3-Day Golden Circle & South Coast Summer Tour | Glacier Lagoon & Hike with Troll.is
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3 Day South Coast Summer Adventure

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Tour Description

Experience Iceland’s most iconic landscapes on this 3-day guided minibus tour from Reykjavík. Highlights include the Golden Circle’s erupting Strokkur geyser and Gullfoss waterfall, followed by the dramatic South Coast with its black sand beaches and towering cascades. You will participate in a guided glacier hike on Sólheimajökull or Skaftafell and take a boat tour among floating icebergs at the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. This small-group adventure covers over 800 kilometers of diverse terrain, including a visit to the glittering Diamond Beach and two nights in comfortable countryside hotels.

This three-day excursion is a practical way to see Iceland's major southern landmarks without the stress of driving long distances (roughly 380 kilometers one way from the capital). Departing from Reykjavík, the tour first explores the Golden Circle, where you will visit Þingvellir National Park, the site of the world’s first parliament located in a rift valley between tectonic plates. You will also witness the Geysir Geothermal Area and the multi-tiered Gullfoss waterfall.

The second day focuses on the South Coast, featuring the 60-meter high Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss, where a path allows you to walk behind the falling water. A key highlight is the glacier hike; equipped with provided crampons and ice axes, you will walk on ancient ice to see crevasses and unique formations under the guidance of a professional.

On the final day, the journey reaches the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon in Vatnajökull National Park. Here, you will board a boat to navigate around massive blue icebergs. Just across the road, you will visit the Diamond Beach, where ice chunks wash ashore onto volcanic black sands. The return trip includes a stop at Reynisfjara, a black sand beach famous for its massive basalt columns and powerful Atlantic waves. Accommodation for two nights with breakfast is included, typically in the Hvolsvöllur or Vík areas. This tour is ideal for those who want a factual, well-organized overview of Iceland's "fire and ice" geology.

Start from

From Reykjavík

Open season

June - September

Duration

3 Days

Pick-up

Minibus tour: Pick up & Drop off included

Difficulty

Easy to moderate



Map and Itinerary

Day 1: The Golden Circle

Our adventure begins with an early morning departure from Reykjavík as we set out on the classic Golden Circle route. You’ll witness Iceland’s geothermal wonders, thundering waterfalls, and historic landscapes. In the evening, we continue toward the South Coast for an overnight stay in the countryside.

Please note: The itinerary is subject to change due to weather, road conditions, and availability of activities. Your guide will always ensure the best and safest experience possible.

1

Meeting and greeting from Reykjavik

Your adventure starts promptly at 8:00 AM in Reykjavík; after meeting your group, you will begin a comfortable minibus journey through the Golden Circle, complete with local stories and photo tips from your guide.

2

Þingvellir (Thingvellir) National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Þingvellir is where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates drift apart, creating a visible rift valley. It’s also Iceland’s most historic site: the birthplace of the world’s oldest parliament, founded in 930 AD. The area is rich in geological beauty, with clear springs, cliffs, and Iceland’s largest natural lake.

3

Bruarfoss Waterfall

Often considered a hidden gem within Iceland's breathtaking landscapes, Brúarfoss is famous as "Iceland's Bluest Waterfall."

While it may be smaller than other famous cascades, its unique beauty lies in the serenity of its setting. The silky, sapphire-blue waters create a surreal landscape as they cascade over dark lava rocks. This vibrant blue stands in stunning contrast to the surrounding black

4

Geysir Geothermal Area

We begin at the Geysir geothermal field, where bubbling mud pools and steaming vents dot the ground. The highlight is Strokkur, an active geyser erupting every few minutes, sometimes reaching heights of up to 35 meters! It’s named after “Geysir,” the original namesake of all geysers worldwide.

5

Gullfoss Waterfall

Next, we visit the mighty Gullfoss, or “Golden Falls.” Fed by meltwater from Langjökull glacier, this two-tiered waterfall drops dramatically into a canyon. On sunny days, look for a rainbow glimmering in the mist. A photographer’s delight.

6

Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

Our next stop is the stunning Seljalandsfoss waterfall. You can walk behind the cascade for a one-of-a-kind view. Just bring a rain jacket! The roar of the water and shimmering mist make this an unforgettable experience.

7

Included Activity: Glacier Hike in Sólheimajökull

Next, we meet our certified glacier guide for an unforgettable adventure on the ice. After gearing up with helmets, crampons, and ice axes, we’ll step onto the glacier, an ever-changing world of blue ice, deep crevasses, and frozen sculptures. If weather or safety factors prevent hiking at one glacier, the tour may instead take place at another beautiful and suitable glacier.

8

Accommodation: Hotel Drangshlíð (or similar)

After a day exploring the waterfalls and glaciers of Iceland’s South Coast, we’ll spend the night in a comfortable countryside hotel in the same area, typically Hotel Drangshlíð or a similar option. The location offers easy access to the next day’s activities and is ideally situated for Northern Lights viewing during the winter months, far from city lights. Dinner and rest here provide the perfect break before continuing your journey toward Vatnajökull National Park and the Glacier Lagoon the following day.

Day 2: South Coast Waterfalls & Glacier Hike

Today we explore Iceland’s spectacular South Coast, home to iconic waterfalls, black sand beaches, and mighty glaciers. You’ll strap on crampons and hike across ancient ice with a professional glacier guide. A true highlight of the trip.

Please note: The daily itinerary is subject to change due to weather, road conditions, and availability of activities. Activates may be moved between days. Your guide will always ensure the best and safest experience possible.

1

Morning Meetup: Breakfast and Briefing

For Day 2, Your journey will start from the hotel between 8:00 AM and 9:00 AM, after you've enjoyed breakfast. Your guide will provide you with a more accurate departure time and plan the night before.

2

Skógafoss Waterfall 

A short drive away lies Skógafoss, a powerful 60-meter-high waterfall pouring from a cliff into the Skógá River. Climb the staircase beside the falls for sweeping views of the coastline, or admire the rainbows that often appear in the spray below.

Optional Activity: Boat Tour

An optional activity that will take you on an unforgettable Boat Ride Tour at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where you will get a chance to get closer to the floating icebergs!

4

Accommodation: Hrífunes Inn (or similar)

We’ll end the day at a cozy countryside inn in the area, typically Hrífunes Inn or a similar guesthouse, perfectly located between the waterfalls of the South Coast and the glaciers of Vatnajökull National Park. This quiet, rural setting offers a peaceful atmosphere and wide-open skies that are ideal for spotting the Northern Lights on clear winter nights. It’s a comfortable overnight stop that sets us up nicely for the scenic drive east the following morning.

Day 3: Glacier Lagoon, Ice Cave & Black Sand Beach

We end the journey with some of Iceland’s most breathtaking sights, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Diamond Beach, and Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, before heading back to Reykjavík in the evening.

Please note: The daily itinerary is subject to change due to weather, road conditions, and availability of activities. Activates may be moved between days. Your guide will always ensure the best and safest experience possible.

1

Morning Meetup: Breakfast and Briefing

For Day 3, Your journey will start from the hotel between 8:00 AM and 9:00 AM, after you've enjoyed breakfast. Your guide will provide you with a more accurate departure time and plan the night before.

2

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

A spectacular natural wonder, this 200-meter-deep lagoon is filled with floating icebergs calved from Breiðamerkurjökull, one of Vatnajökull’s outlet glaciers. The lagoon’s tranquil blue waters are often home to seals basking on the ice.

3

Diamond Beach

Across the road from the lagoon lies Diamond Beach, where glittering ice fragments from Jökulsárlón are scattered across black volcanic sands. The dazzling contrast of light and dark makes this one of Iceland’s most photogenic locations.

4

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

On our return journey, we visit Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, where the Atlantic coastline features dramatic, massive waves crashing against unique basalt pillars in the cliffs. In the distance, you can see the cliffs of Dyrhólaey.

5

Included Activity: Katla Ice Cave

This remote adventure takes you through a unique landscape of volcanic black sand and towering, mossy mountains. The highlight is the chance to walk inside the natural blue ice cave, where you'll witness the stunning colors and shapes created by volcanic ash and ice. As you travel, you'll be treated to a scenic drive with a view of Mt. Hafursey, a famous filming location from Rogue One: A Star Wars Story. The tour includes a thrilling Super-Jeep ride and a discovery of "Dragon-Glass" while exploring a remote, off-the-beaten-path location that is one of Iceland's best-kept secrets.

6

Return to Reykjavík

After a final stretch along the South Coast, we return to Reykjavík, with an estimated arrival around 8:00 PM. Actual arrival time may vary depending on weather and road conditions.



Available Add-ons

Support Shoes

Rent shoes for keeping your ankles safe to prevent injuries

$22
Waterproof Jacket

Rent a jacket to keep you dry

$12
Waterproof Pants

Rent pants to keep you dry

$12
Beanie and Gloves

Buy our Troll Beanie and Gloves to feel part of our winter Trolls and keep you warm in the Icelandic cold

$22
Neck-warmer

Buy our Troll Neck-warmer to feel part of our winter Trolls and and protect your face from cold wind

$4
Summer Cap

Buy our Troll Summer-Cap to feel part of our summer Trolls and protect yourself from the sun

$10
Luggage Storage

Store your extra luggage.

$15
Price from
$998
/ traveler
Choose a date to start

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Warm clothes (first layer)
  • Waterproof outdoor clothing (second layer)
  • Hiking boots (available for rent on booking)
  • Gloves and hat
  • Joy and happiness!

For pickup, select your designated location in Reykjavík from the drop-down menu when booking; please inform us of your choice at least 42 hours in advance if you are unsure at the time of booking.

Pickup is scheduled between 8:00 AM and 8:45 AM from your chosen point and is not available from Keflavík airport or outside the greater capital area.

  • The tour is generally suggested for participants 8 years and older due to activity restrictions.
  • The Glacier Hike specifically requires a minimum age of 8 and a minimum shoe size of EU 34.
  • The minimum age for the Ice Cave visit is 6. If a child does not meet the requirements for a restricted activity, an accompanying adult must remain with them.
  • Furthermore, a seat must be reserved for any child aged six and under to accommodate a legally required child safety seat.

  • All multi-day tours can be cancelled 24 hours before the departure time by sending a written email to info@troll.is. You will receive a full refund except the 3% transaction fee. All cancellations requested less than 24 hours from the departure time are non refundable.
  • In the case of cancellation of the tour by the operator because of extreme weather, road conditions, or other factors, we will assist you with rebooking to another date or booking other activities when possible or provide a full refund less the 3% transaction fee
  • The 24-hour policy “applies to extras as well (rental Hiking Boots, Waterproof Jacket & Waterproof Pants).

It is possible that your tour itinerary may be altered due to bad weather or road conditions. You will be notified of any changes either by email or by your tour guide. But do not worry, we will try our best to visit all the most beautiful places on our journey.

  • Customers traveling alone must pay a Single Supplement Fee during the payment process, as it is not possible for solo travelers to share a room with other solo travelers on this tour.
  • Reservations for 2 people: will be allocated a double room (supplement fee does not need to be paid unless you want another private room).
  • Reservations for 3 people: 1 triple room will be automatically allocated (supplement fee does not need to be paid unless you want another private room).
  • Reservations for 4 or more people: 2x Double Rooms will be allocated (supplement fee does not need to be paid unless you want another private room).

  • Order or availability of attractions may change due to road or weather conditions, and we may have to adjust timings to the short daylight of winter days.
  • The limit is one suitcase of 24 inches per person, but you can store your extra luggage in our office for 1750 ISK. It can be added as an extra fee at the time of booking, and is non-refundable upon payment in all cases.
  • All luggage exceeding the standard limit must be stored at our office. If there is available space in the vehicle's trunk, we may bring them along (but the extra luggage fee is still required); otherwise, it will remain secured at the office.
  • The Northern Lights are a sightseeing and a natural random phenomenon and cannot be guaranteed by the operator. The hotels are in prime locations to maximise 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. If no Northern Lights have been seen during the tour, you are welcome to book a specific tour to the Northern Lights from Reykjavik, once your multi day tour has finished, please get in contact with us for more information and special discounts.
  • Ice caves are a dynamic ever-changing natural phenomenon only accessible during winter time when temperatures drop below zero. Each year new unique caves are formed in different areas of the glacier. We visit a naturally formed ice cave during this tour. The photos on our website and social medias are from this winter season, but the ice cave we visit might have changed of appearance due to the dynamic nature of these formations.
  • We strive to provide you with the best possible experience on our tours, and we hope you find this information helpful as you plan your trip with us.