2 Day Summer Iceland Tour to South Coast

If you’re eyeing a trip to Iceland and want to see some of the most breathtaking natural sights without spending weeks on the road, a 2-day summer tour to the South Coast might be just what you need. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, I’ve studied the details and reviews to give you a clear picture of what to expect. It’s a package that promises wild waterfalls, icy adventures, and stunning coastal scenery.

What I really like about this tour is how it combines a mix of scenic stops with active adventures—you’re not just looking at pretty pictures; you’re actively engaging at places like glaciers and canyons. Plus, the knowledgeable guides seem to make a difference, sharing insights that turn a good trip into a memorable one. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that with busy seasons in July and August, the tour fills up quickly, so early booking is smart. This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive, well-organized experience but are okay with some late dinners and a packed schedule.

If you’re someone who craves dramatic landscapes, outdoor activities, and expert guidance, this tour could be a great fit. It’s also practical for those who prefer to travel in small groups, ensuring a more personal experience. Let’s break down what makes this experience worth considering—and what you should keep in mind.

Key Points

• All-inclusive experiences include transportation, glacier gear, and a boat trip, offering convenience and value.
• A well-rounded itinerary covers waterfalls, glaciers, beaches, and canyons, giving you varied scenery.
• The guide team is praised for their knowledge, adding depth to the adventure.
• Accommodation is included for one night, typically in a 3-star hotel, providing a comfortable rest after a day of exploring.
• Timing and booking are important: July and August are busy months, so plan ahead.
• Dinners are late, around 8 or 9 pm, so packing snacks might be helpful.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: More Than Just Sightseeing

This two-day journey is structured to maximize your time exploring Iceland’s south without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. From the moment you’re picked up in Reykjavik, the adventure begins with a scenic drive towards some of Iceland’s most iconic natural attractions.

Day 1: Waterfalls, Glaciers, and Black Sand Beaches

The first stop is Seljalandsfoss, a waterfall you can actually walk behind. It’s a sight that often leaves visitors speechless, and being able to stand behind the cascading water offers a perspective you won’t forget. Next, you’ll visit Gljufrabui, another waterfall tucked into a canyon—less crowded but equally stunning.

From there, it’s onto Skogafoss, one of Iceland’s most famous falls, with a roaring width and height that makes for impressive photos. It’s often said to be one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the country, and many reviews mention the thrill of the sound and spray.

The Reynisfjara black sand beach caps off the day with its dramatic basalt columns and powerful Atlantic waves. It’s a place that often evokes awe, and the contrast of black sands against white foam is truly striking. Just a heads-up: the weather can be gusty and unpredictable here, so dress accordingly.

The highlight of day one is the glacier hike on Solheimajokull. With professional guides and all safety equipment provided, you get to venture onto the ice—an experience that’s both exhilarating and humbling. Multiple reviews praise the guides’ expertise, with one mentioning how they “made the experience accessible and safe for everyone.”

After a full day, you’ll check into a cozy hotel, typically located between Vik and Hofn, giving you a well-earned rest and a chance to explore the area a bit more if time allows.

Day 2: Glacial Wonders and Coastal Marvels

Day two ramps up with visits to Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon. This floating ice wonderland is breathtaking—massive chunks of ice drift lazily in the water, creating a surreal landscape. The boat trip on the lagoon offers an up-close view of the icebergs, which many say is worth every extra minute. A review notes, “Seeing the icebergs from the boat gave a perspective I couldn’t get from just walking around.”

Just nearby is Diamond Beach, where the ice chunks wash ashore, sparkling like diamonds on the black sand. It’s a place to soak in the contrast of fire and ice, and many travelers find it to be one of the most photogenic spots on the tour.

Further stops include Eldhraun Lava Fields, a sprawling expanse of moss-covered lava, and Fjadrargljufur Canyon, which offers dramatic views from its rim. The Bridge of the Volcanoes is another point of interest, showcasing Iceland’s volcanic activity and geological history.

By late afternoon, you’ll be headed back to Reykjavik, passing once more through Vik, where you might squeeze in a quick additional look or photo. Expect a late dinner, around 8 or 9 pm, so bringing snacks is advisable if you’re hungry earlier.

Transportation, Guides, and Overall Value

The tour uses private transportation, making for a comfortable ride through Iceland’s varied terrain. The group is limited to 17 participants, which helps maintain a friendly, less crowded atmosphere. The guides are described as adventure-loving and knowledgeable, often going beyond the basics to share insights that enrich the experience. One review even says, “David the Guide’s team truly cares about making your trip memorable.”

The price of $590 per person includes most essentials: transport, glacier safety equipment, the boat tour, and a night in a 3-star hotel with breakfast. It’s a fair value considering the variety of activities, the expert guides, and the included gear—all of which save you from additional costs or hassle.

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What’s Not Included?

You’ll need to cover your own meals, drinks, and snacks. The schedule features late dinners, so packing some snacks can keep hunger at bay. Also, be aware that there’s a single supplement fee if you’re traveling solo, payable directly to the company.

Important Practicalities

Dress in layers—the weather can change quickly—and bring hiking shoes, a jacket, and gloves. Sandals or flip-flops aren’t allowed, which is good advice given the terrain. The minimum age is 8, making this suitable for families with children who meet the age requirement, but not for pregnant women or those with mobility issues.

Real-World Experiences and Traveler Insights

According to reviews, travelers really appreciated the expert guidance—many mention how guides made the trip enjoyable and educational. One said, “The guides’ knowledge made the stunning scenery even more special,” while others highlighted how the views exceeded expectations, especially at Jokulsarlon and Diamond Beach.

Some found the schedule demanding, especially with late dinners and long days, but most agreed that the scenery and activities made it worthwhile. “It’s a busy schedule, but every stop is worth it,” one reviewer noted, emphasizing the value of seeing so much in just two days.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers who want a comprehensive snapshot of Iceland’s South Coast in a short time. If you love outdoor activities, stunning landscapes, and guided tours with knowledgeable hosts, you’ll likely find this well worth it. It’s not tailored for those with mobility challenges or who prefer a more leisurely pace, but for most fit travelers, it offers a dynamic and memorable journey.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day summer tour offers a well-curated mix of Iceland’s most iconic sights and active adventures. With professional guides, cozy accommodations, and a variety of stops, it’s a strong choice for travelers eager to see the South Coast without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

While the schedule is packed—dinners are late and the days are long—the payoff is the chance to experience waterfalls, glaciers, ice lagoons, and black sand beaches in just a weekend. If you’re looking for a balanced, reliable, and visually stunning way to explore southern Iceland, this tour ticks many boxes.

It’s best suited for those who appreciate guided tours, small groups, and a mix of sightseeing and outdoor fun. Just remember to book early in high season, pack warm and comfortable clothing, and bring snacks for the late nights. This tour truly captures the wild, beautiful essence of Iceland’s south.

FAQ

Is food included in the tour?
No, meals and snacks are not included, but there are stops for meals. Dinners tend to be late (8 or 9 pm), so packing some snacks is recommended.

What is the minimum age to participate?
The minimum age is 8 years old, making it suitable for families with older children.

Are accommodations included?
Yes, you’ll stay one night in a 3-star hotel with breakfast included, typically located between Vik and Hofn.

What should I bring?
Dress in layers, wear hiking shoes, and bring a jacket and gloves. Avoid sandals or flip-flops.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, private transportation is provided, and the group size is limited to 17 participants for a more personal experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, but a single supplement fee applies if you’re traveling alone, payable directly to the company.

Does the tour include glacier hiking?
Yes, you’ll get a guided hike on Solheimajokull Glacier with all necessary safety equipment.

Is this tour good for photography?
Absolutely. The stops at waterfalls, ice lagoons, and beaches are all highly photogenic, providing fantastic photo opportunities.

If you’re ready for a short but intensely scenic adventure that covers Iceland’s iconic South Coast, this tour packs a lot into two days. Just remember to come prepared, book early, and enjoy every moment of this captivating journey.

You can check availability for your dates here: