2-Day Blue Ice Cave, Glacier Lagoon and South Coast Tour

Exploring Iceland’s South Coast in 2 Days: A Complete Review

If you’re dreaming of witnessing waterfalls, black sand beaches, and icy caves all in one trip, this 2-Day Blue Ice Cave, Glacier Lagoon, and South Coast Tour from Reykjavik ticks those boxes and more. Priced at $679 per person, it’s a well-crafted way to see some of Iceland’s most iconic sights without the stress of planning every detail yourself. Led by knowledgeable guides like Mika, Filip, or Oli, the experience promises comfortable transportation, stunning scenery, and plenty of opportunities to capture unforgettable photos.

What we truly appreciate about this tour is its balance of sightseeing and relaxation. The itinerary includes well-known waterfalls like Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss, plus lesser-known gems like Irafoss, giving a sense of discovery. The highlight, of course, is the visit to Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon and the Blue Ice Cave, which are both otherworldly and genuinely worth every penny. One small caveat: the tour involves quite a bit of driving, so if you prefer slow-paced, leisurely trips, this may feel a bit intense. But for those eager to maximize their Iceland experience and see many sights in a short time, this tour offers tremendous value.

Ideal for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and first-time visitors wanting an efficient way to explore Iceland’s southern wonders, this tour delivers on its promise of stunning natural beauty and insightful guides. Just be prepared for early mornings, long days, and some weather variability — and you’ll be rewarded with memories that last a lifetime.

Key Points

Comprehensive itinerary: Sees the best waterfalls, beaches, glaciers, and ice caves in just two days.
All-inclusive comfort: Accommodation, breakfast, and transportation included, easing your planning stress.
Expert guides: Guides like Mika and Oli are praised for their knowledge and adaptability in changing conditions.
Breathtaking scenery: From thundering waterfalls to shimmering icebergs, the visuals are unforgettable.
Weather flexibility: The tour can adapt to weather, but some activities, particularly the ice cave, depend on conditions.
Group size: Small groups (max 19) allow for a more personal, immersive experience.

The Detailed Experience: What You Can Expect

Day 1: From Reykjavik to the South Coast

Your adventure begins at 9:00 AM with a hotel pickup. Comfortable transportation, complete with free Wi-Fi, means you can share your excitement without worrying about data. The journey along Route 1 showcases the Icelandic countryside—vast, rugged, and dotted with charming small towns.

Your first significant stop is Seljalandsfoss, where you get close enough to feel the power of the 60-meter cascade. It’s one of Iceland’s most photographed waterfalls, and you’ll love the experience of walking behind it—imagine the photo possibilities! The accompanying review from Bailey notes, “this was such a fun trip and a must when visiting Iceland,” highlighting how iconic sights like this make the tour worthwhile.

Next, the tour guides you to Gljufrabui, a lesser-known waterfall hidden in a canyon, often missed by travelers. Guides like Hakon or Monica are praised for their knowledge and for going above and beyond, even making additional stops like Irafoss, a private waterfall that adds an exclusive feel to the day.

A quick stop at Reynisfjara Beach introduces you to one of Iceland’s most dramatic landscapes: jet-black sand, basalt columns, and sea stacks called Reynisdrangar. The waves here are powerful, and the scenery stunning; as one reviewer, ShiyunSerena, mentions, her guide “maximized the trip and saw everything on the itinerary plus more.”

The day includes a visit to Skogafoss, another iconic waterfall with a 60-meter drop. Climbing the adjacent staircase offers panoramic views, and the mist often produces rainbows—truly a photographer’s paradise. The tour’s flexibility and guide’s experience shine here, as seen in reviews praising their ability to navigate weather and road conditions.

Finally, you’ll explore Solheimajokull Glacier, an impressive outlet of Mýrdalsjökull, where you can get up close to the ice cap and marvel at the raw, rugged landscape. This stop is especially popular among travelers who enjoy a tactile, visual appreciation of Iceland’s glaciers.

Day 2: Glaciers, Lagoons, and Ice Caves

Day two starts with a visit to Vík, a small village with remarkable views of the black sand beach and surrounding hills, setting the tone for the day. From here, the tour ventures into Vatnajokull National Park and the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, with floating icebergs and playful seals creating almost surreal scenery. Reviews highlight how these sights feel like scenes from a movie, with one guest describing the scenery as “unreal.”

Adjacent to the lagoon is Diamond Beach, where chunks of ice sparkle on the black sand, a scene that truly looks like nature’s jewelry. This stop is brief but packed with photo opportunities, as the ice fragments are continuously reshaped by wind and ocean currents.

The core highlight is the Blue Ice Cave tour, accessible via a superjeep ride. Guides like Eythor or Mika lead you into these spectacular caves, where the ice glows in shades of blue and turquoise—something you won’t forget. Several reviews call this experience “a once-in-a-lifetime,” emphasizing how the caves are constantly changing, making each visit unique.

The ice cave depends heavily on weather conditions, and the tour operators reserve the right to cancel if safety is compromised. If that happens, they’ll offer alternative activities or refunds. The guides’ flexibility and expertise are crucial here, with many reviews praising their ability to adapt and still provide an enjoyable experience.

After exploring the caves, you’ll return to Jökulsárlón for some final sights and head back to Reykjavik, stopping briefly in Vík along the way. The entire journey is approximately 12 hours each day, with plenty of breaks to stretch, take photos, and soak in the scenery.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Guided Expertise and Flexibility

Many travelers rave about the guides, from Mika to Gulli, who are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to adapt to weather conditions. This flexibility means that even if weather isn’t perfect, guides do their best to show you the highlights, sometimes at the expense of altering the original plan.

Breathtaking Photographic Opportunities

Whether it’s the waterfalls, basalt columns, or ice caves, the sights are picture-perfect. The free onboard Wi-Fi means you can upload and share your photos instantly. Travelers mention how guides go out of their way to find the best angles and extra stops for photos, making the experience especially rewarding for photography buffs.

All-Inclusive Comfort

With accommodation and breakfast included, you avoid the hassle of booking hotels separately. The overnight stay at Smyrlabjorg, praised for its comfort, ensures you’re well-rested for the next day’s adventures. This convenience offers excellent value, especially considering the inclusiveness of transportation, guided tours, and some meals.

Authentic Icelandic Experience

The stops at Hofskirkja turf church and the Eldhraun Lava Field provide a taste of Iceland’s unique landscapes and architecture. Multiple reviews mention the value of guides sharing interesting facts and stories, enriching the experience beyond just sightseeing.

Possible Drawbacks or Considerations

While most reviews are glowing, a few travelers mention heavy driving and weather-related challenges. The long hours and some rough roads are not for everyone. Also, activities like the ice cave are weather-dependent, meaning cancellations are possible, though refunds or alternatives are offered. The tour is designed for travelers with moderate physical fitness and the ability to handle some outdoor conditions, including walking on uneven terrain and wearing waterproof gear.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers eager to see Iceland’s top sights in a short window. It suits those comfortable with long days on the road, moderate physical activity, and possibly changing weather. Perfect for first-timers wanting a comprehensive introduction, or seasoned travelers wanting to check off bucket-list spots efficiently. If you prefer a slow-paced or highly customizable experience, this might feel a bit rushed.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

When considering the price of $679, the value comes from the all-inclusive nature, expert guides, and access to iconic sights that are difficult to arrange independently. The reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the breathtaking scenery, making this a solid choice for those wanting a hassle-free, memorable Iceland adventure.

You’ll love the way the tour combines classic waterfalls with the surreal ice caves and glaciers, all while being chauffeured comfortably. The shared experience, with a group size capped at 19, enhances the feeling of discovery and camaraderie.

If you’re after an authentic, well-organized, and visually stunning introduction to Iceland’s south coast, this tour delivers in spades. Just come prepared for weather variability and long days, and you’ll leave with stories—and photos—that will stay with you forever.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off from Reykjavik, making it convenient without needing to navigate or self-drive.

What’s the minimum age for participating?
The minimum age is 8 years old, making it suitable for families with children in that age group.

Is breakfast included?
Yes, breakfast is part of the package, helping you start each day well-fed and ready for adventure.

What should I wear?
Warm, waterproof clothes and good hiking shoes are recommended, especially since weather can be unpredictable and some walks are on uneven terrain.

How long is each day of the tour?
Each day involves about 12 hours of sightseeing and travel, so be prepared for long but rewarding days.

Can I store luggage during the tour?
Yes, you can store luggage at your hotel (if they offer this service), or at the NiceTravel office in Reykjavík, to avoid carrying extra gear.

What happens if the ice cave tour is canceled?
Weather conditions can lead to cancellations for safety reasons. In such cases, alternative activities are offered or a full refund is provided.

How many people are in each group?
The tour group is limited to 19 travelers, allowing for a more personalized experience.

Is this tour suitable during winter?
Yes, but be aware that weather can be harsh and unpredictable. The guides are experienced in handling winter conditions, and the tour may be adjusted accordingly.

This 2-day tour through Iceland’s south coast offers an incredible snapshot of the country’s natural beauty, guided by friendly experts who know how to make every stop memorable. Perfect for those who want an efficient, comfortable, and visually stunning adventure that covers all the must-see sights—while leaving you with unforgettable stories and photos.