From Reykjavik: Katla Ice Cave and South Coast Day Tour

An Icelandic Adventure Beyond the Ordinary

This tour offering from Reykjavik promises a full day of natural wonders, adventure, and stories about one of Iceland’s most active volcanoes. I’ve seen many excursions, but combining stunning waterfalls, a black sand beach, and the legendary Katla Ice Cave makes this one feel particularly special. You get a taste of Iceland’s rugged beauty and geological drama all in one, guided by friendly experts who know their stuff.

What I love about this experience is how smoothly everything flows—from the hotel pickup to the off-road jeep ride into the wilderness. The guides, especially Thales and Juliana, are praised for their knowledge and friendly demeanor, making the long day feel relaxed and engaging. The highlight for many is the Katla Ice Cave—a surreal, shimmering world beneath the glacier that’s unlike anything I’ve seen elsewhere. Plus, the stops at Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls are truly picture-perfect, with plenty of time for photos and breathing in Iceland’s fresh air.

A potential drawback? The drive to the ice cave involves some bumps—so if you’re a sensitive passenger or not a fan of rough roads, it’s worth noting the ride can be quite turbulent, as some reviews mention. Also, the walking involved to reach the cave is straightforward but does include about 20 minutes on a sandy path and 10 on a glacier, which might be strenuous for those with limited mobility or low fitness levels. The tour is designed for ages 8 and up, but young children and wheelchairs might not be suitable.

This tour balances value, adventure, and stunning scenery, making it an excellent choice for travelers eager to see Iceland’s iconic sights while enjoying the comfort of a guided group.

Key Points and Takeaways

• Guided expertise: Knowledgeable guides like Juliana and Thales make the entire experience informative and fun.
• Stunning stops: Waterfalls, black sand beaches, and the glacier landscape offer some of Iceland’s most iconic views.
• Unique ice cave: Access to the Katla Ice Cave offers a rare glimpse into an extraordinary natural formation.
• Off-road adventure: The super-jeep ride through a black sand desert adds an exhilarating touch.
• Time management: The itinerary is packed, with about 3 hours spent exploring the ice cave and scenic stops, so be prepared for a long day.
• Value for money: At $288, the tour covers transportation, guides, safety gear, and multiple highlights—making it a solid deal for a full-day adventure.

Exploring Iceland’s South Coast and Katla Ice Cave: A Deep Dive

If you’re looking for a tour that combines Iceland’s most photogenic waterfalls, a black sand beach, and the allure of a glacier ice cave, this is a prime candidate. The company, TrollExpeditions, offers a 12-hour journey starting with hotel pickup in Reykjavik, which means you skip the hassle of organizing transportation and focus on enjoying the scenery and stories.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

The day kicks off early, with pickup from central Reykjavik around 8:00 AM. The first hours are spent traveling along the south coast, giving you a taste of Iceland’s landscape even before stopping. The first major stop is Seljalandsfoss, famous for the footpath behind the waterfall. You’ll have about 30 minutes here, which is enough time to snap some photos and soak in the misty atmosphere. Many reviews mention the impressive size and beauty of this waterfall, with Christy noting, “We loved everything we saw.”

Next, the tour pauses at Skogafoss, another mighty waterfall with a wide, powerful cascade. You’ll get roughly 40 minutes for sightseeing and photos, and some travelers like Jared mention how comfortable and easy the bus ride made the long day. Skogafoss’s roaring waters and the potential for rainbows are a photographer’s dream.

The Scenic Drive and Off-Road Jeep Adventure

After the waterfalls, the group heads toward Vik, with a brief rest stop at Hvolsvöllur. Then, the highlight begins: hopping into a super-jeep for a 40-minute off-road ride into the wilderness of the black sand desert near Mýrdalsjökull glacier. This is where the adventure level jumps up, and it’s a favorite among thrill-seekers. The bumpy ride, as some reviews mention, can be intense, but it’s part of the fun—just remember to hold on tight. Guides like Jake and Pablo are praised for their helpfulness and care, especially with crampons and glacier safety.

Entering the Katla Ice Cave

The core of this tour is the visit to the Katla Ice Cave, located in the Kötlujökull glacier. This isn’t just any ice cave—it’s carved within the glacier above the Katla volcano, which is known for its active eruptions and historical significance. Your guides will provide safety gear and instructions before you ascend the glacier, walking about 10 minutes on ice and snow. The cave itself is mesmerizing, with shimmering blue ice formations and an otherworldly atmosphere.

Several reviews emphasize how special this experience feels. Jéssica Maria Santos praises the guides for their demonstrative knowledge and respect for nature, which enhances your appreciation of the landscape. The walk into the cave is described as easy but with the caveat that weather conditions can make it more challenging. In stormy weather, some mention that the walk can be tougher, so dressing warmly and wearing hiking shoes is essential.

The Black Sand Beach and Final Stops

After exploring the glacier and ice cave, the tour continues to Reynisfjara Beach, famed for its basalt columns, roaring Atlantic waves, and striking black sands. You get about 40 minutes here, plenty of time for photos and a quick walk. Many travelers say this beach feels wild and windswept, a perfect ending to a day full of natural drama.

Return Journey and Reflection

The trip back to Reykjavik involves a lengthy drive—approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes—so be prepared for some tired legs. The guides do a good job of sharing stories and tunes to pass the time, and some reviews highlight the friendliness and knowledge of guides like Bjorn and Juliana.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, adventure-filled day without the hassle of planning every detail. If you’re comfortable with a long day, enjoy scenic stops and are excited about glacier exploration, this tour delivers. Families with older children (8+) and those eager for a mix of sightseeing and off-road adventure tend to find this trip rewarding.

Keep in mind, the walk into the ice cave involves some uneven terrain and a glacier hike, so it’s not ideal for those with mobility issues or low fitness levels. It’s also a good choice for those who appreciate knowledgeable guides and well-organized itineraries.

Price and Value

At $288, this tour offers a lot: transportation, guide, safety gear, and multiple iconic stops. The inclusion of the super-jeep adventure and access to the ice cave makes it a worthwhile investment for anyone wanting a memorable, well-rounded Iceland experience. Some reviews praise the value, calling it “worth every penny” and a “great way to explore the South Coast.”

Practical Tips for a Great Experience

• Dress warmly and in layers—the weather can change quickly, especially on the glacier.
• Bring sturdy hiking shoes, or rent them at the ice cave location if you don’t have your own.
• Pack snacks and water—there’s only a limited stop for food, and walking on the glacier takes energy.
• Arrive early for pickup and be prepared for a long but rewarding day.
• Listen carefully to your guides; their insights add depth to the experience and ensure safety.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes pickup and drop-off at Reykjavik, transportation on a minibus, a super-jeep ride to the ice cave, the guide, and safety gear for exploring the ice cave.

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, so plan to bring snacks or buy lunch during the stops.

How long is the drive to the ice cave?
The off-road adventure is about 40 minutes, and the overall drive to the area is part of the day’s long schedule.

Is the walk to the ice cave difficult?
The walk involves about 20 minutes on a sandy path and 10 minutes on a glacier. It’s described as easy, but weather conditions can add some challenge.

Who is this tour suitable for?
It’s suitable for children over 8, people with moderate fitness, and those comfortable with some walking and uneven terrain. Not suitable for wheelchair users.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers flexibility if your plans change.

What should I bring?
Warm clothing, hiking shoes, and possibly snacks. Hiking boots are mandatory and available to rent at the cave.

Final Thoughts

This tour from Reykjavik offers a fantastic snapshot of Iceland’s South Coast—waterfalls, black sand beaches, and the magical Katla Ice Cave. It’s a well-organized, adventure-packed day that delivers outstanding scenery, expert guidance, and a sense of discovery. Whether you’re an avid photographer, a geology enthusiast, or just craving Icelandic landscapes that feel almost otherworldly, this trip will not disappoint.

If you value the company of knowledgeable guides and want to explore beyond the usual tourist spots, this tour hits the right notes. It is especially good for those who enjoy a bit of adventure, are comfortable on uneven terrain, and appreciate a full day of natural wonders. The blend of sightseeing, glacier exploration, and off-road fun makes it a memorable experience worth considering for your Iceland itinerary.