South Iceland and Glacier Lagoon: Jökulsárlón with Boat Tour

South Iceland and Glacier Lagoon: Jökulsárlón with Boat Tour offers an unforgettable journey through some of Iceland’s most breathtaking landscapes. For around $261 per person, you’ll spend approximately 14.5 hours exploring waterfalls, glaciers, and black-sand beaches, with the highlight being a 30-minute boat cruise among floating icebergs at Jokulsarlon lagoon. Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour combines scenic driving, iconic stops, and a unique boat experience to give you a well-rounded taste of Iceland’s natural wonders.

What we really like about this tour is how it skillfully balances long drives with frequent, well-placed stops—including places like Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls—that offer both stunning views and chances for great photos. Also, the boat cruise provides a rare, up-close view of icebergs that are between 1,000 and 1,500 years old, adding a magical element to the day.

A possible caveat is that, with such a packed itinerary, the stops can feel a little rushed—some reviews mention that the time at each site is just enough to snap a few photos and move on. This tour is best suited for travelers who want a rundown of Iceland’s south coast in one day and don’t mind a long but rewarding outing.

If you enjoy spectacular scenery, engaging guides, and unique experiences like boat cruises among glaciers, this tour will likely be a highlight of your trip. It’s particularly good for those who value professional transportation, detailed storytelling, and a well-organized schedule.

Key Points

• Stunning landscapes: View waterfalls, glaciers, and black-sand beaches all in one day.
• Expert guides: Guides like Ram and Gunnar receive praise for their knowledge and friendliness.
• Value for money: Includes transportation, a boat cruise, and multiple scenic stops.
• Long but rewarding: A 14.5-hour tour that packs in a lot of Iceland’s highlights.
• Rushed stops: Some guests feel the time at each site could be longer.
• Ideal for: Travelers eager to see Iceland’s highlights efficiently and enjoy a memorable boat experience.

In-Depth Review of the South Iceland and Glacier Lagoon Tour

Overview and Logistics

This tour is perfect if you’re looking to maximize your day exploring Iceland’s south coast without the hassle of planning multiple separate trips. Starting early at 7:30 am from Reykjavik’s BSÍ Bus Terminal, you’ll hop into a comfortable, air-conditioned coach. The tour is offered by Reykjavik Excursions, a reputable company, and includes hotel pickup at some central Reykjavik hotels—making the start smooth and straightforward.

The journey lasts about 14 and a half hours, which means a long day, but the itinerary is designed to showcase Iceland’s most photogenic landmarks. The group size can be up to 45 travelers, so it’s large enough to feel lively but still manageable.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Hvolsvollur Stop (20 minutes):
The tour kicks off with a brief rest stop at Hvolsvollur, giving you a chance to stretch your legs before the day’s main sights. It’s a good opportunity to grab some snacks or use the facilities.

Eyjafjallajökull Volcano:
While not officially listed as a stop, the guide will likely mention the famous stratovolcano known for its 2010 eruption that disrupted European air travel. It’s an interesting piece of Iceland’s volcanic history and helps set the scene for your day.

Skogafoss Waterfall (25 minutes):
One of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls, Skogafoss drops 197 feet, and is so photogenic it appears in many travel guides. Legend has it that treasure lies behind the cascade—a fun tidbit that adds a layer of mystique. Many visitors love the opportunity to walk right up to the waterfall and, depending on conditions, even walk behind it for dramatic photos.

Freyjandes Lunch Break (40 minutes):
Next is a break for lunch at Freyjandes, a convenient spot to grab a meal. Though you’ll need to purchase food yourself, the timing allows you to relax and refuel before heading to the glaciers. Some reviews suggest that the long drive coupled with short stops can make this a bit rushed, but most appreciate the chance to see so much in one day.

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon (1 hour 20 minutes):
This is the tour’s star attraction. The glacial lagoon covers 7 square miles and is filled with icebergs from Vatnajokull Glacier. These ice chunks are estimated to be between 1,000 and 1,500 years old—a magnificent sight that’s hard to match. The calm waters and floating ice provide fantastic photo opportunities, especially when the light hits the blue and white ice.

The boat cruise adds a special dimension—gliding among the icebergs for about 30 minutes. Many guests find this part both serene and awe-inspiring, with reviews highlighting the chance to see 800-year-old ice up close. We loved the way the boat allows you to get near the ice and appreciate the scale and textures of these natural sculptures.

Diamond Beach (15 minutes):
Just across from the lagoon, the black volcanic sands are strewn with icebergs that wash ashore, creating a striking contrast. The sparkling ice on the dark sands looks like diamonds—hence the name. This spot is perfect for photos and offers a quiet moment to absorb the scenery.

Vik (45 minutes):
The charming coastal village of Vik is your dinner break. Known for its black sand beaches and dramatic sea stacks, Vik provides a relaxing stop to enjoy Icelandic cuisine and stunning views. Several reviews mention the beauty of this area, making it a favorite for those wanting a scenic meal.

Seljalandsfoss Waterfall (25 minutes):
Your final highlight is Seljalandsfoss, remarkable for the path that allows visitors to walk behind the cascade. During Iceland’s long summer days, this waterfall offers a surreal experience—standing behind the water curtain and capturing photos from behind the fall.

Transport and Comfort

The tour provides comfortable, air-conditioned transportation, which is essential for long days on Iceland’s sometimes chilly roads. Pickup from centrally located hotels and Reykjavik’s bus terminal simplifies access, and the large group size ensures a lively atmosphere. As one reviewer noted, guides like Ram, Gunnar, and Chris are praised for their knowledge and friendly demeanor, making the long hours fly by with engaging stories and helpful commentary.

What the Tour Does Well

• The scenic diversity of landscapes—from waterfalls to glaciers to volcanic beaches—offers a well-rounded Iceland experience.
• The boat cruise in Jokulsarlon is a real highlight, providing a rare chance to see ancient ice from a close perspective.
• The staggered stops balance travel time with sightseeing, allowing for photography and brief walks.
• The professional guides enhance the experience with insightful commentary, making each stop more meaningful.
• The value is clear, considering transportation, the boat cruise, and multiple notable sites all in one package.

Considerations and Drawbacks

Some reviews mention feeling rushed at stops, which is understandable given the long itinerary. If you’re someone who prefers more relaxed pacing or wants extra time at each site to explore thoroughly, this may not be ideal. Also, the large group size means fewer personalized moments, and some may find the stops somewhat crowded or hurried.

Since the tour operates in cold weather conditions, packing warm layers, hats, gloves, and rain gear is highly recommended—something that travelers should prepare for to stay comfortable throughout the day.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits adventurous travelers eager to pack a lot into a day and see Iceland’s highlights efficiently. It’s especially fitting for those who are photography enthusiasts, as the stops at waterfalls, glaciers, and beaches are incredibly scenic. It’s also great for first-time visitors wanting a rundown without the hassle of independent planning.

The Sum Up

This South Iceland and Glacier Lagoon tour offers a fantastic way to see iconic Icelandic landscapes in one long, immersive day. The combination of stunning waterfalls, glaciers, black sands, and a boat cruise among ancient icebergs makes it a memorable experience. The knowledgeable guides and organized itinerary ensure you get the most from your time, even if some stops feel a bit hurried.

While it’s a full day with a packed schedule, the value for money is undeniable—especially given the inclusion of the boat tour and multiple scenic stops. It’s best for travelers who want a guided, hassle-free adventure that covers a lot of ground and leaves plenty of photos and stories to take home.

If you’re looking for a balanced mix of adventure, scenery, and education in Iceland, this tour will serve you well. Just be sure to dress warmly and bring your patience for a long but rewarding day.

FAQ

How long is the total tour?
The tour lasts approximately 14 hours and 30 minutes, including all stops, travel time, and the boat cruise.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
Yes, pickup is offered from select hotels in central Reykjavik and the bus terminal, making start and end points convenient.

What is the main highlight of the tour?
The 30-minute boat cruise at Jokulsarlon Lagoon is often considered the standout experience, offering a close-up look at ancient icebergs.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included but are available for purchase during the scheduled lunch stop in Vik.

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
While some families find it enjoyable, others mentioned that the stops are quite short and crowded, which can be challenging for young children. It’s best for travelers comfortable with long days and quick stops.

What should I wear?
Given Iceland’s unpredictable weather, warm layers, rain gear, hats, and gloves are strongly recommended to stay comfortable during stops and outdoor walks.

How many people will be on the tour?
The tour can host up to 45 travelers, providing a lively atmosphere but still manageable group size.