Reykjavik: Katla Ice Cave & South Coast Waterfalls Tour

Traveling through Iceland’s South Coast is often described as stepping into another world—stunning landscapes, powerful waterfalls, and icy caves that look straight out of a fantasy film. This particular tour, offered by Arctic Adventures, promises an 11-hour adventure that combines off-road super jeep rides, glacier explorations, and iconic waterfalls. While we haven’t done it ourselves, reviews and details paint a picture of a busy, exciting day that appeals to those eager to see Iceland’s natural highlights in a single trip.

What we love about this tour is how it balances adventure and natural beauty. Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and the breathtaking scenery as real highlights. On the flip side, the experience is quite packed, and some travelers mention that the ice cave visit is relatively brief. Still, this tour is best suited for those who want a full-day, action-packed exploration rather than a relaxed, leisurely sightseeing day.

If you’re craving an adventure-filled day with a mix of scenic drives, waterfalls, and icy marvels, this tour could be a perfect fit. Just keep in mind you’re on a long, sometimes bumpy ride, and you’ll need to be prepared for weather variability. It’s especially good for travelers who want a comprehensive introduction to the south coast, with some unique moments like exploring a real ice cave.

Key Points

• Highlights include a visit to the Kötlujökull Glacier ice cave, offering unforgettable icy landscapes.
• Super Jeep off-road rides take you to places larger vehicles can’t reach, adding an adrenaline kick.
• Visiting Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls guarantees iconic Icelandic scenery with opportunities for photos.
• The tour is full-day, roughly 11 hours, so be ready for an early start and a long day.
• Transportation is included from Reykjavik, making logistics straightforward.
• Guides are frequently praised for their knowledge and enthusiasm, enhancing the experience.
• The ice cave visit is somewhat brief, and weather conditions can affect the itinerary.
• Not suitable for those with mobility issues or under 6 years old, given the hiking and uneven terrain.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Full-Day Adventure

Starting Off: Reykjavik Pickup and Early Transfers

The tour kicks off with pickups from a variety of Reykjavik locations, including hotels, bus stops, and the cruise terminal. This variety makes it flexible, but it’s important to be ready on time since the guides may arrive up to 30 minutes early. The first leg of the journey lasts about 1.5 hours by bus, giving you a chance to settle in and get a first glimpse of Iceland’s changing landscapes.

A review mentioned that the bus ride was comfortable, but a few found the van a little tight at times, especially for longer stretches. If you’re prone to motion sickness or prefer space, it might be worth considering this when booking.

Scenic Drive and Breaks

The initial drive offers scenic views of the Icelandic countryside, with a short break in Hvolsvöllur where you can stretch, grab a snack, or use the facilities. This is appreciated as it helps break up the long trip and prepares you mentally for the adventures ahead.

Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss: Classic Waterfalls

The tour makes stops at two of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls. Skógafoss is a powerful cascade that’s perfect for photos—many reviewers say this is a “must-see” spot. Expect around 30 minutes here to snap some shots and appreciate the roar of the water. Some mention wishing they had more time, but the schedule is tight.

Next is Seljalandsfoss, which is known for its unique pathway behind the falls. It’s a highlight for many visitors, offering a different perspective and a chance for some memorable photos in the evening light.

More Great Tours Nearby

Vik and Black Sand Beaches

A visit to the charming village of Vik allows for a quick exploration of its iconic church and the nearby Black Sand Beach. If weather permits, you’ll get to see puffins and the stunning basalt formations. A review noted that the guide went the extra mile by taking visitors to the beach outside the tour plan, adding a personal touch.

Mýrdalsjökull and the Ice Cave

Perhaps the most eagerly anticipated part of this trip is the visit to the Katla Ice Cave under the Mýrdalsjökull Glacier. The journey to the cave involves a scenic ride in a Super Jeep into the glacier’s outskirts, which is both exciting and bumpy. The guides are praised for their expertise, making sure everyone feels safe while navigating the icy terrain.

Once inside, the blue hues of the ice are mesmerizing, and the layered volcanic ash adds striking contrast. You’ll have around an hour to explore and hike within the cave, which is enough for most but may feel rushed for some. Several reviews call this a “spectacular” experience, with guides sharing fascinating stories about the glacier and the volcanic activity that shaped it.

A few travelers noted that the ice cave is small and the visit brief, but the overall impression is that it’s well worth it. The guides’ humor and knowledge add to the adventure, making it memorable.

Post-Cave and Additional Waterfalls

After the ice cave visit, the tour continues with a second stop at Vik for a short break or optional exploration. Then, it’s time to visit another waterfall—Seljalandsfoss or Skógafoss if you missed it earlier, depending on the day’s schedule.

Return Journey and Final Stops

The last stretch involves scenic drives along the coast, offering panoramic views of the glaciers and volcanic landscapes. The tour wraps up with a long bus ride back to Reykjavik, arriving around dusk. Some reviews mention the return trip can be lengthy, but the scenery makes it worthwhile.

Transportation and Comfort

The tour uses a combination of buses and super jeeps. The bus seating is generally comfortable, but some reviews point out that the van for the ice cave can be cramped, especially during longer rides. The off-road jeeps are a highlight—they allow access to areas larger vehicles can’t reach, adding excitement and access to the glacier.

Guides and Customer Experience

Guides are often highlighted as the best part of the tour. Many customers praise their knowledge, humor, and professionalism. For example, a reviewer said, “Our guides were highly professional, sharing fascinating stories and insights.”

Some reviews mention minor hiccups, like a driver focusing on personal stories or delays caused by vehicle breakdowns, but generally, the guides manage to keep the experience positive.

Pricing and Value

Considering this is an all-inclusive full-day trip with transportation, guides, and ice cave exploration, the value is generally viewed as fair. The price reflects the effort involved in accessing remote locations, especially the ice cave, which is a unique attraction. A reviewer noted that the experience went smoothly, with many saying it was “worth every penny” for the once-in-a-lifetime sights. However, some feel that the short duration inside the ice cave limits the overall experience, but most agree the visuals and adventure compensate.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Wear warm, waterproof clothing and hiking shoes—the terrain can be slippery and cold.
• Bring a camera, snacks, and water to stay energized.
• Expect a long day, so prepare for early mornings and be ready for variable weather.
• For those concerned about comfort, be aware that the van can be tight at times.
• Not suitable for very young children or those with mobility challenges, as some walking and hiking are involved.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a powerful snapshot of Iceland’s dramatic south coast, combining waterfalls, glaciers, and icy caves into a single day. The guides’ expertise, stunning scenery, and adventure vibe make it a standout choice for most travelers eager to see Iceland’s famous sights without spending multiple days on the road.

While it’s a long, active day, many reviews affirm the experience is worth the effort. The ice cave, in particular, stands out as a highlight—something you’ll likely talk about long after the trip ends. Be prepared for a busy schedule, and don’t expect endless time at each stop, but if you’re looking for a comprehensive, adventure-packed day, this tour delivers.

This experience suits adventure lovers, nature enthusiasts, and those wanting a taste of Iceland’s wild beauty. If you prefer more relaxed or in-depth exploration of fewer sites, you might want to consider other options. But for a full-on, scenic, and memorable day, this tour ticks all the boxes.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and dropoff from multiple Reykjavik locations, plus all transportation during the day.

How long is the ice cave visit?
The guided tour inside the ice cave typically lasts about an hour to an hour and 15 minutes. The cave itself is small, but the experience is quite memorable.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 6 years old due to the hiking and uneven terrain involved.

What should I bring?
Bring warm and waterproof clothing, hiking shoes, a camera, snacks, and water. Some reviews suggest bringing a change of clothes because getting wet is possible.

Can weather affect the itinerary?
Absolutely. The itinerary may change depending on weather conditions, especially for the ice cave visit and mountain drives.

Are guides knowledgeable?
Yes, many reviews praise the guides’ professionalism, storytelling, and ability to make the trip enjoyable and informative.

Is the tour good value for money?
Most agree it’s a fair price considering the transportation, guided tours, and access to the ice cave and waterfalls. Some feel the short time inside the cave is a small downside, but overall, it’s seen as worthwhile.

Whether you’re after breathtaking vistas, a taste of adventure, or a once-in-a-lifetime ice cave experience, this tour from Reykjavik offers a solid way to explore Iceland’s wild south. Just be prepared for an action-packed day and the unpredictable weather that makes Iceland so uniquely beautiful.

You can check availability for your dates here: