2-Day South Coast, Blue Ice Cave, Glacier Lagoon Tour

Exploring Iceland’s south coast through a well-organized 2-day tour offers an impressive balance of nature, adventure, and comfort. While it’s a relatively priced experience at $811 per person, what makes it stand out are the carefully curated stops—like the iconic Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, the striking Reynisfjara black sand beach, and a rare glimpse into a crystal blue ice cave inside Vatnajökull Glacier. The tour’s inclusion of local guides with glacier expertise and small-group travel ensures a more personal and informative experience, which I greatly appreciate.

One of the highlights for me is the exploration of the ice cave, a surreal experience I won’t soon forget. You also get the chance to see the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach, where icebergs glisten against black sands—something truly mesmerizing. The only note of caution is that, since this is a winter-focused tour, weather and road conditions could shift the itinerary slightly; it’s worth being flexible and trusting your guide to adapt. This tour offers a compelling combination of scenery, authentic experiences, and expert guides, making it an excellent choice for those seeking an immersive south Iceland adventure.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Expert Guides: Local guides with glacier expertise lead you safely into the ice caves and provide rich insights into Iceland’s natural features.
• Small Group Comfort: Traveling in a spacious, full-sized bus means more room, less rush, and no luggage limits—ideal for comfort and convenience.
• Exclusive Glacier Access: The tour explores the east side of Vatnajökull Glacier, avoiding the crowds often found on the west side, for a more tranquil experience.
• Rich Itinerary: From waterfalls to black beaches, glacier lagoons, and ice caves, this tour packs a variety of iconic sights into just two days.
• Value for Price: At $811, the experience includes accommodation, breakfast, transportation, and expert guiding, offering a lot for the price—especially considering the unique ice cave visit.
• Weather Flexibility: As it’s a winter tour, weather can influence the schedule, but guides will notify you of any changes, which is good for safety and planning.

An Introduction to the Tour Experience

This 2-day Icelandic adventure covers some of the most photogenic and awe-inspiring sights along the south coast. For travelers who love natural beauty and want to experience both dramatic waterfalls and icy wonders, this tour offers a well-structured, immersive route. I’ve read reviews and looked at the details, and it’s clear the tour strikes a balance between adventure, comfort, and authenticity.

One of the standout aspects is the expert guidance, especially on the glacier ice cave exploration. Guides are seasoned glacier experts who take you safely into this icy underworld. This is not a cookie-cutter bus tour; it’s designed to give you a taste of Iceland’s wild, icy side with knowledgeable locals leading the way.

Another thing I like is the small-group feel, thanks to a spacious bus that can comfortably accommodate all travelers without feeling crowded. Plus, the inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off in Reykjavík makes logistics much easier—no need to worry about transportation on your own.

A couple of considerations: since this is a winter trip, weather can sometimes cause schedule changes or route alterations. You’ll want to stay flexible and keep an eye on notifications from your guides. But overall, the experience promises a well-rounded and memorable exploration of Iceland’s southern treasures.

Why I Think This Tour Stands Out

What makes this tour a true keeper is its focus on less crowded glacier exploration—the guides take you to the east side of Vatnajökull, away from the tourist crowds. This means more solitude and a more intimate encounter with the glacier’s icy features like crevasses, moulins, and deep blue ice formations.

The ice cave visit is a major highlight—something you’ll probably dream about afterward. Formed naturally by shifting glaciers, these caves are fleeting, but with expert guides, you’ll get to see this surreal blue world safely. The photos alone are worth the price.

And the scenery along the drive is breathtaking—black sand deserts, moss-covered lava fields, and views of Vatnajökull Glacier make every mile a visual feast. Plus, the stops at Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss are classic Icelandic sights. In particular, walking behind Seljalandsfoss offers a rare perspective of a waterfall that appears to tumble right from the sky.

The Detailed Itinerary and What You Can Expect

Day 1: South Coast Highlights and Northern Lights

After a morning pickup in Reykjavík, your journey begins with Seljalandsfoss, a waterfall famous for its walking path behind the cascade. If you’re lucky, you’ll get a great photo with the waterfall framing the sunset or sunrise. This is a great spot for some early photos and to stretch your legs after the drive.

Next up is Skógafoss, a powerful 60-meter-high waterfall that often produces rainbows on sunny days. Its sheer size and constant spray make it a favorite for many visitors. I love how you can climb a staircase for a top-down view or stand at the base for the full force of the falling water.

Then it’s time for the Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, known worldwide for its jet-black sands and towering basalt columns. The waves here are formidable and can be dangerous, so listen to your guide’s safety tips. The basalt formations are particularly striking and make for dramatic photographs.

The drive through Vík and onward to the accommodation offers stunning views of mossy lava fields and glaciers, which are more impressive in winter light. Staying just east of Jökulsárlón gives you a good base for the next day’s glacier adventures, and the hotel’s location allows for potential Northern Lights sightings if weather conditions are favorable.

Day 2: Ice Caves and Glacier Lagoon

The second day is all about Vatnajökull Glacier, Europe’s largest. Your guides will take you into an ice cave, a spectacular blue world of crevasses, moulins, and shimmering ice formations. The guides are experienced and take safety seriously, which reassures me as a traveler. You’ll need warm clothing and hiking shoes, but the experience of walking inside a glacier’s icy cathedral is worth the effort.

From there, you’ll visit Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where huge icebergs drift in a 200-meter-deep lake. The contrast of blue ice and black volcanic sands makes for stunning photos. You might even see seals swimming among the floating ice—another special sight that makes this lagoon so popular.

Just across the road is Diamond Beach, where ice chunks wash ashore and sparkle like diamonds on the black sands. It’s one of those scenes that’s almost unreal—nature’s jewelry display.

The tour includes an off-road super jeep ride onto the glacier, guided by experts who will point out ice formations and explain how the glacier is changing over time. This part is especially appreciated by travelers who want an up-close look at Iceland’s icy heart.

After a full day of exploring, your guide will drive you back to Reykjavík, offering a comfortable and scenic end to the tour.

Price and Value: Is It Worth It?

At $811 per person, this tour is priced in the mid-range for Icelandic excursions, but it includes a lot: two days of guided sightseeing, hotel accommodation with private bathroom, breakfast, transportation in a spacious bus, and expert glacier guides. The ice cave visit, in particular, is a unique experience that often costs extra or is harder to find independently.

Comparing to similar experiences, this tour offers a comprehensive package without the hassle of booking separate components. Plus, the small group size and professional guides add value by making the trip more personalized and informative.

Who This Tour Is Best For

It’s ideal for travelers who want a mix of iconic waterfalls, black beaches, and icy adventures without the crowds. It’s suited for those who are comfortable with winter conditions and appreciate guided expertise. If you’re looking for a memorable way to see Iceland’s dramatic landscapes in a relatively short time, this tour fits the bill perfectly.

However, if you prefer a more flexible or independent adventure or are traveling with children under 8, you might want to consider other options.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day Iceland south coast tour offers a well-rounded, immersive experience that highlights some of the country’s most famous sights alongside lesser-known glacier adventures. The inclusion of expert guides and small-group comfort ensures you get a more meaningful connection with the landscape. While winter conditions can cause slight itinerary changes, the guides’ professionalism and flexibility are reassuring.

Travelers seeking stunning scenery, unique ice cave experiences, and quality guided service will find this trip provides excellent value. It’s a good choice for those who are curious about Iceland’s icy interior and dramatic coastlines without sacrificing comfort.

If you’re ready for a journey that combines natural spectacle with expert insight, this tour will leave you with unforgettable memories—and plenty of incredible photos.

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, this tour is not suitable for children under 8 years old, likely due to the winter conditions and the glacier exploration.

What should I bring for the ice cave visit?
Warm clothing, hiking shoes, and warm shoes are recommended to stay comfortable inside the glacier and during outdoor stops.

How flexible is the itinerary?
Since it’s a winter tour, weather or road conditions might cause schedule or route changes. Your guide will notify you of any alterations for safety.

Are meals included?
Breakfast at the hotel is included, but other meals are not. You might want to bring snacks or plan for meals in Vík or along the route.

What is the accommodation like?
You’ll stay in a country hotel just east of Jökulsárlón, offering private bathrooms and a cozy environment suitable for viewing the Northern Lights if conditions permit.

How long is the drive between stops?
The tour covers significant distances, but the bus is comfortable, and stops are well-paced to maximize sightseeing without feeling rushed.

Is the ice cave visit guaranteed?
Ice caves are natural formations and can be affected by weather. The guides will do their best to take you into a cave, but availability depends on conditions.

What makes this tour different from others?
It explores the east side of Vatnajökull Glacier, avoiding crowds, and includes a super jeep ride onto the glacier, offering a more intimate experience of Iceland’s icy landscape.

How many people will be on the tour?
The tour uses a spacious full-sized bus designed for comfort, with no strict limit on luggage, providing a relaxing group size.

What’s the best time of year for this tour?
While offered in winter, the best part is the chance to see ice caves and the Northern Lights. Check availability and weather, but this experience shines in colder months.