Reykjavik: South Coast, Diamond Beach, and Jökulsárlón Tour

Exploring Iceland’s south coast is like flipping through a photo album of nature’s most dramatic scenes — glaciers, waterfalls, black sand beaches, and floating icebergs. This full-day tour from Reykjavik, operated by Gray Line Iceland, promises a well-organized, comfortably paced journey that brings these landscapes right to your camera lens and memory bank.

We love how this tour combines several iconic sights into one day, with a knowledgeable guide sharing local stories and tidbits along the way. The convenience of a climate-controlled bus with free WiFi means you can relax, snap photos, and stay connected without the hassle of driving yourself. One thing to consider: it’s a long day, clocking around 14 hours, so it’s best suited for travelers who don’t mind a bit of bus time. This tour is perfect for those who want to see the highlights without the stress of planning or self-driving — especially if you’re after breathtaking scenery and authentic Icelandic charm.

Key Points

• Stunning Landscapes: See waterfalls, glaciers, black sand beaches, and large icebergs in one trip.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Lorenzo and Karen are praised for their knowledge, humor, and engaging storytelling.
• Comfort & Connectivity: Modern, climate-controlled buses with free WiFi make the long day more comfortable.
• Value for Money: At around $187, you get extensive sightseeing, expert guiding, and transportation included.
• Optional Upgrades: The boat tour on Jökulsárlón is extra but highly recommended if available.
• Ideal for Sightseers: Long hours but packed with iconic sites, perfect for travelers wanting a comprehensive South Coast experience.

A Comprehensive Look at the Tour Experience

How the Day Unfolds

This tour kicks off from Reykjavík Terminal, with a pickup option from most hotels or designated stops. You’ll be on a comfortable bus with modern amenities, including free WiFi, which is handy for sharing your photos or catching up on some travel updates. The first stretch of the journey lasts about 80 minutes as you leave the city behind, passing through charming villages and scenic farmland.

The First Major Stop: Visitor Center

Your first break is at a visitor center — a good chance to stretch, grab a coffee or some snacks, and browse souvenirs. This stop is about 20 minutes, giving you a quick reset before heading to the waterfalls. It’s a practical pause to avoid fatigue early on, and reviews mention that most stops are well-timed with accessible facilities.

Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss

Next, you’ll visit Seljalandsfoss, one of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls, especially because you can walk behind it for a unique perspective. Reviewers love the opportunity to get close to this natural wonder, noting that the short walk behind the falls offers great photo opportunities. Expect about 20 minutes here.

Then, a scenic drive past Öræfajökull volcano and Skaftafell National Park leads you to Skógafoss, another powerhouse waterfall with a dramatic drop and often a rainbow if the sunlight hits just right. You’ll have around 30 minutes to marvel, snap pictures, and even climb a staircase for a bird’s-eye view.

The Black Sand Vibe at Vik

A 45-minute stop in Vik offers a chance to stroll on the black sand beaches, photograph the famous Reynisdrangar sea stacks, and perhaps pick up a snack or souvenir. Reviewers often mention the scenic views here as a highlight, and the break helps recharge for the afternoon ahead.

The Glacial Marvel: Jökulsárlón and Diamond Beach

Set aside about 1.5 hours for the crown jewel — Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. Here, large icebergs, broken off from Vatnajökull, drift serenely toward the ocean. The experience of walking along the shore, watching the floating ice, and feeling the chill in the air is unforgettable. Some reviews highlight the chance to see seals lounging on the ice as well.

At Diamond Beach, just across the road, the ice chunks wash up on the black sand, creating a surreal landscape. As one reviewer said, this beach feels like a treasure trove of shimmering ice “diamonds,” making it a photographer’s paradise. During the summer, those with extra time can opt for amphibian boat tours on the lagoon, which are highly recommended but not included in the base price.

Why the Long Hours Are Worth It

The return trip is about 2.5 hours, giving you time to relax or review your photos. Travelers often comment that despite the length, the journey feels quick because of the stunning scenery and engaging guides.

Transportation & Comfort

Gray Line’s modern bus fleet, with climate control and WiFi, is a clear plus — it minimizes the fatigue that can come with long bus trips. The reviews frequently mention the comfort level, with many appreciating the USB charging ports and the spacious seats. The group size tends to be moderate, fostering a friendly, relaxed atmosphere, and guides like Lorenzo and Karen are praised for their warmth and knowledge.

The Guide’s Role

Our reviews repeatedly mention the guides’ ability to blend facts, stories, and humor seamlessly. They provide context for each site — explaining glaciers’ formation, Iceland’s volcanic activity, or local folklore. This storytelling adds depth beyond just sightseeing, making the experience more memorable.

Price and Value

At $187 per person, including transportation, guiding, and WiFi, this tour offers solid value for such an all-encompassing day. The main cost outside this is the optional boat tour at Jökulsárlón, which adds an extra layer of adventure if weather and time permit. Many travelers feel the price is justified given the convenience and access to several renowned sites they might struggle to visit independently.

Practical Tips for the Tour

• Wear comfortable shoes for walking around waterfalls and beaches.
• Dress weather-appropriate clothing, especially considering Iceland’s unpredictable weather.
• Bring a camera or smartphone with extra batteries or power banks — you’ll want to capture every moment.
• If interested in the boat tour, inquire about availability and extra costs during booking or onsite.
• Be prepared for a long day — plan your accommodations and meals accordingly; the stops at local restaurants and gas stations often have quick, tasty options.

Authentic Experiences from Travelers

Many reviews highlight the guides’ expertise and sense of humor, making long stretches on the bus engaging. For example, Karen is praised for her “1st class” knowledge, while Lorenzo keeps the group entertained with stories and facts. One traveler appreciated the “frequent bathroom stops and cafes,” which made the journey more comfortable.

Several reviewers also mention that the landscapes are breathtaking, with waterfalls, glaciers, and beaches that leave visitors in awe. The glacier lagoon, in particular, is a “unbelievable sight,” with some mentioning the chance to see seals during the boat tour if you add that on.

The combination of well-timed stops, comfortable transport, and the scenic route ensures that even the longest day feels rewarding. Reviewers often remark that the experience exceeded their expectations, with many calling it “worth every minute.”

The Sum Up

This South Coast tour from Reykjavik is ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive, well-organized day of stunning Icelandic scenery without the hassle of self-driving. It offers a good balance of key sights, educational guides, and comfortable transportation. Though it’s a long day, the variety of landscapes — waterfalls, glaciers, beaches, and icebergs — keeps the experience lively and memorable.

It’s best suited for those who don’t mind spending many hours on a bus and want to maximize their time exploring Iceland’s iconic south coast. The added value of engaging guides and all the popular stops makes it a worthwhile choice for first-time visitors and seasoned travelers alike.

For anyone eager to tick off some of Iceland’s most famous sights in one go, this tour offers a practical, scenic, and genuinely enjoyable adventure.

FAQ

How long is the total tour?
The tour lasts approximately 14 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and breaks.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers transportation on a modern bus, an English-speaking guide, and free WiFi onboard. Food, drinks, and optional boat tours are not included.

Can I do the boat tour on Jökulsárlón?
Yes, during the summer season, amphibian boat tours on the lagoon are available at an extra cost, payable onsite.

Where does the tour start and end?
Pickup is from Reykjavík Terminal or most local hotels with a scheduled pickup service starting about 30 minutes prior. The tour ends back at the meeting point in Reykjavík.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
Yes, families often enjoy the stops, but note the long hours on the bus may be tiring for very young children. The group size and guide’s friendly approach make it family-friendly overall.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are essential. Also, consider bringing a camera, extra batteries, or a power bank for your devices.

Are there any accessibility considerations?
The tour involves walking at sites like waterfalls and beaches, so mobility limitations may affect some travelers. It’s best to check with the provider for specific needs.

Is this tour a good value?
Given the extensive sightseeing, expert guidance, and comfort, most travelers find the $187 price point reasonable, especially considering the convenience of not having to plan or drive themselves.

If you’re after an Icelandic adventure that covers waterfalls, glaciers, and beaches in one epic day, this tour delivers it with comfort, insight, and plenty of photo ops. Just pack your sense of adventure and patience for a long but rewarding journey through Iceland’s stunning south coast.