South Iceland and Glacier Lagoon: Jökulsárlón with Boat Tour

South Iceland and Glacier Lagoon: Jökulsárlón with Boat Tour — a detailed look

Taking a day trip from Reykjavik to the icy marvels of South Iceland offers an experience packed with breathtaking scenery, iconic waterfalls, and the chance to get up close to glacial icebergs. This tour, priced at $261 per person, promises around 14.5 hours of awe-inspiring sights, local storytelling, and memorable moments. While it involves a long day on the road, the opportunity to see Jökulsárlón, the famous Iceberg Lagoon, and explore its surroundings makes it a compelling choice for those eager to discover Iceland’s glaciers and volcanic landscapes.

One thing we love about this experience is the diversity of stops — from powerful waterfalls to volcanic beaches — offering a balanced mix of nature’s most iconic sights. The highlight, without question, is the 30-minute boat cruise among floating icebergs, which many reviewers found to be the real magic. A potential downside? The tour’s extensive schedule means some travelers might find the stops feel a bit rushed or wish for more time at each location. Nonetheless, it’s well-suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy a packed itinerary and are comfortable with longer days.

This tour suits those who love natural spectacles, are eager to learn from knowledgeable guides, or want a comprehensive South Iceland experience in one day. It’s perfect for confident travelers who don’t mind spending hours in a bus and want to tick off multiple bucket-list sites while enjoying the storytelling and scenic drives.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering waterfalls, black sand beaches, Jokulsarlon, and more
• Expert guides like Gunnar, who provide engaging insights into Icelandic sights and history
• Value for money with a full day of sightseeing, boat cruise, and guided commentary
• Long but rewarding day—expect around 14.5 hours on the road and at stops
• Diverse photo opportunities from waterfalls to icebergs and volcanic sands
• Comfortable transportation and pick-up options at Reykjavik’s bus terminal or hotels

The Journey Begins: What to Expect

Starting early at the BSÍ Bus Terminal or your hotel, you’ll hop into an air-conditioned coach with a small group (up to 45 people). The first part of the trip is about soaking in Iceland’s otherworldly landscapes—think volcanic fields, rugged coastlines, and distant peaks like Hvannadalshnjukur. The guide’s storytelling adds context, making the scenery even more vivid.

The Stops En Route

Your first stop at Hvolsvollur serves as a brief comfort break — ideal for stretching your legs and grabbing a snack (own expense). The guide will share snippets about Eyjafjallajökull, the volcano that famously disrupted European air travel in 2010, adding a bit of volcanic drama to your day. It’s a quick but interesting look at Iceland’s volcanic activity.

Next, you’ll visit Skogafoss, one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls. Standing at 60 meters (197 feet), Skogafoss offers a thunderous spectacle and a chance to walk right up to the cascade’s base, or even climb alongside it for a panoramic view. Reviewers noted that “the waterfalls are always a crowd-pleaser,” but also appreciated the legend that a treasure chest might be hidden behind Skogafoss, giving it a bit of mystical charm.

Following this, a longer lunch stop at Freysnes provides a much-needed break. While the tour doesn’t include food, there’s time to purchase snacks or a meal, giving travelers a chance to refuel before heading further east.

Approaching Jokulsarlon

After lunch, the scenery shifts dramatically as you pass Skaftafell National Park and the striking black sand beaches. These landscapes, often seen in Icelandic films, are perfect for snapping photos of volcanic sands intermingled with the icy blue of glaciers. This stretch is a favorite among reviewers, many of whom mention the rugged beauty and the contrast of black sand with icy white.

The highlight of the day arrives at Jökulsárlón, a vast, tranquil lagoon filled with ancient icebergs that have broken off from Vatnajokull Glacier. Covering over seven square miles, the lagoon’s floating sculptures are estimated to be 1,000 to 1,500 years old, offering a glimpse into the slow but relentless forces shaping Iceland’s landscape.

Many travelers, like Ivy, raved about the boat cruise: “It was beautiful to see the glaciers and be able to touch an 800-year-old ice,” she said. The 30-minute ride is a chance to get close-up views of the drifting ice formations and learn about how they melt and move through the water. The experience is often described as surreal — especially when the iceberg fragments crack and shift.

The Black Sand Beaches and Vík

Next, a stop at Diamond Beach reveals a surreal sight — ice chunks washed up onto shimmering black sands, creating a stark, photogenic contrast. This spot feels almost otherworldly, and many reviews highlight how spectacular it is, especially when the light hits the ice just right.

In Vík, the charming coastal village, travelers can grab a quick dinner or snack, soak in the dramatic cliffs, and enjoy the crashing Atlantic waves. The reviews often mention how Vík’s black sand beaches and towering cliffs are visually stunning, perfect for a brief pause before the final stops.

The Final Stops: Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss

On the way back to Reykjavik, you visit Seljalandsfoss, a waterfall famous for its walk-behind trail. If weather permits, you’ll get the chance to stand behind the cascading water — a unique view that many say is worth the drizzle. It’s one of those iconic Icelandic sights that makes a perfect photo backdrop.

The tour concludes with a final stop at Skogafoss, giving travelers a last chance to capture the powerful falls or simply soak in the landscape before heading back to Reykjavik.

The Practical Side: What You Need to Know

Transportation: The tour uses a comfortable, air-conditioned coach, ideal for long hours in the vehicle. The group size is capped at 45, which balances social interaction and comfort.

Timing: Starting at 7:30 am, the tour ends back in Reykjavik around 10 pm — quite a long day but packed with sights. The 14.5-hour schedule includes multiple stops, some of which are brief, so plan for that.

Price & Value: At $261, this trip offers a lot: guided commentary, a boat cruise, transportation, and a selection of iconic destinations. Many reviewers felt it offered good value, especially given the comprehensive itinerary and expert guides like Gunnar, who provided interesting facts and kept the group engaged.

Weather & Clothing: Iceland’s weather can change rapidly. Travelers are advised to dress warmly, including layers, hats, and rain gear. The tour operates in cold conditions, which makes layering essential.

Booking & Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance allows flexibility if plans change, a helpful feature for spontaneous travelers.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Many reviews mention the knowledgeable guides as a standout feature. Gunnar, in particular, was praised for his detailed and engaging commentary, making even long stretches between stops interesting. “He made the journey feel like a story,” said one happy traveler.

Participants appreciated the scenic diversity, from the thunderous waterfalls to the vast glacial lagoon and dramatic black sand beaches. The boat cruise at Jökulsárlón is often cited as the most memorable part, with travelers touching 800-year-old ice or watching icebergs crack apart.

Some reviewers pointed out that the day feels rushed at times — a consequence of a packed schedule. However, most agreed that the value for money is excellent given the number of sights covered, and that it’s a fantastic way to see Iceland’s diverse landscape in one go.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for adventurous travelers who don’t mind a long day on the road but want a full immersion into Iceland’s spectacular natural scenery. If you’re eager to see waterfalls, glaciers, beaches, and volcanic landscapes in a single day, this tour checks all those boxes.

It’s also perfect for those who enjoy guided stories and insights, since the guides are praised for their knowledge. If you’re a photographer, you’ll love the variety of landscapes and photo stops.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or longer time at specific sites, this might feel a little rushed. And it’s not for travelers who dislike early mornings or long bus rides.

Final Words

This tour offers a rich, all-in-one experience of South Iceland’s most famous sights, with the highlight being the iceberg-filled Jokulsarlón and its boat cruise. The combination of stunning scenery, engaging guides, and good value for money make it a worthwhile choice for many.

While the schedule is packed, the variety of stops ensures you don’t get bored, and the memories of drifting among ancient icebergs and rushing waterfalls will stay with you long after the trip ends. For those seeking an immersive day of Iceland’s natural wonders, this tour is tough to beat.

FAQs

How early does the tour start?
The tour begins at 7:30 am from the BSÍ Bus Terminal or select hotels in Reykjavik.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes transportation, a guided commentary in English, and a 30-minute boat cruise on Jökulsárlón. Food and drinks are not included but can be purchased during stops.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but the long hours and bus ride might be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues.

Can I walk behind Seljalandsfoss?
Yes, weather permitting, you’ll have the opportunity to walk behind the waterfall for a different perspective.

How long is the boat cruise?
The boat ride lasts approximately 30 minutes, offering close-up views of the floating icebergs.

Are there rest stops along the way?
Yes, there are two main stops for comfort and brief sightseeing, plus longer stops in Vík and at other scenic points.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly, in layers, including rain gear and hats, especially since Iceland’s weather can change quickly.

How is the group size managed?
The tour limits the group to 45 guests, balancing social interaction and comfort.

What about the weather?
The tour operates in cold conditions, so be prepared for potentially chilly and rainy weather.

How do I cancel if needed?
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, allowing some flexibility if your plans change.

In summary, this tour is a fantastic way to see some of Iceland’s most iconic sights in one day, especially for those eager to experience glaciers, waterfalls, and volcanic landscapes without the hassle of planning multiple trips. The combination of natural beauty, knowledgeable guides, and the unforgettable boat cruise makes it a compelling choice for a full Icelandic adventure.