Adventure-Filled 2-Day South Coast Exploration Tour of Glaciers, Waterfalls & Icebergs
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on a thrilling two-day adventure exploring Iceland's mesmerizing South Coast and experiencing the wonders of glaciers, waterfalls, and icebergs. This tour is perfect for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers like you who want to immerse themselves in Iceland's stunning landscapes.
Day one begins with a pickup from your designated location in Reykjavik. Departing from the city, you'll be fascinated by the picturesque surroundings and the enchanting midnight sun during summer.
Your first stop is the Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, known for its 197-foot (60-meter) drop and the unique opportunity for you to walk behind the cascading water. You'll be amazed by the view and the thundering power of nature.
Next, you'll visit the hidden gem of Gljufrabui waterfall, nestled behind massive rocks, creating a serene and magical atmosphere. Continuing east, you'll reach Skogafoss Waterfall, where you'll witness its 82-foot (25-meter) width and have the chance to climb the staircase for breathtaking views from above.
The highlight of day one is the exhilarating glacier hike in Skaftafell, where you'll explore the largest glacier in Europe. Equipped with safety gear, you'll step foot onto the ancient ice, marveling at deep crevasses, ice tunnels, and majestic icefalls. This extraordinary experience will transport you back millions of years, offering you a glimpse of our planet's ancient past.
After the glacier hike, you'll head to a hotel in the southeastern part of Iceland. There, you can enjoy a delicious dinner and relax in the tranquil surroundings.
Day two begins with an unforgettable boat tour at Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, where massive icebergs float peacefully. Witness the effects of global warming as the icebergs melt into the lagoon and eventually reach the North Atlantic Ocean. Keep an eye out for seals swimming in the lagoon or basking on the icebergs.
You'll then visit the renowned Diamond Beach, where icebergs washed ashore glisten like diamonds against the contrasting black sand. It's a sight unlike any other, leaving you in awe of nature's beauty.
Your final stop is Reynisfjara, the famous black sand beach. Marvel at the massive waves crashing against the unique basalt pillars and admire the stunning cliffs of Dyrholaey in the distance. This area is a paradise for bird lovers, with various species nesting on the cliffs during the summer.
As the journey back to Reykjavik commences, reflecting on the incredible experiences shared, you'll understand why this tour is a must for anyone seeking adventure and natural beauty in Iceland.
Don't miss this extraordinary two-day journey filled with glacier hikes, waterfalls, icebergs, and more. Check availability now by choosing a date.
Included
Activities
Daily itinerary
Day 1 - South Coast
Welcome to the start of your exciting journey! Your tour begins with a morning pick-up from either your preferred bus stop or the hotel you've chosen in Reykjavik. Your first destination is the enchanting south of Iceland.
As you venture out, you'll pass through the stunning landscapes surrounding Reykjavik, catching sight of majestic mountains and experiencing the magical phenomenon of the never-ending midnight sun during the summer months.
Your initial stop introduces you to the captivating Seljalandsfoss waterfall, one of Iceland's most renowned and frequently visited natural wonders. This breathtaking waterfall boasts a captivating 197-foot (60-meter) drop and a truly unique feature: the ability to be admired from behind. A remarkable rarity in the world, you can actually walk behind the waterfall due to the cave-like cliff formation.
Taking a short and easy hike behind the falls offers you an unforgettable encounter. The view from behind the cascading water and the sensation of the ground trembling beneath its power creates lasting memories. Remember to equip yourself with a raincoat to shield against the waterfall's mist and be cautious of the potentially slippery path.
Just a short distance away, an additional gem awaits your discovery - Gljufrabui waterfall. Once a secret known only to locals, this charming waterfall, hidden behind imposing rocks, now draws your attention as a curious traveler. A narrow entrance leads you into a magical canyon encircled by the mountains, where this serene waterfall resides.
Continuing your journey, you reach the remarkable Skogafoss waterfall. This awe-inspiring waterfall spans an impressive 82 feet (25 meters) in width and soars over 197 feet (60 meters) high. What sets Skogafoss apart is the rare opportunity to view it from above.
Located within a gorge, the Skoga River takes a dramatic plunge down the 197-foot (60-meter) cliff, eventually making its way to the Atlantic Ocean. A staircase along the gorge leads to a viewpoint above the waterfall, offering breathtaking perspectives.
Prepare for the peak of excitement during this two-day tour: a glacier hike on Europe's largest glacier. You'll be transported to one of the world's rarest and most remarkable sites - a mighty glacier.
This is a privilege enjoyed by few as glaciers are diminishing. This area has even served as a backdrop for famous TV shows and movies like Game of Thrones.
Upon arrival, your professional glacier guide will provide essential safety gear such as ice axes, crampons, and harnesses before leading you onto the glacier.
The journey involves hiking on ice that has endured for 2000 to 3000 years, unveiling a spectacle of natural ice phenomena. You'll encounter deep crevasses, intriguing moulins resembling ice tunnels, and awe-inspiring icefalls breaking from the glacier's summit.
Be sure to equip yourself with suitable clothing and hiking footwear for this memorable experience. In case of adverse weather or unavailable guides, an equally stunning glacier, Solheimajokull, might be your alternate choice.
Following the glacier hike, you'll proceed to your hotel in the southeastern region of Iceland. There, a delightful dinner and a comfortable night's rest await, surrounded by picturesque landscapes.
Day 2 - Boat Tour and Natural Wonders
Get ready for an adventure-packed second day! A fantastic boat tour and the captivating black sand beach await you.
Start your day with an exhilarating activity – a boat tour of the enormous floating icebergs in the glacier lagoon, also known as Jokulsarlon.
Jokulsarlon, recognized as one of Iceland's greatest natural wonders, is a vivid example of the impact of global warming. As glaciers melt, large chunks of ice break off and drift into the glacier lagoon, formed by melted glacial water, before eventually making their way to the North Atlantic Ocean.
Embrace the Arctic essence of Iceland as you embark on an unforgettable boat ride at Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, where you'll get up close to the floating icebergs. Keep an eye out for seals swimming or resting atop the icebergs during the summer months.
Crossing the road, you'll discover a captivating black sand beach adorned with shiny "diamonds." These diamond-like icebergs, originating from the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, wash ashore after floating into the Atlantic Ocean and being returned by the waves.
These icebergs, displaying various shades of white and blue, create a dazzling contrast against the dark sand, resembling glistening diamonds. It's no wonder this place is called Diamond Beach, a beloved spot for both locals and tourists.
Continuing westward, a visit to Reynisfjara's black sand beach awaits. Along the Atlantic coastline, mighty waves crash against distinctive basalt pillars that adorn the cliffs above the sandy shores.
In the distance, you'll catch sight of the striking cliffs of Dyholaey. Bird enthusiasts will be delighted by the area, as puffins, razorbills, and various other species nest atop these cliffs during the summer.
The formation of black sand beaches traces back to ancient volcanic eruptions. Over millions of years, lava erosion results in tiny black particles that form the captivating black sand.
The region around Reynisfjara is a testament to its volcanic nature, with prominent volcanoes nearby, including Katla, Hekla, and the renowned Eyjafjallajokull – the very volcano that disrupted European air travel in 2010.
As the day winds down, the journey back to Reykjavik begins, with an estimated evening arrival.
What to bring
Good to know
You will have plenty of chances for bathroom breaks and to buy snacks on the way.
