From Reykjavik: Katla Ice Cave and South Coast Day Tour

This tour promises an exciting blend of natural wonders—think thundering waterfalls, volcanic black sands, and an extraordinary ice cave beneath a volcano. Offered by Troll Expeditions, this 12-hour adventure has earned a perfect 5.0 rating from enthusiastic travelers who appreciate its well-planned itinerary, knowledgeable guides, and breathtaking scenery.

What we love most? The balance of iconic sights and off-the-beaten-path exploration, especially the super-jeep ride into the wilderness and the unforgettable visit to the Katla Ice Cave. Yet, some travelers note that the timing can be tight, so being prepared for a busy day is a good idea.

This tour is ideal for those who want a comprehensive introduction to southern Iceland’s natural marvels without sacrificing comfort or safety. It’s perfect for adventurous travelers with a curiosity for glaciers, volcanoes, and dramatic coastlines—and it’s suitable for ages 8 and up.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: Combines waterfalls, black sand beaches, and a glacier ice cave in a single day.
• Expert-guided: Knowledgeable guides share stories and safety instructions, making the trip both educational and secure.
• Comfortable transportation: Includes pickup and drop-off from Reykjavik, with WiFi on board and small-group size ensuring a more personal experience.
• Adventure elements: Off-road super-jeep ride and crampon-assisted hikes add excitement, especially for those who love active exploration.
• Value for money: For around $300, you’ll experience multiple highlights, guided access to a glacier cave, and all necessary safety equipment.
• Limited group size: Max 18 travelers, which fosters a more intimate and engaging atmosphere.

This tour offers a carefully curated itinerary that balances iconic sights with some of Iceland’s more remote and awe-inspiring landscapes. From the moment you’re picked up in Reykjavik, the day is packed with unforgettable moments.

The Journey Begins: Pickup and Transportation

Your adventure starts early at 8:00 am with pickup from designated Reykjavik bus stops. The small-group setting, capped at 18 travelers, makes the experience more personal and allows guides to tailor their commentary and attention. Traveling in a comfortable minibus, you’ll enjoy WiFi onboard—a small but appreciated touch that helps you share your Iceland adventures in real time.

The first part of the trip is a scenic drive into the south, where your guides, such as Maggie, Ana, or Bjorn, will share insights about Iceland’s volcanic landscape, history, and geology. They’re praised for their friendliness and knowledge—key factors that elevate this tour from just sightseeing to an educational experience.

First Stop: Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

Your first highlight is Seljalandsfoss, a spectacular waterfall with a 60-meter drop. What makes Seljalandsfoss special is its unique feature: in summer, you can walk behind the cascade—an experience that many travelers describe as magical. The waterfall’s dramatic presence makes for beautiful photos, and lasting 45 minutes gives you enough time to soak it in and snap some shots.

Reviewers have commented on how striking the waterfall is, with one noting it as “powerful” and “a must-see,” though some mention that the area can get crowded during peak times. Still, the experience of standing behind the waterfall, feeling the spray and hearing the roar, is unforgettable.

Next Stop: Skogafoss Waterfall

A short drive takes you to Skogafoss, another 60-meter waterfall, renowned as one of Iceland’s most beautiful. The name means “forest waterfall,” which hints at the lush surroundings. You’ll spend around 45 minutes here, and the reward is the possibility of viewing it from the top if you’re up for a stair climb. Like Seljalandsfoss, Skogafoss is a powerful sight and offers excellent photo opportunities, especially with its consistent spray creating rainbows on sunny days.

Travelers often comment that Skogafoss feels more accessible, with a wide flat area at the base to get close to the water, and the view from above is spectacular. It’s a firm favorite for many, and the guides usually have plenty of stories about its formation and significance.

Black Sand Beach at Vikurfjara

Your third stop is Vikurfjara, commonly known as Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach. Formed by volcanic activity over millions of years, the black sands provide a stark contrast to the crashing Atlantic waves. Here, the sight of massive basalt columns, like the famous Reynisdrangar sea stacks, makes for dramatic photos. The cave-like formations and the power of the ocean are awe-inspiring—just remember to stay a safe distance from the waves, which are known to be unpredictable and sometimes dangerous.

Most travelers spend about an hour and a half here, enjoying the scenery and grabbing lunch at the on-site restaurant. Reviewers highlight the beach’s “dangerously beautiful” vibe and note that it’s a highlight not to be missed.

The Heart of the Adventure: Katla Ice Cave and Super-Jeep Ride

After lunch, the tour takes a turn into the more adventurous side with a super-jeep ride into the wilderness. This off-road 40-minute bumpy journey is a highlight for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike. Your guide will share stories about the Katla volcano, which has a reputation for powerful eruptions and geothermal activity, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the experience.

This part of the trip is not just about the ride—it’s about the feeling of being in a remote, almost lunar landscape, with views that seem to stretch endlessly. Reviews from travelers like Jahanara and Laura emphasize how the journey itself is breathtaking, with some describing it as feeling like being on the moon.

Before entering the ice cave, guides provide all necessary safety gear—helmets and crampons. This gear is crucial since you’re exploring a glacier environment, and guides like Avi are praised for their clear instructions and friendly approach.

Exploring the Katla Ice Cave

The main event is the guided walk through the ice cave, an experience that many describe as “cool as I thought it would be.” The blue ice formations, contrasting with the dark volcanic ash embedded within, create a surreal, otherworldly atmosphere. The guides lead you carefully, pointing out interesting features and ensuring your safety.

Travelers such as Jahanara mention how much they appreciated Avi’s storytelling, which added context to the visual spectacle. The safety gear and knowledgeable guides make this a secure yet exhilarating experience—especially important given the unpredictable nature of glaciers.

Returning to Reykjavik

After the ice cave adventure, you’ll head back to Reykjavik, with a few more scenic stops if time permits. The entire day wraps up around 8 pm, leaving you with a sense of having truly experienced Iceland’s wild side.

This tour’s value lies in its comprehensive coverage of Iceland’s south coast, guided by experts, and the inclusion of unique experiences like the ice cave and super-jeep ride. At $303.79, it offers access to multiple must-see sights along with the thrill of glacier exploration, all in one day.

The tour’s timing and structure mean it’s quite packed—expect early mornings and some busy periods at popular sights. The small group size and WiFi add to the comfort, allowing for more personal interaction and sharing your experience.

Transportation and Logistics

The minibus provides a comfortable ride, with the added perk of WiFi, so you can stay connected or upload photos. Pickup from Reykjavik is included, which spares you the hassle of organizing transport. The group size (max 18) creates a friendly atmosphere, and guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge.

Equipment and Safety

All necessary glacier equipment—helmets and crampons—are provided, making the ice cave exploration accessible and safe. Rentals for hiking boots, waterproof jackets and pants, hats, gloves, and other gear are available at additional costs, ensuring you’re well-prepared for Iceland’s unpredictable weather.

Food and Additional Costs

Food and drinks are not included, so packing snacks or planning to buy lunch at Vik is recommended. You might find the additional rental costs for gear worthwhile if you don’t have your own waterproof clothing or sturdy footwear.

Reviewers consistently praise the guides, like Maggie, Ana, and Bjorn, for their friendliness and deep knowledge—adding value beyond just sightseeing. Natasha describes the trip as “fantastic,” highlighting the “lovely small group” and “unforgettable” scenery.

Others emphasize the stunning vistas—from waterfalls to black sands—making this a visual feast. Many mention how the ice cave surpasses expectations, with Jahanara noting Avi’s storytelling made the experience even richer.

Several travelers also appreciate the safety and organization, feeling confident exploring the glacier environment thanks to the professional guidance. The tour’s pacing, while tight, ensures you see the key highlights without feeling rushed.

This experience appeals most to adventure-seeking travelers who want a full day of diverse Icelandic sights without multiple bookings. It’s especially suitable for those interested in glaciers, volcanoes, and striking coastlines. The small-group format and expert guides make it a good choice for travelers who value personalized attention and safety.

Families with children over 8 years old will find it manageable, as long as they’re prepared for the physical aspects—walking on ice, riding on rough terrain, and staying outdoors for much of the day.

If you’re short on time but craving a comprehensive Icelandic adventure, this tour offers incredible value, vivid scenery, and a touch of adrenaline.

This Katla Ice Cave and South Coast tour strikes a fine balance between iconic sightseeing and unique adventure activities, all guided by friendly experts. It’s perfect for travelers who want to maximize a single day in Iceland, experiencing its wild beauty firsthand. The combination of waterfalls, black sands, glacier caves, and off-road rides makes for a memorable, visually stunning journey.

While the schedule is full and the day long, the guides’ enthusiasm, the safety gear, and the small-group setting make it a trustworthy option for an unforgettable Icelandic experience. This tour is especially suited for those eager to see the South Coast’s most iconic spots paired with a genuinely special ice cave adventure.

What is included in the tour fee?
The tour price covers minibus transportation, pickup and drop-off from Reykjavik, WiFi on board, all necessary glacier equipment (helmet and crampons), tickets to the Katla ice cave, and the super-jeep ride.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the minimum age for participants is 8 years old, making it suitable for families with older children or teenagers who are comfortable with active outdoor activities.

Do I need to rent any gear?
All glacier equipment is provided, but you can rent additional gear like hiking boots, waterproof jackets, pants, and accessories for extra comfort if needed.

How physically demanding is the tour?
It involves some walking, hiking with crampons inside the ice cave, and riding on a bumpy super-jeep ride. Travelers should be prepared for a day of active exploration.

What should I bring?
Bring warm layers, waterproof clothing if you have it, sturdy walking shoes, and a camera. The tour provides safety gear, but packing snacks and water for the day is advisable.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to bad conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How long is the ice cave visit?
You’ll spend around 3 hours exploring the ice cave, guided by experts who ensure safety and share interesting facts during the walk.

Can I join this tour if I have limited time in Iceland?
Definitely, as it offers a well-rounded experience of Iceland’s highlights in a single day, making it ideal for travelers with tight schedules.

In summary, this tour from Reykjavik provides a well-balanced mix of Iceland’s most dramatic sights and unique glacier exploration. With personal guides, small group size, and a focus on safety and storytelling, it makes for a memorable day packed with awe-inspiring scenery and unforgettable moments.