Immersive 3-Day South Coast & Golden Circle Tour with Transfer from Reykjavik
Description
Summary
Description
Experience the best of Iceland on this immersive tour of the South Coast and the Golden Circle sightseeing route. This incredible three-day trip is perfect for travelers who want to explore the highlights of South Iceland, including waterfalls, glaciers, black-sand beaches, and the magnificent Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon.
The adventure begins in Reykjavik, where you'll meet your expert local guide and the other passengers joining you for the excursion. The group has a maximum size of 19 people, so you can make friends during the trip while enjoying plenty of time with your guide.
You'll spend the first day exploring the sights of the Golden Circle, Iceland's most popular and best-known sightseeing route.
First, you'll visit Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This national park is unique because it's where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. Walk between the plates and feel the earth's power.
Next, you'll see the Geysir geothermal area. One of the most spectacular sights here is the Strokkur geyser, which erupts every few minutes, shooting hot water high.
Your last stop on the Golden Circle sightseeing route is Gullfoss waterfall. Feel the mist on your face as you watch the water plunge into a deep canyon.
On the second day of the tour, you'll enjoy the beauty of Iceland's South Coast. You'll stop at stunning waterfalls, including Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss. Take some photos and learn about the diversity of Iceland's various waterfalls.
Today also includes a glacier hike with an expert glacier guide. Trek over the mighty Solheimajokull ice cap and witness the enormous crevasses that split the ice. Sturdy hiking boots are essential.
The final day of the tour takes you to the "crown jewel of Iceland," the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon. This awe-inspiring glacial lake has floating icebergs that have broken off a glacier tongue.
You can add an optional amphibious boat tour to get a closer look. It's an unforgettable experience that you won't want to miss.
The nearby Diamond Beach is famous for the enormous ice chunks that have drifted ashore. They look like giant gemstones sparkling in the sunlight, which is how it got its name.
It's a perfect spot for photos, and you'll have plenty of time to explore this natural attraction.
The tour's final stop is the magnificent Fjadrargljufur river canyon. This deep canyon has stunning green walls, making it a photographer's dream. It's a peaceful place to end your tour and reflect on the wonders of South Iceland.
The tour price includes minibus transportation and two nights' comfortable accommodation.
Immerse yourself in the beauty of Iceland's South Coast on this unforgettable three-day tour. Check availability now by choosing a date.
Included
Map
Attractions
Activities
Daily itinerary
Day 1 - The Golden Circle
Day one of your South Iceland tour is an exciting exploration of the attractions on the Golden Circle sightseeing route.
After meeting your guide and boarding the bus in Reykjavik, you'll leave the city ready to see some of Iceland's best-known natural attractions.
Your first stop is Thingvellir National Park, a place of great historical and geological significance.
Here, you'll witness the remarkable sight of two tectonic plates pulling apart. The national park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is where the North American and Eurasian plates meet. You can walk between these massive plates, feeling a unique connection to the earth.
Thingvellir National Park is also important in Icelandic history as the site of the world's first parliament, established over 1,000 years ago.
Next, the bus takes you to the Geysir geothermal area. This area is famous for its hot springs and geysers. The most active geyser, Strokkur, erupts every few minutes, shooting hot water up to 100 feet (30 meters) into the air.
The steam and bubbling pools around you create an otherworldly atmosphere.
After experiencing the geysers, you'll visit the magnificent Gullfoss waterfall. This stunning waterfall is one of Iceland's most iconic sights. The Hvita river dramatically plunges into a deep canyon, creating a breathtaking view.
The sound of the water and the sight of rainbows in the mist make Gullfoss waterfall a memorable stop.
Your final destination of the day is the Kerid crater. This volcanic crater lake is beautiful, with vivid blue water contrasted against the red volcanic rock.
The entrance ticket is included in your tour, so you can walk around the crater rim and enjoy the beauty of this natural wonder.
As the day ends, the bus will take you to the town of Hveragerdi, where you'll spend the night. If you want, you can visit the town's geothermal spa. Relax in the naturally warm waters as you reflect on a fantastic day on the Golden Circle sightseeing route.
Day 2 - South Coast, Waterfalls, & Glacier Hike
On day two of your tour of Iceland, you'll discover the iconic waterfalls, magnificent glaciers, and gorgeous black-sand beaches on the South Coast.
After breakfast at your accommodation, you'll reboard the bus and start your journey along the enchanting South Coast. Your first destination is the Seljalandsfoss waterfall. This unique waterfall allows you to walk behind the cascading water for a different perspective.
Feel the mist on your face and hear the powerful sound of the water falling 200 feet (60 meters) into the pool below. Remember to wear waterproof clothing to stay dry during this incredible experience.
Just a short walk from Seljalandsfoss waterfall is Gljufrabui waterfall, a hidden gem often missed by tourists. It's tucked away in a small canyon, offering a sense of discovery. Seeing water falling through the narrow opening in the rocks is mesmerizing.
Next, you'll visit the Skogafoss waterfall, one of Iceland's biggest and most beautiful. It's a spectacular sight with a width of about 80 feet (25 meters). You can climb the steps next to the waterfall for a breathtaking view from above.
After experiencing these stunning waterfalls, prepare for an exciting glacier hike on Solheimajokull glacier. A professional guide will lead you over the ice cap, ensuring your safety as you explore the glacier's features, like crevasses and ice formations.
Walking on a glacier is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so ensure your camera is fully charged to capture it.
Your journey continues with a stop at the Reynisfjara black-sand beach. This beach is famous for its volcanic sands, powerful waves, and the Reynisdrangar sea stacks that rise majestically from the ocean.
Enjoy the dramatic landscapes and take photos of the stunning scenery.
The day concludes as you settle into a cozy Southeast Iceland hotel. Rest well in preparation for another day of exploration on your South Iceland adventure.
Day 3 - The Jokulsarlon Glacier lagoon
The final day of the South Iceland tour takes you to some of the country's most stunning sights, including the incomparable Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon.
After breakfast at your hotel, you'll head to the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, nicknamed the "Crown Jewel of Iceland."
This glacial lagoon is a magical place where large icebergs break off a glacier tongue and float on the water. The icebergs are white and bright blue, creating a view you'll never forget.
Here, you have the option to take an amphibious boat tour. This tour gets you close to the icebergs, offering a unique perspective of this breathtaking attraction. Keep an eye out for seals often seen swimming in the water or lounging on the icebergs.
Next, visit Diamond Beach, just across from the lagoon. This black-sand beach is where icebergs from the lagoon wash ashore, creating a stunning contrast against the dark sand.
The ice chunks glisten in the sun like diamonds, giving the beach its name.
After exploring these incredible locations, it's time to return to Reykjavik, first stopping at a few more spectacular sights.
You'll visit the Hofskirkja church and have time to explore the surrounding lava fields. This picturesque turf church blends beautifully with the landscape. During the tour, your guide will tell you more about the history of turf structures in Iceland.
Next, your guide will take you to the Fjadrargljufur river canyon. This deep and meandering canyon, with its steep walls and lush greenery, offers a scenic end to your adventure.
Finally, you'll stop in Vik village, Iceland's southernmost mainland settlement. Visiting a lovely viewpoint at Vik allows for breathtaking panoramic views of the Reynisdrangar sea stacks and the Dyrholaey peninsula. This enchanting seaside village, unusual in Iceland for its lack of a harbor, becomes a bustling nesting ground for numerous seabirds in the summer.
As the bus arrives back in Reykjavik in the evening, you'll have time to reflect on the amazing sights and experiences of the past three days. This tour of South Iceland will leave you with lasting memories of the country's natural beauty.
What to bring
Good to know
A single room supplement is mandatory for single travelers.
There is only space on the bus for one small piece of carry-on luggage per passenger. Suitcases or large luggage can be stored in Reykjavik for a small fee.
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