Reykjavik: Katla Ice Cave & South Coast Waterfalls Tour

Reykjavik: Katla Ice Cave & South Coast Waterfalls Tour — a detailed look

This full-day tour from Reykjavik takes you on a journey through some of Iceland’s most iconic landscapes, blending the drama of glaciers, waterfalls, and volcanic terrain. While we haven’t done it ourselves, reviews and tour details reveal a well-rounded experience that’s perfect for adventure lovers and natural scenery enthusiasts.

What we love about this tour is the emphasis on exploring authentic Icelandic natural wonders—from the shimmering blue ice within the Katla glacier to the powerful waterfalls Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss. The off-road Super Jeep ride adds a layer of thrill, giving you access to less-trodden paths and panoramic views. The expert guidance with knowledgeable guides truly enhances the experience, ensuring you gain insights into the geology, folklore, and landscape.

However, a possible consideration is the timing and comfort—the journey is long (around 11 hours) and the van size may feel tight if you’re used to more spacious transport. Also, the ice cave visit lasts around an hour, which some might wish was longer. This tour is best suited for travelers who are comfortable with a full day of activity and willing to dress for the weather.

This tour is ideal for those eager to see Iceland’s true natural beauty in one day, especially if you want a balance of adventure, scenery, and expert storytelling.

Good To Know

• Stunning Ice Cave: Explore the vibrant blue interior of Kötlujökull Glacier, with guided insights into its formation and volcanic influences.
• Off-Road Adventure: The Super Jeep ride through rugged terrain offers spectacular views and access to hidden trails.
• Waterfall Highlights: Visit Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss, two of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls, with time for photos and exploration.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides, like Sole and Hawk, share stories, geological facts, and ensure safety, making the experience richer.
• Long but Rewarding Day: At roughly 11 hours, this tour packs in a lot, from early pickup to late drop-off, perfect for dedicated explorers.
• Authentic Icelandic Landscapes: Experience black sand beaches, volcanic ash layers, and glaciers that showcase Iceland’s volcanic activity and glacial history.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Pickup and Early Departure

The tour starts with pickup from one of 22 convenient Reykjavik locations, including major hotels and bus stops. The pickup window can take up to 30 minutes, so being ready on time ensures you don’t miss out. Once underway, the journey begins with a roughly 1.5-hour coach ride south, giving you your first glimpses of Iceland’s rolling landscapes.

Scenic Drive to Hvolsvöllur

The first stop at Hvolsvöllur is a quick 20-minute break. It’s a good chance to stretch, use the facilities, and get ready for the next leg of the trip. From there, the scenery intensifies as you head along the south coast. Expect impressive vistas of volcanic fields, moss-covered lava, and distant glaciers.

Waterfalls: Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss

The iconic Skógafoss waterfall gets about 30 minutes of your time. This mighty cascade, with its 25-meter width and 60-meter drop, is a photographer’s dream. A staircase leads to a viewing platform above, offering panoramic shots of the waterfall and surrounding landscape.

Next, Seljalandsfoss provides a more intimate experience, allowing you to walk behind the fall for a unique perspective. The 25-minute stop here is perfect for snapping pictures and feeling the mist on your face. Reviewers emphasize that these waterfalls are “a must-do,” and are usually enjoyed even if your main focus is the ice cave.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Vik and Black Sand Beach

A visit to Vik introduces travelers to Iceland’s famous black sand beaches. While not officially part of the ice cave tour, many guides, like Sole, go the extra mile to include a stop that features puffins and striking basalt formations. This adds a touch of wildlife and extra scenery, making the day feel more complete.

Mýrdalsjökull & Off-Road Adventure in the Ice Cave Area

The highlight for most is the visit to Mýrdalsjökull and the guided tour of the Katla Ice Cave. The scenic drive through Mýrdalsjökull’s volcanic landscape sets the tone for the exploration. The Super Jeep ride from Vík is a real adrenaline rush, with reviewers noting the “spectacular views” and “off-road thrill.”

Guides like Hawk or Sole are praised for their knowledge, sharing stories about the glacier’s formation, volcanic activity, and the cave’s recent shrinking due to climate change. Inside the ice cave, you’ll see the stunning blue hues, layered ice, and volcanic ash deposits—it’s a surreal experience that many say is worth the effort. One reviewer mentioned that the guide’s humor and storytelling made the glacier visit even more memorable.

The tour within the cave lasts about an hour, which some found a bit short but still a highlight of the day. A review from Denisse noted wishing the tunnel was larger, but praised the guide’s off-road driving and fun atmosphere.

Afternoon & Additional Sightseeing

After exiting the cave, you’ll have time to relax during a 30-minute break back in Vik. The itinerary then continues along the coast, with scenic views and opportunities for photos, capturing the rugged beauty of Iceland’s south.

Final Stops: Waterfalls and Return Journey

Your last stops are at Seljalandsfoss again and the scenic drive back to Reykjavik, which takes around 2 hours. This ensures you get a full day of sightseeing, with the comfort of transportation included.

Drop-off and Reflection

The tour concludes at approximately 11 hours after pickup, with drop-off at one of the 22 designated locations in Reykjavik. Many reviews mention the comfort of the bus and the professionalism of guides, making the long day manageable.

What makes this tour stand out?

The Ice Cave Experience
Visitors consistently praise the spectacular blue ice and the opportunity to walk inside a natural glacier formation. The guides’ knowledge of the glacier’s volcanic origins and the effects of climate change add depth to the visit, turning it from just a pretty sight into an educational experience. Several reviews describe the inside of the cave as “spectacular,” and note that the guide’s humor and storytelling made the experience even more engaging.

The Off-Road Super Jeep Ride
For thrill-seekers, the Super Jeep adventure is a highlight. As one reviewer put it, “the ride with the super jeep was the best part,” thanks to the driver’s skill and the dramatic views of the glacier. The off-road aspect enables access to unspoiled terrain, far from tourist crowds, giving a sense of real exploration.

Waterfalls and Coastal Views
Both Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss are iconic for a reason—they offer awe-inspiring power and beauty in a compact stop. Reviewers love that they get to stand behind the waterfall and feel the spray, and many agree these are some of Iceland’s most photogenic spots.

Expert Guides & Safety
Guides like Sole and Hawk are repeatedly praised for their storytelling, patience, and professionalism. Their insights make the trip educational and fun, especially during the glacier walk and ice cave exploration. Many reviewers mention feeling safe and well-informed throughout.

Value for Money
Considering the inclusion of transportation, multiple scenic stops, the ice cave visit, and a guided glacier tour, the price is seen as reasonable. Reviewers say it provides a comprehensive experience that would be hard to replicate on your own, especially if you don’t have a car or local knowledge.

Practical Tips for Travelers

Dress warmly and waterproof—the weather can change quickly, and you’ll be outside much of the day. Good hiking shoes are recommended, especially for glacier hikes.

Bring a camera and snacks—the scenery is stunning, and you’ll want to capture every moment. The tour provides breaks, but packing a water bottle and some snacks keeps you energized.

Be prepared for a long day—the 11-hour schedule means lots of sightseeing, so patience and stamina will make it more enjoyable.

Altitude and mobility considerations—the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments, and the glacier hike requires good physical condition.

Timing is key—the ice cave visit lasts about an hour, and guides aim to keep to the schedule, but weather or glacier conditions could sometimes affect the itinerary.

Final thoughts: Who is this tour for?

This tour is perfect for travelers craving an active, scenic adventure that combines natural beauty with a touch of thrill. If you’re comfortable with long days on the road and enjoy learning from guides who share stories along the way, you’ll find this experience rewarding.

It’s especially suited for those who want to see multiple highlights in one trip—glaciers, waterfalls, black sand beaches—without the hassle of planning each stop. The inclusion of an ice cave makes it stand out, offering a rare glimpse into Iceland’s icy heart.

While it isn’t ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed, leisurely day or those with mobility issues, it offers excellent value for those eager to explore Iceland’s most dramatic landscapes efficiently.

FAQ

How long is the full-day tour?
The tour lasts approximately 11 hours, from pickup in Reykjavik to drop-off, covering a wide range of sights and activities.

What should I bring?
Bring warm, waterproof clothing, hiking shoes, a camera, snacks, and water. Weather can be unpredictable, so layers are advised.

Is the ice cave visit included?
Yes, you visit the Katla Ice Cave with a guided tour inside, lasting around an hour. The tour includes exploring the cave’s stunning blue ice and volcanic ash layers.

Are there bathroom stops?
Yes, there are scheduled breaks, including a 20-minute stop in Hvolsvöllur and additional rest stops during the day.

Can I book this tour if I have mobility issues?
It’s not recommended for those with mobility impairments due to the glacier hike and uneven terrain.

What is the maximum group size?
While not explicitly stated, reviews mention a 15-seat van, which suggests smaller, more intimate group sizes for a personalized experience.

Is food included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, so bringing snacks or planning to buy lunch is suggested.

In summary, the Reykjavik: Katla Ice Cave & South Coast Waterfalls Tour offers a fantastic combination of natural beauty, adventure, and expert guiding. It’s a day packed with iconic sights, off-the-beaten-path exploration, and memorable stories—all at a price that many find reasonable given the scope of the experience. Perfect for travelers eager to see Iceland’s wild side with knowledgeable guides leading the way.

You can check if your dates are available here: