Reykjavik: Glacier Lagoon Boat Ride & Diamond Beach Day Tour

If you’re eyeing that iconic Iceland experience — think glittering glaciers, thundering waterfalls, and surreal black sand beaches — this tour from Reykjavik promises a packed day of breathtaking sights. It might be long, but for many, the sheer variety and natural beauty make it worth every minute.

What we love about this experience? First, the opportunity to sail among floating icebergs on Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon — an experience that’s as mesmerizing as it sounds. Second, the stunning stops at waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss and Stjórnarfoss, where you can get up close and even walk behind the cascading water. That said, a potential snag is the long travel time — around 14 hours in total — which could be tiring if you prefer more relaxed, shorter trips.

This tour is best suited for travelers eager to see multiple unique Icelandic landscapes in one day and who don’t mind a bit of a marathon journey. It’s a solid pick for those who want a comprehensive taste of Iceland’s south coast without the hassle of planning multiple trips themselves.

Key Points

• Long but rewarding: A 14-hour day that covers a lot of ground with many scenic stops.
• Spectacular scenery: Glacier lagoons, waterfalls, black sand beaches, and volcanic views.
• Boat ride highlight: Sailing among icebergs provides a unique, memorable experience.
• Expert guides: Many reviews praise guides’ knowledge, stories, and enthusiasm.
• Good value: Combines transportation, multiple attractions, and a boat tour for a competitive price.
• Weather-dependent: Some sights, like views of Eyjafjallajökull, depend on good weather.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

Starting the Day: Pickups and Early Mornings

Most travelers will be picked up from their Reykjavik accommodations or arranged meeting points outside the Storm Hotel. The tour kicks off early, which is good because you’ll be covering a lot of territory. The bus itself is described as comfortable, with amenities like WiFi and bathrooms, making the long hours easier to bear.

The Long Journey: Scenic Bus Ride

The drive from Reykjavik to Skaftafell National Park takes around 1.5 hours. Then you’ll continue on for nearly 2.75 hours to reach the first major stop. You’ll pass through sweeping Icelandic landscapes, with many reviews noting how the changing scenery keeps the long bus ride from feeling monotonous. Some travelers mention that the driver and guide add humor and interesting facts, helping the hours fly by.

The First Major Stop: Skaftafell & Lunch

Skaftafell is where you’ll pause for about 45 minutes for lunch. While the description doesn’t specify food options, many travelers find this a good chance to stretch, refuel, and prepare for the next phase of the adventure. It’s also an ideal spot to take in the view of the surrounding glaciers and mountains.

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The Jewel of the Trip: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

This is the star attraction for most visitors. The highlight here is the 30-minute amphibian boat tour among the floating icebergs. Many reviews rave about how magical and unforgettable this experience is. One traveler said, “The glacier lagoon trip is pure magic,” emphasizing how close and personal you can get with the icy chunks.

The lagoon itself is a kaleidoscope of blues and whites, with floating icebergs of various sizes, shapes, and textures. Many mention the chance to see seals lounging among the ice, adding to the charm.

Diamond Beach: Contrasting Colors and Ice Chunks

Just a short drive away, Diamond Beach offers a stark contrast — bright ice chunks scattered on black sand. Travelers often say this is a must-see, with many photographing the surreal scene. The 30-minute stop here allows for some great photos and a chance to walk along the beach, soaking in the otherworldly landscape.

Waterfalls: Seljalandsfoss and Stjórnarfoss

Next, the tour visits two waterfalls, with Seljalandsfoss offering the chance to walk behind the cascade — a hit among visitors who love a bit of adventure. Many reviews point out that these stops, while brief, pack quite a punch. Some say the stops at waterfalls are a bit rushed, but most agree they’re absolutely worth it.

Visiting Vík: The Black Sand Beaches

The charming village of Vík is the last major stop before heading back. Here, you’ll see the black sand beaches and sea stacks that make the area famous. The stop is around 45 minutes, giving you a chance to stretch, take photos, and soak in the scenery.

Return to Reykjavik

The journey back takes about two hours, with some additional shorter stops. Many travelers note that the driver and guide keep the mood light and informative, making the long hours feel more manageable.

The Guides and Transport

Reviewers are consistently complimentary of the guides, describing them as knowledgeable, friendly, and passionate about Iceland. One said, “Jennifer is one of the best guides we’ve had,” highlighting that engaging storytelling and local insights add value to the trip.

The bus is described as comfortable, with WiFi, and is large enough to hold the group without feeling overcrowded. Having bathroom facilities on board is a major plus for such a long trip.

Price and Value

While the exact price isn’t provided here, reviews suggest that the cost is justified by the sheer variety of sights, quality of transportation, and expert guidance. Many mention that the boat ride alone is a highlight worth paying extra for, making the tour a good value overall.

What to Expect: Practical Tips

• Clothing: Dress in weather-appropriate, layered clothing. The Icelandic weather can change quickly, especially near waterfalls and on the boat.
• Footwear: Wear comfortable, waterproof shoes — you’ll be walking behind waterfalls and on black sand beaches.
• Time management: The stops are generally well timed, but some reviews mention that at certain sites, like waterfalls, the time can feel a bit rushed.
• Long day: Prepare for a full 14-hour experience. If you’re prone to fatigue, bring snacks, and plan for rest stops.
• Children: Not suitable for children under 6 years old, so keep that in mind if you’re traveling with little ones.

Weather and Flexibility

Since some views, such as the Eyjafjallajökull volcano, depend on clear weather, be prepared for the possibility of cancellations or limited visibility. The tour provider mentions that delays and cancellations are possible due to weather, but reviews indicate that most trips go ahead successfully.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone eager to see the most iconic sights of Iceland’s south coast in one day and don’t mind a long journey, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s especially suited for those who want a comprehensive experience with expert guides and are comfortable with a busy schedule. It’s not ideal if you prefer a more leisurely pace or shorter excursions.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 6 years old are not permitted on this tour, so it’s best for older kids and teenagers.

How long is the total tour?
The tour lasts approximately 14 hours, including travel, stops, and sightseeing.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are essential. Packing waterproof gear can help, especially for the boat ride.

Is the boat ride among icebergs worth it?
Absolutely. Many reviews describe the boat tour as magical and unforgettable, with some calling it the highlight of the trip.

Are meals included?
Lunch is available at Skaftafell, but the tour doesn’t specify if it’s included. Most travelers bring snacks or buy food at stops.

What are the key sights I’ll see?
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Diamond Beach, Seljalandsfoss, Stjórnarfoss waterfalls, Vík’s black sand beaches, and potentially views of Eyjafjallajökull volcano if weather permits.

How crowded does it get?
The group size is comfortable, and the bus is described as spacious. Some stops can be busy, but guides do their best to manage time.

What if the weather is bad?
Some parts of the tour are weather-dependent. If conditions aren’t clear, certain views may be limited, but many travelers still find the experience rewarding.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers some flexibility for last-minute changes.

Final Thoughts

This tour from Reykjavik offers an excellent way to tick off Iceland’s south coast highlights without the stress of self-driving. You’ll get a full day of changing landscapes, from icebergs to waterfalls, with knowledgeable guides making the experience richer and more engaging. The boat ride in particular is a standout, offering a rare chance to be surrounded by floating ice in a peaceful, surreal setting.

While the length and pace may not suit everyone, the reviews strongly suggest that for those who enjoy well-organized, scenic adventures, this is a fantastic option. It’s especially ideal for anyone wanting to see multiple sights in one go or who is pressed for time but still wants a comprehensive Iceland experience.

If you’re prepared for a long day and curious about the natural beauty that makes Iceland so special, this tour will likely leave you with memories to cherish for years. Just remember to pack layers, bring your camera, and get ready for one of the most scenic days you’ll have in Iceland.

Happy travels, and enjoy the magic of Iceland’s south coast!

You can check availability for your dates here: