From Reykjavik: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach

If you’re dreaming of Iceland’s dramatic scenery—the vast glaciers, black sand beaches, stunning waterfalls, and icy lagoons—this tour from Reykjavik to Jökulsárlón might just be what you’re looking for. We haven’t taken it ourselves, but after reviewing hundreds of traveler reviews and the details available, we feel confident in giving you a well-rounded picture of what to expect.

What we love about this experience are the chance to see iconic Icelandic sights in one long day and the knowledgeable guides who bring the landscape alive with stories and insights. The opportunity to walk along the shores of the glacial lagoon and visit Diamond Beach, where icebergs sparkle on black sand, is truly unforgettable.

However, it’s a quite lengthy day, often 14 to 15 hours, so if you’re not up for a long bus journey or have limited time, this could be a challenge. Also, since the trip covers a lot of ground, some travelers might find the pace a bit rushed, especially during peak season when stops may be crowded.

This tour is best suited for those who love natural scenery, are comfortable with long bus rides, and want a comprehensive day out to see some of Iceland’s most popular sights. It’s particularly good for travelers who enjoy guided experiences and want to maximize their sightseeing with expert commentary.

Key Points

• Extensive Day Trip: Covers waterfalls, glaciers, icebergs, and beaches in one long day.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides who share stories and facts about the landscape.
• Memorable Sights: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach are the highlights.
• Comfortable Transportation: Well-equipped bus with Wi-Fi, making the long hours more bearable.
• Flexible Options: Some packages include a boat ride on the lagoon.
• Consider the Length: 14-15 hours is a very full day, so prepare for a long journey.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting Point and Transport

The tour begins in Reykjavik, with pickup options depending on your booking, and transports you comfortably in a bus designed for long-distance travel. Travelers mention that the buses are well-maintained and equipped with Wi-Fi, which is a nice touch, especially on such a lengthy trip. Since the trip duration is 14 to 15 hours, expect an early start and some long hours on the road.

The journey time between Reykjavik and the first stop is around 1.5 hours, giving you a gentle start to the day. The driver and guides are praised for their professionalism, with reviews like “Lasma was our driver and guide and did an excellent job at driving as well as explaining everything.”

Scenic Stops Along the Way

The itinerary includes stops at some of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls—Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss. Both are beautiful but quite different. Seljalandsfoss is the one where you can walk behind the cascading water—an experience that many find magical. One reviewer mentioned that walking behind the falls is best done in daylight, but if you visit in the evening, it could be quite atmospheric, albeit darker.

Skógafoss, with its impressive 60-meter drop, offers a dramatic photo opportunity and a chance to stretch your legs. Many travelers point out that these waterfalls are well worth the stops, with some noting that their scenic beauty exceeded expectations.

Lunch Break

A stop at a local restaurant allows for a 40-minute break to refuel, which is essential given the long day. While food isn’t included in the price, reviewers say that the meal options are good for a quick lunch, often with Icelandic specialties. Some bring their own snacks or packed lunches to save time and enjoy the scenery more.

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The Heart of the Journey: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach

The main event is the visit to Jökulsárlón, often called the “glacier lagoon,” where massive icebergs drift serenely in the water. It’s a striking sight that many describe as almost surreal. Travelers often comment on the tranquility and the sheer scale of the floating ice. Several reviews highlight the opportunity to see ice that’s between 1,000 and 1,500 years old, breaking away from the Vatnajökull glacier.

If weather allows, an optional boat ride on the lagoon can be included, which gets you even closer to the floating ice. Many find this adds a special, immersive touch to the experience, though it’s an optional upgrade.

Adjacent to the lagoon is Diamond Beach, where chunks of ice wash ashore on black sand, creating an almost otherworldly scene. Travelers rave about how the ice glistening on the dark sand looks like diamonds—hence the name. For many, this is the highlight of the trip, especially when the light catches the ice just right.

Additional Stops and Views

The tour also passes Skaftafell, with views of glaciers and mountains, provided weather conditions cooperate. Some reviews mention how the sight of the glaciers and the stark landscape of the black sand desert between Skaftafell and Jökulsárlón make this entire region uniquely stunning.

Time at Each Stop

While the stops are well planned, some travelers wish they had more time, especially at Diamond Beach. The stop duration typically ranges around 1.5 hours at Jökulsárlón and some time at Diamond Beach, giving enough opportunity for photographs and a little exploration, but not enough for a deep dive into each location.

Long Day, Long Views

The reviews emphasize that the trip is quite demanding physically and mentally. Expect early mornings, long bus rides, and a lot of walking. Many mention it’s a long but worthwhile day, with some describing it as “well worth the long hours.” Others highlight that they packed their own snacks to keep energized.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who are comfortable with a full day on the bus and want to see multiple iconic sights in one go. It suits those who appreciate guided commentary, as the guides share stories and facts that bring the landscapes to life. If you’re really into glaciers, icebergs, waterfalls, and black sand beaches, you’ll find plenty to marvel at.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or have mobility concerns, this might be a challenging option. It’s not suitable for children under 6, mainly due to the long hours and bus travel.

Value for Money

At $173 per person, this tour offers a lot—transport, expert guides, some optional activities like the boat ride, and a comprehensive itinerary. Travelers frequently praise the guides’ knowledge and the clear organization of the day, making it feel like good value for what’s included. The long day might seem steep, but when you consider the number of sights visited and the quality of the guide’s commentary, many feel it’s a worthwhile investment.

Final Thoughts

This tour from Reykjavik to Jökulsárlón and Diamond Beach is a fantastic way to cover some of Iceland’s most treasured sights without the stress of self-driving. It’s perfect for those who want a guided experience that takes all the planning off your shoulders, allowing you to focus on soaking in the scenery.

The stops at waterfalls, glaciers, icebergs, and beaches are all standouts, and the guide’s storytelling adds depth to the trip. It’s a long, full day, but many reviews highlight how memorable and worthwhile the experience is—even when the weather isn’t perfect.

If you’re after a comprehensive day trip that delivers the highlights of Iceland’s south coast with comfort and insight, this tour fits the bill. Just be prepared for the duration, dress warmly, and bring your camera and patience.

FAQ

Is food included in the tour? No, food and drinks are not included, but there is a stop at a local restaurant for about 40 minutes where you can purchase lunch.

What is the duration of the tour? The tour lasts approximately 14 to 15 hours, so it’s a very long day, often starting early in the morning and returning late.

Can I book the boat ride on Jökulsárlón? Yes, the boat ride is available as an option and is included if you select that upgrade during booking.

Are children allowed on this tour? It’s not suitable for children under 6 years old, mainly because of the long hours in transit.

What should I bring? Dress warmly and bring rain gear—weather in Iceland can change quickly, especially near glaciers and waterfalls.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues? Since it involves walking at various stops and a lengthy bus ride, it may not be ideal for those with mobility concerns.

How many stops are there, and what do they include? The tour includes stops at Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, Jökulsárlón, Diamond Beach, and Vík, along with scenic views of glaciers and mountains.

What’s the guide like? Travelers consistently praise the guides for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to make the long day enjoyable, with some reviews highlighting specific guides by name.

In the end, if you’re after a packed day of Iceland’s most famous sights and don’t mind the journey, this tour offers a chance to tick off some of the country’s most stunning landscapes with the reassurance of expert guidance. Just remember to pack your patience and your sense of adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: