Private Katla Ice cave and South Coast with photos

Discover Iceland's stunning south coast and inside the Katla Ice Cave on this private, guided tour with photos, ice gear, and door-to-door service from Reykjavik.

Exploring Iceland’s dramatic south coast and volcanic ice formations becomes an intimate experience with this private tour that offers personalized attention and professional photography. For $1,900 per group (up to 5 people), you gain access to iconic waterfalls, black sand beaches, and the spectacular Katla Ice Cave, all with door-to-door transfers from your Reykjavik hotel. The 12-hour journey is designed to showcase Iceland’s most dazzling landscapes in comfort, with a dedicated guide who captures photos along the way—an ideal choice for small groups seeking a tailored adventure.

While this tour provides a comprehensive look at some of Iceland’s most famous sights, it’s especially suited for those eager to explore volcanic ice caves and enjoy private, stress-free transportation. The ice gear included ensures that visitors are well-equipped for inside the glacier, making this a practical and memorable experience. A notable highlight is the guide’s photography service, which means you’ll leave with stunning photos without needing to bring your own camera gear.

Key Points

  • Private tour for up to 5 people offers personalized attention and flexibility
  • Includes door-to-door transfers from Reykjavik, saving time and hassle
  • Visit iconic waterfalls: Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss with included admission tickets
  • Explore the unique Katla Ice Cave inside a volcanic glacier with expert guidance
  • Photographer guide captures professional-quality photos at each stop
  • Ice gear provided for safe exploration inside the glacier

Start Your Day with Convenient Hotel Pickup in Reykjavik

This private tour begins at 8:30 am with door-to-door pickup from your Reykjavik hotel. The collection service is reliable and designed to streamline your day, eliminating the need for public transport or worrying about navigation. Since the entire group is private, the schedule is flexible enough to allow for some adjustments based on your interests or pace. The total duration of about 12 hours means you’ll have ample time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

The luxury of private transfers means you can relax and focus on taking in the scenery, knowing your guide handles all the logistics. This setup also suits travelers who prefer a more exclusive, personalized experience rather than joining large group tours, ensuring comfort and privacy throughout the day.

Visiting Skogafoss: The Iconic Waterfall

Your first stop is the famous Skogafoss, one of Iceland’s most recognized waterfalls. With admission included, you’ll spend approximately 2 hours exploring this impressive cascade that plunges over 60 meters into the river below. The waterfall’s powerful flow creates a consistent spray, often resulting in vivid rainbows in the sunlight.

The site offers excellent opportunities for photography, especially from the viewing platform or by walking closer to the base. The guide’s photography skills come in handy here, as they capture the waterfall’s majesty from multiple angles. The manageable time at Skogafoss allows you to appreciate its scale without feeling hurried, and the location is accessible for most visitors.

Discovering the Katla Ice Cave Inside a Volcanic Glacier

The highlight of this tour is the exploration of the Katla Ice Cave on Kerlingardalsvegur. This unique ice cave forms inside a volcanic glacier, offering mesmerizing volcanic ice formations that are unlike any other in Iceland. The admission ticket is included, and ice gear is provided to ensure safe and comfortable access to the interior.

The 2-hour visit inside the cave provides a chance to see stunning blue ice, volcanic ash layers, and natural ice sculptures. The guide’s expertise ensures safe navigation through the glacier environment while also capturing photos of your experience—valuable memories to take home. As the most distinctive feature of this tour, the ice cave offers a surreal environment that feels like stepping into an otherworldly landscape.

Reynisfjara Beach and Its Black Sand

After the ice cave adventure, the tour makes a quick stop at Reynisfjara Beach, the iconic black sand beach famous for its striking basalt columns and sea stacks. The stop lasts about 20 minutes, providing enough time for photos of the dramatic coastline.

While brief, this stop offers a chance to admire the powerful Atlantic waves crashing against the black volcanic sands. You can also observe the Reynisdrangar sea stacks rising from the ocean. This stop complements the day’s theme of volcanic landscapes and provides a stark contrast to the icy environment inside the glacier.

Visiting Seljalandsfoss, Iceland’s Most Famous Waterfall

The final stop is Seljalandsfoss, known for the ability to walk behind the waterfall’s curtain of water. With admission included, visitors spend 20 minutes experiencing this iconic site. The experience of walking behind the cascade offers a unique perspective and fantastic photo opportunities.

The waterfall’s impressive height and the pathway behind it make it a memorable end to the sightseeing day. The guide ensures you capture the moment with professional photos, making this stop both scenic and convenient for small groups.

Practical Details: Duration, Pricing, and Booking

This tour lasts approximately 12 hours, with most of the day dedicated to visiting each location comfortably. The cost of $1,900 per group includes private transportation, admission tickets, ice gear, and the guide’s photography service. Since the tour is designed for groups up to 5 people, it offers an intimate experience that’s both flexible and personalized.

Booking is typically made about 55 days in advance, highlighting its popularity. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with good weather being essential for the ice cave visit. The cancellation policy allows full refunds if canceled at least 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind in case of weather changes.

What Sets This Tour Apart: Personal Photography and Private Service

One of the most appreciated features of this tour is the guide’s role as a photographer. Throughout the day, they take high-quality photos at each stop, which are included at no extra cost. This service means visitors can focus on enjoying the scenery without worrying about capturing the perfect shot.

The private nature of the trip ensures flexibility, personalized attention, and less crowding, making it ideal for small groups or families seeking a tailored experience. The ice gear included also simplifies the process, removing the need for participants to rent or bring their own equipment.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most

This tour appeals most to adventurous travelers keen to explore volcanic ice caves and Iceland’s stunning waterfalls and beaches in comfort and style. It’s perfect for those who value private transportation and professional photography, ensuring memories are well-preserved. The 12-hour itinerary suits those prepared for a full day of sightseeing, with enough time for each highlight without feeling rushed.

While accessible to most, travelers should be comfortable with moderate walking and cold conditions inside the ice cave. It’s an excellent choice for small groups wanting a bespoke, memorable journey into Iceland’s natural wonders.

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Private Katla Ice cave and South Coast with photos



5.0

(14 reviews)

100% 5-star

“Julian was the best guide ever! He was so informative and conscious of our individual needs. He gave us a day to remember forever. My grandsons s…”

— dianetesta, Nov 2024

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the guide is attentive to individual needs. The tour involves some walking and requires being comfortable in potentially cold environments inside the ice cave.

How early should I book?
Booking typically occurs about 55 days in advance due to the tour’s popularity, especially during peak seasons.

What should I bring?
While ice gear is provided, bringing warm layered clothing, sturdy shoes, and a camera for photos is recommended.

Can I cancel if the weather is poor?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled more than 24 hours before the tour date. If canceled within 24 hours, the refund is not provided, and the tour may be rescheduled if possible.

Is the ice cave inside a glacier or a volcano?
The Katla Ice Cave is inside a volcanic glacier, offering a unique environment of volcanic ice formations.

What’s the main highlight of this tour?
The exploration of the Katla Ice Cave is the standout feature, offering a rare opportunity to see volcanic ice formations up close, accompanied by professional photography.

This private tour of Iceland’s south coast and Katla Ice Cave offers an engaging, comfortable way to see some of the country’s most striking natural landscapes, with the added benefit of professional photos and personalized service. It’s well-suited for those looking for an exclusive experience that covers waterfalls, beaches, and an extraordinary ice cave, all in one memorable day.