Reykjavik is a fantastic base for exploring Iceland’s best sights in just a couple of days. Its proximity to the South Coast, glaciers, waterfalls, and volcanic landscapes means you can pack an incredible amount into a short trip. We especially love tours that include hassle-free transportation, making your experience more about enjoying the scenery than stressing over logistics. For example, the 2-Day Blue Ice Cave, Glacier Lagoon and South Coast Tour offers a smooth ride to stunning ice caves and waterfalls, with accommodation included. This makes it perfect for those who want to relax and soak it all in, without the hassle of planning every detail.
Many of these tours focus on iconic sights like Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls, as well as Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, but some go further into the highlands to include glacier hikes or ice caves. If you’re after a personalized experience, options like the Private Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon 2 Day Tour & Glacier Hike stand out. Below, you’ll find detailed reviews, what makes each tour special, and who they’ll suit best.
1. 2-Day Blue Ice Cave, Glacier Lagoon and South Coast Tour
This trip combines the mesmerizing blue ice caves with some of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls and beaches. Over two days, you’ll visit Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss, then venture into Vatnajokull National Park to explore the ice caves of Jokulsarlan Glacier Lagoon. With round-trip transportation from Reykjavik, accommodation, and breakfast included, your focus can stay on the scenery. What makes this tour stand out is the expert-guided experience in the ice caves, which are only accessible during certain seasons, adding an element of exclusivity. Guests consistently praise the flexibility of the guides, with many reviews highlighting their ability to adjust plans based on weather.
The tour is perfect for travelers who want a well-organized and comprehensive experience with minimal planning. The inclusion of free onboard Wi-Fi helps you share photos instantly. With a 5.0 rating from over 400 reviews, it’s clear this tour delivers value and memorable moments.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers eager to see ice caves and glaciers without the hassle of organizing logistics. It’s best suited for those with a moderate fitness level comfortable walking on ice.
2. Private Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon 2 Day Tour & Glacier Hike
For those seeking a more intimate, personalized experience, this private tour offers exclusive access to Iceland’s top sights. Over two days, you’ll explore Seljalandsfoss, Skogafoss, and the breathtaking Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. The highlight is the glacier hike on Falljökull Glacier, which is included, along with most safety equipment. The guide—who is dedicated to a small group—provides tailored insights into Iceland’s volcanic and glacial landscapes, making for a richer understanding of the environment.
Guests rave about the friendly, knowledgeable guides—like Bjorn, who helped make the experience unforgettable—and the flexibility to customize stops. The tour is well worth the $7,240 group price, especially for couples or small groups who want exclusive attention. The overnight accommodation is comfortable, and the round-trip transfer is seamless.
Bottom line: Perfect for couples, small groups, or travelers who value exclusivity and personalized guides. Best for those with a higher budget who want a tailored experience.
3. 2-Day South Coast Waterfalls, Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon and Hike
This tour is a great choice for active travelers who want to combine sightseeing with a glacier hike. Starting in Reykjavik, you’ll visit Seljalandsfoss, where you might walk behind the waterfall, and Skogafoss, often featured in films like Game of Thrones. The second day focuses on exploring Jökulsárlón and hiking on Breiðamerkurjökull Glacier. The overnight stay is included, making the long day of sightseeing manageable.
Guests love the well-paced itinerary and the informative guide who shares stories and Icelandic facts. The hiking component is the highlight, offering a chance to walk on ice and experience the landscape up close. Reviewers mention that even in bad weather, the experience remains rewarding, thanks to the guides’ efforts.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who want a combination of sightseeing and adventure, especially those eager to hike on a glacier.
4. 2-Day Jokulsarlon Tour with Glacier Hike & South Coast Waterfalls
This tour closely follows the iconic South Coast route, including Skogafoss, Seljalandsfoss, and Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach. The big draw is the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and the glacier hike on Falljökull Glacier, which is a four-hour adventure. Accommodation and most equipment are covered, so you can focus on the experience. Guests consistently mention how well-organized and comprehensive the trip is, providing enough time at each stop without feeling rushed.
While the tour covers many key sites, the glacier hike makes it stand out—it’s perfect for those who want a hands-on experience with Iceland’s icy landscapes. Reviewers rave about the friendly guides and the breathtaking scenery.
Bottom line: Best suited for adventurous travelers wanting glacier hikes combined with classic South Coast sights.
5. From Reykjavik 2-Day South Coast Tour with Blue Ice Cave
This tour emphasizes visiting the famous waterfalls and black sand beaches, with an exciting optional visit to a seasonal ice cave. Over two days, you’ll experience Seljalandsfoss, Skogafoss, and the Jökulsárlón Lagoon. The overnight stay is near the lagoon, giving you a chance to explore at your own pace or even search for the Northern Lights if conditions permit. The tour is rated 4.8, and customers praise the professional guides and many photo opportunities.
The ice cave visit is seasonal and adds a special touch, but even without it, the tour offers a thorough experience of the South Coast’s natural beauty. Guests report good value for money, considering the number of highlights covered.
Bottom line: Suitable for travelers interested in both waterfalls and ice caves, with the flexibility of an overnight stay.
6. Private 2-Day Glacier Lagoon, Ice Cave and Northern Lights
This luxury private tour combines the highlights of Jökulsárlón, ice caves, and even a chance to see the Northern Lights. Over two days, you’ll visit Seljalandsfoss, Skogafoss, Vik, and Skaftafell, with private transport and personal guides. The itinerary includes walks on glaciers, ice cave explorations, and lava field drives. The benefit here is undivided attention and the ability to customize stops.
Guests emphasize how comfortable and exclusive this experience feels, especially with all safety equipment included. The Northern Lights viewing from your accommodation adds a magical touch.
Bottom line: Perfect for couples or small groups seeking a tailored, high-end experience with flexibility and comfort.
7. Reykjavík: 2-Day Tour with Icebergs, Glaciers & Waterfalls
This well-rounded tour covers the South Coast’s key sights with a focus on icebergs, glaciers, and waterfalls. It features stops at Diamond Beach, Jökulsárlón Lagoon, and three waterfalls, including Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss. The optional boat tour adds a different perspective on the lagoon, and the guide provides engaging commentary.
Rated 5/5, travelers appreciate the ample time at each stop and the comfortable vehicles. The tour balances scenic beauty with informative storytelling, making it suitable for those who want more than just sightseeing.
Bottom line: Good for travelers wanting an all-round South Coast experience with quality guides and variety.
8. 2-Day Ice Cave & South Coast: Glacier Hike and Glacier Lagoon
This tour specializes in ice caves and glacier hikes, visiting Vatnajokull and Skaftafell. Over two days, you’ll explore glacier lagoons, black sand beaches, and ice caves. The hike on Skaftafell’s ice is a highlight, giving you a tactile connection to Iceland’s icy wilderness. Many reviews mention the quality of the guides and the active nature of the experience.
It’s an excellent choice for those who want both sightseeing and outdoor activity in one package. The round-trip transportation and accommodation make it an easy, all-inclusive option.
Bottom line: Best for outdoor enthusiasts looking to combine glacier exploration with scenic stops.
9. 2-Day West Coast Tour | Lava Cave, Snæfellsnes & Silver Circle
This route explores West Iceland’s dramatic landscapes. Visiting the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Borgarfjordur waterfalls, and the Vidgelmir Lava Cave, this tour offers a quieter, less crowded side of Iceland. Caving inside an 8,000-year-old lava tube is a unique experience, and the overnight stay in Borgarnes adds a relaxed pace.
Guests praise the knowledgeable guides and the diverse scenery, from fishing villages to volcano landscapes. It’s ideal for travelers who want to see Iceland’s volcanic side without the crowds.
Bottom line: Suitable for those interested in lava caves and West Iceland’s natural beauty, with a slower, more relaxed pace.
10. 2-Day Highlights of Iceland | Intro to the Land of Ice and Fire
This budget-friendly tour covers key highlights like Seljalandsfoss, Skogafoss, and Reynisfjara Beach. It includes overnight accommodation and breakfast, making it a practical option for first-timers. The tour’s small-group format allows for personalized interactions, and the guide shares interesting facts about the sites.
Guests appreciate the balance of sightseeing and value for money, especially for travelers on tighter budgets. The easy logistics make it a stress-free way to experience Iceland’s South Coast.
Bottom line: Ideal for budget-conscious travelers wanting a comprehensive but affordable introduction to Iceland.
How to Choose the Right 2-Day Tour in Reykjavik
Picking the best tour depends on your interests, fitness level, and budget. If you want a comprehensive experience with ice caves, the Blue Ice Cave Tour offers excellent value. For those seeking personalized attention, the Private Glacier Lagoon Tour is unmatched. Travelers eager for active adventures should consider the glacier hikes included in tours like the Ice Cave & Glacier Hike.
Budget travelers might prefer the Highlights of Iceland, which covers key sights without the extras. For those dreaming of the Northern Lights, tours that include evening Aurora excursions or accommodation in a Northern Lights hotspot are your best bet.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons like winter and summer, to secure your preferred dates and avoid disappointment.
Final Thoughts
Reykjavik offers a wide variety of 2-day tours that cater to different interests, whether you’re after ice caves, waterfalls, glacier hikes, or photography opportunities. For a balanced experience, the Blue Ice Cave Tour is a top pick, combining ease and adventure. For the adventurous, the Ice Cave & Glacier Hike delivers on active exploration.
If your goal is a private, tailored trip, the Private Glacier Lagoon Tour provides an exclusive experience. Meanwhile, those on a budget will find value in the Highlights of Iceland, which hits all the main spots.
No matter which tour you choose, remember that Iceland’s weather can change suddenly, so flexibility and good gear are key. Book early, especially for peak travel seasons, and get ready for an unforgettable journey through Iceland’s wild, stunning landscapes.