2-Day Jokulsarlon Tour with Glacier Hike & South Coast Waterfalls

If you’re craving an immersive experience of Iceland’s wild landscapes without the hassle of planning every detail, this 2-day guided tour offers an excellent balance of adventure, comfort, and incredible sights. From the bustling Reykjavik hotel pickup to the awe-inspiring glaciers and waterfalls, this trip packs a lot of the country’s top highlights into just two days.

What sets this tour apart? For starters, the experienced guides truly enhance the journey—they’re knowledgeable, personable, and go out of their way to make sure everyone feels safe and engaged. Plus, the glacier hike and boat tour provide hands-on, memorable experiences you won’t forget.

A potential consideration is the intensity of the first day, which can be quite full and tiring for some travelers. If you prefer a very relaxed pace, this might be more demanding than a leisurely sightseeing day. But if you’re eager to see as much as possible and enjoy active adventures, this tour is ideal.

This experience is best suited for travelers who love outdoor activities, want multiple highlights in a short period, and don’t mind a packed schedule. It’s perfect for those seeking scenic diversity, excellent guides, and a taste of Iceland’s iconic landscapes.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Itinerary: Includes waterfalls, glaciers, black sand beaches, and glacier lagoons.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable, friendly guides enhance the experience with personal insights.
• Active Experiences: Glacier hikes and boat tours make the trip memorable.
• All-Inclusive Value: Accommodation, breakfast, safety gear, and transport included.
• Time-Efficient: Ideal for travelers with limited time wanting a full Icelandic experience.
• Logistics Handled: Pickup, drop-off, and organized stops maximize comfort and convenience.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary and What to Expect

Day 1: From Reykjavik to South Iceland’s Natural Wonders

The tour kicks off early with hotel pickup around 9:00 am, setting the tone for an action-packed day. The first stops take you into some of Iceland’s most iconic sights, with the guides sharing stories behind each location.

Reykjadalur Hot River and Greenhouses offer a quick photo stop and a chance to learn about Iceland’s innovative agricultural practices. It’s a fun, scenic intro to the region’s volcanic activity. Selfoss, the largest town in South Iceland, makes a brief appearance, giving a glimpse of local life amid stunning surroundings.

Next, you’ll visit Seljalandsfoss, where you can walk behind the waterfall—something travelers describe as “spectacular.” The fact that it crashes from a height of 60 meters and is free to visit makes it a highlight. Many reviews praise the unique perspective this waterfall provides, with one traveler noting, “the cave behind the fall is unforgettable.”

Gljufrabui Waterfalls is a hidden gem most visitors miss, but with the guide’s local knowledge, you’ll discover this secret spot, adding an exclusive feel to your trip.

Afterward, it’s time for one of Iceland’s most famous sights, Skogafoss. This 60-meter waterfall often produces rainbows, especially on sunny days, and you can climb a staircase to see it from above. Reviewers love the opportunity to get up close and even note its appearance in popular culture, such as Game of Thrones.

The adventure continues with a glacier hike on Solheimajokull, equipped with all necessary safety gear, where you’ll step onto the ice with an experienced glacier guide. The reviews rave about how fun and memorable this activity is, with some mentioning that it’s a highlight of the trip. It’s a chance to appreciate the raw beauty of Iceland’s glaciers while feeling safe and well-guided.

Proceeding further along the coast, you’ll reach Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, famous for its basalt columns, fierce Atlantic waves, and the iconic Reynisdrangar sea stacks. Reviewers frequently mention how dramatic and striking this landscape is—one even called it “the most surreal beach.”

Day 2: From Glacier Lagoon to the Hidden Corners of South Iceland

The second day begins with a quick stop in Vík, where travelers enjoy panoramic views of the black sand beach and the surrounding hills. It’s a peaceful moment before heading into more remote landscapes.

Next, the tour visits Eldhraun Lava Field, a vast, moss-covered volcanic wasteland. It’s a stark, otherworldly scene that’s great for photos and understanding Iceland’s volcanic activity. Many mention how desolate yet beautiful this part of the country feels.

Fjadrargljufur Canyon is a winding, green gorge nearly a hundred meters deep and about two kilometers long. This stunning canyon became famous after featuring in a Justin Bieber music video, and guides often recommend it as a hidden gem away from the more crowded spots.

The tour then takes you to Hofskirkja Church, the last turf-roofed church of its kind. Surrounded by mossy burial mounds, it provides a glimpse into Iceland’s rural architecture and history. Reviewers appreciate how quaint and authentic this site feels.

The highlight of the second day is the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, where floating icebergs create a surreal, peaceful landscape. You’ll take a 45-minute amphibious boat tour among the ice—many travelers describe this as a “bucket-list experience,” citing the constantly shifting scenery and the chance to see seals. Nearby, Diamond Beach dazzles with its sparkling ice fragments on black sand, often described as “magical” and “a photographer’s dream.”

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The guided glacier hike and boat tour are real crowd-pleasers, offering intimate encounters with Iceland’s icy wonders. The guides, like Mica, are praised for their professionalism, friendliness, and deep knowledge. One reviewer noted how Mica’s personable approach made the experience enjoyable across all age groups, from newlyweds to seniors.

The transport—comfortable, often luxurious vans with WiFi and USB charging—keeps you connected and relaxed. The small group size (max 19 travelers) ensures personalized attention, making it easier to ask questions or get quick photos without feeling rushed.

Accommodation is included for one night, with many reviewers noting it’s simple but clean, with some minor imperfections like holes in walls or basic pillows. However, the quality of the hotel doesn’t seem to detract from the overall experience, with many saying the comfort and location are excellent for the price.

Practical Tips and Considerations

• Timing: The tour generally returns to Reykjavik around 9:30 pm on Day 2, so be prepared for a long but fulfilling day.
• Luggage: Only small backpacks are recommended. You might need to store larger luggage at your hotel or nearby lockers, as the tour doesn’t cater to big baggage.
• Weather: The tour is weather-dependent; if conditions are poor, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
• Clothing: Packing warm, waterproof clothes and sturdy hiking shoes is a must. Many reviewers highlight the glacier hike as the trip’s adrenaline-pumping part, so good footwear is essential.
• Cost vs Value: At $604 per person, the tour includes major attractions, many activities, and all logistics. Many travelers agree it’s a good deal considering the variety and quality of experiences packed into two days.

Authentic Experiences from Reviewers

• “Ice hiking was a lot of fun and a unique experience,” wrote one traveler, emphasizing how the glacier walk added an unforgettable dimension to the trip.
• Another praised guides like Christina and David for their friendliness, knowledge, and personalized attention, even helping with photos or extra stops.
• The boat tour on Jokulsarlon is consistently described as a “must-do,” with one reviewer calling it “a unique perspective” on the icy landscape.

This 2-day South Coast adventure is ideal for travelers eager to see Iceland’s highlights in a short amount of time without sacrificing quality. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy outdoor activities—like glacier hikes and waterfall walks—and appreciate guided insights from passionate, experienced guides. If you’re comfortable with a packed schedule and want a mix of scenic beauty, active experiences, and comfortable logistics, this tour delivers excellent value.

However, if you prefer a slower pace or have mobility issues, the intensity and early starts might be less suitable. Also, those looking for ultra-luxury accommodations may find the hotel basic but functional.

Overall, for an action-packed, well-organized journey through Iceland’s most stunning landscapes, this tour hits the mark. It’s a chance to tick off multiple bucket-list sights with ease, guided by friendly experts who want you to have the best experience possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price?
The tour price covers accommodation for one night, breakfast, pickup and drop-off from Reykjavik, a guided glacier hike with safety equipment, a boat tour of Jokulsarlon, and Wi-Fi on the bus.

Are meals provided?
No, lunch and dinner are not included. Scheduled stops allow guests to purchase food along the way.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, though the glacier hike requires good physical condition, and packing appropriate footwear is necessary. Guides are attentive to safety.

How long is the drive from Reykjavik?
The total drive time is approximately six hours each way, with multiple stops along the route.

What should I bring?
Bring warm, waterproof clothes, good hiking shoes (available for rent if needed), a camera, and small luggage or backpacks—large suitcases are not recommended.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to bad conditions, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellations are available up to 24 hours before the start time.

Is the accommodation quality good?
Many reviews describe the hotel as clean and well-located, though some mention minor issues like basic amenities. It’s considered good value for the price.

How many people are on the tour?
The maximum group size is 19 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

This 2-day Iceland tour offers a fantastic balance of adventure, scenery, and expert guidance, making it a top choice for anyone looking to experience Iceland’s south coast in depth. Whether it’s your first time or a return visit, the mix of waterfalls, glaciers, and lagoons promises memories to cherish.