Immersive 3-Day South Coast & Golden Circle Tour with Transfer from Reykjavik

1 / 23
Immersive 3-Day South Coast & Golden Circle Tour with Transfer from Reykjavik
Likely to sell out soon
Likely to sell out soon
Free cancellation
24/7 customer support
Best price guarantee

Description

Summary

Tour starts
Reykjavík
Starting time
at 08:30
Duration
3 days
Ending place
Reykjavík
Languages
English
Difficulty
Easy
Available
May - Sept.
Minimum age
8 years old
3,123 reviews

Description

Experience the best of Iceland on this incredible 3-day tour of the South Coast and the Golden Circle sightseeing route. This multi-day tour covers South Iceland’s major attractions and hidden gems, from majestic waterfalls to breathtaking glaciers, black-sand beaches, and the stunning Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon.

This tour is designed to save you both time and money by taking care of all the planning and logistics. With a carefully crafted itinerary based on local knowledge, you’ll experience the best of South Iceland without the hassle of researching or booking accommodations and transportation.

Your journey begins with a pick-up in Reykjavik, where you'll meet your guide and the other travelers joining the excursion. With a group of no more than 19 people, you'll have plenty of opportunities to connect and get personal guidance.

You'll explore the Golden Circle, an iconic route featuring three of Iceland’s most popular attractions: Thingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss Waterfall.

At Thingvellir, you'll cross the rift that separates the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates. It’s also here that the Althing, the world’s oldest ongoing parliament, was established in 930 AD.

Marvel at the bubbling hot springs, steam vents, and the erupting Strokkur Geyser at the Geysir Geothermal Area. Last but not least, be awe-struck by the breathtaking sight of water tumbling into a deep canyon at Gullfoss Waterfall.

With Wi-Fi available on the minibus, you can stay online and instantly share the beauty of your adventure as it happens. You'll also enjoy two nights at carefully chosen accommodation, where you can rest after each day of adventure.

From the Golden Circle, you'll travel along the South Coast, where you'll encounter a range of stunning attractions, including the Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls.

This South Coast tour also includes a glacier hike, a must-do when you're in Iceland. You’ll explore Solheimajokull, a stunning ice cap filled with deep crevasses and towering ridges. For your safety, all necessary equipment will be provided.

As you traverse the icy landscape, your guide will share fascinating insights about the significance of these massive glaciers and how global warming is impacting them.

You'll also visit "Iceland's Crown Jewel," Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, where you’ll see stunning icebergs floating in the glacial meltwater. You can also join an amphibian boat tour and see these towering icebergs up close. You may even spot seals frolicking in the icy waters, adding a playful touch to this amazing experience.

The tour's final stop is the Fjadrargljufur River Canyon, a beautiful place to end your adventure and reflect on the wonders of South Iceland.

Make your time in Iceland one to remember with this immersive 3-day South Coast and Golden Circle tour. Check availability now by choosing a date.

Read more

Included

Professional English-speaking guide
Minibus tour for a maximum of 19 passengers
Guided glacier hiking tour, with all necessary safety equipment provided
Two nights of accommodation in a guesthouse or hotel, with breakfast included (based on double rooms with ensuite bathroom)
Free Wi-Fi and USB charging points onboard the bus
Entrance fee for Kerid Volcanic Crater
Space for one piece of hand luggage

Activities

Glacier Hiking
Sightseeing
Boat Trip
Shore Excursions

Map

Attractions

The Golden Circle
Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon
Skogafoss
Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
Geysir
Gullfoss Waterfall
Thingvellir National Park
Strokkur
Solheimajokull Glacier
Hveragerði
Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
Vik
Kerid Crater
Gljufrabui
Fjaðrárgljúfur
Reynisdrangar
Haukadalur
South Coast
Diamond Beach
Hofskirkja Turf Church

Daily itinerary

Day 1

Day 1 - The Golden Circle

Your 3-day guided tour in Iceland begins with an exciting exploration of the iconic Golden Circle route. After meeting your expert guide and boarding a comfortable minibus in Reykjavik, you'll head out of the city, ready to discover some of Iceland’s most famous natural attractions.

Your first stop is Thingvellir National Park, a place of profound historical and geological importance. It’s one of the few places on Earth where the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, the world’s longest mountain range, rises above ground. 

At the park, you’ll walk through a stunning rift valley, a powerful feature of the ridge, where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates are slowly drifting apart, allowing you to stand between two continents. This site is also home to the world's first and still ongoing parliament, the Althing, which was established in 930 AD.

Next, you'll head to the Geysir geothermal area, where Iceland's volcanic energy is fully displayed. Although Geysir, the hot spring that gave all the other geysers their name, has been mostly inactive recently, Strokkur Geyser erupts every few minutes. It sends boiling water up to 100 feet (30 meters) into the sky.

You'll also see steaming vents, bubbling mud pools, and mineral-rich hot springs in the area, creating magnificent scenery and the feeling of being in another world.

After witnessing the awe-inspiring geysers, you’ll continue to the magnificent Gullfoss Waterfall. Fed by glacial meltwater from Langjokull Glacier, the powerful Hvita River plunges into a dramatic canyon, creating Gullfoss. Listen to the soothing roar of the water and catch the magical sight of rainbows forming in the mist on sunny days.

To complete your Golden Circle experience, you'll visit Kerid Crater, a beautiful volcanic lake with aquamarine water and red volcanic rock. The included entrance ticket allows you to walk along the crater rim or descend closer to the lake for a fantastic view. This geological marvel is a hidden gem that adds a colorful contrast to the day’s sights.

Before settling in for the night, you'll travel to the charming town of Hveragerdi, known for its geothermal activity. Take a walk to discover the steaming vents and bubbling hot springs scattered throughout the area (not for bathing), or unwind at the town’s public swimming pool, where you can soak in naturally heated waters and experience a slice of local life.

Read more
Day 2

Day 2 - South Coast, Waterfalls, & Glacier Hike

On the second day of your South Iceland tour, you’ll journey along the stunning South Coast, known for its towering waterfalls, dramatic glaciers, and gorgeous black-sand beaches. After breakfast, you’ll board the minibus for another day of awe-inspiring and unforgettable experiences. 

Your first stop is Seljalandsfoss, one of Iceland’s most stunning waterfalls. Cascading over concave cliffs, it offers a rare opportunity to walk behind the waterfall and feel the cool, refreshing mist. 

Be sure to wear waterproof clothing to stay dry while taking in the unforgettable view. The waterfall plunges 197 feet (60 meters) into a tranquil pool, creating a breathtaking scene perfect for photography.

Just a short trek from Seljalandsfoss Waterfall lies Gljufrabui Waterfall, hidden behind a rock cleft. To reach this hidden gem, you'll need to navigate through a stream, but the effort is well worth it. Water cascades through a narrow rock opening, creating a stunning sight. If you don't mind getting wet, step inside for a memorable experience.

Next, you’ll visit Skogafoss, one of Iceland’s largest and most powerful waterfalls. Standing at 197 feet (60 meters) tall and 80 feet (25 meters) wide, its sheer size will take your breath away. The waterfall’s thunderous roar fills the air as it plunges into the river below.

To fully appreciate its beauty, climb the staircase beside the waterfall for an incredible panoramic view of the surroundings. If you're lucky, the mist may create a double rainbow, adding an extra touch of magic to the scene.

After marveling at these waterfalls, it's time for an exhilarating glacier hike on Solheimajokull, an outlet glacier of Myrdalsjokull, Iceland's fourth-largest ice cap. Before the hike, your guide will hand you all the equipment needed for the activity. 

Your guide will then help you safely navigate the deep crevasses, vibrant blue ridges, and jagged formations that showcase the glacier's ever-shifting beauty. This is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, so be sure to have your camera ready to capture the surreal moment. 

Along the way, your guide will also offer fascinating facts about the significance of these ice giants and how they are affected by global warming.

From the glacial terrain, you’ll visit the volcanic sands of Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach. It’s a vivid reminder that this land has been forged by the forces of fire and ice.

The dark volcanic sand stretches out along the shore, contrasting with the bright blue waves of the Atlantic Ocean. Towering basalt sea stacks rise from the water, adding a dramatic touch to the landscape. Be cautious and don't turn your back on the ocean, as sneaker waves can sometimes appear unexpectedly.

As the day comes to a close, you'll make your way to Southeast Iceland, where a cozy countryside retreat awaits. Enjoy a restful night, as tomorrow's journey will lead you further into Iceland's icy wonders, with glacial lagoons and stunning landscapes waiting for you.

Read more
Day 3

Day 3 - The Jokulsarlon Glacier lagoon

The last day of this South Iceland tour will take you to some of the country’s breathtaking sights, including the enchanting Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, often called “Iceland’s Crown Jewel.”

Here, massive icebergs break off from the Breidamerkurjokull Glacier and drift gracefully through the crystal-clear water. The ice formations, ranging from pure white to brilliant shades of blue, create a surreal and otherworldly atmosphere. 

For a closer look, you can embark on an amphibian boat tour, gliding between the towering icebergs as they float through the lagoon. Watch for playful seals, frequently swimming among the ice or resting on floating chunks.

Near the lagoon, you’ll see the famous Diamond Beach, where smaller icebergs wash up on the black volcanic sand. The sparkling ice chunks look like scattered diamonds, creating a beautiful contrast with the dark shore. It's a photographer’s dream and an incredible place to witness Iceland’s glaciers meet the ocean.

After taking in the stunning icy landscapes, your journey back to Reykjavik continues with more amazing stops. First, you’ll visit Hofskirkja Church, one of Iceland’s last turf churches, nestled in the lava fields. Your guide will tell you about Iceland’s turf-building tradition and how these homes survive the harsh climate.

Next, you’ll explore the Fjadrargljufur Canyon, a dramatic river gorge with sheer, moss-covered cliffs winding through the terrain. This hidden gem feels like a scene from a fairy tale, offering spectacular viewpoints and peaceful nature trails.

As you continue west, you'll stop in Vik, Iceland's southernmost mainland village. From a scenic viewpoint, you’ll enjoy a stunning view of the Reynisdrangar Sea Stacks rising from the ocean and the Dyrholaey Peninsula, home to a striking cliff arch carved by the sea. If you visit in the summer, you might even spot puffins nesting along the cliffs.

As the bus arrives in Reykjavik in the evening, take a moment to reflect on the amazing sights and experiences of the past three days. This well-planned multi-day tour has shown you Iceland's most beautiful landscapes, leaving you with memories you'll always treasure.

Read more

What to bring

Warm, waterproof clothing
Sturdy hiking boots (can be rented)
Small piece of hand luggage
Camera and charger
Refillable water bottle
Swimwear and a towel
Snacks

Good to know

To ensure a comfortable trip, we recommend bringing a small backpack or carry-on bag for the tour. If you have larger luggage, many Reykjavik hotels offer storage options during your stay. Alternatively, you can also use the luggage storage facilities in the city center for a small fee.

For solo travelers, a single-room supplement is required. Most accommodations include breakfast, and we’ll also make stops for lunch and dinner, where you can purchase meals and snacks along the way.

Be sure to pack warm, waterproof clothing and sturdy boots to explore Iceland's diverse landscapes. If needed, specific gear like hiking boots is available for rent upon request.

We're committed to making your Iceland adventure smooth and enjoyable. If you have any questions or need help with your preparations, feel free to reach out to us!

Read more

Video

Verified reviews

Similar tours

Link to appstore phone
Install Iceland’s biggest travel app

Download Iceland’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place

Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Iceland’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.