 Pro Shot: Use a telephoto lens from the lower platform to compress the mist layers! 4️⃣ Kerið Crater Lake ▪️ Iceland’s Palette: Rust-red volcanic rock + electric blue-green water—hike the rim for a "God’s Eye" aerial view (drones allowed!). ▪️ Offbeat Magic: In winter, wear white against the snow for a haunting "solitary wanderer" aesthetic. 5️⃣ Secret Lagoon (Gamla Laugin) ▪️ Oldest Geothermal Pool: Soak in 44°C (111°F) natural hot springs surrounded by steaming vents (less crowded than Blue Lagoon!). ▪️ Golden Hour Dip: Visit at sunset when the sky reflects in the milky waters—pure serenity. #Golden Circle#Reykjavik#Gullfoss#Geysir #Thingvellir National Park#travel guide#trip diary#Iceland