Guided Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach Day Trip from Reykjavik

Exploring Iceland’s South Coast in a Day: The Guided Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach Tour

For travelers eager to see some of Iceland’s most iconic sights without the hassle of planning multiple day trips, the Guided Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach Day Tour from Reykjavik offers a comprehensive experience. Covering everything from towering waterfalls to shimmering icebergs, this tour packs a lot into about 14.5 hours. It’s a long day, but for those who want a taste of the country’s natural beauty in a single shot, it’s hard to beat.

One of the standout perks is the expert guidance—our review highlights guides like Einar and Lasma, who are praised for their deep knowledge and friendly attitude. The scenery is undeniably breathtaking, with stops at waterfalls, glaciers, and volcanic landscapes that truly bring Iceland’s diverse terrain to life. On the flip side, the tour’s length and the sometimes tight bus seating might not suit everyone, especially those prone to travel fatigue.

This journey is best suited for adventurous travelers who don’t mind a full schedule and long bus rides. If you’re after iconic snapshots of Icelandic nature, enjoy guided commentary, and are comfortable spending much of your day on the road, this trip will likely hit the mark.

Key Points

• Extensive itinerary covering major south coast highlights in one day
• Knowledgeable guides who share engaging stories and insights
• Unparalleled scenery at Glacier Lagoon, Diamond Beach, waterfalls, and more
• Long journey with some discomfort noted in bus seating and comfort
• Weather dependent—optimal conditions can lead to the chance to see the Northern Lights
• Value for money considering the number of attractions covered and included transportation
• Flexible options for viewing the Northern Lights on the return trip (weather permitting)
• Good for active travelers comfortable with long hours and multiple stops

What You Can Expect on This Icelandic Adventure

Starting early from Reykjavik at 7:30 AM, you’ll board a climate-controlled bus that whisks you away into Iceland’s wild south. The route takes you past some of the most dramatic landscapes, including Hvannadalshnjúkur, Iceland’s tallest mountain, and the expansive black sands of Skaftafell National Park.

Scenic Drive and First Stops

The drive itself is a highlight, with panoramic views and a sense of anticipation building. Your first stop is in Hvolsvollur, a charming town where you can stretch your legs and take in the fresh air. This short 20-minute stretch helps ease into the day.

Next, you’ll stop at Eyjafjallajökull—famous for its 2010 eruption that disrupted European air travel. Here, you’ll get a striking view of the glacier-capped volcano, which vividly illustrates Iceland’s fiery and icy duality. Reviewers love the view, with one describing it as a “dramatic landscape where ice and fire coexist.”

Waterfalls with a Touch of Magic

The tour makes stops at Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss, both of which are spectacular waterfalls along the south coast. Skógafoss plunges 60 meters with frequent rainbows creating perfect photo ops, while Seljalandsfoss offers the rare chance to walk behind the water curtain—an experience that leaves visitors feeling like they’ve stepped into a fairy tale. One reviewer mentioned how Seljalandsfoss is especially magical in the long summer days when it’s bathed in golden light.

Lunch in Quiet Charm

The journey continues to Freyjnes, a peaceful village where travelers can enjoy a 40-minute break. Many reviews mention how well-placed and relaxing this stop is, giving enough time for a quick meal and a chance to refresh before the next big highlight. While the tour doesn’t include food, reviews suggest packing snacks or grabbing something local in Vik, which we’ll discuss next.

The Crown Jewel: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

The main event is the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, a vast, serene wonderland of floating icebergs. The reviews are unanimous in praising its surreal beauty—“an otherworldly scene” that looks like a film set. The lagoon spans 18 square kilometers and reaches depths over 248 meters. Many travelers mention how the icy forms are constantly shifting, creating a mesmerizing spectacle perfect for photography. This stop typically lasts 1 hour and 20 minutes, giving ample time to wander, snap pictures, and possibly spot seals.

Nearby, Diamond Beach offers a stark contrast—black volcanic sands dotted with glistening ice chunks that seem to have washed ashore from the lagoon. One reviewer called it “one of Iceland’s most photogenic spots” and a place that leaves a lasting impression.

The South Coast and Vík

Vík, a charming coastal village, is the ideal place for a dinner break. With its striking basalt sea stacks and black sand beaches, it’s a favorite among travelers. The 45-minute stop here lets you soak in the dramatic scenery while enjoying a meal. Many reviews appreciate the well-placed stops that give you time to breathe amid the long day.

More Waterfalls and Northern Lights?

On the return journey, weather permitting, there’s a chance to see the Northern Lights, which can be a bucket-list moment. Some travelers were lucky enough to witness a spectacular display, but as the tour notes, sightings are not guaranteed.

Reviewers note that guides like Einar and Lasma are enthusiastic and full of interesting facts, making the long day more engaging. One review mentions that Lasma provided detailed info about everything seen, adding educational value to the sightseeing.

Transportation and Comfort

The tour uses a climate-controlled vehicle, which is especially helpful given Iceland’s unpredictable weather. The group size maxes out at around 60 travelers, making it manageable but still large enough to feel like a group adventure. Some reviews point out that the bus can be tight in the seats—probably not ideal for bigger travelers or those seeking luxury—but most agree that the scenery and experience outweigh the discomfort.

The 14.5-hour duration is a big commitment, with some comments about the bus ride being long and occasionally uncomfortable. However, many travelers praise the skill of the driver—particularly Marek, whose precise driving and calm handling of the bus were appreciated by those who felt the journey was otherwise challenging.

Food and Cost Consideration

While the tour price of $220 per person strikes many as good value considering the extensive itinerary and included transportation, it’s important to note that food and drinks are not included. Packing snacks or planning to buy in Vik is recommended. Several reviewers appreciated the well-placed stops for meals and snacks, making the long day more manageable.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

One traveler praised the knowledgeable, friendly guides—mentioning Lasma and Einar—whose enthusiasm and stories enhanced the experience. Another highlighted how Marek’s driving skills and calm demeanor kept everyone at ease during the long bus ride, which can be a big deal for some.

The timing of stops appears well thought out. Reviewers appreciated the balance between sightseeing and rest, with some suggesting bringing a travel pillow for the return journey due to the long hours and potential sleepiness.

Some less positive comments focus on comfort issues, such as cramped bus seats. This variety of opinions serves as a reminder that, in a longer tour, comfort might be compromised for the sake of seeing so much in one day.

The chance to see the Northern Lights is a bonus for those traveling in season, with reports of successful sightings when conditions are right.

The Bottom Line: Who Should Book This Tour?

This tour is an excellent choice for adventurous travelers who aren’t afraid of a long day on the road and want to tick off several major Icelandic sights in one go. It’s ideal if you value expert guides who bring stories and insights that make the scenery come alive. Those looking for a more relaxed, luxurious experience might find the bus comfort lacking, but for most, the trade-off is worth it.

If you’re eager to capture iconic photos of glaciers, icebergs, waterfalls, and black sand beaches—and potentially catch the Northern Lights—this trip offers serious value. Food isn’t included, so bringing snacks or planning to buy locally is wise. Keep in mind the weather can influence your experience, especially regarding Northern Lights sightings.

This tour balances a packed itinerary with authentic Icelandic scenery, making it perfect for those who want a full, immersive day in the country’s stunning south coast.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour fee?
Yes, pickup and drop-off in central Reykjavik are included. The tour departs from BSÍ bus station at 7:30 AM.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is approximately 14 hours and 30 minutes, making it a full-day adventure.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but there are stops for meals and snacks, especially in Vik.

What is the best season for Northern Lights viewing?
The Northern Lights are weather-dependent, but they are more likely to be visible during colder months when the nights are darker.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, but the long hours and bus discomfort might be challenging for some. It’s best for active travelers comfortable with extended bus rides.

Can I see the Icebergs up close?
Yes, the stop at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon allows you to wander around the icy scenery and even spot seals.

What kind of vehicle is used?
A climate-controlled bus, equipped with WiFi, is used for the journey.

Is the Northern Lights viewing guaranteed?
No, sightings depend on weather and atmospheric conditions. The tour offers the possibility but cannot promise it.

What should I bring for the tour?
Warm layers, rain gear, snacks, and a travel pillow if you want extra comfort on the ride back.

In sum, this guided tour offers an excellent way to see some of Iceland’s most famous sights in one day, with knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery. While the length and bus comfort are considerations, most travelers find the experience enriching and well worth the price, especially for the chance to witness Iceland’s icy wonders and maybe even the northern lights.