South Coast, Diamond Beach and Glacier Lagoon Day Tour

Discover the South Coast, Glacier Lagoon, and Diamond Beach in One Day

The South Coast, Diamond Beach, and Glacier Lagoon Day Tour from Reykjavik offers a comprehensive journey through Iceland’s most iconic natural sights. Priced at $195.91 per person and lasting approximately 14 hours, this tour delivers an immersive experience of glaciers, waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, and black sand beaches. With optional pickup and drop-off from most hotels and cruise ports, it caters well to visitors eager to see Iceland’s highlights without the hassle of planning multiple outings.

Traveling in an air-conditioned coach equipped with WiFi, this tour provides a comfortable and informative ride. The guides are praised for their knowledgeable storytelling, making the long day engaging and educational. While the journey is lengthy, reviews frequently mention the stunning scenery and varied stops as well worth the time investment. This tour is ideal for those looking for a full-day adventure that covers all the essentials of southern Iceland.

Key Points

• 13-14 hours long with multiple stops at waterfalls, glaciers, and beaches
• Includes visits to Skogafoss, Seljalandfoss, and Vik
• Highlights are the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach
• Optional hotel pickup and drop-off for convenience
• Guided commentary provides insights into Iceland’s geology and history
• Comfortable transport with WiFi onboard

Starting from Reykjavik with Convenient Pickup Options

This tour begins early at 8:00 am, departing from central Reykjavik or a designated pickup point if that option is selected. The air-conditioned coach ensures a relaxed ride through Iceland’s rugged landscapes. The guides share stories about volcanic activity, glacial rivers, and small villages like Selfoss, Vik, and Kirkjubaejarklaustur, enriching the experience with local facts and anecdotes.

For added convenience, travelers can opt for hotel pickup and drop-off from most Reykjavik accommodations or cruise ports, though the exact pickup point may differ slightly from the initial location. The WiFi onboard allows for sharing photos and staying connected during the long drive.

Exploring Iceland’s Iconic Waterfalls: Skogafoss and Seljalandfoss

The tour makes its first major stop at Skogafoss, one of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls. Visitors can enjoy great views from below and climb a staircase for a panoramic perspective from above. The waterfall’s powerful cascade is impressive, and the surrounding landscape is often covered in misty spray, creating a lively atmosphere.

A short drive later, the group visits Seljalandfoss, renowned for the footpath that runs behind the waterfall. When weather permits, this unique feature provides a rare opportunity to walk behind the cascading water and see the falls from a different angle. This stop typically lasts about 20 minutes, and the admission is included.

Visiting Skaftafell National Park and the Vatnajökull Wilderness

Another highlight is the Skaftafell National Park, part of Vatnajökull National Park, where travelers appreciate the spectacular views of ice-covered peaks. The glacial landscape creates an awe-inspiring backdrop for photos and exploration. Visitors can expect to see glacial rivers, volcanic terrain, and snow-capped mountains, making it a highlight for nature lovers.

Travelers also observe Iceland’s largest active volcano, Öræfajökull, with its ice-covered, sub-glacial dome, along with the 6950-foot Hvannadalshnjukur, the country’s highest peak. These sights underscore Iceland’s dramatic volcanic and glacial landscape.

Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach

The Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon is the tour’s centerpiece, where large ice chunks drift in the water, creating surreal scenery. This lagoon has served as a backdrop for films like James Bond’s “Die Another Day” and Tomb Raider. Visitors can walk easily around the lagoon, taking photos of the floating icebergs.

A short walk from the lagoon leads to Diamond Beach, where icebergs wash up on the black sand. The contrast of crystal-clear ice against dark volcanic sand creates striking images, often described as jewel-like. This stop lasts about an hour, giving ample time for photos and a close look at the natural spectacle.

The Unique Black Sand of Skeidararsandur

Driving through Skeidararsandur, the vast black sand plain offers a stark, volcanic landscape. This area is known for strong sandstorms, which are so intense they can peel paint from vehicles, making it a memorable, if rugged, part of the journey. The landscape’s raw beauty highlights Iceland’s volcanic activity and ash-covered terrain.

Travelers often find this drive through Skeidararsandur both fascinating and physically noticeable due to the black volcanic sands that stretch for miles.

The Iconic Waterfalls on the Return Trip: Seljalandfoss Again

On the way back to Reykjavik, the tour makes a final stop at Seljalandfoss, providing an opportunity to walk behind the waterfall if weather and time permit. This stop is often appreciated for its photogenic qualities and the chance to see the waterfall from a different perspective, adding a memorable end to the day.

The tour concludes with a drop-off at the original departure point, typically around 11:00 pm, allowing travelers to reflect on a full day of diverse Icelandic scenery.

Practical Details: What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour price covers professional guide services, air-conditioned transportation, WiFi, and admission to Seljalandfoss. Food and drinks are not included, so travelers should plan to bring snacks or purchase meals during stops, especially in Vik, where cafes and small restaurants are available.

The tour does not include boat tours on the Glacier Lagoon, which are available separately if desired. Warm, waterproof clothing is recommended due to the outdoor nature of stops and potential weather changes. The tour is designed to be accessible for most travelers, though it involves a long day, so physical readiness is advised.

The Experience from the Guides: Knowledge and Enthusiasm

According to reviews, guides like Emilia are noted for their friendliness, organization, and informative commentary. They provide insights about Iceland’s geology, landscape features, and history, making the long day educational as well as scenic. The guides’ storytelling keeps the group engaged, even during extended drives.

Drivers like Andres receive praise for their safe, smooth driving over Iceland’s sometimes challenging terrain, ensuring comfort during the extensive travel time.

The Long Day Worth the Effort

While the 14-hour schedule may seem daunting, reviews consistently suggest that the spectacular scenery and memorable stops make the long day worthwhile. Travelers appreciate the well-timed breaks for photos and rest, and many highlight the stunning views of waterfalls, glaciers, and black sand beaches as highlights of their Iceland trip.

Some reviews mention the potential for weather-related challenges like rain or flat tires, but overall, the visual rewards and the expert guidance make this tour stand out.

Who Should Book This Tour

This full-day tour suits visitors who want a rundown of southern Iceland without the effort of arranging multiple excursions. It’s perfect for first-time visitors eager to see iconic sights like Jokulsarlon and Skogafoss in a single trip.

Given the long duration and the rugged outdoor stops, travelers should be comfortable with a full-day schedule and outdoor conditions. The tour’s emphasis on natural beauty and geology makes it especially appealing to those interested in Iceland’s volcanic, glacial, and coastal landscapes.

Final Thoughts on the South Coast, Glacier Lagoon, and Diamond Beach Tour

This tour offers a comprehensive and scenic journey through some of Iceland’s most iconic sights. With expert guides, comfortable transport, and stunning scenery, it provides excellent value for those wanting a full-day adventure. The black sand beaches, waterfalls, and glacial lagoon are unforgettable highlights that showcase Iceland’s dramatic natural beauty.

While the long hours might be challenging for some, the visual rewards and informative narration make this a worthwhile experience. It’s especially suitable for travelers eager to see multiple landmarks in one day and who appreciate guided commentary and hassle-free logistics.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this tour include a cruise on the glacier lagoon?
No, boat tours on the glacier lagoon are not included but can be booked separately.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from most hotels and cruise ports are available if the option is selected.

What should I bring for this long day?
Warm and waterproof clothing is recommended, along with chargers for phones and snacks for the breaks.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 14 hours, with regular stops at key sights.

Are the stops suitable for all fitness levels?
Most stops are accessible, but the long day involves significant outdoor walking, so travelers should be prepared for a full day of outdoor activity.

Can I see the Northern Lights on this tour?
Some reviews mention sightings of the Northern Lights on the way back, but this is weather-dependent and not guaranteed.

This South Coast, Diamond Beach, and Glacier Lagoon Day Tour from Reykjavik combines iconic landscapes with expert guidance, offering an immersive Icelandic adventure in just one day.