3-Day Golden Circle to Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon Tour with Glacier Hike and Northern Lights Hunt

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3-Day Golden Circle to Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon Tour with Glacier Hike and Northern Lights Hunt

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Description

Summary

Tour starts

Reykjavík, Iceland

Starting time

at 09:00

Duration

3 days

Ending place

Reykjavík, Iceland

Languages

English

Difficulty

Easy

Available

All year

Minimum age

7 years old

3,123 reviews

Description

Set off on an unforgettable adventure in Iceland on this 3-day Golden Circle to Jokulsarlon tour with northern lights hunting. This adventure is perfect for nature lovers eager to explore glaciers, waterfalls, black sand beaches, and search for the aurora borealis, all for three days.

With expert guidance and seamless transport, you can focus entirely on the landscapes around you. The route includes Iceland's most iconic destinations alongside lesser-known gems.

In three days, you'll explore the Golden Circle and South Coast, two scenic regions near Reykjavik known for their dramatic landscapes and natural wonders. These areas feature geothermal fields, waterfalls, black sand beaches, and glaciers.

One of the main features of the Golden Circle is the Thingvellir National Park, where a rift valley marks the divide between two tectonic plates. The area is also rich in history, as it's the site of Iceland's first parliament, established over a thousand years ago.

The Geysir Geothermal Area lies nearby, known for its bubbling springs and steaming vents. Strokkur erupts at regular intervals, sending scalding water high into the air. This natural spectacle captures the raw energy beneath Iceland's surface.

Gullfoss Waterfall offers another highlight, with powerful glacial water plunging 105 feet (32 meters) into a rugged canyon. With each stop, your guide will share local insights and history, adding depth to every experience.

Beyond the Golden Circle, glacier-fed rivers shape two of Iceland's striking waterfalls. Seljalandsfoss drops 197 feet (60 meters) in a narrow cascade with a path behind the water. Skogafoss roars nearby in a wide curtain of mist, often lit by rainbows.

Moving to the South Coast, Reynisfjara is known for its raw beauty. Black volcanic sand lies beneath towering basalt columns and jagged offshore sea stacks. Powerful waves crash ashore, starkly contrasting dark sand, white surf, and fractured cliffs.

This tour also features Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, where massive icebergs drift across still, blue-toned glacial water. Seals often swim between the bergs or rest on floating ice near the shore. Just across the road, Diamond Beach sparkles with shattered ice on jet-black sand.

For an immersive experience, this multi-day tour in Iceland includes a glacier hiking experience atop one of the mighty glacier tongues of the South Coast. A certified glacier guide equips you with the right gear and ensures a safe, exciting walk.

When night falls, and skies are clear, you may search for the northern lights dancing overhead. The aurora borealis is primarily visible during Iceland's longer, darker nights from September to April.

This expertly planned tour includes top-rated excursions, glacier gear, and all transport between locations. Everything is arranged for you, so you can focus on the experience.

Reserve this 3-day tour to explore waterfalls, glaciers, volcanic coasts, and the northern lights. It's an ideal way to experience Iceland's most iconic landscapes with expert guidance and zero travel stress. Check availability now by selecting a date.

Included

National park entrance fee

Free Wi-Fi on board

Live English-speaking tour guide

English audio guide

Pick-up and drop-off from designated Reykjavik locations

Glacier hike with safety equipment

Activities

Glacier Hiking

Sightseeing

Northern lights hunting

Cultural Activity

Map

Attractions

Golden Circle

Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Thingvellir National Park

Geysir

Strokkur

Gullfoss Waterfall

South Coast

Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

Skogafoss

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

Vatnajokull Glacier

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Daily itinerary

Day 1

Day 1 - Golden Circle Highlights and Northern Lights Hunting

The tour begins with a morning pickup in Reykjavik and a scenic drive to the Golden Circle. This popular route introduces Iceland’s dramatic geology, geothermal activity, and unique natural features. It's one of the most visited regions in the country.

The first stop is Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site set in a rift valley. It marks the boundary between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. The landscape features lava fields, fissures, and the Oxararfoss Waterfall.

Thingvellir also holds cultural significance as the founding site of Althingi, Iceland’s national parliament. It was established in 930 AD and is considered the world’s oldest still-operating legislature. Visitors can walk through the rift and explore trails between cliffs and clear streams.

Next, head to the Geysir Geothermal Area in Haukadalur Valley, where steam rises from the ground. The site is home to several hot springs and bubbling mud pots. Strokkur Geyser erupts every few minutes, reaching up to 66 feet (20 meters).

From there, continue to Gullfoss Waterfall, one of Iceland’s most iconic natural landmarks. This two-tiered cascade plunges 105 feet (32 meters) into a glacial canyon. Rainbows often form in the mist, especially on clear days.

In the late afternoon, travel into the Icelandic countryside and check into a remote hotel. This area is well-positioned for northern lights viewing during the winter months. If skies are clear, your guide will monitor forecasts and alert you when conditions look promising.

While sightings are not guaranteed, winter offers the best chance to witness this natural light display. With clear skies and a bit of luck, you may see vibrant green and purple waves ripple across the night sky.

Day 2

Day 2 - South Coast Waterfalls, Black Sand Beach, & Glacier Hike

Travel along Iceland’s South Coast, known for its diverse terrain shaped by glaciers, volcanoes, and ancient floods. The route offers sweeping views of the coastline, lava fields, and glacier-topped peaks. It's one of the country’s most scenic drives.

The first stop is Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, which drops 197 feet (60 meters) from an ancient sea cliff. A walking path behind the cascade, open when conditions allow, gives a rare view from inside the falls. In winter, the trail is often coated in ice.

Just a few minutes away is Skogafoss, a powerful and wide waterfall with the same vertical drop. On sunny days, rainbows form in the mist at the base. A staircase alongside the cliff leads to a viewing platform with panoramic views of the river valley.

Continue east to Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, located near the village of Vik. The beach is bordered by cliffs of basalt columns formed by rapidly cooling lava. Offshore, the Reynisdrangar Sea Stacks rise from the ocean, tied to local folklore.

The beach is known for its crashing Atlantic waves, which can be unpredictable and dangerous. Visitors are advised to stay well back from the water’s edge. The combination of sea, stone, and sand makes it one of Iceland’s most photographed spots.

Later in the day, arrive at one of the breathtaking glacier outlets along Iceland’s South Coast. Strap on crampons and follow a certified guide across the frozen surface for an unforgettable hike. Along the way, observe crevasses, ice ridges, and other natural formations shaped by centuries of glacial movement.

After the hike, continue through the quiet landscapes of Southeast Iceland. With minimal light pollution in this remote region, conditions are ideal for northern lights viewing when the skies are clear. Your guide will watch the aurora forecast and alert you if there’s a good chance to see the lights.

Day 3

Day 3 - Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, Diamond Beach, & Return to Reykjavik

Your third day begins at Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, a stunning lake filled with floating icebergs. These icy formations break off from Breidamerkurjokull, an outlet of Vatnajokull, Europe’s largest ice cap. The lagoon has grown rapidly in recent decades due to glacial melt.

The icebergs vary in size and color, from bright white to deep blue, shaped by wind and water. Seals are often seen swimming between the bergs or resting on top. The calm water and dramatic backdrop make it one of Iceland’s most photographed locations.

Just across the road lies Diamond Beach, a black sand shoreline where icebergs from the lagoon wash ashore. The contrast between the clear ice and dark sand gives the beach its name. Light reflecting off the scattered ice creates a striking, ever-changing landscape.

After exploring the lagoon and beach, begin the journey back toward Reykjavik. The route passes moss-covered lava fields, glacial rivers, and sweeping coastal views. Your guide may include rest stops or photo opportunities along the way, depending on the conditions.

As you drive west, you’ll have time to take in the diverse scenery of Southeast Iceland. This region features a blend of rural farmland, volcanic plains, and glacier-topped peaks. It’s a peaceful final leg of the tour.

Arrival in Reykjavik is scheduled for the evening. The exact time may vary based on weather and road conditions. Your guide will ensure a safe and comfortable return to the city.