2 Day South Coast, Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon and Ice Cave Tour

Starting with a 9:00 am pickup from your Reykjavik accommodation, we’ll set off along the South Coast, traveling past rolling lava fields and quaint farms. Our route brings us close to some of Iceland’s most famous volcanoes, including Hekla, Katla, and the glacier-capped Eyjafjallajökull.

Our first stop is Seljalandsfoss waterfall, where you can walk behind the cascade for a unique perspective. It’s one of Iceland’s most famous cascades, sitting at the foot of Eyjafjallajökull, and its water originates from the glacier. 

Next, we’ll visit Skógafoss, a dramatic waterfall known for its wide, powerful drop and frequent rainbows—an unforgettable sight. This iconic spot has also been featured in shows like Game of Thrones and Vikings.

Continuing along the coast, we arrive at Reynisfjara, Iceland’s famous black sand beach. You’ll see towering basalt columns, caves, and the mystical Reynisdrangar basalt sea stacks rising from the waves. Reynisfjara is a photographer’s dream and a must-see spot along the South Coast.

After passing through the vast Eldhraun lava field, we’ll stop in Kirkjubæjarklaustur village for refreshments. As we continue towards our accommodation near Skaftafell, you’ll take in sweeping views of glacier tongues descending from the great Vatnajökull. Once settled into our hotel, we’ll be on the lookout for the Northern Lights. If the skies are clear, your guide will direct you to witness this unforgettable natural phenomenon.

Day Highlights

• Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
• Skógafoss Waterfall
• Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
• Kirkjubæjarklaustur Village
• Northern Lights viewing (conditions permitting)

Included

• Pickup in Reykjavik
• Guided tour in a comfortable minibus
• One night in a country hotel near Skaftafell with a private bathroom

After breakfast, we head to Vatnajökull National Park, where Europe’s largest ice cap and its many outlets stretch for thousands of miles. 

Our first destination is Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, a place where massive icebergs drift serenely across the lagoon toward the ocean. This glacier lagoon was formed by a melting glacier, Breiðamerkurjökull. At the point where the melting glacier reaches sea level, massive pieces break away from its tongue. Nearby is the Diamond Beach, where the icebergs wash ashore, glistening like jewels on the black sand. From May to October, you can take an optional boat tour for an up-close view of the floating icebergs.

Next, we set off to explore a natural ice cave with an experienced glacier guide. In winter, we visit the famous Crystal Blue Ice Cave, while the summer season takes us to the unique Katla Ice Cave under a volcano. Each cave is different from the last, as the ice constantly shifts and evolves, creating mesmerizing patterns, textures, and colors. It’s a rare chance to see the beauty of Iceland’s glaciers up close, knowing that no two visits will ever look quite the same.

Before starting our way back to Reykjavik, we’ll stop in Vík, a charming coastal village known for its iconic red-roofed church and stunning cliff views. Here, you’ll have time to admire the coastal scenery before we continue our journey, arriving back in Reykjavik around 9:00 pm.

Day Highlights

• Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
• Diamond Beach
• Guided ice cave tour
• Vík Coastal Village
• Northern Lights (conditions permitting)

Included

• Hotel breakfast
• Guided ice cave tour with safety equipment
• Drop-off in Reykjavik

• Ice Caves: Ice caves are dynamic and ever-changing. The actual appearance of the cave may vary from the photos you see online, depending on weather conditions, time of day, and seasonal changes.

Generally, the tour visits Katla Ice Cave from April to October and the Crystal Ice Cave from November to March. Our guides will select the safest and best available cave based on current conditions.

• Northern Lights: The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon and cannot be guaranteed. Sightings depend on weather and solar activity and usually appear during the winter months.
  
   
• Accommodations: Solo travelers or odd-number groups who do not select a single supplement will be paired in a twin room with a fellow traveler of the same gender.
  
   
• Weather Conditions: Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable, particularly in winter, which may cause changes to the itinerary. Our guides prioritize safety and are experienced in making adjustments as needed to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.