Reykjavik: 3-day South Coast and Golden Circle Experience

Key Points

• Three-day guided tour exploring Iceland’s iconic south coast and Golden Circle sites
• Includes a glacier hike, ice cave visit, and boat ride at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
• Comfortable transport with WiFi, led by experienced guides
• Stays in well-appointed accommodations over two nights
• Limited group size of 18 participants for a personalized experience

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Start in Reykjavik and Visit Thingvellir National Park

This tour begins in central Reykjavik, with a pickup at 8:00 AM at your designated location. The transportation is a mini-bus equipped with WiFi, making the journey comfortable and connected. The first day focuses on the Golden Circle, starting at Thingvellir National Park.

At Thingvellir, guests explore the site of historical and geological significance. The park features the rift valley where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates diverge. The tour also includes visits to Gullfoss Waterfall and the Geysir geothermal area, where geysers regularly erupt, creating a dramatic display of natural power.

Waterfalls and Geysers on Day Two

Day two is dedicated to some of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls and coastal scenery. The journey takes guests to Seljalandsfoss, where visitors can walk behind the tumbling water for a unique perspective. Adjacent to it is Gljúfrabúi, a hidden waterfall tucked into a gorge, accessible by crossing rocky riverbeds—an adventure for those comfortable with uneven terrain.

Next, the tour reaches Skógafoss, a towering 60-meter waterfall that creates frequent rainbows in sunny weather. Climbing the 527 steps to the top offers sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. The day continues with a visit to Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, famous for its massive basalt columns and roaring Atlantic waves. The area is also a nesting ground for puffins and other seabirds during summer months.

Exploring Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach

The third day centers on Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, a highlight of this tour. The lagoon is filled with floating icebergs from Europe’s largest glacier, creating an otherworldly scene. During summer, there is an option to book a boat ride among the icebergs, offering a closer look at the floating ice formations.

Across the road, Diamond Beach features tiny ice rocks in all shapes and shades of white and blue, sparkling against black volcanic sand. These ice pieces are constantly shaped and reshaped by the tide and wind, making every visit visually unique. The day’s excitement continues with a 1.5-hour glacier hike on an outlet glacier.

Glacier Hike and Ice Cave Adventure

Guests meet with glacier guides and gear up with helmets, harnesses, crampons, and ice axes. The hike on the glacier provides an up-close encounter with one of Iceland’s largest and most majestic ice formations. This activity not only offers stunning views but also an educational glimpse into what makes glaciers such a rare and vital part of the environment.

The ice cave visit is a standout feature, allowing visitors to walk through the blue-lit tunnels carved by natural ice movement. The cave visit highlights the natural beauty and fragility of Iceland’s glaciers, making it a memorable highlight of the trip.

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Practical Details and Group Size

This tour is operated by TrollExpeditions and is designed for small groups, limited to 18 participants for a more personalized experience. The package includes two nights of accommodation and a professional English-speaking guide. The price is $1,078 per person, covering most activities but excluding meals, which are available at stops along the way.

The tour emphasizes convenience with included pickup from central Reykjavik, and participants should be prepared with warm clothing and rain gear. The schedule is flexible, with stops where snacks and lunch can be purchased, ensuring comfort throughout the days.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Many reviews praise the knowledge and enthusiasm of the guides, especially for their storytelling and humor. The itinerary is carefully planned to balance popular sights with memorable experiences like glacier hiking and ice cave exploration. The hotels used are described as neat and aesthetically pleasing, adding a comfortable touch to the adventure.

The tour provides a comprehensive view of Iceland’s natural wonders in just three days, from waterfalls to glaciers, with plenty of photo opportunities and opportunities to learn about the environment. The inclusion of glacier hikes and ice cave visits makes this tour particularly appealing for those wanting an active, in-depth Iceland experience.

Important Considerations

While the trip offers plenty of adventure, it is not suitable for children under 8 years old, and travelers should be prepared for potentially variable weather with warm and rainproof clothing. The pickup process may take up to an hour, so punctuality is advised.

This tour offers full flexibility in booking with a full refund if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. It’s ideal for travelers who want a well-organized, small-group exploration of Iceland’s most iconic sights, with the added thrill of glacier activities.

Experience the Best of Iceland in Just Three Days

This well-balanced itinerary combines sightseeing, adventure, and comfort, making it a strong choice for travelers eager to see Iceland’s highlights without sacrificing quality or guidance. The small group size enhances the experience, allowing more interaction with guides and fellow travelers.

The tour’s good reviews and detailed itinerary suggest that it delivers on its promise to showcase Iceland’s stunning landscapes, from waterfalls and geysers to glaciers and ice caves. While meals are not included, stops for snacks or lunch make the daily schedule flexible enough to suit your preferences.

For anyone looking to maximize their time in Iceland and explore its most photogenic natural sites, this 3-day South Coast and Golden Circle experience offers a compelling combination of adventure, scenery, and expert guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour is not suitable for children under 8 years old due to the physical activities involved and the nature of the excursions like glacier hikes.

What’s included in the price?
The price includes transportation with WiFi, two nights of accommodation, a professional English-speaking guide, and a 3-hour glacier hike. Meals and drinks are not included but can be purchased at various stops.

How physically demanding is the glacier hike and ice cave visit?
The glacier hike lasts about 1.5 hours and requires wearing safety gear like helmets and crampons. It involves walking on ice, which may be challenging for some, but guides will ensure safety. The ice cave visit involves walking through natural tunnels, also requiring some comfort with uneven surfaces.

What should I bring?
Travelers should dress in warm clothing and rain gear, as weather conditions can change quickly. It’s also wise to carry snacks and water for the stops.

When is the best time to take this tour?
The tour operates year-round, but specific activities like boat rides at Jökulsárlón are available during summer. The overall experience is suitable for any season, provided proper gear is prepared.

How many people are in each group?
The group size is limited to 18 participants, ensuring a more intimate experience with personalized guidance.

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