Diamond Beach & Jökulsárlón Floating Glacier Guided Day Tour

If you’re dreaming of witnessing some of Iceland’s most iconic sights—glittering icebergs, dramatic waterfalls, and otherworldly beaches—this private tour from Reykjavik might just be what you’re looking for. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, I’ve gone through the details, reviews, and itinerary to give you an honest, comprehensive rundown of what you can expect.

What I really like about this experience is how it offers a personalized, flexible approach—you’re traveling with a private guide and vehicle, which means you get to set your own pace and focus on what interests you most. Plus, the stops include some of the most photographed and distinctive landscapes on the island, like Diamond Beach and Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. On the flip side, the long drive—about 10 to 12 hours—is something to consider if you’re not used to full-day excursions.

This tour is best suited for those who want a curated, intimate experience, especially if you prefer traveling comfortably in a private vehicle with Wi-Fi and hotel pickup. It’s ideal for travelers who love natural beauty, photography, and learning about Iceland’s unique landscape from knowledgeable guides.

Key Points

• Private tour means you get a personalized experience tailored to your interests.
• Long day, but full of iconic sights: plan for a 10-12 hour adventure from Reykjavik.
• Expert guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, adding depth to the trip.
• Stunning scenery includes glaciers, waterfalls, black sand beaches, and hidden waterfalls.
• Comfortable transportation with Wi-Fi and hotel pickup makes the long drive more pleasant.
• Not included: food and drinks; so bring snacks and plan for meals accordingly.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Fjallsárlón Iceberg Lagoon

Your journey begins with a visit to Fjallsárlón, a lesser-known but equally impressive glacier lagoon. Here, you’ll see majestic icebergs drifting quietly on water set against rugged mountain backdrops. The highlight? Taking a boat tour to get closer to the ice formations and appreciate their intricate shapes and luminous blue shades. Even if you skip the boat, just observing the floating ice from the shore is mesmerizing.

One reviewer, Valerie, mentioned, “The drive was long but the sights at the glacier bay and diamond beach were incredible,” highlighting how worthwhile this stop is despite the travel time. Though the boat ride isn’t included, it’s a chance to feel closer to Iceland’s icy giants.

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Next up is the famous Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, an absolute must-see. It’s the star of this tour—massive icebergs calve from the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier and drift across the lagoon, creating a surreal landscape. Visitors often describe it as breathtaking, with sunlight bouncing off the ice and making the whole scene shimmer.

You’ll spend about an hour and a half here, giving you ample time to walk around, take photos, and soak in the scenery. Reviews like Rebecca’s call it “the highlight of the trip,” emphasizing how special this place is for everyone.

Diamond Beach

Right beside Jökulsárlón lies Diamond Beach, where larger chunks of ice wash ashore onto black volcanic sand. This is where the tour gets a bit magical—these translucent ice “diamonds” sparkle against the dark sand, making for stunning photos.

While the beach itself doesn’t have an admission fee, it’s worth spending some time just marveling at the contrast of ice and volcanic sands. Valerie described it as “a surreal and dazzling spectacle,” and many travelers find it hard to forget those shimmering ice pieces.

Stjornarfoss Waterfall

A hidden gem you might not have heard of before, Stjornarfoss offers a peaceful spot away from the crowds. Surrounded by greenery and cliffs, this waterfall cascades into a tranquil pool. The story behind the name, “Waterfall of the Steering Wheel,” adds a touch of local lore.

It’s a short walk to get there, and the free access makes it a calming break during your busy day. One review noted, “It’s a peaceful retreat, perfect for nature lovers,” which captures its quiet charm.

Vík Village and Reynisdrangar Sea Stacks

Vík is a charming coastal village that offers a taste of Icelandic life. Most visitors stop here for about 45 minutes, enough to walk along the black sand beaches, admire the imposing Reynisdrangar sea stacks, and maybe pick up a souvenir.

The sea stacks are steeped in folklore and provide a dramatic backdrop for photos, especially during sunset or sunrise. Many travelers find Vík’s rugged coastline and local vibe a perfect break before heading to the waterfalls.

Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

The final highlight before heading back is Seljalandsfoss, famous for its walk-behind feature. Standing behind the curtain of water offers a unique perspective and the chance to capture stunning photos. Just be prepared for spray—bring your waterproof gear.

Mary, one of the reviewers, commented, “It’s quite an adventure and accessible for all ages,” which suggests it’s a family-friendly stop if you’re traveling with kids or just love waterfalls.

What Does It All Mean for You?

This tour offers a fantastic way to see some of Iceland’s most iconic sights in a single day, especially if you’re after a more private and flexible experience. The value lies in the guided approach—your guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making the long trip engaging and informative. The vehicle’s Wi-Fi and hotel pickup simplify logistics, letting you relax and focus on the scenery.

Price-wise, at around $1,732 for a group of up to three, it’s on the higher end, but considering the private nature and extensive itinerary, it’s a reasonable investment for travelers who want comfort and customization. The tour doesn’t include food, so plan to bring snacks or eat before you leave Reykjavik, but the stops for sightseeing are well-paced, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each spot without feeling rushed.

The long hours can be a challenge if you’re not used to full-day excursions, but many reviews emphasize how worth it the effort is. From floating glaciers to black sand beaches and waterfalls, each stop is a feast for the senses and perfect for photography lovers.

Who Would Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who appreciates comfort, personalized attention, and the chance to explore Iceland’s highlights at your own pace, this is a strong option. It’s ideal for travelers who want to maximize their sightseeing in a single day without the hassle of organizing multiple small tours or transportation. Nature lovers, photographers, and those interested in Iceland’s natural wonder would all find this trip rewarding.

While it’s not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the stops are generally accessible and suitable for most ages, especially since many reviews mention the accessible nature of the waterfalls and the calmness of Fjallsárlón.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for travelers with limited physical mobility?
While it’s a private tour with a comfortable vehicle, some stops involve walking on uneven terrain or short trails. If you’re unsure, check with the provider to see if specific stops are manageable.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring snacks, drinks, and a camera. Weather can change quickly, so pack layers, waterproof gear, and sunglasses if it’s sunny.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included. You’ll want to plan for lunch or snacks during the day.

How long is the drive from Reykjavik?
The overall duration is about 10 to 12 hours, including travel time, so be prepared for a long but scenic day.

Is it worth booking this tour in advance?
Yes, as it’s quite popular—on average, it’s booked 70 days ahead. Locking in your spot ensures you won’t miss out.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, your guide can likely accommodate specific interests or adjustments, making it more personalized.

What happens if the weather is bad?
You might find the tour canceled or rescheduled. In such cases, the provider offers a full refund or an alternative date.

Final Thoughts

For anyone dreaming of Iceland’s dramatic landscapes, this private tour offers a well-rounded, comfortable way to experience the south coast’s highlights. From floating glaciers to striking beaches and waterfalls, each stop delivers a memorable moment. The knowledgeable guides, private transportation, and flexibility add value that many group tours can’t match.

It’s especially suited for travelers who want an intimate, tailored experience and are prepared for a full day on the road. If you’re okay with the long hours and seeking a stress-free way to see some of Iceland’s best natural wonders, this could be one of your trip’s highlights.

Just remember, bring your sense of adventure—and your camera!