2 Day Summer Tour to Iceland’s South Coast with Glacier Hike

This 2-day summer tour of Iceland’s South Coast offers an immersive adventure through some of the country’s most iconic natural sights. Priced at $590 per person, it includes private transportation, a 3-star hotel stay, and all necessary safety equipment for glacier hiking. The tour departs from Vik and covers a wide array of breathtaking locations, making it ideal for those wanting a comprehensive experience in just two days.

While the tour is physically active and involves several outdoor stops, it’s suitable for anyone with moderate physical fitness and a sense of adventure. It’s important to prepare with warm clothing and comfortable shoes, particularly for the glacier hike and outdoor explorations. Since the tour fills quickly in July and August, early booking is recommended to secure a spot.

Key Points

• Two-day guided tour exploring Iceland’s South Coast with private transportation and hotel accommodation.
• Includes visits to Seljalandsfoss, Skogafoss, and Reynisfjara black sand beach, plus a glacier hike at Solheimajokull.
• Day two features Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, Diamond Beach, and a boat tour into the lagoon for close-up views.
• The tour offers all safety equipment for glacier activities and breakfast included.
• The tour is suited for ages 8 and up and accommodates groups of up to 15 travelers.
• Advance booking is recommended due to high demand in peak summer months.

The South Coast’s Top Waterfalls: Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss

The tour’s first stops take you to Seljalandsfoss, a waterfall famous for the trail that allows visitors to walk behind its curtain of water. It’s a striking sight that can be appreciated at your own pace during the 30-minute visit. Next, the Skogafoss waterfall impresses with its powerful cascade, often creating vivid rainbows visible from the base and from the hiking trail to the top, accessible via 527 steps.

Both waterfalls showcase Iceland’s raw, natural power and provide stunning photo opportunities. The stops are brief but well-paced, allowing enough time to enjoy each location without feeling rushed.

Discover the Hidden Gem: Gljufrabui Waterfalls

A highlight of the first day is the visit to Gljufrabui, a lesser-known waterfall inside a mini cave. Visitors should be prepared to get wet as they venture inside this narrow, enchanting space. Its secretive atmosphere offers a unique chance to see a different side of Iceland’s waterfalls, away from the crowds.

Glacier Hike on Solheimajokull: A Thrilling Adventure

One of the tour’s standout experiences is the 3-hour glacier hike on Solheimajokull. All safety equipment is provided, making it accessible and safe for participants. During this walk across the ice, you’ll witness the glacier’s crevasses and blue ice formations up close, guided by knowledgeable staff. The hike offers a tangible connection to Iceland’s glacial landscape, which is both awe-inspiring and photogenic.

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach and Basalt Cliffs

The iconic Reynisfjara beach is renowned for its black volcanic sand and basalt column formations. Visitors are advised to stay cautious near the water due to strong surf and hidden drops in the sand. The dramatic coastline and towering cliffs make for memorable views, ideal for photographers and nature lovers alike.

Day Two Highlights: Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach

The second day begins at Jokulsarlon, a captivating glacier lagoon filled with floating icebergs. The tour includes an amphibian boat tour, which gets travelers closer to the ice formations and offers spectacular vantage points. The 2-hour stop allows ample time to soak in the serenity of this icy landscape.

Adjacent to Jokulsarlon is Diamond Beach, where chunks of glacier ice wash ashore on the black sand, sparkling like diamonds under the sun. This contrast makes for striking photographs and a unique natural spectacle.

Eldhraun Lava Field: A Lava-Covered Landscape

Next, the tour visits the Eldhraun Lava Field, a vast expanse of volcanic lava flows. Here, visitors get up close to ancient lava formations and experience the rugged beauty of Iceland’s volcanic activity. The 30-minute stop provides an opportunity for photos and to feel the natural power of volcanic eruptions.

Exploring the Bridge of the Volcanoes and Fjadrargljufur Canyon

Within Skaftafell National Park, the guide leads visitors to the Bridge of the Volcanoes, a scenic viewpoint within the park that offers sweeping views of volcanic landscapes. Later, the Fjadrargljufur Canyon impresses with its winding, deep gorge, accessible only during the summer months due to traffic restrictions for preservation. This 30-minute stop emphasizes Iceland’s geological diversity.

Practical Details: Logistics and Group Size

This tour starts at 8:00 am with a meeting point arranged in Vik or Hofn. The group size is limited to 15 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience with personal attention from the guide. Transportation is private, making the journey smoother and more flexible than large bus tours.

The hotel stay is in a 3-star accommodation between Vik and Hofn, providing a cozy base for the two days. Breakfast is included, but guests should bring snacks for later in the day due to the late dinner timings.

What’s Included and What to Bring

The tour package includes all safety equipment for glacier hiking, private transport, and hotel accommodation. However, food and drinks are not included, and guests are advised to bring warm clothing, including hat, gloves, jacket, pants, and hiking boots. Packing well ensures comfort during outdoor stops and glacier walks.

Flexibility and Cancellation Policy

Guests can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the experience, receiving a full refund. The tour is weather-dependent, with the possibility of rescheduling or refund if canceled due to poor conditions. The experience is designed for a moderate physical fitness level and is suitable for participants aged 8 and above.

The Guide: Knowledge and Atmosphere

The guide, David, is known for his helpful attitude and expertise, ensuring guests feel safe and informed throughout the journey. The small group size allows for personalized commentary and a relaxed pace, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.

Iceland’s South Coast: A Compact Yet Complete Journey

This 2-day tour balances popular sights like Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss with lesser-known gems like Gljufrabui. It offers a well-rounded experience of Iceland’s waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, glaciers, and beaches. The inclusion of a glacier hike and a boat tour into Jokulsarlon** elevates the adventure, providing a sense of proximity to Iceland’s natural forces.

While it involves long outdoor stops and requires warm clothing, the carefully curated itinerary ensures travelers see the most stunning features of the South Coast efficiently. The hotel stay and breakfast add convenience, making this a solid choice for those seeking an active, immersive Icelandic experience.

Ideal for Adventure Seekers and Curious Explorers

This tour appeals most to adventurers eager to experience Iceland’s iconic natural wonders in just two days. It suits families with children aged 8 and above and travelers who appreciate guided, small-group excursions. Those seeking a rundown of the South Coast’s highlights without strenuous planning will find this tour rewarding.

The early booking recommendation is key, as high demand in July and August means spots fill quickly. For travelers ready to explore waterfalls, glaciers, black sand beaches, and glacier lagoons, this tour offers an engaging, scenic journey filled with memorable moments.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour price covers private transportation, hotel accommodation, breakfast, and safety equipment for glacier hikes. Food and drinks are not included.

How long are the stops at each location?
Stops range from 30 minutes at waterfalls and lava fields to 2 hours at Jokulsarlon and Diamond Beach, allowing enough time to explore and take photos.

What should I bring on the tour?
Guests should pack warm clothing—hat, gloves, jacket, pants—and hiking boots. Snacks are recommended for energy during the long days.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the minimum age is 8 years, making it suitable for families with children who meet the physical requirements.

How physically demanding is the glacier hike?
The hike lasts about 3 hours and involves walking on ice with safety gear provided. Moderate fitness is recommended.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour is weather-dependent; in case of poor conditions, it may be canceled or rescheduled, with options for a full refund or alternative dates.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund.

What is the maximum group size?
The experience is limited to 15 travelers for a more personalized and relaxed atmosphere.

Who leads the tour?
The tour is guided by David The Guide, known for his helpful attitude and expertise in Icelandic landscapes.

When does the tour start?
The tour begins at 8:00 am with the meeting point arranged in Vik or Hofn.

Is this tour suitable in peak summer months?
Yes, but due to high demand in July and August, early booking is strongly advised.

Where does the tour stay overnight?
Guests stay in a 3-star hotel located between Vik and Hofn, providing a comfortable base for exploring the South Coast.

This 2-day Iceland South Coast tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and practical comfort, making it an excellent choice for those eager to see Iceland’s natural highlights in a short timeframe.