Fantastic 3-Day Ice Cave, South Coast, Golden Circle, and Northern Lights Tour From Reykjavik
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on a three-day expedition to uncover the hidden treasures along Iceland's South Coast. Designed to cater to the desires of nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and those eager to witness the awe-inspiring northern lights, this immersive tour promises an unforgettable escapade that seamlessly weaves together breathtaking landscapes, thrilling activities, and cultural insights.
Starting from Reykjavik, you'll embark on a small-group tour that guarantees an intimate experience as you explore the most renowned destinations on the Golden Circle and the South Coast.
On the first day, you'll set off in the morning, beginning with the geothermal wonders of the Geysir geothermal area, where you'll witness the powerful eruptions of the Strokkur geyser. You'll then visit the majestic Gullfoss waterfall, cascading down a deep canyon with Langjokull glacier in the distance.
Continuing to Thingvellir National Park, you'll have a clear view of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates moving apart, as well as the historical significance of this location.
Day two brings even more adventure as you visit the picturesque waterfalls of Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss along the South Coast. The breathtaking scenery continues as you embark on a glacier hike in Skaftafell or Solheimajokull, where you'll witness stunning ice formations and, if weather conditions permit, explore an ice cave. As night falls, keep your eyes on the sky for a chance to witness the captivating northern lights.
On the final day, you'll visit the famous Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, a mesmerizing sight filled with enormous floating icebergs. Stroll along Diamond Beach, where ice blocks glisten like diamonds on the black sand shore.
You'll also be able to enter a natural blue ice cave, a truly extraordinary phenomenon. Your journey concludes with a visit to the black sand beach of Reynisfjara, known for its dramatic basalt pillars and nesting seabirds.
Throughout the tour, professional guides will share their knowledge of Iceland's history and geology, ensuring you understand this unique country more deeply. Accommodation with breakfast is included, providing you with a comfortable stay throughout the trip.
Don't miss out on this incredible three-day adventure to witness the wonders of Iceland's South Coast, explore a blue ice cave, and spot the aurora borealis. Whether you're traversing a glacier, standing before a magnificent waterfall, or gazing in awe at the dancing northern lights, this expedition promises to create memories that will last a lifetime.
Prepare for an unforgettable journey into Iceland's natural wonders. Check availability now by choosing a date.
Included
Activities
Daily itinerary
Day 1 - Golden Circle
Get ready for an early start as your exciting journey commences from designated locations in Reykjavik. As you step onto the minibus, the anticipation builds for a captivating expedition along Iceland's breathtaking South Coast.
The first highlight on your itinerary is the renowned Geysir geothermal area. This region is home to a vibrant collection of hot springs, each a testament to the Earth's raw power.
Among them, the impressive Strokkur takes center stage. It erupts every five minutes, shooting water upwards in a dazzling display that reaches staggering heights of up to 115 feet (35 meters).
What adds an intriguing layer to this natural wonder is its name: Strokkur derives from the original "Geysir," an ancient hot spring that once displayed similar eruptions and is why the term "geyser" exists worldwide.
Moving onward, you'll find the Gullfoss waterfall. Born from the cascading meltwater of Langjokull, Iceland's second-largest glacier, this masterpiece of nature plunges into a deep canyon, creating the "Golden Falls."
But the wonders don't end there. Brace yourself for a visit to Thingvellir National Park, a place where the dramatic theater of geological forces unfolds. Here, you can witness the gradual separation of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, an extraordinary sight that leaves an indelible mark on your memory.
Nestled within the park's embrace lies Iceland's largest natural lake, a thriving ecosystem with several fish and bird species. Beyond its geological significance, Thingvellir proudly cradles historical importance.
It was here, in the year 930 AD, that Iceland's history took a monumental turn as the nation's parliament was established. Every summer, chieftains convened on this hallowed ground for their annual meeting, lending a powerful meaning to the name "Thingvellir," which translates to "Parliament Plains."
At the end of your day, you'll retire in a local hotel. If the sky is clear, look out for the northern lights!
Day 2 - Glacial Wonders & Northern Lights
Prepare for a day filled with exhilarating escapades as you step into a world of adventures. Today, you'll have the incredible opportunity to set foot on a glacier, guided by a seasoned glacier expert. Get ready to explore some of Iceland's most captivating corners with all the necessary glacial safety gear provided for your peace of mind.
The journey begins at Seljalandsfoss waterfall, where nature's drama takes center stage. As you arrive, the power and grandeur of Seljalandsfoss will leave you in awe. Don't forget your raincoat, allowing you to embark on a short hike behind the falls.
Continuing along the coast to the east, you'll encounter the picturesque wonder of Skogafoss waterfall. Nestled within a charming gorge, the river Skoga plunges a remarkable 197 feet (60 meters) down a cliff before gracefully flowing toward the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean. Ascend a staircase alongside the gorge, and you'll be rewarded with stunning panoramic vistas from a shelf above the waterfall.
The day's excitement reaches new heights as you venture toward one of Iceland's expansive glaciers. Equipped with crampons, helmets, and ice axes, you'll embark on a glacier hike like no other and experience this frozen wonderland up close.
Traverse mesmerizing landscapes, explore enchanting crevasses, and gaze upon impressive ice formations. If conditions permit, you might even have the chance to venture into an ice cave, a breathtaking encounter that depends on both the glacier's disposition and the weather's cooperation.
Upon reaching your hotel in the Southeast, your guide will provide insights into the likelihood of witnessing the awe-inspiring northern lights tonight. While their appearance is a natural phenomenon beyond the guide's control, rest assured that every effort will be made to guide you to prime locations where the chances of a sighting are favorable.
Day 3 - Glacier Lagoon & Ice Cave
On the final day, get ready to explore a series of natural wonders, highlighted by an ice cave adventure.
Embark on an exploration of Jokulsarlon, a glacier water lagoon that reaches a depth of 656 feet (200 meters). The lagoon is nourished by the meltwater from Breidamerkurjokull, a flowing outlet from Europe's largest glacier, Vatnajokull.
Throughout the year, massive icebergs fall off from Breidamerkurjokull, adorning the lagoon with their presence as they gracefully float southward. The sight is mesmerizing, offering a glimpse into the icy realm of nature's grandeur. Keep your eyes peeled as playful seals might be spotted swimming or relaxing atop icebergs.
Right across the road from Jokulsarlon's glacier lagoon lies Diamond Beach, where the icebergs from the lagoon journey into the Atlantic Ocean. The tide and winds promptly return them to the shoreline, gifting this black sand beach with an enchanting display of ice blocks, each glinting like crystals in the sunlight. The ice exhibits captivating whites and blues, creating striking contrasts against the backdrop of the beach.
From October to March, a highlight of your journey is a visit to an ice cave. Your knowledgeable guide will share insights about these formations, deepening your understanding and appreciation for this exceptional natural phenomenon. And if fortune smiles upon you, you might catch a glimpse of the cave's exquisite blue hues, a spectacle to behold.
Venturing further west, discover the captivating allure of Reynisfjara, the famed black sand beach. Here, the Atlantic shoreline greets massive waves that crash against the distinctive basalt pillars that grace the cliffs above the sands. As you gaze toward the distance, the Dyhrolaey cliffs emerge into view, adding to the coastal vista.
As the day winds down, your journey returns to Reykjavik, with an anticipated arrival around 20:00. Note that timing might vary due to changing weather conditions and road circumstances.
What to bring
Good to know
•Order or availability of attractions may change due to road or weather conditions, and timings may have to be adjusted to the short daylight of winter days.
•The northern lights are a natural random phenomenon and cannot be guaranteed by the operator. The hotels are in prime locations to maximize the chances of seeing them. Keep in mind that the best time to see them is from September to April, depending on the weather conditions.
•Ice caves are a dynamic, ever-changing natural phenomenon only accessible during wintertime when temperatures drop below zero. Each year new unique caves are formed in different areas of the glacier.
