Jökulsarlón Glacier Lagoon Tour

Exploring Iceland’s south coast in a single day sounds ambitious—until you realize how well-organized and immersive this private tour can be. Offered by Oak Travel Service, the 12-hour journey takes you from Reykjavik through some of Iceland’s most iconic sights, culminating at the breathtaking Jökulsarlón Glacier Lagoon. With a small group setting (up to 3 people), this tour promises a personalized experience, avoiding the crowds often found on larger buses.

What we really appreciate about this experience is the combination of natural wonders and carefully curated stops that allow enough time for truly soaking in each location—without feeling rushed. Plus, the fact that it’s a private tour means you can enjoy a flexible itinerary and ample photo opportunities.

However, it’s worth noting that the trip involves a long drive—about 5 hours each way—so it’s best suited for travelers who love scenic road trips and don’t mind a full day of sightseeing. This tour suits those seeking a more intimate, tailored adventure with a focus on photography, natural beauty, and comfort.

Key Points

Personalized experience: Private tour means fewer crowds and more flexibility.
Stunning natural stops: Includes two major waterfalls and Reynisfjara Black Beach.
Excellent value: Access to multiple iconic sights in one day plus optional boat rides.
Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with insights and tips.
Flexible photo opportunities: Plenty of time for capturing Iceland’s natural beauty.
Comfortable logistics: Pickup from Reykjavik, mobile tickets, and well-planned timing.

In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

This private day trip from Reykjavik offers an intense but rewarding taste of Iceland’s southern coast, perfect for those who want a curated experience with a personal touch. The tour starts with a pickup at Harpa, the city’s concert hall, setting an immediate tone of comfort and convenience before the long journey begins.

The Scenic Drive and Natural Wonders

The drive itself is part of the adventure. Spanning approximately 12 hours, it’s a chance to see Iceland’s landscape unfurl through panoramic windows. Unlike large bus tours, here you won’t be hurried through stops—your guide, well-versed in local history and geology, knows just when to pause for photos or quick explanations.

Waterfalls: Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss

The first stops at Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss are highlights that showcase Iceland’s raw power and beauty. Skógafoss, with its thunderous 25-meter drop, is one of the country’s largest and most photogenic waterfalls. Reviewers loved the option to hike up alongside it or capture rainbows in the spray—an ideal setup for photography enthusiasts.

Next, Seljalandsfoss offers the rare chance to walk behind the cascade, creating a surreal perspective and unforgettable photos. The guide can advise on the best angles and timing, especially when the sunlight hits the water or the mist creates rainbows. It’s a unique photo op that few other waterfalls provide.

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

A visit to Reynisfjara is almost obligatory on Iceland’s south coast. The striking basalt columns, formed by cooling lava, create geometric patterns that are fascinating to observe. The powerful waves of the Atlantic crash against the cliffs, adding to the dramatic scenery. Many reviewers mention birdwatching here, spotting puffins and other seabirds, especially in summer when the cliffs teem with life.

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Optional Boat Tours

The pièce de résistance is undoubtedly Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, filled with floating icebergs calved from Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier. The sight of luminous blue and white icebergs drifting in the crystalline waters is awe-inspiring. The lagoon’s proximity to the Ring Road makes it accessible and a perfect finale to the day.

You’ll have plenty of time to explore and take photos from various vantage points. Plus, you can opt for either an amphibian boat tour or a Zodiac boat adventure—although these may require pre-booking. The icebergs and surrounding scenery are so captivating that many might find just wandering around the lagoon enough to satisfy their photography cravings.

Additional Stops and Comfort

Throughout the day, the guide might suggest quick snack breaks or small detours, enhancing the trip’s relaxed atmosphere. The tour is designed to be comfortable and flexible, with pickup from a convenient Reykjavik location and drop-off back at the meeting point.

What the Reviews Say

One reviewer, Christelle_F, described the journey as “worth the drive,” emphasizing the stunning waterfalls, glacier boat ride, and the flexibility that a private tour offers. She appreciated having time to photograph and enjoy each stop without feeling rushed—a common complaint on larger tours.

Another insight from travelers highlights the value of knowledgeable guides who can enrich the experience with local insights and tips. The reviews also point out the spectacular scenery—especially the waterfalls and glacier lagoon—making it clear that this tour delivers on its promise of natural beauty.

Analyzing the Price and Value

At $1,119 for up to three people, this tour is priced higher than generic group tours. But for the private experience with personalized attention, it offers good value, especially considering the inclusion of multiple major sights in one day. The comfort of a private vehicle, flexible stops, and the potential for unique photo opportunities make it worthwhile, particularly for photography lovers or travelers seeking a more intimate experience.

The option to pre-book boat rides at Jökulsárlón adds an extra layer of adventure, though it’s worth planning ahead due to seasonal availability. The tour’s cancellation policy is flexible—full refunds available if canceled 24 hours in advance—giving peace of mind for unpredictable weather.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

• Duration: Approximately 12 hours, making it a full-day commitment.
• Pickup: From Harpa, Reykjavik.
• Price: $1,119 per group (up to 3), emphasizing the exclusivity and comfort.
• Includes: Private transportation, guide, stops at key sites.
• Extras: Optional boat rides at Jökulsárlón (pre-book recommended).
• Weather: Tour requires good weather; cancellations are possible if conditions are poor, with rescheduling or full refunds.
• Booking: Book well in advance (average is 57 days ahead), especially during peak seasons.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private tour is ideal for travelers who want a tailored, relaxed experience with more time for photos and exploration. It suits photography enthusiasts, nature lovers, and couples or small groups who value comfort and personalized attention. If you’re concerned about long drives but still eager to see the key highlights of Iceland’s south coast, this tour balances scenic beauty with manageable logistics.

The Sum Up

The Jökulsarlón Glacier Lagoon Tour offers a well-rounded, intimate look at Iceland’s stunning southern landscapes. With expert guides, ample time at each stop, and the flexibility of a private setting, it’s a compelling option for those willing to dedicate a full day to this adventure. From powerful waterfalls to shimmering icebergs, the tour covers Iceland’s most iconic sights in comfort and style.

While the hefty price tag might be a consideration, the personalized experience, fewer crowds, and opportunity for fantastic photos make it worthwhile for those seeking a more bespoke journey. It’s particularly suited for travelers eager to capture the beauty of Iceland without the rush or hustle of larger group tours.

If you love natural wonders and value quality time at each location, this tour could very well become one of your Iceland highlights.

FAQ

What is included in the price of the tour?
The price covers private transportation, the guide, and stops at key scenic sites. Optional boat rides at Jökulsárlón are available but need pre-booking.

How long is the drive each way?
The round-trip drive is roughly 10 hours, with about 5 hours each way, making it suitable for those comfortable with long scenic journeys.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, the itinerary can be flexible to some extent, allowing for more time at favored stops or quick visits to others, depending on your interests.

Do I need to pre-book the boat tours at Jökulsárlón?
Yes, boat tours (amphibian or zodiac) are recommended to pre-book, as they can fill up, especially in peak season.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but keep in mind the long drive and walking involved at some stops. The comfort of a private vehicle makes it more accessible.

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

How far in advance should I book?
Booking about 2 months ahead is recommended, especially during busy seasons, to secure your spot and preferred dates.

This private tour offers a fantastic balance of comfort, natural beauty, and personalized attention—perfect for travelers who want to truly enjoy Iceland’s south coast without the hassle of crowded tours.