3-Day Northern Lights & Ice Cave Tour with the Golden Circle, South Coast & Glacier Lagoon

1 / 32

Ice fragments are scattered across Diamond Beach, with the sun setting in the background.

Likely to sell out soon

9.8

Read 829 reviews

Free cancellation

24/7 customer support

Best price guarantee

Travel details

Dates

Time

--:--

Travelers

Pick-up location

Not known yet, will message later.

Description

Summary

Tour starts

Reykjavík, Iceland

Starting time

at 09:00

Duration

3 days

Ending place

Reykjavík, Iceland

Languages

English

Difficulty

Easy

Available

Oct. - Apr.

Minimum age

8 years old

3,123 reviews

Description

If there's a must-do tour in Iceland, this is the one. Join this best-value guided journey through the Golden Circle and South Coast and enhance your odds of seeing the beautiful northern lights. This tour is perfect for anyone looking to experience the best attractions that Iceland has to offer in 3 days.

You'll discover waterfalls, ice caves, glaciers, and all the other natural wonders that you came to Iceland for. With these 2 nights in the countryside, you also increase your chances of seeing the northern lights.

On this tour, you will have the opportunity to see famous sites such as the Geysir geothermal area, the mighty Gullfoss waterfall, Thingvellir National Park, and the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, which are world-famous for a reason.

You will also see all of the fantastic attractions of the South Coast of Iceland, such as the waterfalls Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss and the black sand beach, Reynisfjara.

The experience of exploring an ice cave within Europe's largest glacier is what makes this tour even more special. Ice caves are only available to visit throughout winter, so there is a small window of chance to witness these beautiful locations.

The ice caves are always covered in otherworldly shades of blues and whites, making it a magical experience. They also change each year due to the continuous movement of the mighty glacier, Vatnajokull, meaning your visit will always be unique. This season, a number of amazing ice caves have been found, but this trip joins the original ice cave tour in Vatnajokull glacier, where the best ice cave is always chosen based on visibility and the best possible experience every day. By reserving this tour, your three days in Iceland will be fully organized. You won't need to worry about navigating the winter road conditions or arranging your accommodation; everything will be handled.

During your trip, you will stay at the best accommodation available, providing a comfortable and relaxing end to each day. All equipment will be provided for the glacier hike and ice cave exploration. You only need to remember your hiking boots, warm clothes, a camera, and your sense of adventure.

Please note you can only bring one item of carry-on luggage per guest on this trip, but you can store more pieces in Reykjavik for a small cost.

Secure your spot on this action-packed 3-day adventure to the South Coast, Golden Circle, and the most impressive ice cave in Iceland's winter wonderland! Check availability now by choosing a date.

Included

Professional English-Speaking Guide

Two Nights in Quality Hotels

Continental Breakfast Included

Golden Circle Sightseeing

South Coast Sightseeing

Glacier Hiking Tour in Skaftafell

Ice Cave Tour in Vatnajokull

Northern Lights Hunting

Pick-up & Drop-off in Reykjavik

All Transportation

Hand Luggage (Bag Storage available)

In-Vehicle Wifi

Guide to Iceland VIP Club Access

Activities

Sightseeing

Ice Caving

Map

Attractions

The Golden Circle

Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Vatnajokull Glacier

Skogafoss

Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

Geysir

Gullfoss Waterfall

Dyrholaey

Thingvellir National Park

Strokkur

Skaftafell

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

Kerid Crater

Gljufrabui

Fjadrargljufur Canyon

Haukadalur

Breiðamerkurjökull

South Coast

Diamond Beach

+10Show moreShow less

Daily itinerary

Day 1

Day 1 - The Magnificent Golden Circle & Kerid Crater

On the first morning of your three-day tour, your driver will pick you up from a bus stop in Reykjavik or your downtown hotel. Then it's time to leave the city behind and head into the beautiful countryside to explore the Golden Circle, Iceland's most famous sightseeing route.

First, you’ll visit Thingvellir National Park. This is the only place in the world where you can walk between two continents. The Eurasian and North American tectonic plates are slowly pulling apart, and you’ll be walking right through the gap. It's a great spot to take in the views and think about the power of nature.

Thingvellir is also where the world’s oldest still-running parliament began in the year 930. With its mix of history, geology, and beauty, this park is a true highlight.

Next up is the Geysir geothermal area, named after the Great Geysir, which no longer erupts. But there's still plenty of action — the Strokkur geyser bursts into the sky every 5 to 10 minutes, sending hot water high above your head. It’s exciting to watch and perfect for photos.

After that, you’ll visit Gullfoss, the Golden Falls. This powerful waterfall is a real showstopper. You can admire it from several viewpoints, and in winter, the snow and ice make it even more magical.

Your last stop today is the colorful Kerid crater. A short walk takes you to the top, where you’ll see a beautiful lake in the middle. In winter, the water may be frozen, but if the path is clear, you can walk down and see it up close.

After a day full of wonders, your driver will take you to a comfortable three-star hotel with breakfast included, either in Reykjavik or near the Golden Circle. In the evening, keep an eye on the sky, you might get lucky and see the northern lights dancing above.

Day 2

Day 2 - The Incredible South Coast & Glacier Hiking

Day two begins with breakfast at your hotel before your group sets off along Iceland’s spectacular South Coast, a region known for its dramatic waterfalls, black-sand beaches, and striking natural landmarks. You’ll visit three breathtaking waterfalls today: Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, and Gljúfrabúi. Each offers unique views and fantastic photo opportunities.

Seljalandsfoss features a path that takes you behind the cascading water for an unforgettable view. Be sure to wear waterproof clothing and sturdy boots to fully enjoy the experience. Nearby, Gljúfrabúi is one of Iceland’s best-kept secrets, tucked away in a narrow canyon and filled with quiet, magical charm. Skógafoss is equally impressive, with a powerful 60-meter drop and mist that often creates vivid rainbows.

Next, you'll visit Reynisfjara, Iceland’s iconic black-sand beach. With its towering basalt columns, crashing waves, and jagged sea stacks rising from the ocean, it’s a dramatic and unforgettable sight. A short drive away is Dyrhólaey, a scenic reserve with sweeping views of the coastline and a striking volcanic rock arch. It’s an excellent spot for photos and a peaceful moment with nature.

One of the many highlights of this day is your glacier hiking tour. Led by a certified guide, you'll strap on crampons and walk across ancient ice, exploring crevasses and frozen landscapes surrounded by mountain peaks. This unforgettable adventure brings you face to face with the power and beauty of Iceland’s glacial wilderness.

After a full day of discovery, you’ll settle into your South Coast accommodation. If the skies are clear, you’ll have another chance to witness the northern lights dancing overhead. With minimal light pollution in the area, it’s an ideal location to enjoy this magical natural display.

Day 3

Day 3 - The Amazing Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon & Ice Caving

Your last day is packed with some of the most stunning sights in the whole of Iceland. After breakfast, your guide will take you farther east along the South Coast.

One of the first stops is Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, often considered the most beautiful place in Iceland. Towering icebergs float gently in bright blue water after breaking off from the nearby Breidamerkurjokull glacier. Their colors range from pure white to deep, glowing blue, with streaks of black ash from past volcanic eruptions. It’s a place of peaceful beauty and incredible scale. You might even spot seals relaxing on the ice or swimming through the calm water.

Just a short walk away is Diamond Beach, where clear ice chunks from the lagoon wash up on black sand, sparkling like gems under the open sky. This surreal place looks like a scene from another planet.

Next, you'll take part in what many consider the most popular winter activity in Iceland: entering a natural ice cave inside Vatnajokull, Europe’s largest glacier. Your expert guide will give you all the gear you need and lead you safely into this crystal blue icy world.

The moment you step inside the cave, you'll be blown away. The ice glows with brilliant shades of blue, and smooth, glassy walls surround you. Light filters in through the frozen ceiling, making the cave shimmer like crystal. It’s a peaceful and powerful experience and one that few places on Earth can match. Walking through a natural ice cave is not just a tour; it’s something you’ll remember for the rest of your life.

After the cave adventure, you’ll visit Skaftafell, a nature reserve known for its incredible scenery, including glaciers, waterfalls, and dramatic mountain peaks. It’s a paradise for nature lovers and photographers alike.

On your way back west, you'll pass through the vast Eldhraun Lava Field, a moss-covered landscape formed by one of the largest lava flows in history. Its eerie beauty and otherworldly feel are truly unique to Iceland.

The final stop of the day is Fjadrargljufur, a deep and winding canyon that feels like a hidden treasure. If you’re visiting in winter, the snowy cliffs add even more magic to this beautiful place.

After this incredible adventure, you’ll begin the scenic journey back to Reykjavik. Your driver will drop you off at your hotel or a bus stop downtown, wrapping up your trip with memories you’ll treasure forever.

How it works

Secure your spot with Iceland’s most trusted travel marketplace—instant confirmation, best price guarantee, and 24/7 local support.

Secure your spot

Secure your spot instantly on Iceland’s most trusted travel marketplace. As soon as you reserve, we lock in your place to help you make the most of your trip. You’ll get the best price and a secure payment system that protects your information.

Receive instant confirmation

You’ll get your e-ticket and a detailed summary immediately after booking, including meeting points and schedules. Enjoy peace of mind and get exactly what you booked, or a money-back guarantee. No surprises, no hidden fees.

Get access to the VIP Club

Booking with us gives you access to the Guide to Iceland VIP Club, where you’ll enjoy priority service, special perks, and exclusive discounts for amazing savings on your trip at Iceland’s top restaurants, shops, and local favorites.

Explore with confidence

From the moment you arrive to the moment you leave, we’re here to take care of you. Whatever you need, whenever you need it, we’re just seconds away, 24/7, ready to help you make the most of your time in Iceland.

Secure your spot

Receive instant confirmation

Get access to the VIP Club

Explore with confidence

What to bring

Water Bottle & Snacks

Warm & Waterproof Clothing

Winter Shoes or Boots

Camera or Phone

Good to know

Make sure to dress warmly and wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be doing some walking and exploring outdoors during the tour. Since space is limited, each guest can bring one piece of hand luggage. If you’re traveling with a larger suitcase, you may need to repack into a smaller bag or backpack before the trip. Don’t worry, extra luggage can be safely stored in Reykjavík for a small fee.

We’ll make stops along the way where you can buy lunch, and a variety of dinner options will be available for purchase at your hotel each evening. All rooms are double bedrooms with private bathrooms. If you're traveling solo, you’ll get your double room, and a single supplement will apply.

Seeing the Northern Lights is truly magical, but as a natural phenomenon, their appearance can’t be guaranteed. That said, this itinerary is designed to give you the best possible chance of seeing them. Your guide will keep an eye on the forecast and take you to the best spots whenever conditions are right. The itinerary may be adjusted depending on the weather to keep everyone safe and comfortable.