3 Day Golden Circle, South Coast & Glacier Lagoon Small-Group Tour
Enjoy 3 days in Iceland, with our wonderful year round small-group tour, and explore the best that the Golden Circle and South Iceland have to offer. Visit both hot-spots and lesser known gems, as your expert guide takes you on a journey of discovery.
Over the course of this tour you will see the erupting Geysir, cascading waterfalls such as Gullfoss and Seljalandsfoss, Ice Diamond stewn volcanic black sand beaches and more. Switch to a high-octane super jeep and venture onto a glacier in search of crystal ice caves.
In the evenings in Autumn, Winter and Spring, should atmospheric conditions cooperate, we will also seek out the legendary green shimering northern lights for which Iceland is rightly renowned.
Included with your tour is comfortable accommodation at a cosy countryside hotel for 2 nights. Get to know your fellow passengers on this intimate small-group tour.
On day 1 we explore the greatest hits of the Golden Circle route, with stops at Thingvellir national park, Geysir, and more. We also make a head start on the south coast by ending our day at Reynisfjara blacks sand beach.
Day 2 sees a day of glacier action, with the icebergs at Jökulsárlón, the ice strewn Diamond Beach, and of course our visit to a natural ice cave. In winter, we explore Vatnajökull glacier, Europe´s largest. In summer, we check out Katla Ice Cave on Mýrdalsjökull glacier instead.
Day 3 is waterfall day, with Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls the highlights.
Tour highlights & itinerary
For our 3-day Iceland Tour, we plan to base strategically base ourselves at a well located comfortbale hotel. We provide a variety of room options. All rooms come with private bathrooms (ensuite) and complimentary Wi-Fi. Additionally, you’ll often find amenities like hairdryers and kettles, ensuring a comfortable stay amidst Iceland’s stunning landscapes.
Each morning, enjoy a diverse continental buffet breakfast with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, providing a delightful taste of Nordic cuisine amidst breathtaking natural scenery.
During winter journeys through Iceland, hotels offer a Northern Lights wake-up service, allowing you to catch this mesmerizing natural phenomenon. You can also inquire about this service at the front desk of most hotels. It’s an Icelandic winter highlight you definitely won’t want to miss!
- Expert English speaking driver-guide and minibus
- Pick up and drop off from various location in Reykjavik
- Wifi on board
- Optional Ice cave tour - Katla ice cave in summer / Crystal ice cave in winter, and ride on our Super jeep to the ice cave
- Accommodation with breakfast for 2 nights
- Food & drinks
- Warm, water- and windproof outdoor clothing
- Good sturdy hiking boots
- Gloves and hat
- Cancellation policy: A 48-hour cancellation policy applies. If you cancel your booking at least 48 hours before departure time, you will receive a full refund.
- Hotels & single supplement fee: Customers traveling alone If you don´t pay the Single room fee, you might be paired with another solo traveler of the same gender in a twin room.
- Northern Lights: We will do our best to see the aurora during your time with us, but nature does not always play along. Aurora season is September to early April.
- Ice caves are dynamic natural wonders. The actual view of the ice caves during your visit might differ from the photographs, as they continuously change and evolve. Their appearance can vary due to factors like the season, time of day, lighting, and more.
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Itinerary
Itinerary
ReykjavikAt 8 a.m. on the tour day, our journey will kick off from Reykjavík. As soon as everyone is on board the minibus, we’ll set off on our adventure along Iceland’s popular Golden Circle Route.
1 Day 1 - Golden CircleThe Golden Circle is Iceland´s most popular travel route. Diverse landscapes and wonderous geological features dot this region.
2 Thingvellir National ParkOur first stop is at Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site of great historical and geological significance.
Thingvellir is most famous at the location of the mid-Atlantic ridge, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates separate and drift further apart with each passing year. This manifests itself most stunningly with Álmannagjá, a massive rift through which one can stroll, with sheer vertical walls to each side.
For Icelanders though, this site means more than natural beauty. Thingvellir is the site of Iceland´s first parliament, wehich first met here over 1000 years ago. Indeed, the name “Thingvellir” itself translates to “Parliament Plains,” underscoring its important role is the nation´s development.
3 Geysir Geothermal AreaMuch of south-west Iceland is teeming with underground geothermal spots. It is necessary to bore deep into the ground to harness this energy. At Geysir though, the geothermal hot-springs manifest on the surface in many wondeful ways, including bubbling mud-pools and hot-pots. The most famous maifestation of this natural power though is of course the geyser itself. Strokkur geyser can be relied upon to erupt on cue every 5-10 minutes, ensuring you will have time to witness several eruptions during your visit.
4 Gullfoss WaterfallGullfoss is an immensely powerful waterfall on the glacial river Hvítá, fed by the looming Langjökull glacier to the north. It features a striking two-tiered drop: the upper falls plunging 11 meters (36 feet) and the lower tier dropping 21 meters (69 feet). Together, they create a powerful, staircase-like cascade.
5 Reynisfjara Black Sand BeachOur last stop of the day is to the magical black sands of Reynisfjara beach. Here the harsh waves of the icy-cold north Altantic crash across the stunning geometric basalt columns of the high cliffs. Explore the caves in the cliff, but beware the danger of the sneaker waves.
In the waves is the distance you will see the distinct shapes of Reynisdrangar sea stacks.
6 Northern Lights Discovery - September to March onlyUpon arriving at our hotel for the night, your guide will brief you on the prospects of catching a glimpse of the Northern Lights that evening, and if the night sky remains clear and the forecast favorable, we may venture out in search of magic.
We don´t control the aurora of course, and if prospects are bleak we will instead just take it easy at the hotel. Please note that the prime Northern Lights viewing season typically spans from September to March.
7 Day 2 - Ice Cave tour and the Glacier LagoonOn day two we will explore Icelandic glaciers and the impact they have on the surrounding landscapes. Explore an ice cave, visit the Diamond Beach, and see the icebergs at the glacier lagoon.
8 Jokulsarlon Glacier LagoonJökulsárlón glacier lagoon is one of Iceland´s top attractions. Here Europe´s largest glacier Vatnajökull meets the sea. Enormous masses of ice calve off the glacier and gradually float through the lagoon out to sea.
From April to October, one can take a boat tour on the lagoon and see the icebergs up close.
9 Optional Ice Cave ExplorationNote: You can add this optional Ice Cave tour when booking. You can also ask your guide to add this for you, and we will do our best to squeeze you in, subject to availability.
Exploring a natural ice cave is a must when visiting Iceland, regardless of the time of year in which you visit. We switch to a super jeep in order to ascend up onto the glaciers. We kit you out with all the necessary safety gear, including crampons and helmet. You are now ready to witness these beautiful caves, where the sulight refracts through the ice, giving it a blue sheen. The ice here is clear, pristine, and unpolluted. It forms into unusual patterns and shapes.
Ice caves are constantly changing, and we can not guarantee that it will be exactly as the pictures show on this tour page.
Please note
- From October to March, we visit the Crystal ice caves of Vatnajökull glacier.
- From April to September, we venture instead to Katla Ice Cave, on Mýrdalsjökull glacier, further west.
10 Diamond BeachOnce the icebergs from Jökulsárlón reach the sea, they are taken by strong waves and break down into smaller pieces. These ice pieces wash ashore before they are retaken by the waves. This process repeats, until eventually the pieces break down completely. But we can enjoy the spectacle of thousands of chunks of ice of various sizes sparkeling in the daylight, in contrast to the sheer black sands of the beach. Little wonder that this is popularly known as the Diamond Beach.
11 Northern Lights Discovery - September to March onlyIf we did not venture out on night 1, we will do so on night 2 instead. Again, the lights are a natural phenomenom, so we hope for clear skies and solar activitity.
Please note that the prime Northern Lights viewing season typically spans from September to March.
12 Day 3 - South Iceland and return to ReykjavikWe conclude our 3 day Iceland tour, with some more natural wonders for which the southern coastline is renowned.
13 VikThe charming fishing village of Vík is home to about 300 hardy souls who brave the harsh winds year round. It has become a popular stop for travelers of the southern coastline.
It is also home to spectacular views of the sea cliffs and basalt sea stacks in the distance. Take a stroll on the black sand beach and grab some photos of the cliffs in the distance.
14 Skogafoss WaterfallSkógafoss waterfall is an imposing site, with the water cascading down the immense 60m face. The falls can be viewed and appreciated from ground level, but if you are still feeling energetic, you can climb the winding 430+ steps to reach the viewing platform at the top. From here, as well as marveling at Skógafoss itself, one can enjoy panoramic views of the the southern coastline, and on a clear day can spot the Westman Islands to the far south.
15 Seljalandsfoss WaterfallAs we make out way westwards back towards the city lights, we have one more natural wonder to share with you; one of Iceland´s most treasured waterfalls, Seljalandsfoss waterfall. Seljalandsfoss is especially famed for the unique walking path that winds its way behind the waterfall. Make sure to wear your rain gear if you choose to take the path as you will get wet, but that is a small price to pay to see the falls from that unusual viewpoint.
If you prefer to stay dry, the falls are equally spectacular from the front.
ReykjavkAfter our captivating journey, we’ll commence our return trip to Reykjavik, and should be back by the early evening, although this may vary depending on prevailing weather conditions and the state of the roads.
At 8 a.m. on the tour day, our journey will kick off from Reykjavík. As soon as everyone is on board the minibus, we’ll set off on our adventure along Iceland’s popular Golden Circle Route.
The Golden Circle is Iceland´s most popular travel route. Diverse landscapes and wonderous geological features dot this region.
Our first stop is at Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site of great historical and geological significance.
Thingvellir is most famous at the location of the mid-Atlantic ridge, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates separate and drift further apart with each passing year. This manifests itself most stunningly with Álmannagjá, a massive rift through which one can stroll, with sheer vertical walls to each side.
For Icelanders though, this site means more than natural beauty. Thingvellir is the site of Iceland´s first parliament, wehich first met here over 1000 years ago. Indeed, the name “Thingvellir” itself translates to “Parliament Plains,” underscoring its important role is the nation´s development.
Much of south-west Iceland is teeming with underground geothermal spots. It is necessary to bore deep into the ground to harness this energy. At Geysir though, the geothermal hot-springs manifest on the surface in many wondeful ways, including bubbling mud-pools and hot-pots. The most famous maifestation of this natural power though is of course the geyser itself. Strokkur geyser can be relied upon to erupt on cue every 5-10 minutes, ensuring you will have time to witness several eruptions during your visit.
Gullfoss is an immensely powerful waterfall on the glacial river Hvítá, fed by the looming Langjökull glacier to the north. It features a striking two-tiered drop: the upper falls plunging 11 meters (36 feet) and the lower tier dropping 21 meters (69 feet). Together, they create a powerful, staircase-like cascade.
Our last stop of the day is to the magical black sands of Reynisfjara beach. Here the harsh waves of the icy-cold north Altantic crash across the stunning geometric basalt columns of the high cliffs. Explore the caves in the cliff, but beware the danger of the sneaker waves.
In the waves is the distance you will see the distinct shapes of Reynisdrangar sea stacks.
Upon arriving at our hotel for the night, your guide will brief you on the prospects of catching a glimpse of the Northern Lights that evening, and if the night sky remains clear and the forecast favorable, we may venture out in search of magic.
We don´t control the aurora of course, and if prospects are bleak we will instead just take it easy at the hotel. Please note that the prime Northern Lights viewing season typically spans from September to March.
On day two we will explore Icelandic glaciers and the impact they have on the surrounding landscapes. Explore an ice cave, visit the Diamond Beach, and see the icebergs at the glacier lagoon.
Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon is one of Iceland´s top attractions. Here Europe´s largest glacier Vatnajökull meets the sea. Enormous masses of ice calve off the glacier and gradually float through the lagoon out to sea.
From April to October, one can take a boat tour on the lagoon and see the icebergs up close.
Note: You can add this optional Ice Cave tour when booking. You can also ask your guide to add this for you, and we will do our best to squeeze you in, subject to availability.
Exploring a natural ice cave is a must when visiting Iceland, regardless of the time of year in which you visit. We switch to a super jeep in order to ascend up onto the glaciers. We kit you out with all the necessary safety gear, including crampons and helmet. You are now ready to witness these beautiful caves, where the sulight refracts through the ice, giving it a blue sheen. The ice here is clear, pristine, and unpolluted. It forms into unusual patterns and shapes.
Ice caves are constantly changing, and we can not guarantee that it will be exactly as the pictures show on this tour page.
Please note
- From October to March, we visit the Crystal ice caves of Vatnajökull glacier.
- From April to September, we venture instead to Katla Ice Cave, on Mýrdalsjökull glacier, further west.
Once the icebergs from Jökulsárlón reach the sea, they are taken by strong waves and break down into smaller pieces. These ice pieces wash ashore before they are retaken by the waves. This process repeats, until eventually the pieces break down completely. But we can enjoy the spectacle of thousands of chunks of ice of various sizes sparkeling in the daylight, in contrast to the sheer black sands of the beach. Little wonder that this is popularly known as the Diamond Beach.
If we did not venture out on night 1, we will do so on night 2 instead. Again, the lights are a natural phenomenom, so we hope for clear skies and solar activitity.
Please note that the prime Northern Lights viewing season typically spans from September to March.
We conclude our 3 day Iceland tour, with some more natural wonders for which the southern coastline is renowned.
The charming fishing village of Vík is home to about 300 hardy souls who brave the harsh winds year round. It has become a popular stop for travelers of the southern coastline.
It is also home to spectacular views of the sea cliffs and basalt sea stacks in the distance. Take a stroll on the black sand beach and grab some photos of the cliffs in the distance.
Skógafoss waterfall is an imposing site, with the water cascading down the immense 60m face. The falls can be viewed and appreciated from ground level, but if you are still feeling energetic, you can climb the winding 430+ steps to reach the viewing platform at the top. From here, as well as marveling at Skógafoss itself, one can enjoy panoramic views of the the southern coastline, and on a clear day can spot the Westman Islands to the far south.
As we make out way westwards back towards the city lights, we have one more natural wonder to share with you; one of Iceland´s most treasured waterfalls, Seljalandsfoss waterfall. Seljalandsfoss is especially famed for the unique walking path that winds its way behind the waterfall. Make sure to wear your rain gear if you choose to take the path as you will get wet, but that is a small price to pay to see the falls from that unusual viewpoint.
If you prefer to stay dry, the falls are equally spectacular from the front.
After our captivating journey, we’ll commence our return trip to Reykjavik, and should be back by the early evening, although this may vary depending on prevailing weather conditions and the state of the roads.