Unforgettable 2-Day Summer Tour of Iceland's South Coast from Reykjavik with Glacier Hiking

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Enjoy a glacier hike at the Solheimajokull glacier on this two-day tour of the South Coast.

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Travel details

Dates

Time

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Travelers

Pick-up location

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Description

Summary

Tour starts

Reykjavík

Starting time

at 08:00

Duration

2 days

Ending place

Reykjavík

Languages

English, Icelandic

Difficulty

Easy

Available

May - Sept.

Minimum age

8 years old

3,123 reviews

Description

Have the adventure of a lifetime on this two-day tour of Iceland’s South Coast region. Travelers wanting to see top attractions such as Reynisfjara black sand beach, Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, and more should book this small-group tour today.

This two-day adventure begins in Reykjavik, where you will meet your guide and group before setting into the vehicle for the scenic ride to the South Coast. This is a great time to get to know your guide and ask questions as you watch the otherworldly views pass by your window.

Your first stop is the stunning Seljalandsfoss waterfall, one of the most beloved attractions in Iceland. This 200-foot (60-meter) waterfall is unique because it is possible to walk into a cave behind the falls, providing a unique view through the water.

Today’s stops include two other famous South Coast waterfalls: Skogafoss waterfall and Gljufrabui waterfall. The nearly 200-foot (60-meter) Skogafoss is best known for its immense size and power, while Gljufrabui is beloved for its beautiful location in a narrow green canyon.

Next, you will be heading to the coastline for the unique viewpoint from the Dyrholaey rock formation, which is also an excellent spot for birdwatching in the summer months. Nearby is the famous Reynisfjara black sand beach, where the striking ebony shoreline meets crashing waves.

Finally, you will embark on a short hike at the Solheimajokull glacier before settling into your cozy country hotel for the evening. The hotel will be located between Vik and Hofn, and you will have plenty of time to explore the area after enjoying a hearty meal.

On the second day of your tour, you will continue your trip around the South Coast, first stopping at Fjadrargljufur canyon and the beautiful Skaftafell nature reserve. These incredible natural areas are perfect for photography, so bring your camera!

Prepare to be amazed by the famous Diamond Beach. The name comes from the endless chunks of glacier ice scattered across the sand, which glisten like diamonds when the sun shines on them.

The final stop of your tour is the nearby Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, often called the Crown Jewel of Iceland. Here, you will enjoy a boat tour through the lagoon, getting you up close to the ancient glaciers.

After Jokulsarlon, it is time to head back to Reykjavik and complete your unforgettable two-day tour of the South Coast.

Be sure to pack warm, waterproof clothing in a small overnight bag and some snacks and drinks. This popular tour tends to sell out quickly in high season, so if you intend to travel in July or August, it is recommended to book well in advance.

Travelers looking to explore the top attractions along Iceland’s South Coast should book this two-day small-group tour today. Check availability now by choosing a date.

Included

Professional English-speaking guide

Glacier hike with glacier equipment (crampons, helmet, harness and ice axe)

Minibus with free Wi-Fi

One night of accommodation with private bathroom and breakfast

Amphibian boat ride on Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon

Space for one item of carry-on luggage, max 24 inches (61 cm)

Pick-up and drop-off in Reykjavik

Small group experience

Activities

Glacier Hiking

Sightseeing

Boat Trip

Map

Attractions

Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Vatnajokull Glacier

Skogafoss

Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

Katla

Solheimajokull Glacier

Skaftafell

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

Vik

Reynisdrangar

South Coast

Diamond Beach

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Daily itinerary

Day 1

Day 1 - South Coast and Glacier Lagoon

On your first day, you will begin your journey along Iceland’s famous Ring Road, heading toward the stunning South Coast. This scenic route is lined with lush lava fields, towering mountains, and glacial rivers, offering breathtaking views right from the start.

Your first stop is the towering Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, standing at 60 meters (197 feet). Surrounded by lush green hills and volcanic rock, Seljalandsfoss is a favorite spot for photographers. You can walk behind the waterfall and feel its mist up close. In the summer, its spray is visible from far away, adding to the magic of the scene.

You'll then visit the impressive Skogafoss Waterfall, where its powerful 60-meter (197-foot) drop creates a fine mist that can form a rainbow on sunny days. A Viking treasure is said to be hidden behind the falls, adding to its sense of mystery and fascination. For a better view, climb the 527 steps to the top, where you'll be treated to an amazing vista.

Next, you'll explore the world-famous Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, known for its striking black shore and powerful waves. The nearby Reynisdrangar Sea Stacks add to its unique charm, standing tall against the crashing surf. According to Icelandic folklore, these jagged formations were once trolls who were turned to stone by the rising sun.

You’ll pause for lunch in the nearby village of Vik, Iceland’s southernmost settlement. Enjoy a meal while admiring views of the coastal cliffs.

Then, you’ll continue eastward, traveling through vast lava fields and glacial plains before reaching the breathtaking Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, the “Crown Jewel of Iceland.” Here, massive blue icebergs break away from the Breidamerkurjokull Glacier and drift serenely across the lagoon before going to the open ocean.

Next to the famous Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon is the magical Diamond Beach. Experience the beauty of the beach as you stroll amongst icebergs that shimmer like diamonds under the light of the sun.

The icebergs on the beach come from Breidamerkurjokull, a glacier tongue of Vatnajokull Glacier. In Icelandic, the beach is called Breidamerkursandur, which means "Sand of Wide Woodland." Most Icelanders are unfamiliar with the English name "Diamond Beach."

As the day draws to a close, you’ll settle into your accommodation near the glacial lagoon or in the charming coastal town of Hofn. If you are traveling during the early autumn, watch the sky because you might be able to see the northern lights illuminating the glacial landscape.

Day 2

Day 2 - Glacier Expedition & Waterfalls

Your second day begins with an unforgettable Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon boat tour. Here, you'll sail among towering icebergs from the Breidamerkurjokull Glacier.

Nature has distinctly shaped each iceberg into beautiful shades of crystal blue and pure white. The icebergs edge toward the ocean, and some land on nearby Diamond Beach, gleaming like jewels against the black sand. This is one of Iceland’s most photogenic locations, offering an incredible contrast of ice and lava-formed landscapes.

The highlight of the day is your glacier hiking adventure, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to walk across the surface of a massive glacier. Guided by a certified glacier expert, you'll be equipped with crampons, a helmet, and an ice axe to navigate the icy terrain.

Depending on the conditions, you'll hike in Vatnajokull Glacier or Solheimajokull Glacier. If you hike on Vatnajokull you'll traverse part of Europe's largest ice cap, covering approximately 8% of Iceland.

You'll explore a frozen wonderland of towering ice ridges, deep crevasses, and electric-blue ice formations. Experience firsthand the sheer scale and power of this icy giant.

If your glacier hike occurs on Solheimajokull, an outlet of Myrdalsjokull Glacier, you'll step into a terrain forged by ice and fire. Here, streaks of volcanic ash from past eruptions weave through the frozen surface, creating a stunning contrast against the brilliant blue ice.

As you traverse this vast and ever-changing landscape, you’ll deeply appreciate the sheer power of nature and the forces that have shaped Iceland over millennia.

After an action-packed day of exploring Iceland’s frozen wonders, you’ll board your comfortable minibus to return to Reykjavik. Sort through your photos, and share stories from your unforgettable South Coast experiences and your adventure conquering a glacier.

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