2-Day Summer Tour of Iceland's South Coast to Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon With Glacier Hiking

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A hiker explores the icy ridges of Solheimajokull Glacier in South Iceland under a partly cloudy summer sky.

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Travel details

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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

Moderate

Available

May - Sept.

Minimum age

8 years old

3,123 reviews

Description

Experience the magnificent beauty of Iceland on this 2-day tour of the South Coast. You will see a variety of incredible attractions, including waterfalls, black-sand beaches, and unique rock formations. You will also have the opportunity to step onto a glacier, offering a truly unforgettable experience.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want to experience Iceland’s top highlights and hidden gems in just two days. Enjoy an exciting glacier hike and cruise the spectacular Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, known as the “Crown Jewel of Iceland.” Plus, explore the eerie beauty of the Solheimassandur Black Desert and encounter rare, breathtaking views along the way.

You'll travel on a minibus with a small group, allowing you more time to appreciate the attractions and ask your guide any questions you have. With Wi-Fi onboard, you can stay connected and share your unforgettable moments in real-time, ensuring you never miss a chance to capture and share the beauty of your journey.

Your adventurebegins in Reykjavik, where you will be picked up for a seamless start to your journey. As you head out of town on the Ring Road, you’ll admire the dramatic moss-covered lava fields surrounding the capital area.

Throughout the tour, you'll explore some of Iceland's most iconic sights, including the stunning Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss Waterfalls. You'll also visit the famous Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, where you'll be amazed by the unique volcanic sand and striking basalt columns.

As the adventure unfolds, you'll be captivated by the mystical beauty of Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, where you can sail among towering icebergs. Then, step onto Diamond Beach, where the ice glistens in the sun.

To wrap up this unforgettable journey, you'll embark on a thrilling glacier hike on Vatnajokull, Europe's largest ice cap, or Solheimajokull Glacier, depending on where the best conditions are. All necessary safety equipment, including crampons, an ice axe, and a helmet, will be provided for your safety and comfort.

Your accommodation for the night is fully arranged, ensuring you have a comfortable and restful stay. You'll enjoy a cozy room where you can relax and recharge after a day of adventure.

With the convenience of this minibus tour, you can leave the driving to someone else and simply enjoy the journey. If you're visiting in the summer, you'll experience the magic of the midnight sun, and in the early autumn, you might catch a glimpse of the northern lights.

Don't miss this opportunity to maximize your two days in Iceland by exploring its stunning South Coast region. Check availability by choosing a date.

Included

Experienced guide

Wi-Fi in vehicle

Safety gear for glacier hike

One night stay in a 3-star hotel with included breakfast

Entry for boat tour

All transportation

Activities

Glacier Hiking

Sightseeing

Map

Attractions

Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Skogafoss

Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

Dyrholaey

Solheimajokull Glacier

Skaftafell

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

Gljufrabui

Fjaðrárgljúfur

Reynisdrangar

South Coast

Diamond Beach

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Daily itinerary

Day 1

Day 1 - South Coast Waterfalls and Glacier Hiking

On the first day of your two-day tour of Iceland’s South Coast, you will visit numerous top attractions. This region is rich in incredible nature, striking geological formations, and abundant wildlife.

Your first stop is at one of the most famous waterfalls in Iceland, Seljalandsfoss waterfall. In the summer months, you can take the path encircling the falls and enjoy an incredible view from the cavern behind the water. Bring a raincoat and prepare to get wet!

A short walk from Seljalandsfoss is a hidden gem, the often-overlooked Gljufrabui waterfall. Partially concealed by a cliff face and tucked away in a mossy canyon, Gljufrabui is a dream for nature photographers and those seeking a quiet escape from the crowds.

Next, you will make your way to Skogafoss waterfall. At around 200 feet (60 meters) tall, it is similar in height to Seljalandsfoss but twice as wide and incredibly powerful. On sunny days, rainbows can be spotted in the spray from the falls.

Making your way over to the coast, you will be in awe of the view from the Dyrholaey rock formation. Here, a cliff juts out over the water and ends in a large arch, perfectly framing the sea.

The Dyrholaey formation is also famous for being a nesting site for many seabirds in the summer months. If you’re lucky, you may spot some of Iceland’s most beloved birds, the puffin.

Just up the coast is Reynisfjara black sand beach, one of Iceland’s most iconic destinations. You will be amazed by the beauty of the large waves crashing upon the striking black sand.

From Reynisfjara, you can see the Reynisdrangar sea stacks rising dramatically up from the Atlantic. These massive rocks are steeped in legend, which states that they were once trolls that were turned to stone when caught by the rising sun.

Finally, you will end your incredible first day with a guided hike at the Solheimajokull glacier. This is an unforgettable experience and the perfect finish to a day filled with beautiful sights.

Day 2

Day 2 - Diamond Beach and Jokulsarlon

After a restful night at your cozy country hotel, it is time to head out for your second day of South Coast activities.

Your first stop is at the striking Fjadrargljufur canyon, made famous from a Justin Bieber music video. This stunning serpent-shaped canyon is now a popular destination and one that should be treated with respect in order to protect the fragile ecosystem.

Next, your guide will show you around the Skaftafell nature reserve, located within the greater Vatnajokull National Park. Skaftafell is notable for its abundant flora and unbelievable viewpoints, making this a perfect location for some nature photography.

Visiting the mesmerizing Diamond Beach will surely be a highlight of your tour. This expanse of sand is covered with chunks of ice deposited here by the nearby Jokulsa glacial river.

The beach gets its name from the way the ice glitters in the sunshine: a truly incredible sight.

The final attraction of the tour is an absolute show-stopper and an experience you will never forget. Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, often called the Crown Jewel of Iceland, is only a few moments from Diamond Beach and is one of Iceland’s most unique destinations.

At Jokulsarlon, ancient glaciers, some up to two stories high, float through the deepest lake in Iceland. The lagoon is also known for its wildlife, and it is possible to spot adorable seals swimming through the water or lounging atop icebergs.

Get up close to the towering icebergs on the exhilarating boat tour. Your guide will educate you on the lagoon, its wildlife, and its future as they carefully navigate through the maze of ice. After you have been thoroughly impressed by Jokularlson, it is time to head back to Reykjavik.

Your guide will drop you off by your accommodation in plenty of time for you to grab a tasty dinner and then tuck in for a well-deserved rest after your exciting tour of the South Coast.

What to bring

A small overnight bag with the essentials

Warm, waterproof clothing

Sturdy shoes

Snacks and drinks

Good to know

This South Coast tour is designed to be smooth and hassle-free, so all you need to do is enjoy the adventure! The glacier hike has a minimum age requirement of 8 years, making it an excellent adventure for families with kids.

Along the way, there will be a stop at gas stations or small shops where you can grab snacks, sandwiches, and drinks. For lunch, you'll have the option to enjoy a warm meal, and in the evening, your hotel will have a restaurant where you can unwind with dinner. Vegan and vegetarian options are widely available.

You can bring one hand luggage item on board and store any extra for a small fee in Reykjavik. Since you'll be exploring Iceland's distinct landscapes, we highly recommend sturdy hiking boots with slip-resistant soles and ankle support. If you don't have a pair, you can easily add them to your booking.

If you're traveling in early autumn, watch the skies. This itinerary will take you through some of the best locations to see the northern lights! You may witness nature's most magical light show with some luck.