Small Group 4-Day Golden Circle and Glacier Lagoon Tour from Reykjavik with Optional Ice Caving

The morning starts with a drive farther east along Iceland’s South Coast, where glacier tongues stretch from the mountains and moss-covered plains line the road. The route leads toward Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, a highlight of the southeast.

At Jokulsarlon, bright blue icebergs drift across the still water after breaking from Breidamerkurjokull Glacier. Their size and color change constantly, and the air is filled with creaks and groans as the ice slowly shifts.

Just across the road lies Diamond Beach, where chunks of ice from the glacier lagoon wash ashore. Scattered across the black volcanic sand, they sparkle in the light. Some are crystal clear, others striped with ash or glowing in icy blue tones.

Each tide brings a new arrangement. Ice fragments appear like sculptures, and the contrast between dark sand and luminous ice makes this one of Iceland’s most striking photo stops.

Afterward, you have an option to explore a natural ice cave with a certified glacier guide. Outfitted with safety gear, you’ll walk through frozen tunnels shaped by meltwater, where light filters through walls of layered ice.

Inside, the air feels cool and still. Footsteps crunch across the floor as soft light reveals swirling textures and color variations shaped by centuries of snow, ash, and ice.

The ice caves you visit depend on the season. In winter, tours venture into the ice caves in Vatnajokull Glacier. In summer, caves form in Katla Glacier, where black volcanic ash lines the walls. These caves form naturally and change every season.

As evening falls, settle into your countryside hotel. From September to March, if skies are clear and the forecast is good, there may be another chance to see the northern lights dancing across the Icelandic sky.

The final leg of the South Coast journey begins in the village of Vik, a quiet place between cliffs and the open sea. You’ll stop here to take in the view from the hilltop church, where the red roof stands out against the black sand coastline stretching below.

This southern village is a peaceful stop before continuing west. On clear days, you can see Reynisdrangar Sea Stacks rise from the ocean.

From Vik, the road leads to Skogafoss, one of Iceland’s most powerful waterfalls. Water drops from a height of 197 feet (60 meters) and forms a wall of spray with a roar that echoes across the cliffs.

You’ll feel the mist on your face as you walk up close, or take the staircase beside the falls to reach the top and see the view across southern Iceland. On sunny days, rainbows sometimes appear in the mist at the base, adding color to the already striking scene.

The journey continues to Seljalandsfoss, a tall, narrow waterfall that drops from a high cliff. A path leads behind the cascade, offering the chance to walk in a full circle and see the cascade from behind as it falls into a shallow pool.

This part of the drive also reveals farmland and lava fields shaped by ancient eruptions. Green pastures stretch across the lowlands, with distant volcanoes visible on the horizon.

As the group returns to Reykjavik, the scenery shifts from countryside to coastline. Depending on road and weather conditions, arrival in the capital is expected by early evening.

This final stretch completes a journey filled with waterfalls, black sand beaches, and dramatic cliffs. The South Coast offers a blend of raw nature and peaceful beauty, and this day brings that experience to a memorable close.

The final day takes you to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, often called “Iceland in Miniature” because of its diverse landscapes. Throughout the day, you explore lava fields, beaches, cliffs, glaciers, and quiet fishing villages.

After morning pickup in Reykjavik, you’ll head northwest through scenic fjords and peaceful fishing villages toward Snaefellsnes Peninsula.

The first stop is Berserkjahraun, a lava field formed by an eruption over four thousand years ago. Today, it is covered in moss, creating a surreal landscape of twisted rock and green mounds stretching across the land.

Next, visit Mt. Kirkjufell, one of Iceland’s most photographed mountains. This cone-shaped peak rises near the town of Grundarfjordur, and just below it, the small waterfalls of Kirkjufellsfoss add to the picture-perfect setting.

From there, the route then enters Snaefellsjokull National Park, a protected area where lava fields run toward the coast. The park is named after the glacier-capped Snaefellsjokull Volcano, a striking landmark featured in local legends and literature.

Continue to Djupalonssandur Beach, where smooth black pebbles cover the shoreline. Rusted remains of a shipwreck lie near the surf, and nearby lifting stones once tested the strength of local fishermen.

From there, stop at Londrangar, a pair of tall basalt sea stacks that rise from the ocean. These cliffs are home to seabirds and overlook crashing waves and grassy fields.

Next is Arnarstapi, a quiet village with walking paths along the cliffs. Natural rock arches, blowholes, and basalt formations shape the coastline here, making it a favorite for photographers and hikers.

Before returning to Reykjavik, visit the Budir Black Church. This small wooden chapel stands alone in a lava field near the sea and offers peaceful views in every direction.

Your final stop is Ytri Tunga Beach, known for its golden sand and frequent seal sightings. After a full day of coastal beauty, return to Reykjavik in the evening.

After visiting key sites on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, including lava fields, sea stacks, and fishing villages, you’ll return to Reykjavik in the evening and end a four-day tour covering Iceland’s major regions and iconic natural attractions.