Southern Iceland is a treasure trove for travelers seeking stunning landscapes and memorable experiences packed into just two days. Its waterfalls, black sand beaches, glacier lagoons, and ice caves are world-famous, but what makes this region truly special is how accessible and varied these sights are within such a compact area. Whether you’re visiting in winter or summer, there’s a tour tailored to your interests—whether it’s chasing the Northern Lights or hiking on glaciers. For example, exploring Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon or witnessing the Northern Lights are experiences that often make visitors say, “This is Iceland in a nutshell.” To help you narrow down your options, we’ve compiled the top two 2-day tours in Southern Iceland.
These tours differ mainly in their seasonal focus and activities: one offers a winter wonderland adventure with ice caves and the Northern Lights, while the other emphasizes summer hikes and glacier boat trips. Both give you a comprehensive taste of what this spectacular region has to offer. Read on to find detailed descriptions and decide which suits your travel style best.
1. 2 Day Iceland Winter Tour to South Coast
At number 1, the 2 Day Iceland Winter Tour to South Coast stands out for its combination of iconic waterfalls, black sand beaches, and the one-of-a-kind Ice Cave experience. This tour is perfect if you’re visiting during the colder months when Iceland’s icy landscapes turn into a shimmering winter wonderland. The itinerary is carefully designed to maximize visibility of Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, where floating icebergs create a surreal scene, and to give ample time at Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, where you can walk behind the cascading water.
What truly makes this tour unique is the opportunity to enter a real Ice Cave, a rare and breathtaking experience that’s only accessible during winter months. Your guide will be a local expert, sharing stories and insights as you navigate the snow-covered scenery. The tour includes a comfortable bus transfer from Reykjavik, with multiple pickup options, and concludes with a chance to see the Northern Lights (weather permitting). The highlight for many is the visit to Diamond Beach, where ice chunks wash ashore on black sand, creating an unforgettable sight.
Guests rave about the smooth organization and knowledgeable guides, with one reviewer noting, “We really enjoyed the ice cave and would have liked more time at the falls.” Considering the price of $660, this tour offers excellent value, providing access to Iceland’s most spectacular winter sights in just two days.
Bottom Line: Ideal for winter travelers who want a carefully curated, activity-packed experience with the chance to see the Northern Lights and explore an actual Ice Cave.
2. 2 Day Summer Iceland Tour to South Coast
The second option, the 2 Day Summer Iceland Tour to South Coast, appeals to those visiting during the warmer months. For $590, this tour includes a diverse mix of glacier activities, waterfalls, and dramatic canyons only accessible when the snow melts. The itinerary features a boat trip on Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, giving you a close-up view of the floating icebergs, and a glacier hike, where you can walk on the ice with crampons under the guidance of an expert.
What sets this tour apart is the focus on glacier exploration—both on foot and by boat—plus the chance to visit canyons that are inaccessible during winter. It offers a more active experience compared to the winter tour, making it a great choice for outdoor enthusiasts. The guide will take you through stunning landscapes such as the Fjallsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Svartifoss Waterfall, renowned for its basalt columns. During summer, the longer daylight hours mean more time at each stop, and the scenery is at its lushest.
Reviewers mention that the trip is “well-organized and packed with unique activities,” particularly praising the glacier hike for its accessibility and safety. The value here is notable, especially considering the inclusion of both boat and hike experiences. This tour is perfect for active travelers eager to see glaciers up close and enjoy Iceland’s summer landscape.
Bottom Line: Best for adventure-seekers and nature lovers who want to combine glacier hiking, boat trips, and striking waterfalls in just two days.
How to Choose
Deciding between these tours depends on your season and interests. If you’re visiting in winter and eager to see the Ice Cave and Northern Lights, the winter tour offers a magical, snow-covered experience. For summer visitors, the glacier hikes and boat trips provide a more physically active itinerary full of up-close glacier encounters.
Consider your budget: the winter tour is priced slightly higher at $660, reflecting the special ice cave experience. The summer tour costs $590 but offers a broader range of activities like glacier hiking and canyon exploration. Also, think about your fitness level—summer hikes and boat trips require a bit of stamina, while the winter tour is more about sightseeing with some walking.
To get the most out of your visit, book early, especially during peak months. Check availability and start times, as both tours operate seasonally and are popular among travelers seeking a compact but comprehensive Iceland experience.
Final Thoughts
Southern Iceland’s 2-day tours pack an incredible variety of landscapes and adventures into short trips. The winter tour shines for its ice cave visit and Northern Lights viewing, making it ideal for those visiting during colder months. Meanwhile, the summer tour offers active glacier hikes and boat trips, perfect for outdoor lovers looking to maximize their time.
For travelers with a flexible schedule, both tours provide excellent value and memorable experiences. If your trip is limited and you want to see the highlights—waterfalls, glaciers, beaches—the choice is clear. Remember to book early, especially if you’re aiming for the summer hike or a winter ice cave adventure. No matter which you pick, your time in Southern Iceland will surely be unforgettable.