South Coast, Diamond Beach and Glacier Lagoon Day Tour

Traveling through Iceland’s spectacular south coast is a must for anyone eager to see some of the island’s most iconic natural wonders. For around $195.91 per person, you’ll spend approximately 14 hours exploring towering waterfalls, glacial rivers, volcanic landscapes, and the ice-strewn Jokulsarlon Lagoon. Your journey is guided by knowledgeable locals, and with pickup options from Reykjavik hotels or cruise ports, it’s designed to maximize comfort and convenience.

What we love about this tour is how it balances amazing scenery with informative storytelling. The guide’s insights help you understand the geology and history behind each stop, making the experience richer. Also, the chance to wander behind Seljalandsfoss and walk on Diamond Beach’s black sands—glittering with ice—adds a tactile, memorable element.

However, do keep in mind that this is a long day with many stops, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with extended travel. If you’re a fan of nature photography or want an efficient way to see the highlights, this tour offers excellent value. It’s particularly perfect if you enjoy learning about landscape formation or simply love breathtaking views.

Key Points

Comprehensive itinerary covers waterfalls, glaciers, and ice beaches.
Guides are praised for being knowledgeable, friendly, and engaging.
Long but fulfilling—packed with photo opportunities and scenic stops.
Value for money considering the inclusions and the amount seen.
Stops are well-timed, allowing enough time to explore without feeling rushed.
Weather can vary, so packing waterproof clothing is advisable.

A Deep Dive into the South Coast Adventure

An Introduction to the Route and Highlights

Starting early from Reykjavik, this tour whisks you off the beaten path of the southern coast, with a focus on natural marvels such as Skogafoss, Seljalandfoss, Vik, and the Jokulsarlon Lagoon. Traveling in a comfortable, air-conditioned coach, you’ll enjoy storytelling from your guide, who’s often praised for their local knowledge and friendly demeanor.

One of the main attractions—Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon—wows visitors with its floating icebergs that shimmer and shift with the light. You’ll also visit Diamond Beach, where these ice chunks wash ashore on black volcanic sand, creating a surreal landscape. The sight of icebergs contrasting against dark sands is a highlight for many, and you’ll find yourself taking endless photos.

Why This Tour Matters for Travelers

This tour hits all the must-see highlights of southern Iceland while offering enough flexibility to enjoy each stop. It’s a well-organized way to see vast landscapes without the hassle of DIY planning, especially for those unfamiliar with Iceland’s geography. The expert guide makes a significant difference, sharing stories and facts that turn a scenic drive into an educational experience.

Travelers appreciate the value for the price, especially considering the inclusion of hotspots like Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss, where you can walk behind the cascading water—something many reviews highlight as a favorite moment. The Black Sand Beach at Vik is another special stop, giving you a chance to stretch your legs and enjoy local shops or a quick snack.

The Itinerary in Detail

Start at Reykjavik (8:00 am)—if you’ve booked pickup, your guide will come to your hotel or a designated central point. As you head south, your guide shares stories about Iceland’s volcanic activity and landscape formation, setting the scene for what’s to come.

Skogafoss Waterfall: A thunderous cascade, often producing rainbows on sunny days. You can climb a staircase to get an aerial view or stand directly beneath it. Many find the power and scale of Skogafoss awe-inspiring, and it’s great for photography.

Skeidarasandura: A vast, stark volcanic desert where sandstorms can be fierce, and cars sometimes lose paint due to the abrasive sands. It’s a brief, evocative stop that shows how diverse Iceland’s terrain is.

Visit Iceland’s largest active volcano, Öræfajökull, and gaze up at Hvannadalshnjukur, Iceland’s highest peak, with its snowy summit crater. It’s a reminder of the island’s volcanic backbone and ongoing geological activity.

Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon: The star of the trip. You’ll have about an hour to walk among the floating icebergs and take photos. Many reviews mention the movie fame of the lagoon, as it’s appeared in James Bond’s “Die Another Day” and “Tomb Raider.” If you upgrade, you can consider boat tours, although they’re not included.

Diamond Beach: Just a short walk from the lagoon, this black sand beach is scattered with glittering ice chunks—a surreal contrast that’s especially photogenic on sunny days.

Skaftafell National Park: Offers sweeping views of glaciers and rugged wilderness. The scenery here is stunning, and the area is part of Vatnajökull National Park, Europe’s largest glacier cap.

Vik: Known for its black sand beaches and iconic sea stacks. You’ll have about 45 minutes here for a quick snack, shopping, or a walk on the beach.

Seljalandfoss: On the way back, stop at this waterfall where a footpath behind the water lets you get a completely different perspective. It’s one of the most popular stops, thanks to the unique experience of walking behind cascading water.

Transportation & Timing

The journey is long, but your coach offers WiFi and comfort. Make no mistake, this is a full-on day, with many stops, so patience and good footwear are advised. The timing is well-planned, with stops generally lasting 30-45 minutes, giving enough time to explore, take photos, or just soak in the scenery.

What the Reviews Say

Multiple travelers emphasize the value of knowledgeable guides. One reviewer mentions Emilia as “very friendly, organized, and informative,” noting that she kept everyone engaged with stories and explanations. Another highlights Andres, the driver, for his smooth driving and ensuring a safe journey.

The scenery gets universal praise. Quotes like “Many of the icebergs… glitter against the black sand” and “the waterfalls and glacier lagoon were amazing” show how memorable these sights are. Several mention that, despite the long hours, the experience is worth every minute.

Some reviewers note potential drawbacks—like the long day or feeling rushed at certain stops—yet almost everyone agrees that the views and experiences outweigh the negatives.

Practical Tips

• Bring warm and waterproof clothing—weather can change quickly.
• Pack a charger for your camera and phone—there’s plenty of photo-worthy moments.
• Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain.
• Be prepared for a long day, so bring snacks, though stops for meals are available at Vik.
• The boat tours aren’t included, but there’s plenty to see on land if you prefer to keep it simple.

Who Should Take This Tour?

This tour suits travelers with a moderate level of fitness comfortable with long hours on a bus. It’s perfect for photographers or nature lovers eager to see Iceland’s iconic landscapes in one day without the hassle of planning every detail. If your time is limited and you want a rundown of the south coast, this is a reliable choice. Families, especially those with older children, find it engaging, thanks to the variety of scenery and stories.

If you’re seeking an adventure packed with stunning photo ops and don’t mind the travel time, this tour offers excellent value. And with an expert guide sharing stories along the way, you’ll leave with more than just pictures—you’ll go home with a deeper appreciation for Iceland’s volcanic and glacial forces.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
While most travelers find it enjoyable, the tour is quite lengthy, so children should be comfortable with long bus rides and walking. It’s best for older kids who can handle a full day of sightseeing.

Does the tour include food or drinks?
No, meals and drinks are not included. However, stops at Vik provide options for buying lunch or snacks, so plan accordingly.

What should I wear?
Warm, waterproof clothing is recommended because weather can change swiftly. Layers are best for adjusting as temperatures fluctuate.

Can I join this tour if I am staying outside Reykjavik?
Yes, pickup is available from most hotels and cruise ports if you select that option. Otherwise, you can meet at a designated central point.

Is there an opportunity to do boat tours on the glacier lagoon?
Boat tours are available but are not included in the standard tour price. You can choose to upgrade if you’re interested.

What is the group size?
The tour typically accommodates up to 50 travelers, providing a comfortable group size for mingling and easy management.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to see the best of Iceland’s south coast in one day, this tour offers a well-organized, value-packed experience. The combination of stunning scenery, friendly guides, and timed stops makes it a solid choice for those wanting to maximize their time and capture incredible photos.

It’s ideal for nature enthusiasts, photographers, or anyone who wants a rundown without the hassle of self-driving. While the day is long, the memories of glaciers, waterfalls, and ice beaches will stay with you long after you return home.

For travelers eager to learn about Iceland’s geological wonders or simply enjoy breathtaking landscapes with expert commentary, this tour offers a perfect balance of adventure and education. Just remember to pack your patience and waterproof clothing, and you’re all set for a truly unforgettable experience.