Reykjavík: 2-Day Tour with Icebergs, Glaciers & Waterfalls

Reykjavík: 2-Day Tour with Icebergs, Glaciers & Waterfalls takes you beyond the city’s bright lights into Iceland’s wild and breathtaking landscape. For $600 per person, this two-day adventure is led by experienced guides who will take you through some of the most iconic sights on Iceland’s south coast, including Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, Diamond Beach, Reynisfjara black sand beach, and three spectacular waterfalls.

What we love about this tour is the balance between guided expertise and free time for personal exploration. The guides are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to make the long days comfortable. We also appreciate the variety—each day is jam-packed with scenery and activities, from walking on glaciers to marveling at waterfalls, making it well worth the price.

A possible consideration is that the itinerary can shift due to weather, which might mean missing some activities like glacier hikes or boat tours if conditions aren’t ideal. Still, the flexibility and the effort to adapt on the fly show the tour’s professionalism.

This experience suits travelers who love natural beauty, want a rundown of Iceland’s south coast, and appreciate good guides and well-organized trips. If you’re craving a snapshot of Iceland’s diverse landscapes in a manageable two days, this tour could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Comprehensive coverage of Iceland’s south coast in just two days.
• Expert guides who make the scenery come alive with stories and insights.
• Flexible options like glacier hikes and amphibious boat tours enhance the adventure.
• Good value for the price, including accommodation, breakfast, Wi-Fi, and chargers.
• Variety of sights: waterfalls, glaciers, black sand beaches, iceberg lagoons.
• Some weather dependency may impact certain activities.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Iceland’s South Coast in 2 Days

This tour delivers an excellent snapshot of Iceland’s diverse landscapes, perfect for travelers who want to see a lot without spending weeks on the road. For just $600, you’re getting not only transportation and guided commentary but also accommodations with private bathrooms, breakfast, and amenities like Wi-Fi and USB chargers—small touches that keep the trip comfortable.

The itinerary features some of the most photographed locations in Iceland, but what we love about this tour is how well it balances driving, sightseeing, and downtime. It’s not just about ticking boxes; it’s about experiencing the natural grandeur at each stop.

Day 1: Waterfalls and Glaciers

The day kicks off with visits to three waterfalls—Seljalandsfoss, Gljufrabui, and Skogafoss—each offering its own kind of magic. Seljalandsfoss is famous for the trail that lets you walk behind the cascade, providing spectacular photo opportunities. Skogafoss is one of Iceland’s most powerful waterfalls, with an almost cinematic charisma.

Next, the tour heads toward the glaciers. Here, you’ll get a chance to view Solheimajokull Glacier, which offers striking vistas of ice and snow. Guides may take you on a glacier hike if you select that option, turning the landscape into a surreal, icy playground. Tour reviews highlight how well guides manage safety while making the experience accessible and exciting. One reviewer raved about hiking on the glacier as a once-in-a-lifetime experience, appreciating how the guide made it both safe and informative.

Later in the day, you’ll visit Reynisfjara black sand beach, known for its pulsing waves, basalt columns, and puffins. This beach feels otherworldly, with its dark sand and striking sea stacks. It’s a place where the power of nature leaves you in awe. Many reviewers praise the guide’s storytelling here, adding layers of meaning to the scenery.

Day 2: Icebergs and Ice-Capped Wonders

Day two begins with a visit to Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, where floating icebergs create a surreal landscape. You might opt for an amphibious boat tour, which puts you directly among the ice, offering close-up views of the floating ice and possibly seals. Reviewers mention how the boat ride’s cancellation due to high winds was disappointing but appreciated that guides quickly arranged extra stops and refunded the cost. This flexibility and focus on safety stand out.

The lagoon’s icy beauty is complemented by Diamond Beach, where chunks of ice wash ashore, glittering against the black sand—an image Instagram loves but that is even more impressive in real life.

The day wraps up with more scenic stops, offering a chance to take photos, stretch your legs, and soak in the landscape’s grandeur. The tour’s balanced schedule ensures you avoid being overwhelmed but still see enough to make your trip memorable.

What’s Included and What You Need to Know

Included in the price are pickup and drop-off in Reykjavik, a knowledgeable English-speaking guide, one night’s accommodation with private bathrooms, breakfast, Wi-Fi, and USB chargers. If you opt for the glacier hike or boat tour, those are included too, adding extra value.

What’s not included are meals—lunch and dinner are up to you, but the tour makes scheduled stops so you can explore local food options. Many travelers find these stops convenient for sampling Icelandic cuisine or grabbing a quick snack.

The tour is well-suited for travelers over age 10 and not wheelchair accessible, mainly because of the outdoor activities and walking required. Also, since buses are not allowed in certain Reykjavik areas, pickup may be from a nearby bus stop, which is a minor logistical detail to keep in mind.

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Transport and Comfort

The transportation is provided on modern buses equipped with Wi-Fi and USB chargers, which many reviews appreciate. The group size is small enough to foster good camaraderie but large enough to keep the experience lively. The guides are frequently praised for their storytelling, safety, and ability to keep the group engaged during long drives.

The accommodation for one night is comfortable, typically in a hotel with a cozy atmosphere and good amenities. The included breakfast provides a good start for early mornings, and the stops for restroom breaks and quick snacks help keep everyone comfortable.

Authentic Experiences and Highlights

Multiple reviews mention how guides like Filip, Addi, Christina, and Vlad make a difference by sharing interesting facts and stories, turning scenery into a storybook of Iceland’s natural history. The glacier hike, in particular, is described as “a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” highlighting how personal and memorable this part of the tour can be.

The waterfalls are often described as awe-inspiring, especially Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss. And the black sand beach is a must-see, especially with the chance to spot puffins and marvel at the basalt formations.

Potential Drawbacks

Weather is always a factor in Iceland, and this tour is no exception. As one reviewer experienced, severe weather can lead to cancellations of activities like boat rides or glacier hikes. While guides do their best to reframe the day and add extra stops, some may find it disappointing not to do everything planned.

Plus, the tour’s two-day format means you can’t explore Iceland at a more leisurely pace. If you want more time at each site or to explore other parts of the country, you might prefer a longer tour or a self-guided trip.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a well-organized, guided overview of Iceland’s south coast. It suits those who appreciate storytelling and want to learn about the landscape while enjoying the spectacular scenery firsthand. It’s also perfect if you’re short on time but want a taste of glaciers, waterfalls, and black beaches, with the comfort of included accommodation and amenities.

If you love photography, the stops at waterfalls and icebergs promise countless opportunities for stunning shots. Travelers who value safety, flexibility, and knowledgeable guides will find this tour particularly rewarding. However, if you’re looking for a very relaxed pace or have mobility issues, you might want to consider other options.

FAQ

Is transportation comfortable? Yes, the tour uses modern buses with Wi-Fi and USB chargers, making long drives more pleasant.

Are meals included? No, lunch and dinner are not included, but there are scheduled stops to buy food and explore local options.

What if the weather is bad? Weather can impact activities like boat tours or glacier hikes. Guides are prepared to adapt the itinerary, and refunds are available if activities get canceled.

Is this tour suitable for children? It’s not recommended for children under 10 due to outdoor activities and walking requirements.

Are the accommodations private? Yes, the hotel offers double or twin rooms with ensuite bathrooms, providing privacy and comfort.

Can I choose to do the glacier hike? Yes, it is an optional activity but is included if you select the upgrade when booking.

What’s the group size? The tour is designed for small groups, ensuring a more personal experience.

How do pickups work? Buses cannot drive into some parts of Reykjavik, so pickup is from a nearby bus stop, which is usually convenient.

Is there Wi-Fi on the bus? Yes, you’ll have Wi-Fi access during the trip, helpful for sharing photos or checking maps.

To sum it up, this 2-day tour offers a rich, well-curated experience of Iceland’s south coast. It combines stunning visuals with informative guides, making it a great choice for travelers who want a balanced mix of adventure and comfort. Whether you’re marveling at the icebergs floating in Jökulsárlón, walking behind a waterfall, or watching puffins at the black sand beach, this tour promises memorable moments without feeling rushed. It’s ideally suited for those who value good guidance, authentic scenery, and a manageable itinerary packed with Iceland’s best sights.

You can check availability for your dates here: