2-Day Highlights of Iceland | Intro to the Land of Ice and Fire

If you’re planning a quick but comprehensive trip to Iceland, this 2-Day Highlights of Iceland tour offers an appealing way to see some of the country’s most iconic sights without breaking the bank. It’s designed for those who want to get a taste of Iceland’s wild beauty, with visits to waterfalls, glaciers, geothermal areas, and black sand beaches—all in just two days.

What we really like about this tour is that it keeps costs reasonable by opting for a group experience, while still providing the convenience of hotel pickup, comfortable transportation, and overnight accommodation with breakfast. Plus, it’s operated by a company with a solid reputation, and the high ratings suggest travelers find it both enjoyable and well-organized.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that this is a summer-only tour, which is not clearly stated upfront here but affects whether you’ll visit certain sites or experience the weather as intended. For travelers who prefer a structured, guided trip that hits all the major highlights in a manageable timeframe, this could be a good fit. It’s especially suited for those with a limited schedule or for first-time visitors wanting a broad overview of southern Iceland’s most photogenic spots.

Key Points

• Efficient two-day itinerary covers top sights like waterfalls, glaciers, geysers, and black sand beaches.
• Comfort and convenience are prioritized with hotel pickup, overnight stay, and included breakfast.
• Small-group size (max 19 travelers) allows for a more personal experience and easier movement at busy sites.
• Knowledgeable guides are frequently praised for their stories, safety, and ability to keep the group on schedule.
• Good value, considering transportation, accommodations, and entrance fees are included for the price.
• Weather-dependent, as Icelandic weather can be unpredictable and may impact some stops.

Let’s walk through what you can expect from this tour, from the highlights of the trip to some potential caveats.

Day 1: Waterfalls, Glaciers, and Black Sand Beaches

Seljalandsfoss – A Waterfall You Can Walk Behind

The day starts with Seljalandsfoss, one of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls. It plunges about 60 meters off the side of the Eyjafjallajokull volcano, making it an awe-inspiring sight. The real magic? During summer, you can walk behind it, offering a unique vantage point and some fantastic photo opportunities.

Travellers say, “Filip was an excellent guide and was very good at keeping us on time so we could spend the maximum amount of time at each stop.” This means your experience at Seljalandsfoss isn’t rushed, and you get to soak in the view and take plenty of pics.

Gljufrabui Waterfalls – The Hidden Gem

Next, the tour takes you to a less obvious but equally stunning waterfall, Gljufrabui. It’s tucked inside a cave, so most visitors miss it unless they know where to look. Locally, it’s considered a hidden gem—something that makes this trip special for those who love discovering secret spots.

Skogafoss – The Iconic Waterfall

Then comes Skogafoss, arguably Iceland’s most recognizable waterfall. At 60 meters high, it’s often draped in rainbows thanks to the spray. The best part? You can climb the stairs to get an overhead view, which many find rewarding. Tour reviews highlight that guides were able to optimize timing here, ensuring travelers get plenty of time to marvel at its raw power.

Solheimajokull Glacier – A Glimpse of Ice

From waterfalls, the tour moves on to Solheimajokull Glacier, part of the larger Myrdalsjokull ice cap. You won’t be trekking on the ice itself, but a viewing platform allows for spectacular panoramic shots of the glacier’s size and icy surface.

Dyrholaey and Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach – Dramatic Coastal Views

The day concludes at Dyrholaey, a striking peninsula with towering stacks and sea arches overlooking Reynisfjara’s famous black sand beach. Here, you’ll get sweeping views in every direction.

Finally, Reynisfjara lives up to its reputation: volcanic sands, basalt columns, and sea stacks of Reynisdrangar. Watch out for the Atlantic waves—powerful and unpredictable, so always heed safety instructions.

“The waterfalls were amazing and the island over black beach was an unexpected delightful surprise,” a traveler noted, emphasizing the surprise element of this stunning coastline.

Day 2: Geothermal Wonders, Volcanic Craters, and Geysers

Geothermal Park in Hveragerdi – Earth’s Heat in Action

Day two begins with a visit to Hveragerdi, a geothermal area where bubbling hot springs and steaming vents are on full display. The tour includes Eilífur Geysir, erupting every 15-20 minutes, so you’ll see a lively display of nature’s power.

And if you’re a foodie, you’ll love trying hverabrauð, geothermal bread baked right in the hot earth, plus a quick visit to the greenhouse to see bananas growing in this unusual environment. It’s rare to experience geothermal energy in such an immersive way.

Kerid Crater – A Volcanic Eye-Catcher

Next is the Kerid Crater, a 3,000-year-old volcanic depression filled with vivid red and green colors. It’s about 55 meters deep—an ideal spot for photos and a quick walk around the rim. Many travelers say this stop helps connect you with Iceland’s volcanic past in a very tangible way.

Gullfoss – The Golden Waterfall

The Gullfoss waterfall is a highlight, unleashing a powerful cascade that’s often shrouded in mist. It’s a classic Icelandic sight that offers a real sense of the country’s raw, unspoiled nature.

Haukadalur Geyser Field – The Geysir and Strokkur

You’ll get to see the famous Geysir hot spring area, home to Strokkur, which erupts every few minutes up to 30 meters high. Travelers often comment on how impressive it is to witness such active geothermal displays.

Þingvellir National Park – Where History Meets Nature

The tour wraps up at Þingvellir, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s not just a pretty park but also the historic site of Iceland’s old parliament. Here, tectonic plates are visible, making it fascinating for geology buffs and history lovers alike.

“Our guide Jonas was the best noticing everybody and taking care of people’s safety and comfort,” a reviewer shared, highlighting the attentive guidance at this stop.

Accommodations and Transportation

Your overnight stay is arranged at a hotel in Hveragerði, a charming town with a geothermal vibe. Travelers report that the hotel was “lovely,” with some exploring the town in the evening. The included breakfast lets you start the day energized for more sightseeing.

Transportation is via air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi onboard, making the long drives comfortable and connected. Pickup and drop-off are included within Reykjavik, which relieves stress about logistics.

At $429 per person, this tour offers a decent balance of cost and experience. It includes most major entrance fees—hot springs, geothermal park, and crater—and the hotel stay, which simplifies planning. The small-group size and knowledgeable guides add to the overall value, making it easier to ask questions and get personal insights.

Many reviews mention the guides’ enthusiasm and attention to safety, especially in Iceland’s sometimes challenging weather. “Vlad and Mika were so funny and informative throughout,” one traveler noted, which hints at the friendly atmosphere created on the tour.

That said, the experience depends on weather, which can be unpredictable in Iceland. Some reviews mention less-than-ideal weather impacting the stops, but the guides are praised for reworking the itinerary to make the best of it. It’s wise to have flexible expectations and check the weather forecast beforehand.

This tour suits travelers who want an organized, hassle-free way to see Iceland’s highlights without the stress of planning logistics themselves. It’s perfect for those who appreciate a small-group setting and enjoy learning from guides with local knowledge. If you’re eager to see waterfalls, glaciers, and geothermal sites in a short time, this is a solid choice.

However, if you prefer more solitude or specific activities like glacier hiking or exploring off-the-beaten-path spots, this tour might feel a bit limited. It’s also not designed for those seeking luxury accommodations or a more flexible schedule.

This 2-Day Highlights of Iceland tour offers a well-rounded, accessible introduction to Iceland’s most photogenic and iconic sights. The combination of stunning landscapes, knowledgeable guides, and included accommodations makes it a good pick for travelers with limited time.

While it’s not a deep-dive experience, it hits the essential photo stops, introduces you to Iceland’s geothermal energy, and offers a taste of its natural magic—all without overwhelming complexity or cost.

If you’re looking for a straightforward, engaging way to experience Iceland’s south coast and Golden Circle, this tour is worth considering. It’s especially suitable if you enjoy guided experiences and want to leave the planning and logistics to someone else.

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour is geared toward general travelers and doesn’t specify being family-friendly, but it involves a fair amount of walking and outdoor exposure. Kids who enjoy nature and are comfortable with long days outside should be fine, but check with the provider if you have concerns about age restrictions.

What’s included in the price?
The tour price includes hotel pickup and drop-off within Reykjavik, transportation, overnight accommodation with breakfast, entry to the geothermal park and bakery, and most site admissions like the crater and geothermal area.

Are meals provided during the tour?
No, only breakfast is included. Food and drinks beyond that are your responsibility, so plan accordingly.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations are free if you do so at least 24 hours in advance. If the weather causes cancellation, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What’s the group size?
The maximum number of travelers on this tour is 19, which helps keep the experience personal and manageable.

Do I need to bring swimwear?
Swimwear isn’t included and isn’t necessary unless you plan to use a hot spring or swimming pool at your hotel.

Is this tour available year-round?
No, it’s primarily a summer tour, so certain stops or weather conditions may vary outside of warmer months.

If you’re after a convenient, well-organized snapshot of Iceland’s south coast with a comfortable group, this tour makes it straightforward. It’s excellent for those new to Iceland or travelers wanting to tick off multiple must-see spots in just two days, all while enjoying the company of friendly guides and fellow explorers.