3 Day Summer South Coast, Golden Circle and Jökulsarlon glacier lagoon

A Comprehensive 3-Day Iceland Adventure in the South Coast and Golden Circle

This 3-day summer tour in Iceland offers an efficient way to explore some of the country’s most iconic sights, all for $928.86 per person. Designed for those with limited time, it combines the Golden Circle, South Coast waterfalls, a glacier hike, and a boat ride at Jökulsárlón, making it a well-rounded trip packed with unforgettable moments. With two nights’ accommodation, breakfast included, and pickup options, this tour provides convenience alongside adventure. The tour has earned a perfect 5.0/5 rating from 110 reviews, with 96% recommending it, highlighting its popularity and quality.

While the tour’s fast pace means you visit many locations in a short time, it has been praised for expert guides, comfortable transportation, and scenic stops. However, travelers should be aware of additional costs such as optional equipment rentals and the need for early booking—it’s often booked 70 days in advance. This trip suits visitors eager to maximize their Iceland experience efficiently, especially those who enjoy guided hikes, stunning landscapes, and iconic Icelandic landmarks.

Key Points

• Fast-paced 3-day tour covering the Golden Circle, South Coast waterfalls, glaciers, and Jökulsárlón.
• Includes two nights’ accommodation and breakfast for ease and comfort.
• Guided glacier hike and boat ride at Jökulsárlón add unique adventure elements.
• Transportation is in a small group, with pickup and drop-off from designated stops.
• Optional equipment rentals such as hiking boots and waterproof clothing are available.
• Most travelers find the tour well-organized, with knowledgeable guides and plenty of photo opportunities.

Starting Strong: Exploring the Golden Circle and Thingvellir National Park

The tour begins in Reykjavík, with an 8:00 am pickup, heading straight to Thingvellir National Park. This site showcases the dramatic divide between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates—a visible reminder of Iceland’s geothermal activity. Visitors also learn about Thingvellir’s history as the birthplace of the Icelandic parliament in 930 AD. The park offers free admission and is perfect for walking and photography, with views of the largest natural lake in Iceland and vibrant bird and fish life.

Next, the journey takes you to Gullfoss Waterfall, where melting water from Langjökull glacier plunges into a deep canyon. With about 30 minutes at the falls, visitors can enjoy the misty spray and, on sunny days, catch rainbows forming over the waterfall—an especially photogenic moment. The sight of Iceland’s second-largest glacier in the distance adds to the scenic appeal.

The tour continues to Geysir geothermal area, home to hundreds of hot springs and the famous Strokkur geyser, which erupts every 5 minutes up to 40 meters high. Although the original Geysir erupts infrequently, the area remains lively with colorful hot springs and bubbling pools, making it a captivating stop for photos and geothermal observation.

Day 2: Waterfalls, Glaciers, and Ice Hiking Adventures

Early on Day 2, the tour departs Reykjavík heading south to the dramatic Seljalandsfoss Waterfall. Visitors can walk behind the fall, experiencing the thunderous water from a unique perspective. A raincoat is recommended for this stop since the spray can get intense. This location is ideal for capturing striking photos of the waterfall’s powerful cascade.

Further along the coast, Skogafoss Waterfall impresses with its sheer size—60 meters tall—tucked into a picturesque gorge. An optional staircase leads to a viewing platform above the falls, providing stunning panoramic views of the landscape and the Atlantic Ocean beyond.

In the afternoon, the tour visits Skaftafell National Park for a guided glacier hike. After meeting trained glacier guides, travelers are equipped with helmets, harnesses, crampons, and ice axes. The 1.5-hour hike on the outlet glacier from Vatnajökull offers a rare chance to see glacial formations up close. This activity is suitable for most, provided physical fitness levels allow for basic hiking and gear handling. The Skaftafell region is also famous for its appearances in TV shows and movies, such as Game of Thrones and Interstellar.

Day 3: Jökulsárlón and the Icelandic Coastline

The third day begins with a visit to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, fed by Breiðamerkurjökull, the outlet glacier of Europe’s largest ice cap. The 2-hour stop includes a boat ride among floating icebergs, offering close-up views of ice formations and the tranquil, grand landscape. Visitors can walk along the lagoon’s edge, enjoying silence and stunning vistas of the glacial environment.

Following Jökulsárlón, the tour proceeds to Reynisfjara Beach, famous for its black sand, massive waves, and basalt columns. The sea stacks and cliffs are striking, and during summer months (June to August), the area becomes a nesting ground for puffins and other seabirds. The 30-minute stop here invites contemplative walks and photography of Iceland’s wild coast.

Practical Details: Logistics and Equipment

The tour departs from designated bus stops at 8:00 am, with pickups available. The group size is limited to 18 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience with a personal touch. The transportation is in a small and comfortable minibus, with Wi-Fi and Icelandic music onboard to enhance the journey.

Guests are provided with breakfasts during the trip, and the tour includes glacier hiking with safety equipment and a boat ride—both included in the price. For added flexibility, optional gear rentals such as hiking boots (3,000 ISK), waterproof jackets (1,750 ISK), and pants (1,750 ISK) are available, though these are not included.

The Strengths and Weaknesses of This Iceland Tour

One of the definitive strengths of this tour is the expert guidance. The reviews highlight knowledgeable guides who lead you through the stops and explain the significance of each location in a friendly manner. The scenic diversity—from waterfalls and geysers to glaciers and ice lagoons—ensures a dynamic experience.

Accommodations are quality-rated, with clean rooms and full breakfast, providing comfort after long days of exploration. The boat ride at Jökulsárlón and glacier hike add memorable elements that set this tour apart from more generic routes.

However, the fast pacing can be a limitation for some, with short stop durations at each site. Plus, optional equipment rentals add extra costs if travelers wish to fully participate in activities like glacier hiking. The touring schedule is also subject to weather conditions, which can affect some stops or activities—but the operator offers full refunds or alternative dates if cancellations are necessary.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This 3-day Iceland trip is ideal for adventurers eager to see Iceland’s primary attractions with minimal planning. It suits travelers comfortable with group tours, walking, and outdoor activities like hiking on ice. The itinerary’s diverse stops make it perfect for those who want a well-rounded snapshot of Iceland’s natural beauty, from powerful waterfalls to glacial landscapes.

While the trip is fast-paced, the balance of guided commentary, scenic stops, and adventure activities makes it a valuable option for first-time visitors or those short on time. It’s less suited for travelers seeking longer exploration or private customization but excels in delivering efficient highlights with professional guidance.

The Sum Up: A Strong Choice for a Rapid Iceland Experience

The 3 Day Summer South Coast, Golden Circle, and Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon tour provides a comprehensive, engaging, and well-organized way to see many of Iceland’s most iconic sights. Its inclusive activities, such as the glacier hike and iceberg boat ride, add special touchpoints that elevate the experience beyond simple sightseeing.

The tour’s value lies in its expert guides, comfortable accommodations, and the variety of locations covered in just three days. Travelers should be prepared for shorter stops and optional expenses for gear rentals. This trip is recommended for those who want a curated, adventure-filled introduction to southern Iceland.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Most activities, including sightseeing and walking, are accessible to most. The glacier hike requires some physical fitness, but gear is provided and the hike lasts about 1.5 hours.

Are meals included?
Breakfasts are included for both nights. Lunch and dinner are not included, so plan accordingly.

What gear can I rent?
Hiking boots, waterproof jackets, waterproof pants, hats, gloves, and neck warmers are available for rent at additional costs.

How many people are in the group?
The maximum group size is 18 travelers, providing a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel if weather is poor?
Yes, the operator offers full refunds or alternative dates if the tour is canceled due to bad weather.

What is the best time to book?
The tour is most often booked around 70 days in advance, so early reservations are recommended to secure a spot.

Are accommodations comfortable?
Yes, the included hotels are clean and offer full breakfast. Specific hotels are not named but are described as high quality.

Is pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are provided from designated bus stops in Reykjavik.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of iconic landmarks, adventure activities, and professional guidance makes it a comprehensive and memorable Iceland experience in just three days.