Exciting 2-Day South Coast Tour with Ice Caving and Jokulsaron Lagoon from Reykjavik
Description
Summary
Description
Prepare for the adventure of a lifetime when choosing this two-day tour of Iceland's South Coast, including a visit to the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon. Travelers who want to spend two days exploring the best sights in South Iceland in winter with a thrilling ice caving should book this small-group tour now.
Your two-day tour starts with pickup in Reykjavik at your hotel or a nearby bus stop. Settle in and enjoy a comfortable ride towards the South Coast, where the passing scenery looks otherworldly.
The day's first stop is at the Seljalandsfoss waterfall, where you can even walk behind the waterfall. From there, you will continue your fantastic first day around the South Coast.
Further stops on day one include Gljufrabui waterfall, Skogafoss waterfall, Dyrholaey rock formation, and the famous Reynisfjara black sand beach. Your knowledgeable guide will give you information at each stop, and you will end the day with a new appreciation for Iceland's unparalleled natural beauty.
After a day of exploring this varied region, you will stop for the night at a hotel to rest and refuel in preparation for an exciting day two of the tour. Depending on availability, your hotel will be somewhere between the towns of Vik and Hofn, and you will have plenty of time to explore the area and even hunt for the northern lights, depending on the weather and sky conditions.
Now that you're well-rested and ready to take on another day, the second day of this South Coast tour takes you to see some remarkable natural wonders. After morning stops at Fjadrargljufur canyon and the Skaftafell Nature Reserve, you're in for a real treat with an ice caving experience.
Exploring an ice cave in Iceland during winter offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience to observe the beauty of nature's ice formations up close. You'll see unique ice sculptures, stalactites, and other formations shaped by water flow and ice freezing and melting.
Another itinerary highlight is the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, Iceland's deepest lake. The ancient icebergs floating around the bright blue lagoon are an unforgettable sight.
Finally, you will visit the famous Diamond Beach before returning to the Icelandic capital. This black sand beach got its name from the numerous chunks of ice scattered across the sand, which sparkle like diamonds when the sunlight hits them.
The minimum age for participants is eight years. Be sure to pack warm clothing and comfortable shoes to enjoy every aspect of this experience. You can bring one carry-on bag.
Please note that December is very busy on the South Coast, and this tour fills up quickly. If you are visiting during the month, you should book in advance.
Travelers looking to see the best spots in South Iceland and feel the adrenalin of ice caving should book this tour today. Check availability now by choosing a date.
Included
Activities
Daily itinerary
Day 1 - South Coast Waterfalls and Beaches
Your magical two-day adventure around the South Coast of Iceland begins with your knowledgeable guide picking you up in Reykjavik. They can collect you at your hotel or a nearby bus stop, whichever is more convenient for you.
The first stop is the Seljalandsfoss waterfall, one of the best-loved waterfalls in the country. You’ll be amazed by the water cascading 200 feet (62 meters) down, and you can even walk behind the falls for a unique view. Prepare to get wet!
Just moments from Seljalandsfoss is one of South Iceland’s hidden gems, the Gljufrabui waterfall. Overlooked by many visitors, this stunning waterfall is tucked behind a cliff face and allows visitors to take photographs and enjoy nature amid quiet surroundings.
Your waterfall chasing continues with a visit to Skogafoss waterfall, where the Skoga river drops 197 feet (60 meters) and provides excellent photo opportunities. The impressive spray created by the cascading water means that whenever the sun shines, there are rainbows adorning the falls.
Dyrholaey translates to “door hill island,” which makes sense once you see this unique rock formation jutting out into the sea. A stop here allows you to enjoy views of the rock arch and the rugged coasts.
Your final stop of the day is at the awe-inspiring Reynisfjara black sand beach. Reynisfjara boasts a long stretch of black sands constantly pounded by powerful Atlantic waves.
As you walk down the black volcanic sand, you will have breathtaking views of the offshore Reynisdrangar sea stacks and the hexagonal-shaped basalt columns along the cliffs.
After a full day of adventure, you will retire to your accommodations located between Vik and Hofn, depending on availability. You will have plenty of time to enjoy a great dinner and explore the area. In the winter, be on the lookout for the elusive northern lights, as the countryside makes the best spot to see them.
Day 2 - Jokulsarlon Lagoon and Ice Caving
After a delicious breakfast, day two of your tour starts with a visit to Fjadrargljufur canyon. This picturesque serpent-shaped canyon was made famous by Justin Bieber’s “I’ll Show You” music video and is now a favorite stop for many travelers.
Skaftafell Nature Reserve, located in Southeast Iceland, is your next stop. Known for its unique flora and stunning views of the rugged landscape, Skaftafell is a fantastic location for short hikes.
The highlight of your winter trip is visiting an ice cave in the Vatnajokull National Park, the largest glacier in Iceland. Ice caves are hidden gems of the icy wilderness that are only safe to explore during the autumn and winter months. The necessary equipment is provided, and all you have to do is enjoy the walk and views.
Inside a glacier cave, beautiful ice formations await you. Some ice caves have deep-blue walls, while others have translucent or ash-black colorations. While admiring their beauty, your guide will share interesting information and local tales about Icelandic ice caves. Feel free to ask them questions about anything that piques your curiosity.
Next, you will make your way to the crown jewel of Iceland, the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon. The lagoon is famed for the ancient icebergs floating around the lake, creating unparalleled views. These icebergs come in different colors and sizes, with some as big as buildings.
Near Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon is the beloved Diamond Beach. Named for the sparkling chunks of ice scattered across the black sand, this is an excellent spot for a stroll down the beach and, of course, lots of pictures!
After your incredible South Coast journey, it is time to head back to Reykjavik, where you will be dropped off at your hotel or designated bus stop. The memories from this two-day tour are sure to last a lifetime.
What to bring
Good to know
Dinner is scheduled late, so it's recommended to bring snacks. Extra luggage you cannot take on the tour can be stored in Reykjavik for a small fee.
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