2-Day Highlights of Iceland | Intro to the Land of Ice and Fire

For travelers eager to explore Iceland beyond Reykjavik, the 2-Day Highlights of Iceland tour offers an efficient, well-rounded introduction to the land of ice and fire. Priced at $429 per person, this tour combines visits to iconic waterfalls, glaciers, and volcanic landscapes with comfortable overnight accommodation and breakfast. With a rating of 5.0 from 25 reviews, the tour is highly recommended, especially for those seeking a manageable pace, practical logistics, and access to some of Iceland’s most breathtaking sights.

A standout feature of this tour is its small-group format, capped at 19 travelers, which allows for a more personal experience. The tour departs daily from Reykjavik at 9:00 am, with round-trip transport, WiFi on board, and hotel pickup and drop-off included, making logistics seamless. The tour is suitable for most travelers, though a basic level of mobility is recommended for stops that involve walking or standing.

Key Points

• Two-day small-group tour covering Iceland’s South Coast and Golden Circle
• Includes overnight accommodation with breakfast and all entry fees for geothermal park and Kerid Crater
• Visiting must-see sites such as waterfalls, glaciers, black sand beaches, and geothermal fields
• Expert guides like Filip, Dominica, Vlad, and Mika bring stories, humor, and local knowledge
• Comfortable transportation with WiFi, hotel pickup in Reykjavik, and a well-paced schedule
• Free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the tour start

Exploring the South Coast and Golden Circle in Two Days

This tour provides a comprehensive snapshot of Iceland’s diverse natural beauty. The combination of a Golden Circle and South Coast itinerary ensures travelers see waterfalls, glaciers, geothermal areas, and volcanic craters all within a manageable timeframe. It’s particularly suited to those who want to maximize their sightseeing without the stress of planning multiple separate excursions.

The cost of $429 offers good value considering overnight accommodation with breakfast, entry to geothermal sites, and transportation included. While meals apart from breakfast are not included, the stops at geothermal bakeries and local eateries add a taste of Icelandic cuisine. The tour’s flexibility, friendly guides, and logistical ease make it a popular choice for first-time visitors seeking a broad overview.

Day 1: From Seljalandsfoss to Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

The adventure begins with round-trip transport from Reykjavik, making it easy to leave the city behind for Iceland’s iconic sights. The first stop is at Seljalandsfoss, a 60-meter waterfall famous for the chance to walk behind it in the summer months. This unique perspective on the cascade offers spectacular photo opportunities and a chance to experience the power of Icelandic water.

Next, the tour reveals the lesser-known Gljufrabui Waterfalls, hidden within a cave. While less crowded, it’s a highlight for those eager to see a secret side of Iceland’s waterfalls. A short walk later, Skogafoss appears—one of the country’s most famous waterfalls, often accompanied by rainbows in its spray and the option to climb to the top for panoramic views.

The route then takes visitors to Solheimajokull Glacier, where a viewing platform presents jaw-dropping vistas of one of Iceland’s largest glaciers, part of Myrdalsjokull. The black sand beaches of Reynisfjara complete the day’s itinerary, with columnar basalt formations, Reynisdrangar sea stacks, and pounding Atlantic waves, making it a dramatic end to the first day.

Overnight stays are arranged at a comfortable hotel with breakfast included, with reviews praising guides like Dominica for their energy, storytelling, and the ability to rework plans based on weather, ensuring the best experience despite Iceland’s unpredictable climate.

Day 2: Geothermal Wonders and Volcanic Landscapes

Day two starts at Hveragerdi’s geothermal park, where bubbling hot springs and erupting Eilífur Geysir showcase Iceland’s geothermal activity. Visitors can sample geothermal bread baked in hot pits and explore greenhouses growing experimental banana plants, turning geothermal energy into an engaging, tactile experience.

The tour then visits Kerid Crater, a striking 3000-year-old volcanic crater with a deep, vivid red interior and a deep water-filled bottom. Its dramatic shape makes it a favorite spot for photos and geological interest.

Next, Gullfoss presents the Golden Waterfall, with its thunderous cascade and mist creating perfect rainbow conditions. The Haukadalur geothermal field features Geysir and Strokkur, the latter erupting every few minutes with impressive water columns, adding to the sense of Iceland’s volcanic activity.

Finally, Þingvellir National Park completes the tour, offering a blend of natural beauty and historical significance as the site of Iceland’s ancient parliament and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The rift valley’s dramatic landscapes provide a fitting farewell to Iceland’s volcanic heart.

Logistics and Comfort During the Tour

The entire experience is designed for ease and comfort. Transport is in an air-conditioned vehicle, with WiFi available onboard. The hotel pickup and drop-off are included within Reykjavik, eliminating the need for separate arrangements. The tour begins promptly at 9:00 am, and most stops are between 20 and 40 minutes, allowing ample time to enjoy each destination.

Accommodation for one night is organized in a twin or double room with a private bathroom, ensuring restful overnight stays after busy days of sightseeing. The tour is suitable for most participants, with most reviews emphasizing the guides’ attentiveness, knowledge, and ability to keep the schedule on track despite Iceland’s sometimes challenging weather.

Unique Features and Notable Inclusions

This tour’s small-group size enhances the experience, fostering interaction with guides and fellow travelers. The entry to geothermal park with on-site bakery and geothermal bread tasting is a highlight, giving a tangible connection to Iceland’s geothermal energy.

The guides’ storytelling and flexibility in reworking the itinerary based on weather are recurrent themes in reviews. Travelers praise guides like Filip, Dominica, Vlad, and Mika for their energy, humor, and local insights, making each stop more engaging and informative.

The tour’s value for money shines when considering all transportation, accommodation, breakfast, and entry fees included. It’s an efficient way to see a broad spectrum of Iceland’s natural wonders in just two days.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

While the tour covers many highlights, some stops may be limited in time, and not all locations in the itinerary are guaranteed during every run, especially if weather conditions shift. Meals besides breakfast are not included, so travelers should plan for additional dining. The basic hotel accommodation might not suit those seeking luxury, but reviews indicate it’s typical for Iceland standards.

Weather can impact the experience—poor conditions may lead to rescheduling or cancellations. However, full refunds or alternative dates are available if the tour cannot operate due to bad weather.

The Perfect Fit for Iceland First-Timers and Nature Enthusiasts

This 2-day tour offers a practical, well-organized glimpse of Iceland’s most famous sights. It suits adventurers seeking a balance of sightseeing, comfort, and storytelling, especially those interested in waterfalls, glaciers, and geothermal activity. The small-group format and experienced guides make it ideal for travelers who value personalized attention and local insights.

While not designed for those wanting in-depth exploration of each site, it provides enough time and diversity to leave visitors with a vivid impression of Iceland’s volcanic landscapes and natural beauty. The overnight stay in Hveragerdi adds a nice touch, allowing some exploration beyond the day’s stops and the chance to enjoy Icelandic hospitality.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup and drop-off within Reykjavik are included, making the start and end of the tour convenient.

Are meals other than breakfast included?
No, meals and drinks beyond the included breakfast are not covered, but stops at geothermal bakeries and local eateries offer opportunities to try Icelandic food.

Can I see the Northern Lights on this tour?
The tour includes an overnight stay in Hveragerdi, where some guests have reported seeing the Northern Lights, but sightings depend on weather and solar activity, not guaranteed.

What should I wear for the tour?
The itinerary involves outdoor stops at waterfalls, glaciers, and beaches, so warm, waterproof clothing and sturdy shoes are recommended.

This 2-Day Highlights of Iceland tour from Nicetravel offers a practical, enjoyable way to experience the country’s most iconic sights, perfectly suited for those wanting a taste of Iceland’s natural wonders with the comfort of guided logistics and accommodations.