Iceland: 2-Day Ice Cave, Glacier Lagoon & Northern Lights

Iceland: 2-Day Ice Cave, Glacier Lagoon & Northern Lights — A Deep Dive into Nature’s Wonders

If you’re craving a short but unforgettable journey into Iceland’s most dramatic landscapes, this 2-day tour from Reykjavik offers a solid dose of nature’s best: stunning waterfalls, black sand beaches, glacier lagoons, and the elusive Northern Lights. For $839 per person, you’ll explore the South Coast’s highlights with a knowledgeable guide, staying overnight near Skaftafell — a perfect base to catch those magical Northern Lights without city light pollution.

What we love most? First, the chance to walk behind Seljalandsfoss—a waterfall that’s more than just a photo op, it’s an experience. Second, the exploration of the crystal blue ice caves inside Vatnajökull, a highlight that’s both surreal and awe-inspiring. A minor consideration is the unpredictability of winter weather — road conditions and weather shifts can tweak the itinerary, but guides are flexible and focus on safety and the best possible experience. This tour suits travelers who are eager to see iconic Icelandic sights but don’t want to spend weeks traveling — it’s perfect for those who value well-organized, small-group adventures with plenty of authentic vistas.

Key Points

• Spectacular Waterfalls: Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss showcase Iceland’s raw power and beauty.
• Unique Black Sand Beaches: Reynisfjara provides dramatic coastlines, basalt columns, and sea stacks.
• Glacier & Ice Cave Exploration: Inside Vatnajökull, you’ll see brilliantly blue ice formations that are a photographer’s dream.
• Glacial Lagoon & Diamond Beach: Floating icebergs and sparkling ice fragments on black sands create mesmerizing scenes.
• Overnight Stay: Comfortable 4-star accommodation with spa access enhances your experience and chances to see the Northern Lights.
• Flexible & Guided: Small groups and expert guides ensure personalized attention and local insights.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Iceland’s South Coast: A Full Breakdown

Starting Point: Reykjavik to the South Coast

The adventure begins early, as we head southeast from Reykjavik. The journey itself is part of the fun — comfortable transportation in a spacious vehicle with Wi-Fi lets you settle in and chat with fellow travelers or just soak in the scenery. The small-group format means your guide can tailor the experience if weather or conditions shift, a real plus in Iceland’s unpredictable winter.

Seljalandsfoss & Gljúfrabúi: Waterfalls with a Twist

Our first stop is Seljalandsfoss, a waterfall that’s famous for its unique feature: you can walk behind it. Standing in the cave-like space behind the cascading water, you’ll understand why this spot is often called Iceland’s most photogenic waterfall. Sara’s review highlights the friendliness and helpfulness of our local guide, making the experience even more memorable.

Next is Gljúfrabúi, a hidden waterfall tucked inside a mossy grotto behind a cliff. It’s less well-known but equally captivating — a true secret that rewards the curious. We loved the way these two waterfalls offer both iconic and secretive Icelandic sights.

Skógafoss & Reynisfjara: Nature’s Power and Drama

The Skógafoss waterfall is just as majestic up close, with a 60-meter drop and a width of 25 meters. The spray often produces rainbows, and the view from above provides a sweeping perspective of the surrounding landscape. This falls embodies Iceland’s raw, untamed energy.

From there, we make our way to the Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, famed for its dark volcanic sands, towering basalt columns, and the Reynisdrangar sea stacks. The roaring Atlantic waves crash against the coast here — a reminder of Iceland’s volcanic origins and fierce coastline. The contrast of dark sands with white foam and the striking sea stacks makes this stop a picture-perfect moment.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Overnight Stay: Comfort and Aurora Hunting

Our accommodation is a 4-star countryside hotel east of Skaftafell, providing a peaceful setting surrounded by Iceland’s natural beauty. The hotel’s spa, with hot tubs and a sauna, offers a relaxing way to wind down after a day of exploring. Because it’s away from city lights, it’s an ideal spot for Northern Lights viewing — if the skies cooperate, you might see those swirling green curtains.

Day Two: Ice Caves & Glacial Lagoons

Vatnajökull Glacier & the Blue Ice Cave

The second day is dedicated to Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier, which holds within it some of the most stunning ice caves in the world. Inside, you’ll witness dazzling blue ice, carved over years through melting, refreezing, and glacier movement. The guides equip you with all necessary gear, ensuring safety while allowing you to feel like a true explorer amid frozen tunnels and crevasses.

Yinxu’s review mentions the guide’s helpfulness and the trip’s overall excellence, emphasizing how the ice cave’s beauty leaves a lasting impression. This experience is as magical as it sounds, offering a once-in-a-lifetime glimpse into the glacier’s shimmering interior.

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon & Diamond Beach

After exploring the ice cave, we visit Jökulsárlón, where chunks of ice float serenely in a turquoise lagoon. The sight of floating icebergs, some larger than houses, is breathtaking and makes for incredible photography. This is a spot where nature’s artistry shines, and we loved how peaceful yet striking the setting is.

Just across the road is Diamond Beach, a black sand stretch where ice fragments wash ashore, glistening like precious stones. It’s a surreal scene, perfect for snapping memorable photos. Both locations are visual highlights that encapsulate Iceland’s ability to combine fire and ice.

Return to Reykjavik

After a full day of glacier marvels and coastal scenery, we head back to Reykjavik, arriving around 8–9 pm. The drive back offers opportunities to reflect on the trip’s highlights and share photos with fellow travelers.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The tour price includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a small-group guided experience, a comfortable vehicle with Wi-Fi, a 2-day itinerary of Iceland’s top sights, accommodation at a 4-star hotel with free Wi-Fi and access to a spa, and an ice cave expedition equipped with all safety gear. Breakfast at the hotel is included, but meals and airport transfers are not, so plan accordingly.

Practical Tips

You’ll want to pack warm clothing and hiking shoes — Iceland’s winter can be cold, windy, and occasionally snowy or rainy. While the itinerary is flexible to weather, it’s wise to be prepared for sudden changes. The guides are experienced and will adjust plans to ensure safety and the best possible experience.

The Value of This Tour

At $839, this tour offers a well-rounded package of Iceland’s iconic sights coupled with the thrill of exploring inside a glacier ice cave — a rarity for most travelers. Staying overnight near Skaftafell not only reduces travel fatigue but also maximizes your chances to see the Northern Lights away from city lights. The small group size ensures you’re not just another face in a crowd, and the knowledgeable local guide makes all the difference — sharing interesting facts and ensuring safety amidst Iceland’s wild terrain.

While it’s a winter tour, the flexibility of guides and the quality of the accommodations boost the value, making this a top choice for those wanting a comprehensive yet manageable Icelandic adventure. If you’re eager to see the most photogenic waterfalls, black sand beaches, and glacier caves, this tour hits the mark.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and authentic sights. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but want to see Iceland’s highlights, especially the ice caves and glacier lagoon. The inclusion of an overnight stay with spa access makes it appealing for those who want to relax after a busy day. However, be aware that children under 8 are not suited for this tour, primarily due to the nature of glacier exploration and winter conditions.

Those who value small groups and local guides who can tell you stories along the way will find this tour especially rewarding. It’s also suitable for photography enthusiasts eager to capture Iceland’s striking scenery in one compact trip.

FAQ

What is the price of this tour?
The tour costs $839 per person, which covers accommodation, transportation, guide services, and the ice cave expedition. Meals other than breakfast and airport transfers are not included.

How long is the tour?
The tour spans two full days, starting early in the morning and returning to Reykjavik around 8–9 pm on the second day.

What do I need to bring?
Bring warm clothing, hiking shoes, and warm shoes — Iceland’s winter weather can be cold and unpredictable. The guides will provide all safety equipment for the ice cave.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, children under 8 years old are not recommended for this adventure, mainly because of the glacier exploration and winter conditions.

Will the itinerary change?
Yes, weather and road conditions may cause adjustments. Guides prioritize safety and will modify stops or timing if necessary, with updates provided either by email or during the tour.

Are accommodations comfortable?
Yes, you’ll stay at a 4-star Fosshótel Glacier Lagoon with private bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, and access to a spa, making it a comfortable base after a day of exploring.

Can I see the Northern Lights?
While the hotel is located away from city lights for optimal viewing, sightings depend on weather conditions and aurora activity. The guide will advise on the best evenings for Northern Lights.

What makes this tour worth the price?
It combines iconic Icelandic sights with the rare opportunity to explore a blue ice cave inside Vatnajökull, along with comfortable accommodations, expert guides, and a small-group setting that enhances the experience.

To sum it up, this Iceland tour offers a concentrated taste of the country’s stunning natural wonders, balanced with comfort and expert guidance. If you’re after an authentic, well-organized adventure that mixes waterfalls, black sand beaches, glacier caves, and the Northern Lights, this trip delivers. It’s especially suited for travelers who want memorable vistas, fantastic photo opportunities, and a taste of Iceland’s wild side, all wrapped into a manageable two-day itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: