Iceland: 3-Day Golden Circle, South Coast, & Glacier Tour

Planning a trip to Iceland? This 3-day tour promises a whirlwind of some of the most breathtaking sights the country has to offer, from famous waterfalls and geysers to glaciers and volcanic craters. It’s a well-rated experience, with a 4.9 out of 5 from over 114 reviews, and offers a solid mix of guided sightseeing, comfortable accommodations, and optional adventures like glacier hiking and iceberg boat rides. Whether you’re a nature lover, a curious traveler, or someone eager to tick off iconic Icelandic landmarks, this tour covers a lot in just three days.

What we like most about this experience is the expert guidance and the carefully curated stops that maximize your time and photo opportunities. Plus, the inclusions—like cozy hotels, breakfasts, and entry fees—help you avoid extra costs and logistics headaches. One thing to consider is that the days are quite packed, meaning you’ll need to be prepared for long hours on the road with some early mornings. This tour fits best for travelers who enjoy structured days, are okay with a bit of driving, and want to see as much as possible without planning every detail themselves.

If you’re after a comprehensive, hassle-free way to experience Iceland’s highlights with knowledgeable guides and comfortable logistics, this tour could be a great pick. It’s especially ideal for first-timers, solo travelers, or anyone short on time but eager to explore the essentials of Iceland’s dramatic landscape.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Comfort: Accommodations, breakfasts, and entrance fees included for a smooth experience.
• Expert Guides: Guides are praised for their knowledge, humor, and flexibility in adjusting stops based on weather and timing.
• Stunning Landscapes: From waterfalls to glaciers, the scenery is memorable and photo-worthy.
• Flexibility & Options: Optional activities like glacier hikes and iceberg boat rides add adventure for those interested.
• Long but Rewarding Days: Expect to be on the move, but with well-planned breaks and plenty of opportunities to stretch.
• Great Value: Despite the upfront cost, many reviews highlight the trip as excellent value considering the scope of sights covered.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary – What to Expect Each Day

Day 1: Reykjavik to the Golden Circle & Beyond

Your adventure kicks off in Reykjavik, with the pickup scheduled between 8:30 and 9:00 AM. From there, the route takes you into the heart of Iceland’s geological marvels. The first highlight is the Gullfoss waterfall, often called the “Golden Waterfall,” famous for its powerful cascade plunging into a deep canyon. Many reviewers mention how breathtaking it is—“We saw more beautiful sites than we expected”, one said, emphasizing the impressive scale and raw beauty.

Next, you’ll visit the Strokkur Geysir area, where active geysers shoot boiling water into the air every few minutes—“Our guide, Mikel, was knowledgeable and funny, making these natural wonders even more captivating.” This geothermal region also features hot springs and bubbling mud pools, offering a surreal, otherworldly landscape.

A stop at Kerið Volcano Crater is included, with entry covered in the tour. The vivid red volcanic rocks and the azure lake inside make it a striking photo spot. The guide’s insights help you understand the volcanic activity that shapes Iceland’s terrain.

Day 2: Waterfalls, Glaciers, and the South Coast

Day 2 is packed with iconic sights. Expect visits to five famous waterfalls: Seljalandsfoss, where you can walk behind the cascade (weather permitting), and Skogafoss, with its mighty curtain of water that’s perfect for rainbow photos on sunny days. Reviewers like Christian commend the guides for their detailed explanations, noting how “Mika and Addy explained everything with patience and enthusiasm.”

You’ll also explore the Gljufrabui Waterfall, a hidden gem tucked inside a canyon—less crowded and equally stunning. The journey continues to Reynisfjara black sand beach, known for its towering basalt columns, roaring Atlantic waves, and the Reynisdrangar sea stacks. Many travelers mention how “the black beach was almost hypnotic, with its dramatic, windswept beauty.”

Further along, you may visit the Diamond Beach, where icebergs from Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon wash ashore, creating a glittering contrast against the black volcanic sand. Several reviews highlight the boat tours at Jökulsárlón as a must-do (optional), giving close-up views of floating icebergs and even ice-cave adventures, if you opt for the upgrade.

Day 3: Glaciers, Volcanoes, and Jökulsárlón

The final day opens with a visit to the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, a surreal landscape of floating icebergs. Many reviewers loved the optional amphibious boat tour, which offers a closer look at the iceberg formations—“Seeing icebergs so close was an unforgettable experience.” The guide’s tracking of the Northern Lights (when in season) adds a special touch, as one traveler noted they even saw the Aurora Borealis outside the scheduled activities.

If you choose the guided blue ice hiking tour, you’ll be equipped with all safety gear to walk on the glacier’s surface, a highlight for adventurous souls. For those who prefer less strenuous activities, the stunning scenery alone makes it worthwhile. The tour wraps up with a comfortable return to Reykjavik, with plenty of opportunities to reflect on the trip’s highlights.

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Transportation & Logistics

The tour uses a modern, comfortable bus equipped with Wi-Fi and USB charging ports, making long drives more enjoyable. Group sizes tend to be manageable, around 20 people, which fosters an intimate atmosphere and allows guides to give personalized attention. Pickup is included within Reykjavik, with instructions on the exact location (either hotel or nearby bus stop). This flexible arrangement is convenient for most travelers, although those staying outside the city center might want to meet at the Fiskislóð office if they prefer.

The days are long but balanced with scheduled stops for meals, snacks, and short walks. The tour provider ensures that the schedule is flexible enough to adapt to weather conditions, which reviewers greatly appreciate—“Our guide, Vlad, reorganized stops to make the most of the weather.”

Accommodation & Meals

Overnight stays are at cozy, well-rated hotels or farms, often in Hveragerði or near the glacier lagoons. Guests praise the cleanliness, comfort, and hearty breakfasts, which help fuel long days of sightseeing. Dinners are not included, but the tour organizers recommend local restaurants—many travelers comment on the quality and authenticity of the food.

Optional Activities & Extras

A few optional adventures are available for those wanting an extra thrill, like the blue ice hiking tour or iceberg boat ride at Jökulsárlón. These add to the overall value but require additional payment and booking.

Price & Value

At $901 per person, this tour offers good value considering the inclusions—two nights of accommodation, most entrance fees, breakfasts, and guiding services. Reviewers feel the experience justifies the cost, especially since it spares you the hassle of planning each leg and ensures you visit the top sights efficiently.

While it’s an investment, the convenience, expert guidance, and access to iconic sites make it appealing, especially for first-time visitors or those wanting a comprehensive introduction to Iceland’s natural wonders.

Authentic Experiences & Highlights from Reviews

Many travelers emphasize the guides’ knowledge and personality—“Bjarki, who has a geology degree, made the explanations fascinating”—and how flexible guides are in adjusting the itinerary based on weather or time constraints. The inclusion of off-the-beaten-path spots, like quiet photo stops, is highly valued.

The waterfalls, especially Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss, are consistently praised for their awe-inspiring power. The black sand beach and ice lagoon are highlighted as once-in-a-lifetime sights. The optional glacier hike and iceberg boat ride are described as “must-do” for adventure lovers, with some reviewers noting they’d do the tour again just for those experiences.

The Sum Up

This 3-day Iceland tour provides a comprehensive, well-organized introduction to the country’s most spectacular sights. With experienced guides, comfortable accommodations, and carefully planned routes, it offers excellent value for travelers wanting to see a lot in a short period. It’s ideal for those who appreciate detailed explanations, enjoy scenic drives, and are prepared for long days of exploration.

If you’re a first-time visitor or someone eager to tick off Iceland’s iconic landscapes without the stress of planning every detail, this tour delivers a balanced mix of adventure, education, and comfort. The optional activities add a dash of thrill, and the authentic, friendly guides make the experience memorable.

For travelers who want a hassle-free way to see Iceland’s top highlights, this tour’s combination of stunning scenery, expert guidance, and cozy accommodations makes it a compelling choice.

FAQ

Is pickup included in this tour?
Yes, pickup is included from your hotel or another accommodation in Reykjavik. If you prefer, you can also meet at the tour provider’s office near Fiskislóð 45M.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable hiking shoes, warm clothing, and layers. The weather can change quickly, so being prepared for wind, rain, or cold is smart.

Are meals included?
Breakfasts are included, but lunches and dinners are not. The tour makes scheduled stops where you can buy food, so plan accordingly.

Can I join the tour without hotel pickup?
Yes, you can meet at the provider’s office if you prefer not to be picked up from your accommodation.

Are there optional activities available?
Yes, you can opt for guided blue ice hiking and iceberg boat rides at Jökulsárlón, both of which require additional booking and payment.

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
It’s best for those who are okay with long days and moderate walking. It’s not suitable for wheelchair users. The guides are attentive, and the schedule is flexible based on weather conditions.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby