Reykjavik: South Coast, Diamond Beach, and Jökulsárlón Tour

If you’re dreaming of seeing some of Iceland’s most iconic sights without the hassle of planning every detail yourself, this guided tour along the south coast might be just what you need. It’s a long day — around 14 hours — but packed with sights that make the journey more than worth it. From waterfalls to glaciers, black sand beaches to icebergs, this trip promises a comprehensive taste of Iceland’s natural beauty.

What we really like about this experience is how well-organized it appears to be, with a good mix of driving, stops, and free time at major attractions. Plus, the guide’s knowledge and the comfortable bus setup seem to bring a lot of value to the day. On the flip side, it is a quite lengthy trip, which could be tiring for some. However, if you’re a fan of landscapes and don’t mind long travel days, this is a solid pick.

This tour is particularly suited for travelers who want to maximize their sightseeing without the stress of transportation or planning. It’s a great choice if you’re visiting Iceland and want a taste of the south coast’s highlights, especially if time is limited. Just be prepared for a long day, and you’ll come away with some unforgettable images and stories.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covers waterfalls, glaciers, and beaches, giving a well-rounded Iceland experience.
• Expert guides provide insightful commentary about the landscapes and culture, enhancing the trip’s value.
• Comfortable transportation with free WiFi makes the long day easier and more connected.
• Value for money — at $187, considering the stops and guided experience, it’s quite reasonable.
• Free time at major spots like Jökulsárlón and Diamond Beach allows for personal exploration and photography.
• Long but rewarding — expect a 14-hour day, so comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are key.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Real Deal: What to Expect on This Tour

This tour from Gray Line Iceland is designed to take you along the south coast, showcasing some of Iceland’s most photogenic and awe-inspiring sights. It starts early from Reykjavik — your pickup location will depend on the option you select, usually from the Reykjavík Terminal or hotels nearby. The journey is broken up with several stops, offering a good balance between sightseeing and rest.

Transportation and Comfort

The tour is conducted on a climate-controlled bus, which is a definite plus on those unpredictable Icelandic days. It’s equipped with free WiFi, so you can scroll through photos, check maps, or just enjoy the views in real-time. The bus’s comfort level is generally appreciated, especially on such a long trip, with many reviews pointing out the clean, modern vehicles and helpful drivers.

The Stops and Sights

Seljalandsfoss is your first major stop — a waterfall famous for the path that lets you walk behind it. It’s a great photo opportunity, and according to reviews, many find it breathtaking. Keep in mind, the stop here is about 20 minutes, so you’ll want to be quick but also take a moment to soak it in.

Next, you’ll pass by the Eyjafjallajökull Volcano, which adds context to Iceland’s volcanic activity — a landscape that’s both beautiful and shaped by fiery pasts. From there, the bus heads to Skógafoss, another stunning waterfall where you can get a closer look and snap some impressive shots. This stop is slightly longer, around 30 minutes, giving you some time to explore or just enjoy the roaring cascade.

Vik is your mid-point break, where you get around 45 minutes for a quick walk, some shopping, or a snack. This small town is situated near the famous black sand beaches, which are not included in the stop but are visible nearby.

Reaching Jökulsárlón and Diamond Beach

The highlight for many travelers is Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. It’s a surreal scene — enormous icebergs slowly drifting toward the ocean, a landscape that has been gradually growing since the early 1900s. You’ll have about 1.5 hours here, giving enough time for photos, a walk along the shore, and soaking in the scenery.

The nearby Diamond Beach is just across the road, where ice chunks wash up on black sand, sparkling in the sunlight like diamonds. Many reviews mention how unforgettable this spot is, with some encouraging an optional boat tour on the lagoon for an extra fee, which can add a different perspective to your visit.

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The Return Journey

After spending time at Jökulsárlón, the bus heads back toward Reykjavik, with about 2.5 hours of travel each way. Along the way, you might enjoy more scenic views and some storytelling from your guide. The tour ends back at your pickup point in Reykjavik, typically late evening.

The Experience Through the Eyes of Travelers

Reviewers consistently praise the trip for its knowledgeable guides who keep the journey engaging and informative. One said, “Karen was an absolutely fantastic guide, her knowledge and entertainment is 1st class.” The guides seem to do a good job balancing facts with humor, making the long day more lively.

Many also mention how breathtaking the scenery is, especially at waterfalls and the glacier lagoon. One reviewer noted, “Diamond Beach was a highlight for sure,” and recommended doing the boat tour if weather permits — a reminder that certain experiences are weather-dependent.

The comfort of the bus and the value for the price also get high marks. As one reviewer put it, “Very comfortable bus and spectacular views,” which makes the lengthy travel easier to handle. Several mention that, although it’s a long day, the experience is truly worthwhile — “long but worth every minute,” as one traveler put it.

Of course, some travelers pointed out the challenges, like the length of the day and the bus being cramped at times, especially if you’re sensitive to long periods of sitting. It’s a full schedule, with a lot of ground covered, so be prepared for that.

Practical Tips for Your Day

• Dress in weather-appropriate layers. Iceland’s weather can shift quickly, and you’ll be outdoors at several stops. Waterproof shoes are a good idea.
• Bring comfortable shoes for walking at stops like Seljalandsfoss and Jökulsárlón.
• Carry a fully charged phone or camera — the scenery is simply too good to miss.
• Plan for a long day — pack snacks or buy them at stops, as food options will be limited on the bus.
• Optional boat tour on Jökulsárlón is extra, but many say it’s worth considering if available.
• Be prepared for a late return — it might be quite a long day, but the sights make up for it.

Is This Tour for You?

This kind of trip is perfect if you’re after a comprehensive, guided experience that covers many of Iceland’s south coast highlights in a single day. It’s especially suited for those who prefer not to drive, want insightful commentary, and value a comfortable ride with amenities like WiFi.

If you’re ok with a long day of travel — and you love nature and photography — you’ll likely find this tour fulfilling. It’s a straightforward way to tick off some of Iceland’s most famous sights without the hassle of self-driving or complicated logistics.

However, if you’re sensitive to long periods on a bus or prefer a more relaxed pace with more time at each stop, you might want to consider shorter or smaller-group options. Still, many reviews confirm that with good guides and stunning scenery, this is a day worth spending.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 14 hours, starting early in the morning and returning in the evening. It’s a full day dedicated to sightseeing and driving.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes transportation on a comfortable bus, an informative guide, and free WiFi onboard. Food, drinks, and the boat tour on Jökulsárlón are extra.

Are there any stops for food?
Yes, there are stops at local restaurants and gas stations along the way, giving you chances to buy meals or snacks.

Can I do the boat tour on Jökulsárlón?
The boat tour is not included but is available at an extra cost during your visit, weather permitting.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not explicitly marketed as a family tour, the stops and scenery can appeal to travelers of all ages. However, be mindful of the long duration.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera are recommended. It’s a good idea to have some snacks for the journey.

Is pickup available from my hotel?
Yes, pickup is offered from most hotels in Reykjavik, starting about 30 minutes prior to departure. Make sure your hotel details are provided in advance.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a solid way to see Iceland’s south coast without the stress of planning or driving. The combination of waterfalls, glaciers, beaches, and vast landscapes packed into one day makes it a memorable experience. The guides seem to enhance the trip with their knowledge and enthusiasm, making long stretches on the bus fly by.

It’s an adventure best suited for travelers who thrive on sightseeing, don’t mind a longer day, and want a guided, all-in-one experience. If you’re after a straightforward way to see Iceland’s iconic natural wonders, this tour is worth considering — especially if you want to focus on the scenery and let someone else handle the logistics.

In the end, most travelers come away saying it was “absolutely worth it,” and that the scenery truly is breathtaking. The key lies in being prepared for the length and making the most of every stop along the way.

You can check availability for your dates here: