Reykjavik: Katla Ice Cave & South Coast Waterfalls Tour

Key Points

• Full-day tour of approximately 11 hours from Reykjavik, showcasing Iceland’s South Coast and glaciers.
• Visit the breathtaking Katla Ice Cave inside Kötlujökull Glacier, including guided exploration and hiking.
• Enjoy scenic stops at Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls, two of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls.
• Super Jeep ride from Vík takes you off-road into rugged landscapes, offering panoramic views of Mýrdalsjökull Glacier.
• Transportation included, with pickup and dropoff at selected Reykjavik locations; scenic drives and stops along the route.
• Rated 4.7/5 based on 1101 reviews, with praise for knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery.

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Discover the Natural Wonders of Iceland’s South Coast with a 11-Hour Guided Tour

This full-day adventure departs from Reykjavik, taking you on a journey across Iceland’s striking South Coast. The tour focuses on exploring the natural ice cave of Kötlujökull Glacier and visiting two of the country’s most famous waterfalls, Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss. It’s ideal for travelers seeking a combination of glacier exploration, waterfalls, and rugged scenery, all with round-trip transportation included.

The highlight is the exploration of the Katla Ice Cave, a natural marvel within Kötlujökull Glacier. The tour also features a Super Jeep ride from Vík, offering off-road access and panoramic views of Mýrdalsjökull Glacier. The journey includes scenic drives, photo stops, and sightseeing, with flexibility for time at each location.

While the tour is packed with natural beauty, it lasts around 11 hours, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a full day of activity. The experience’s rating of 4.7 out of 5, based on over 1,100 reviews, reflects strong praise for the knowledgeable guides and breathtaking landscapes.

Key Points

• Duration of approximately 11 hours from Reykjavik, with convenient pick-up and drop-off options.
• Visit the captivating Katla Ice Cave inside Kötlujökull Glacier with guided exploration and hiking.
• Enjoy scenic stops at Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss, two of Iceland’s most popular waterfalls.
• Off-road Super Jeep adventure from Vík provides spectacular views of Mýrdalsjökull Glacier.
• Includes transportation, guided visits, and scenic drives, but meals and drinks are not included.
• Rated 4.7/5, with reviews praising expert guides and stunning landscapes.

How the Tour Uses Reykjavik as a Starting Point

This tour begins with convenient pickup options at 22 locations across Reykjavik, including hotels, bus stops, and the cruise terminal. After gathering the group, the journey starts with a bus/coach ride lasting about 1.5 hours heading towards the South Coast.

The pickups are designed to accommodate different travelers, making it easy to join the tour without additional travel arrangements. Once on the road, the guide sets the tone with scenic commentary, making the long drive part of the overall experience. The journey is comfortable, and the focus shifts to the natural wonders awaiting along the route.

Scenic Drive and First Stops Towards Vík

The drive from Reykjavik is marked by changing landscapes, with stops at Hvolsvöllur for a brief 20-minute break. This pause allows travelers to stretch, use facilities, or grab snacks before continuing the scenic trek toward Vík.

The route then takes about 30 minutes of additional scenic driving along the South Coast, offering views of volcanic fields, black sand beaches, and distant glaciers. This setup primes visitors for the next set of highlights, including waterfalls and glacier explorations.

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Exploring Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss Waterfalls

The tour includes photo stops and sightseeing at Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss, two of Iceland’s most renowned waterfalls. Skógafoss impresses with its 60-meter cascade and frequent rainbows, often visible in sunny weather. Seljalandsfoss offers a unique experience, as visitors can walk behind it, experiencing the waterfall from a different perspective.

Both stop durations are about 30 minutes each, giving enough time to take photos, soak in the scenery, and appreciate these natural landmarks up close. These waterfalls are often highlights in Iceland tours and provide fantastic photo opportunities.

Vík and the Black Sand Beach

The tour makes a visit to Vík, a charming village famous for its black sand beaches and dramatic cliffs. It’s an ideal place to explore Iceland’s volcanic coastline and spot native puffins during the season.

This stop offers a chance for sightseeing, walking along the black sand, and capturing the rugged beauty of the area. The visit to Vík helps break up the day and adds variety to the scenic journey.

Guided Visit and Hiking in Mýrdalsjökull

One of the most distinctive elements is the guided tour of the Mýrdalsjökull glacier, lasting approximately 2.5 hours. Travelers ride Super Jeeps from Vík into off-road terrain, where the real adventure begins.

The off-road ride provides access to the glacier for a guided exploration of the ice cave. Here, visitors get to see layers of black volcanic ash contrasting with shimmering blue ice. The guide leads you through walking and hiking within the cave, offering insights into its formation and the volcanic activity that shaped it.

This part of the tour is often praised for the expert guides who make safety a priority and share fascinating stories about Iceland’s volcanic history. The time inside the ice cave is generally about an hour and 15 minutes, making it a memorable but not overwhelming experience.

Visiting the Black Sand Beach and Puffins

After the glacier visit, the tour returns to Vík for a 30-minute break. Visitors can explore the black sand beaches and, during the right season, spot puffins nesting on the cliffs.

This stop emphasizes Iceland’s volcanic landscape and offers a relaxed atmosphere for photos and walking. It’s a favorite among travelers who appreciate diverse scenery and wildlife.

Scenic Drive and Stops at the Iconic Waterfalls

Returning along the South Coast, the itinerary includes scenic drives and additional sightseeing, with a focus on Seljalandsfoss, where a 25-minute stop allows for photos and exploration behind the waterfall.

This stop is often highlighted as a must-see for its unique perspective, and the surrounding scenery continues to showcase Iceland’s volcanic features. The drive then continues inland for about 2 hours back to Reykjavik, with potential brief stops en route.

Practical Details and What to Bring

This tour includes pickup and drop-off at specified Reykjavik locations, and transportation is provided throughout the day. The tour is led by English-speaking guides, with the guide on the glacier being notably praised for their knowledge and humor.

Travelers should bring warm, waterproof clothing, hiking shoes, snacks, and a camera to capture the landscapes. As the weather can affect the itinerary, flexibility is always possible. The tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments and is recommended for ages 6 and up.

Limitations and Considerations

While the tour offers a fantastic combination of ice caves, waterfalls, and scenic drives, some reviews mention that the ice cave visit lasts about an hour, which may feel short for those eager to explore thoroughly. The comfort of the vehicle can vary, with some noting that a larger van could improve ride comfort, especially on longer drives.

The ice cave itself is small, and visitors spend limited time inside, but the overall experience is highly praised for its spectacular sights and expert guides. Weather conditions can influence the visit, so flexibility is essential for the best experience.

Final Thoughts on the Reykjavik: Katla Ice Cave & South Coast Waterfalls Tour

This 11-hour guided tour from Reykjavik offers a well-rounded glimpse of Iceland’s dramatic south coast. The combination of glacier exploration inside the Katla Ice Cave, scenic waterfalls, and rugged off-road jeep rides makes it a compelling choice for nature lovers.

The expert guides enhance the experience with engaging stories and safety focus, and the scenery is consistently praised as breathtaking. Although the ice cave visit lasts about an hour, the overall day provides a satisfying mix of adventure and sightseeing.

Travelers who enjoy hiking, photography, and exploring ice formations will find this tour particularly rewarding. It’s suited for those prepared for a full day of activity, with an appreciation for Iceland’s volcanic landscapes and natural beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, pickup and drop-off at selected Reykjavik locations are included, along with all transportation during the day.

How long is the ice cave visit?
The ice cave exploration and hiking inside generally last about 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on conditions.

What should I bring?
Travelers should bring warm and waterproof clothing, hiking shoes, snacks, and a camera for capturing the scenery.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It is not recommended for children under 6 years and may involve physical activity, especially during glacier hiking.

What are the main highlights?
The key highlights include the Katla Ice Cave, Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls, and the Super Jeep ride from Vík through scenic landscapes.

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