2-Day Ice Cave & South Coast: Glacier Hike and Glacier Lagoon

Exploring Iceland’s South Coast and Ice Caves: An Honest Review of the 2-Day Tour

Taking a 2-day trip from Reykjavik to Iceland’s south coast and glaciers is a fantastic way to see some of the country’s most iconic sights without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. This tour, offered by Troll Expeditions, promises a balanced mix of natural wonders, active experiences, and comfortable accommodations. With the inclusion of glacier hikes, ice caves, and visits to waterfalls and black-sand beaches, it’s a package that appeals to travelers craving adventure and scenic beauty.

One standout feature we love about this experience is the expert guidance and carefully curated itinerary, designed to maximize your time and safety. Plus, having overnight accommodation and breakfast included means less stress about logistics. However, since weather can impact access to certain sites—especially the ice caves—it’s worth considering that some days might not deliver the full experience you envision.

This tour suits those who want an active, immersive taste of Iceland’s landscape, particularly if you’re comfortable with walking and outdoor conditions. It’s ideal for travelers eager to explore beyond Reykjavik, with a good eye for natural beauty and some physical activity. If your goal is a relaxing, sightseeing-focused trip, this might feel a bit too adventurous for your taste. But for those chasing authentic Icelandic experiences, this tour hits the mark.

Key Points

• Comprehensive 2-day itinerary covering waterfalls, glaciers, ice caves, and beaches.
• Inclusions include overnight stay, breakfast, glacier equipment, and expert guides.
• Weather-dependent activities like ice caves can vary or be canceled.
• Transportation in a comfortable minibus with WiFi makes the long drives more pleasant.
• Small group size (max 18) ensures personalized attention and fewer crowds.
• Extra side excursions while on the bus are popular among previous travelers.

A Close Look at the Itinerary and What You Can Expect

Day 1: From Reykjavik to Glacial Wonders

Your adventure kicks off early morning with pickup from your Reykjavik hotel or closest bus stop, setting the tone for a hassle-free experience. The group is limited to 18 travelers, so expect a cozy atmosphere with plenty of opportunity for questions.

First stop: Troll.is – a no-cost pickup point that’s conveniently located. From there, the journey heads south across Iceland’s scenic landscape. The first major highlight is Seljalandsfoss. This waterfall is famous for the trail that allows visitors to walk behind the cascade, so don’t forget your raincoat. One review mentions the “powerful theatrics” of the falls, and it’s easy to see why—standing behind this curtain of water feels like being in a rainstorm you don’t want to end.

Next up is Skogafoss, another signature waterfall with a 60-meter drop. Reviewers note that climbing the staircase to the viewing platform above Skogafoss offers “stunning views” over the surrounding landscape. The gorge’s natural beauty is complemented by the roaring sounds of the water, and the chance to get close to the cascading curtain of water makes for excellent photo opportunities.

The real highlight of Day 1 is the Skaftafell National Park glacier hike. Once you meet up with your highly trained glacier guides, you’ll be fitted with safety gear including crampons, which many reviewers found comfortable and secure. Expect to spend around two hours walking on the ice, marveling at the blue ice formations and crevasses. The guide shares insights about the ice cave formations, making the experience both educational and awe-inspiring. Some reviewers, like one who called it an “easy walk and wonderful experience,” appreciated how accessible the glacier hike was, even for beginners.

Day 2: Glaciers, Lagoons, and Black Sand Beaches

Day two begins with a visit to the famous Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon. The floating icebergs create a surreal landscape that many travelers describe as “indescribable”. You’ll have around 45 minutes to walk along the shore and marvel at the enormous ice chunks drifting by. One reviewer highlighted the “magnificent views” and the chance to see ice from Breiðarmerkurjökull, a part of Europe’s largest glacier.

Across the road, the smaller ice rocks from the lagoon wash onto Fellsfjara, a black-sand beach dotted with shimmering smaller icebergs—truly a scene that looks like a winter wonderland. This spot is especially popular for the diamond-like sparkle of the ice on the dark sand, making it perfect for photographers.

Next, you’ll visit Reynisfjara Beach, renowned for its dramatic basalt columns, roaring waves, and nesting puffins during summer. Reviewers love how atmospheric this part of Iceland’s coast is, with some describing the powerful Atlantic surf as “massive waves hitting the cliffs”. It’s a great spot to soak in Iceland’s raw, untamed coastline.

What makes this tour stand out?

The glacier hike and ice cave exploration are at the core of this experience. Many reviewers mention that the guides are not only knowledgeable but also very attentive, helping with equipment and ensuring safety. Someone praised their guide, Stefan, as “friendly, informative, and safety-conscious,” which is reassuring for travelers new to outdoor adventures.

The accommodation is highlighted as comfortable, and breakfast is described as a good start to each day. WiFi on board helps pass the hours between stops, which, considering the travel distances, is appreciated.

The Reality of Weather and Access

One factor to keep in mind is the weather dependency of some activities—most notably the ice caves. Several reviews mention that poor weather can lead to cancellations or changes in the itinerary. For example, a reviewer noted that their guide was flexible, swapping some activities to improve their experience despite cloudy skies. Ice caves are natural, dynamic formations that change with the seasons, so what is visible one year might be different the next.

Another point of note is the potential for road closures or delays, especially in winter. One traveler advised calling ahead or confirming pickup points, as sometimes buses are not allowed in certain hotel areas, and timings can shift unexpectedly.

Cost and Value

At $645.39 per person, this tour is on the higher end, but considering the inclusion of accommodation, breakfast, glacier equipment, and expert guides, many find it offers excellent value. The fact that it covers so many iconic sights in just two days makes it a time-efficient way to see Iceland’s south coast.

Practical Tips

• Bring waterproof clothing—especially in winter—as weather can turn quickly.
• Wear sturdy, slip-resistant hiking boots (available to rent if needed) since glacier walks require secure footing.
• Book well in advance—the tour is popular and often booked about 46 days ahead.
• Prepare for variable daylight hours during winter, meaning it can get dark early, influencing sightseeing plans.
• Luggage limitations mean only 24 suitcases per person, so plan accordingly if you’re traveling with more baggage.

Authentic Experiences from Reviews

Reviewers consistently mention the guides’ local knowledge and friendliness. One said their guide Oscar “showed all the charm” of Iceland in just two days, with some even adding side excursions to spice things up. Others highlighted the helpfulness of guides like Vicky and Stefan, who went above and beyond, even helping with gear and offering extra stops for beautiful scenery.

Many travelers appreciated the small group size, which meant more personalized attention, and the comfortable transport, with WiFi making long drives more enjoyable. The glacier hike gets special praise for being “fun, safe, and adaptable”, even for those with limited outdoor experience.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This experience appeals most to adventurous travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, scenic drives, and stunning landscapes. It’s perfect if you want to maximize your time and see a range of Iceland’s top sights without the hassle of planning every detail. The inclusion of overnight accommodation and breakfast makes it comfortable and convenient, especially if you’re staying in Reykjavik and want to explore beyond the city.

However, it’s worth noting that weather can influence the experience significantly—particularly the ice cave tour. If seeing the ice caves is your primary goal, be prepared for some variability, and keep flexible. Travelers who love small groups, guided insights, and active exploration will find this tour particularly rewarding.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation provided for the entire tour?
Yes, round-trip transportation from Reykjavik is included in a comfortable minibus, with WiFi on board for your convenience.

Are meals included?
Breakfast is included for both days, but lunch and dinner are not. You’ll want to plan to bring snacks or plan for meals during free time.

What gear do I need for the glacier hike and ice cave?
All glacier equipment and safety gear are provided. However, it’s recommended to bring waterproof clothing and sturdy, slip-resistant boots—these can be rented if needed.

Can I see the Northern Lights during this tour?
The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon and cannot be guaranteed. The hotels are situated in prime locations to increase your chances, but visibility depends on weather conditions.

Is the ice cave accessible year-round?
No, ice caves are typically accessible during winter when temperatures drop enough for their formation. The caves are a natural and changing feature, so their appearance may vary.

How do weather conditions affect the tour?
Weather can cause certain activities, especially the ice cave visit, to be canceled or altered. Guides are flexible and will make adjustments to maximize your experience based on current conditions.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day tour from Reykjavik offers an immersive look into Iceland’s most stunning natural features—waterfalls, glaciers, ice caves, and beaches. With the expert guidance of knowledgeable guides, you’ll gain deeper insights into the landscape and natural phenomena that make Iceland so unique. The combination of active glacier hikes, scenic stops, and comfortable logistics makes it a great choice for travelers seeking both adventure and ease.

While weather can pose some unpredictability, the overall value—especially considering the included overnight stay, equipment, and guided expertise—makes this tour a solid investment for those who want to really get a feel for Iceland’s wild side. It’s best suited for energetic, curious travelers ready to embrace Iceland’s outdoor elements and natural beauty. If you’re after a comprehensive, well-organized experience that balances adventure with comfort, this tour delivers on many levels.

Note: Always check the weather forecast close to your trip date and stay flexible—nature is unpredictable, but that’s part of the adventure in Iceland.