Experience the wonders of Iceland’s south coast with a private Glacier Lagoon & Diamond Beach tour, priced at $2,318 for your group of up to six. This full-day adventure lasts about 13 hours, taking you from Reykjavik into some of Iceland’s most spectacular natural sights, all with the comfort and flexibility of a private vehicle and driver. You’ll visit renowned waterfalls like Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss, walk on memorable black sands at Reynisfjara, and marvel at the vast Eldhraun Lava Field. The highlight, of course, is the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, with its floating icebergs and shimmering ice chunks, plus a chance to explore Diamond Beach just beyond, where ice pieces glisten on black volcanic sand.
What we love most about this tour is the personalized attention you get—your own driver means you can tailor the stops slightly or spend more time at what interests you most. Another big plus is the opportunity to enjoy some of Iceland’s top sights without the rush of group tours, often limited by time constraints. That said, be prepared for a good deal of driving—it’s a long day, but with such an eye-popping itinerary, the journey is more than worth it. Ideal for travelers who want to see Iceland’s southern treasures comfortably, at their own pace, and in style.
One thing to consider is the cost. While it’s a premium price, the private arrangement, the flexibility, and the extensive list of stops make this a strong value for those wanting a personalized experience. It’s especially suitable if you prefer to avoid crowded group tours and want expert guidance to help you choose the best stops based on your interests. If you’re eager to see glaciers, waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, and beaches in one comprehensive trip, this private tour will tick most boxes.
Key Points
- Private, customized experience: Your own driver and vehicle provide flexibility and comfort.
- Iconic sights: Visit waterfalls, glaciers, volcanic fields, and beaches—some of Iceland’s top natural attractions.
- Long but rewarding day: Expect around 15 hours of travel, sightseeing, and photo opportunities, with plenty of scenic stops.
- Expert guidance: Your driver will recommend the best stops, making this a tailored Icelandic adventure.
- Value for money: For a private experience with extensive sights, the cost is justified, especially for groups up to six.
- Ideal for comfort-seeking travelers: Those who prefer a relaxed pace and personalized itinerary will appreciate this trip.
A Deep Dive into the Private Glacier Lagoon & Diamond Beach Tour
Exploring Iceland’s south coast with a private driver is a wonderful way to see the country’s most iconic sights without the stress of navigation or tight schedules. This 13-hour tour, offered by Snæland Travel, takes you from Reykjavik into the heart of Iceland’s stunning landscapes—where glaciers meet volcanoes, waterfalls cascade, and black sands shimmer with ice.
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Starting with Convenience and Personalization
This tour stands out because it’s designed for your small group—up to six people—meaning you’ll have a dedicated driver, not a crowded bus. The pickup is usually in the Reykjavik city area, with your driver arriving about 10 minutes before departure. You can sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenery while your driver navigates the entire route. With a private tour, you have some flexibility to adjust timing or focus on spots that catch your eye, which is a definite plus if you’ve got particular favorites or want to linger longer.
The Spectacular Itinerary Breakdown
The day begins with a scenic drive along the Ring Road, heading east from Reykjavik. The first major stop is Seljalandsfoss, a waterfall you can walk behind—an experience that’s as picturesque as it sounds. Expect about 30 minutes here to snap photos and soak in the view. We loved the way the water’s gentle roar contrasted with the stillness of the surrounding landscape.
Next, you’ll visit Skógafoss, another impressive waterfall with a powerful cascade and a staircase leading to a panoramic view from above. Here, the landscape begins to change, and the sense of Iceland’s raw power really hits home. You’ll have another 30-minute stop to take in the scene, snap some photos, and maybe try to spot rainbows in its mist, weather permitting.
Beyond the waterfalls, the tour takes you to Reynisfjara Beach, with its black volcanic sands and striking sea stacks. The beach’s otherworldly feel makes it a highlight, especially if you enjoy dramatic landscapes. Be cautious of the strong waves—this isn’t a place for paddling—but it’s a memorable spot for photos.
In the charming village of Vík, you’ll get a 45-minute break for a quick shop or snack, a nice chance to stretch your legs and enjoy some local ambiance.
From Vík, the journey continues eastward, with stops at Kirkjubæjarklaustur for photos and the Skaftafell Nature Reserve, part of Vatnajökull National Park. You’ll get about an hour here to explore and take in the stunning glacier views. The vast ice caps and rugged terrain are awe-inspiring, and many travelers find themselves standing silently, marveling at the scale of it all.
The crown jewel of the day is Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. This enormous, ever-changing expanse of floating icebergs is simply breathtaking. Here, we loved the optional amphibian boat trip, which takes you among the ice giants—an experience that reveals the size and shape of the icebergs up close. Seals are often seen swimming among the ice, adding to the magic. The lagoon constantly evolves, with new ice chunks drifting in each year, so no two visits are alike.
Right outside the lagoon is Diamond Beach, where chunks of clear, glacial ice wash ashore onto jet-black volcanic sands, creating a dazzling spectacle. Many travelers describe it as “an otherworldly scene,” and it’s easy to see why. The sparkling ice atop the dark sand makes for stunning photographs—definitely worth any extra couple of minutes to admire and photograph.
The Value of Flexibility and Personal Attention
The beauty of this private tour is that your driver can recommend the best spots, perhaps skipping or adding stops based on weather or your interests. This can be especially useful in Iceland, where weather conditions can change suddenly. Plus, having a dedicated driver means you can take breaks when you need them, avoid long bus lines, and enjoy a more relaxed experience overall.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Long Day and Driving Considerations
Be prepared for a long day—roughly 15 hours of total travel, sightseeing, and photo stops. The route covers a lot of ground, with substantial driving time, but each stop is carefully chosen for its visual impact. Most reviews highlight how much they appreciated the comfortable vehicle and the driver’s knowledge, making the long hours feel more manageable.
If you’re not used to long drives or have mobility issues, this might be a consideration. However, for most travelers, the scenic rewards easily outweigh the fatigue, especially with the flexibility to take breaks.
Cost and What You Get
At $2,318 for a group of up to six, this tour is not cheap—yet, considering it’s a private, all-inclusive experience with your own driver, the value increases. You’re paying for comfort, flexibility, and a tailor-made day out, rather than a crowded bus with strict schedules. For couples or small groups wanting a premium experience, it’s a good investment.
Who Will Love This Tour?
If you prioritize comfort, personalized attention, and the opportunity to explore Iceland at your own pace, this tour is perfect. It’s also well-suited for travelers who want to see a wide variety of sights—waterfalls, glaciers, beaches, volcanic fields—in one day, without feeling rushed. Photographers, nature lovers, and those seeking a more intimate experience will find this trip especially satisfying.
The Sum Up
This private Glacier Lagoon & Diamond Beach tour offers a well-rounded, flexible way to see some of Iceland’s most iconic sights without the crowds or schedule constraints of larger group tours. It’s a premium option, but one that delivers a truly immersive experience—amazing landscapes, personal guidance, and the comfort of your own vehicle.
Travelers who value tailored experiences, stunning scenery, and expert local insight will appreciate the time and care that go into this trip. It’s especially suited for small groups or couples looking for a memorable, hassle-free day exploring Iceland’s south coast.
If you’re ready to see glaciers, waterfalls, black sand beaches, and icebergs in one comprehensive journey, this private tour makes it all possible with style and ease.
FAQ
What is included in this tour?
The tour includes pickup and drop-off in Reykjavik, your own driver, and vehicle. You’ll get to visit several major sights along the south coast of Iceland.
How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 13 hours, including driving and sightseeing stops, making it a full-day adventure.
Can I customize the stops?
Since it’s a private tour, your driver can suggest the most appealing destinations and help craft an itinerary that suits your interests and timing.
What should I bring?
Warm clothing is recommended, as Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable even in summer.
Is this tour suitable for families?
While the information doesn’t specify, the long hours and extensive driving suggest it’s best for travelers comfortable with a full day on the road; families with children should consider their comfort.
What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change unexpectedly.