From Reykjavik: Glacier Lagoon and Fjaðrárgjúfur Canyon Tour

Imagine a day spent exploring one of Iceland’s most iconic landscapes, packed with glaciers, waterfalls, and black-sand beaches—all with a knowledgeable guide to point out the hidden gems. That’s what this 15-hour guided tour promises, taking you from Reykjavik into the heart of Iceland’s dramatic south coast.

What we love about this experience? First, the chance to see Europe’s largest glacier and the unforgettable Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. Then, walking along Diamond Beach, where icebergs glisten on black sand—truly a photographer’s paradise. Lastly, the variety of stops that combine iconic sights with lesser-known treasures, all in a small-group setting that feels more personalized.

A potential drawback? The long hours involved, as this is a full-day trip, but most reviews agree the scenery and stories make it worth every minute. If you’re not a fan of lengthy travel days, this might be a bit tiring but still rewarding.

This tour works best for travelers looking for a comprehensive, hassle-free way to experience Iceland’s south coast in comfort, without the stress of driving or planning multiple stops yourself.

Good To Know

• Small-group format means more intimacy and personalized attention from your guide.
• Incredible scenery at Jökulsárlón Lagoon, Diamond Beach, and Fjadrargljufur Canyon.
• Educational guides share fascinating stories about Icelandic geography, history, and folklore.
• Long but rewarding day with plenty of stops, photo opportunities, and insights.
• Seasonal highlights include the Northern Lights in winter and the canyon in summer.
• Comfortable transportation in modern minibuses makes the long drive manageable.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring Iceland’s South Coast in Comfort

This tour offers a fantastic way to see the highlights of Iceland’s south coast without the hassle of renting a car or navigating unfamiliar roads. You’ll travel in a comfortable minibus with a maximum of 19 passengers, which keeps the experience intimate and allows for more interaction with your guide.

Most travelers mention the professional and friendly guides, like Gummi and Ian, who not only keep the journey engaging with their stories but also ensure safety during unpredictable weather or minor vehicle issues, as one reviewer recounted their guide fixing a tire quickly and seamlessly.

Itinerary Breakdown: Why Each Stop Matters

Pickup and Early Drive

You’ll be picked up from over 47 convenient locations in Reykjavik, including hotels and bus stops. This makes it easy to join the tour without extra fuss. The pickup time is between 7:30 and 8:00 AM, so prepare for a very early start, but that’s part of the adventure—making the most of daylight or winter darkness.

The initial drive offers scenic views of the lush Icelandic farmland, rugged coastlines, and traditional farmsteads, setting the tone for the day ahead. One review mentions the bus being “very roomy,” which helps with comfort during the long hours.

Víkurkirkja and Reynisdrangar Seastacks

Your first stop is at Víkurkirkja, a charming church perched on a hill with sweeping views of the ocean. From here, you’ll see the legendary Reynisdrangar seastacks, which are said to be trolls turned to stone—an Icelandic folklore favorite. Travelers appreciate this as a perfect photo opportunity and a glimpse into local legends.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Fjadrargljufur Canyon (Summer Season)

If visiting in summer, you’ll get to walk along this spectacular “feather” canyon, made famous by Justin Bieber’s music video. The canyon’s dramatic cliffs and winding river make it a favorite for nature lovers. Some reviews highlight the canyon as a “must-see,” though it’s only accessible in the warmer months.

Foss á Síðu Waterfall

This waterfall offers a chance to see nature’s power up close. The wind often lifts the falling water, creating an almost surreal uphill spray. It’s a quick stop but one appreciated for the opportunity to snap some photos and feel the mist.

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

The highlight for many: Jökulsárlón is a surreal landscape of floating icebergs, majestic glaciers, and playful seals. One reviewer described it as “breathtaking,” and many mention the peaceful, almost otherworldly vibe. The lagoon provides options to walk along the shore, take photos, or even hop on an amphibian boat (extra cost) for an up-close view of the ice.

Diamond Beach

Right across from the lagoon, this black sand beach is littered with ice chunks that shimmer like diamonds—hence the name. Some guests share it’s “stunning,” especially when the ice contrasts sharply against the dark sand. Even if the weather isn’t perfect, the scenery remains striking.

Hof Turf Church and Return Stops

On the way back, you’ll visit the traditional Hof Turf Church, built with turf and reminiscent of hobbit homes. It’s a charming way to experience Icelandic architecture and hear the stories behind it.

Vik and Seljalandsfoss

In Vik, enjoy a break with options for local food—many rave about the black dough pizza and lamb soup. Then, visit Seljalandsfoss, a waterfall you can actually walk behind. Though some say it can be crowded, the experience is uniquely magical.

Final Leg and Northern Lights (Winter)

The return trip in winter often includes the chance to see the Northern Lights, weather permitting. Multiple reviews praised guides for their efforts to spot the aurora, with some lucky travelers witnessing this magnificent display at the end of their day.

The Experience: What Sets This Tour Apart

Knowledgeable Guides and Personal Touches

Reviewers consistently mention guides like Gummi and Ian, who go beyond just pointing out the sights. They share stories, local legends, and personal insights that make each stop more meaningful. One reviewer noted Gummi’s “fabulous stories” and extra effort to show a glacier not on the plan, which made the trip memorable.

Seamless Logistics and Comfort

The tour handles all transportation logistics, leaving you free to focus on the scenery. With pickup from convenient locations and timed stops designed for optimal photos and rest, it makes the long drive feel less tiresome. The bus’s modern amenities, including USB ports for charging, help keep everyone connected and comfortable.

Flexibility and Seasonal Variations

In summer, the canyon and daylight hours allow for extra exploration, while winter offers the magic of possibly catching the Northern Lights. Several reviewers highlight the flexibility of the itinerary, thanks to attentive guides who adapt to weather conditions or suggest alternative stops.

Value for Money

At around 15 hours, this tour packs an incredible amount of sights into one day. While it’s a long trip, most consider it good value considering the inclusions: expert guides, transport, and all the stops. Food isn’t included, but the stop in Vik for local food options is well appreciated.

Practical Considerations

• Duration: Be prepared for a 14-16 hour day, which can be tiring but also very rewarding.
• Weather: Icelandic weather can be unpredictable. Pack waterproof gear, warm layers, and sturdy shoes, especially if visiting in winter.
• Child Seats: If traveling with children, note that child seats/boosters are required by law, and you should notify the company if needed.
• Minimum Participants: The tour requires at least six people to operate, so check availability if traveling solo or in small groups.
• Seasonal Highlights: In winter, the Northern Lights might appear; in summer, Fjadrargljufur canyon is accessible.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers an excellent way to see Iceland’s south coast in a single day without the hassle of driving yourself. The combination of breathtaking landscapes, engaging guides, and seamless logistics makes it a compelling choice for travelers wanting to check off major sights efficiently.

If you’re after a well-organized, informative, and scenic day trip that balances iconic spots with hidden gems, this experience fits the bill. The small-group setting ensures a more personal and flexible experience, making it ideal for those who enjoy storytelling and authentic insights into Icelandic culture and nature.

However, be prepared for a long day and variable weather. Packing the right gear and bringing a sense of adventure will ensure you get the most out of every stop and view.

This tour is best suited for curious travelers who want a comprehensive, guided experience with plenty of opportunities for fantastic photos, stories, and awe-inspiring scenery. Whether it’s your first trip to Iceland or a repeat visit, these sights are unlikely to disappoint.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 15 hours, from early morning pickup to late evening drop-off, making for a full but rewarding day.

What is included in the tour?
You get transportation in a modern minibus, a professional guide providing live commentary, and pickup and drop-off from designated locations.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but there are stops in Vik where you can purchase local meals, such as lamb soup or black dough pizza.

Is the tour suitable in winter?
Yes, and winter offers the added bonus of the chance to see the Northern Lights if weather conditions are favorable.

What should I bring?
Rain gear, outdoor clothing, sturdy shoes, and layers are highly recommended. It’s also wise to bring a camera, charger, and waterproof accessories.

Can children join?
Yes, but you need to notify the company if you require child seats or boosters, as these are mandatory by Icelandic law.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour company reserves the right to delay, alter, or cancel trips due to unsafe weather conditions but will inform you promptly and offer alternatives if needed.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, as this popular tour fills up quickly, especially in peak seasons. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility.

In summary, this guided tour from Reykjavik offers a well-rounded, immersive trip into Iceland’s stunning south coast, perfect for those who want to see the highlights without the stress of driving. Whether chasing icebergs, waterfalls, or the Northern Lights, you’re in capable hands to make your Iceland adventure truly unforgettable.

You can check if your dates are available here: