2 Day Northern Lights & Ice Cave Tour with Glacier Hiking & Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

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The Northern Lights dance over a glacier lagoon in Iceland, casting green reflections on floating icebergs.

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Travel details

Dates

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Description

Summary

Tour starts

Reykjavík, Iceland

Starting time

at 08:00

Duration

2 days

Ending place

Reykjavík, Iceland

Languages

English

Difficulty

Easy

Available

Sept. - Apr.

Minimum age

8 years old

3,123 reviews

Description

Explore Iceland’s breathtaking landscapes on this top-rated 2-day South Coast tour to explore Iceland’s glaciers, black sand beaches, waterfalls, and a rare ice cave. Perfect for travelers who want to explore the country’s top attractions and see the northern lights, this winter tour in Iceland offers an unforgettable experience.

Winter in Iceland brings frozen landscapes and long nights to increase your chances of seeing the northern lights. With icy roads and changing weather, having a guide ensures a safe, smooth journey while you enjoy every moment of the adventure.

Over 2 days, you’ll explore Iceland’s South Coast without the hassle of planning and organizing. Your winter itinerary is crafted based on the best local knowledge to offer a complete Icelandic experience.

Travel in comfort with an expert English-speaking guide, taking in lava fields, towering cliffs, and glacial rivers shaping the landscape. With free Wi-Fi onboard and Icelandic music in the background, the journey becomes part of the adventure.

As you explore the South Coast, you’ll encounter some of Iceland’s most dramatic landscapes. Visit the thundering waterfalls of Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss, and walk along the dramatic black sands of Reynisfjara Beach. Watch icebergs drift through Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon and walk along the sparkling Diamond Beach.

One of the highlights of this 2-day winter tour is the chance to visit a naturally formed Skaftafell Ice Cave in the Vatnajokull Glacier. This icy wonder is constantly changing and only accessible in winter, so book your trip accordingly if you want to enjoy this unique ice caving experience.

You'll also have the chance to explore the surrounding glacial landscape with a certified guide. Glacier hiking and ice caving are activities found in very few places in the world, and this South Coast winter tour lets you experience both in one incredible adventure.

Everything you need for the ice cave and glacier hike is provided, from crampons to safety equipment. Just bring your warm clothes, sturdy hiking boots, a camera, and your sense of adventure.

Each day brings amazing opportunities, including seeing the northern lights at night. With the right conditions, you might witness this breathtaking phenomenon lighting up the night sky, adding another magical moment to your Iceland journey.

With this carefully organized tour, you also won’t have to worry about planning your accommodations and navigating the roads. You’ll stay in the best accommodation available, ideally located for northern lights viewing.

Each guest is welcome to bring one item of carry-on luggage on this trip. If you have extra bags, convenient storage options are available in Reykjavik for a small fee.

Secure your spot on this 2-day South Coast tour that will leave you captivated by Iceland’s beauty. Check availability by choosing a date.

Included

Private transportation from Reykjavik

English-speaking, knowledgable guide

Guided ice caving tour

Equipment for ice caving

Accommodation for one night

Free Wi-Fi on board vehicle

Activities

Glacier Hiking

Sightseeing

Ice Caving

Map

Attractions

Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Skogafoss

Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

Solheimajokull Glacier

Skaftafell

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

Eldhraun

Gljufrabui

Fjadrargljufur Canyon

Diamond Beach

Daily itinerary

Day 1

Day 1 - South Coast Waterfalls and Beaches

Your 2-day South Coast tour begins with a convenient morning pick-up in Reykjavik. Your guide will meet you right at your hotel or at a nearby bus stop so that you can start your adventure stress-free.

Your first stop is Seljalandsfoss, a 200-foot (62-meter) waterfall that tumbles from a tall cliff. A well-maintained walking path circles behind the cascade for a rare view from behind the falls. It’s one of the best photo spots in Iceland.

Just a few minutes from Seljalandsfoss is one of South Iceland’s hidden gems, the Gljufrabui Waterfall. Overlooked by many visitors, this stunning waterfall is hidden within a narrow canyon and allows visitors to enjoy an up-close experience with nature. A shallow stream and moss-covered gorge guide you to the falls, creating a quiet moment away from the crowds.

Next is Skogafoss, one of Iceland’s most powerful waterfalls. The Skoga River plunges 197 feet (60 meters) into a misty basin, and on sunny days, rainbows often appear in the spray. You can walk right up to its base or climb a staircase to enjoy sweeping views from the top.

Then, you’ll head to Reynisfjara, Iceland’s most famous black sand beach. Here, towering cliffs, thundering waves, and pitch-black volcanic sands create an otherworldly scene.

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.

Next, you’ll head to Vatnajokull National Park to reach Skaftafell Nature Reserve. This scenic area is home to impressive glaciers, lush valleys, and striking waterfalls. You'll stop at the Skeidara Bridge Monument, a remnant of what was once the longest bridge in Iceland.

Depending on your accommodation for the night, this stop may be moved to Day 2 to make the route more convenient and ensure a smoother travel experience.

After a full day of adventure, you’ll settle into a countryside accommodation 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

Day 2 - Jokulsarlon Lagoon and Ice Caving

After breakfast, you’ll set off for another day of epic sights along Iceland’s South Coast.

If you didn’t visit Skaftafell Nature Reserve on Day 1, today you’ll explore this breathtaking corner of Vatnajokull National Park.

Then, it’s time for one of the highlights of your winter tour in Iceland—a visit to a stunning blue ice cave in Vatnajokull National Park, Iceland’s largest glacier. Ice caves are hidden gems of the icy wilderness that are best explored during the autumn and winter months.

To reach the blue ice cave, you’ll first go on a short glacier hike across Vatnajokull Glacier. Your guide will provide all the essential gear, including crampons, helmets, harnesses, and ice axes, and lead the way through this frozen wilderness.

Upon reaching the ice cave, you’ll walk beneath glowing blue ice walls and translucent colors reminiscent of a crystal diamond. It’s a rare and peaceful place, and your guide will share fascinating facts about glacial formations and local legends tied to the area. Feel free to ask them questions about anything that piques your curiosity.

After the glacier adventure, you’ll head to Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, one of the most famous and beautiful places in Iceland. Watch in wonder as blue, white, and gray icebergs drift across the still waters and look out for seals swimming among the icebergs or resting on the ice under the sun.

Just across the road, you’ll visit the 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.

If time allows, you’ll stop in the coastal village of Vik on the way back to Reykjavik. Set against black sand beaches with views of the distant sea stacks, Vik is known for its scenic hilltop church and peaceful charm.

After your incredible South Coast tour, 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!

How it works

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What to bring

Overnight bag

Warm layers

Waterproof jacket

Hiking boots

Snacks and water bottle

Camera

Good to know

This tour is planned to help you make the most of every moment. While the order of stops may change due to weather or road conditions, your guides will always adjust the schedule to ensure the best possible experience.

The northern lights are a natural phenomenon, so sightings aren’t guaranteed, but your hotels are in prime locations to increase your chances. In winter, with limited daylight, tour times may be adjusted for the best experience and to avoid crowds.

Pick-up is available from selected locations in Reykjavik. You can choose your preferred stop from a drop-down menu when booking. Please note that pick-up from Keflavik Airport or areas outside the greater capital region is unavailable.

To stay comfortable during your trip, dress in warm layers and weather-appropriate clothing. Sturdy hiking boots with good grip are highly recommended, especially for winter conditions. If you don’t have a pair, you can rent them when booking.

Ice caves are only accessible during winter when freezing temperatures allow them to form naturally. Since these caves change every season, no two visits are the same. The photos shown are from this season, but the cave and formations you explore may look different due to natural changes.

The minimum age for ice caving and glacier hiking is 8 years old. If a child is under this age, an adult must stay with them while others take part in these activities.

Each guest may bring one piece of hand luggage on the tour. Extra luggage can be stored in Reykjavik for a small fee. Feel free to bring along your favorite snacks and beverages for the road to keep you energized between stops.