3 Day Tour Jokulsarlon – Golden Circle – South Coast – Glacier Hike – Boat Tour

Travelers dreaming of Iceland’s dramatic scenery often face the challenge of choosing the right tour to see the country’s highlights without feeling overwhelmed or rushed. This 3-day tour promises to take you through some of Iceland’s most iconic sights, from lush waterfalls and geysers to ice-capped glaciers and vibrant black sand beaches. Guided by friendly, knowledgeable guides, everything is arranged to make your journey smooth and immersive—so you can relax and soak in the landscape.

What we really like about this experience is how it combines diverse attractions into a manageable schedule, making it ideal for those who want to see a lot without the hassle of planning logistics themselves. Plus, the inclusion of activities like the glacier hike and boat tour adds a memorable touch that sets this apart from more basic sightseeing trips. That said, it’s a fairly active trip with some walking and outdoor adventures, so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with physical activity and variable weather.

One potential consideration is the price—at $969 per person, it’s an investment. However, given that accommodation, breakfast, entry fees, and safety gear are included, it offers solid value for those wanting a comprehensive Iceland experience without the stress of organizing each detail independently. This tour is a good fit for travelers who want a balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and storytelling, especially if they’re eager to see the best of south Iceland in just three days.

Key Points

Rich, Diverse Itinerary: This tour packs in the Golden Circle, waterfalls, glaciers, and glacier lagoon, making sure you see Iceland’s most photogenic and awe-inspiring sights.
All-Inclusive Convenience: Accommodation, breakfasts, entry fees, and safety equipment are included, removing the typical trip-planning headaches.
Small Group Atmosphere: With a maximum of 19 travelers, you get a more personal experience, and guides can focus on your safety and interests.
Active Adventures: The glacier hike and boat tour add a hands-on element, perfect for those who want more than just sightseeing from a bus window.
Excellent Guides: Multiple reviews highlight the guides’ knowledge, humor, and dedication, which greatly enhance the experience.
Value for Money: Considering all activities, transportation, and accommodations, many find this tour offers good value, especially for the variety of sights covered.

A Deep Dive into the Icelandic Adventure

If you’re looking for a trip that covers the essential Icelandic landscapes in a manageable timeframe, this 3-day tour does a solid job. It’s carefully designed to blend iconic sights with some surprises, all with a relaxed pace that allows you to really enjoy each location.

Day 1: The Golden Circle Begins

Your journey kicks off with a drive from Reykjavik to Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its geological significance. Here, you’ll stand where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet—an experience that’s both awe-inspiring and a little surreal. The sense of standing on the boundary of two continents is a huge highlight and offers plenty of photo opportunities.

Next, you head to Geysir, where the eponymous hot spring erupts with impressive force every few minutes. You’ll get to see Strokkur shoot water up to 30 meters high, a natural spectacle that’s both thrilling and educational. This stop also allows time to grab lunch, so you can refuel before the next stop.

The Gullfoss waterfall is next, and it’s easy to see why it’s called the “Golden Waterfall.” With its massive cascades plunging into a rugged canyon, it’s a sight that captures Iceland’s raw power. You might hear visitors mention how it’s both awe-inspiring and humbling—especially when the mist creates rainbows in the sunlight.

Finally, the Kerid Crater adds a volcanic touch. This 3,000-year-old volcanic crater is 55 meters deep and offers a striking contrast with its vivid red and green slopes. Walking around the rim gives you a fresh perspective on Iceland’s volcanic activity.

The day ends in Hveragerði, a town renowned for its greenhouses heated by geothermal energy. It’s a relaxed spot to unwind and witness Iceland’s sustainable use of natural resources.

Day 2: Waterfalls, Glaciers, and Black Sand Beaches

The second day is where the adventure really heats up. It starts with Seljalandsfoss, a waterfall you can walk behind—an experience many reviews called “magical.” Expect to get your camera ready because the spray often creates rainbows in the sunlight. If you’re feeling energetic, the path behind the falls is a fun way to see the rushing water from a different angle.

Close by is Gljufrabui, a hidden waterfall tucked into a cave. It’s a lesser-known spot, so you’ll be among a few others if you’re lucky. Many visitors love the sense of discovering something special and off the beaten path here.

Then comes Skogafoss, one of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls. Its impressive 60-meter drop and frequent rainbows make it a photographer’s dream. Climbing the steps to the top rewards you with a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape—a good workout with a spectacular payoff.

The highlight of the day is the Solheimajokull Glacier. Here, you’ll don safety gear—crampons, helmets, ropes—and walk across the glacier’s blue-ice surface. This guided hike lets you explore crevasses, ice tunnels, and other icy formations, giving a real sense of how glaciers shape the land. Multiple reviews rave about the guide’s energy and knowledge, mentioning that the glacier hike is a real “bucket-list” moment.

Afterward, you’ll visit Reynisfjara, the world-famous black sand beach. The stark basalt columns, pounding waves, and sea stacks create an otherworldly landscape. It’s a great place to linger and marvel at nature’s sculpting powers.

Day 3: From Vík to Jokulsarlon

On the final day, the tour visits Vík, a charming village with sweeping views of its black sand beach and surrounding hills. It’s a quick stop but offers some stunning photo ops.

Next, you’ll see the Eldhraun Lava Field, a vast, moss-covered terrain that looks almost like a moonscape. It’s a stark reminder of Iceland’s volcanic activity—an alien landscape that’s fascinating to walk through.

The tiny Hofskirkja Church is next, with its turf roof and moss-covered surroundings. It’s a glimpse into Icelandic rural life and history, providing a peaceful moment before heading to the main event: Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon.

This iconic location is a photographer’s paradise, with floating icebergs in clear, glacier-fed waters. Many reviews mention how the scenery is constantly changing—ice chunks drift, melt, and are reshaped by the wind and tide. You’ll have ample time to explore, and optional boat tours can get you closer to the icebergs, with chances to see seals. It’s a beautifully tranquil yet awe-inspiring spot that often feels like stepping into a movie set.

Just across the road is Diamond Beach, where ice fragments glisten on black sands, creating a surreal, glittering landscape. It’s the perfect ending to a day full of natural wonders.

Transportation, Group Size, and Comfort

Travel is in a well-maintained Mercedes Sprinter minibus, which many reviewers mention as “top in class” for comfort and reliability. The small group size—max 19 people—means your guide can give personalized attention, share interesting stories, and quickly accommodate spontaneous stops or questions.

The tour includes two nights’ accommodation in cozy guesthouses, with breakfast provided. This setup balances comfort with an authentic Icelandic vibe, making it easier to unwind after days filled with activity.

What We Think About the Price and Overall Value

At nearly $1,000 per person, this tour isn’t cheap, but for everything included—hotel stays, guided glacier walk, boat tour, entrance fees, and safety gear—it’s a reasonable deal. Travelers consistently praise the quality of the guides, the smooth organization, and the variety of sights covered.

Many reviews mention the value they found, with comments like “great guide,” “excellent itinerary,” and “well organized.” The inclusion of activities like the glacier hike and boat tour adds memorable touches that you often pay extra for elsewhere.

The Experience in a Nutshell

This tour is best suited for travelers who want to see Iceland’s highlights without the hassle of self-driving or piecing together a complex itinerary. It caters to those comfortable with some physical activity—like walking and outdoor adventures—and appreciates the convenience of having everything arranged.

The guides’ energy and knowledge shine through, making the experience both informative and fun. Expect stunning scenery, plenty of photo opportunities, and a good mix of adventure and relaxation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While not explicitly advertised as a family tour, the activities are generally suitable for those comfortable with outdoor adventures. Make sure children are prepared for walking and outdoor conditions.

What should I wear for the glacier hike?
Warm, waterproof, windproof clothing is recommended, along with good hiking shoes. If you don’t have appropriate footwear, rental options are available.

Are meals included?
Breakfast is included, but lunch and dinner are not. The tour makes scheduled stops where you can buy food, so plan accordingly.

How long are the stops at each attraction?
Most stops range from 20 to 40 minutes, giving you enough time to explore and take photos without feeling rushed.

What is the group size?
The maximum number of travelers is 19, ensuring a more personal and engaging experience.

What if the weather is bad?
The glacier hike might be canceled if weather or safety conditions aren’t suitable. In such cases, alternative activities or partial refunds are offered.

What time does the tour return to Reykjavik?
Typically around 9:15 pm on Day 3, so be prepared for a full, exciting day.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

If you’re eager to see Iceland’s most stunning natural sights in a short timeframe with expert guidance, this tour offers a well-rounded experience. It’s especially good for travelers who appreciate outdoor activities like glacier hikes and boat rides, and those who want everything organized for them. The small group size and knowledgeable guides make it a comfortable choice, whether you’re visiting solo, as a couple, or with friends.

While it’s on the pricier side, the included activities, accommodations, and expert guiding justify the cost for many. It’s a solid pick for anyone looking for an adventure-packed, hassle-free taste of Iceland’s wild beauty in just three days.

In essence, this tour strikes a balance between adventure and comfort, with a carefully curated itinerary that captures Iceland’s breathtaking landscapes. It’s a great way to tick off many highlights and create lasting memories, especially if you value guided experiences and the chance to explore glaciers and lagoons up close.