The Essential South Iceland 3-Day Summer Tour was put together for people with limited time in Iceland but who still want to immerse themselves in Iceland’s unbelievable nature, experience the most celebrated sights and go a little off the beaten path.
Iceberg filled lagoons, adventurous glaciers, uncountable waterfalls, erupting geysers, shimmering black sand beaches and, of course, unforgettable food. This short trip has it all!
You’ll explore the entire south coast of Iceland, hike on an outlet glacier within the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Vatnajökull National Park, which holds Europe’s largest glacier. Marvel as icebergs float around the enormous Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and wash up on the black sand shores of the Diamond Beach. We will also bathe in the Blue Lagoon natural hot pool in the Golden Circle area, watch geysers erupt and thunderous waterfalls flow and much more. Your secluded accommodation is perfect for basking in the midnight sun during summer. All this within the space of three action packed days!
The proposed itinerary spans a total of three days, but can be extended depending on your timeframe and activities chosen. Arrival and departure days, as well as any additional days, will be meticulously planned by our Travel Experts to ensure a seamless experience. We also recommend allocating at least one full day in Reykjavík before or after your tour to explore the vibrant city and its surroundings.
Your Summer Expedition
Similar to our Essential South Iceland Winter itinerary, this 3-day tour offers added flexibility to explore locations best enjoyed during the summer months.
South Iceland Tour Summer Itinerary
Day 1 | Explore the entire South Coast
Over the next two days, we travel the entire south coast of Iceland, allowing you to experience some of the country’s most iconic sights. We start with the impressive Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls. These very different but equally awe-inspiring waterfalls, with cascading falls of glacial and snow melt dropping 60 meters, offer stunning photo opportunities and are always a fan favourite.
On our way to our accommodation for the night, we’ll pass through Skaftafell Nature Reserve, enjoying spectacular views of glaciers and Iceland’s highest peaks in Vatnajökull National Park. We end the day at one of our favourite south coast locations: the mesmerizing Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where giant icebergs float serenely. If you’re lucky, you might spot curious seals swimming in the lagoon and see large blocks of ice sparkling on the nearby Diamond Beach. Our accommodation options are perfectly located to immerse you in the beauty of southeast Iceland.
Where do we stay?
We stay at the Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon (or equivalent)
Day 2 | Glacier Adventures within Vatnajökull National Park
Our second day packs in even more action and stunning sights. We start by getting up close and personal with the astonishingly beautiful ice formations of an outlet glacier of the enormous Vatnajökull Icecap. Our customizable glacier hike, designed for first-timers, offers unbeatable views of the ice fall on the Falljökull glacier. Read more about our glacier hike here.
We then take our time exploring more of the south coast wonders. We’ll stop in the charming town of Vík and visit the Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach with its unique hexagonal basalt columns. The raw power of the North Atlantic Ocean waves pounding onto the black sand shores is a spectacular sight.
Where do we stay?
Choose from various options in the area, including Skálakot Luxury Manor or the pristine Hotel UMI (or equivalent).
Day 3 | Enchanting Golden Circle
On the final leg of our journey, we embark on a leisurely exploration of the Golden Circle, a fitting end to our adventure-filled tour. We start by marvelling at the sheer power of Gullfoss, where rainbows dance in the midst of this majestic waterfall. Next, we venture to the geothermal wonders of Geysir, witnessing its explosive geysers and surrounding steam vents.
Afterward, we recharge with a unique lunch inside the tomato greenhouse farm Friðheimar, indulging in their renowned tomato-inspired dishes amidst the lush greenery. Then, we journey to the historic and geologically significant Þingvellir National Park, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. Finally, we offer two options to conclude our journey; a relaxing retreat at the Blue Lagoon or a return to Reykjavík for further city exploration. The choice is yours to make, marking the perfect end to our unforgettable Icelandic adventure.
Where do we stay?
Tonight, the choice is yours: journey onward to the renowned Blue Lagoon for a luxurious stay at the 4-star Silica Lagoon or the 5-star The Retreat. Alternatively, opt for an evening of exploration in Reykjavík, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and culinary delights of Iceland’s capital city.
South Iceland Summer Tour Highlights
| OPERATES April–October |
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| Inclusions • Accommodation with breakfast all mornings • Activities as listed in the proposed itinerary • Private transportation with Wi-Fi • Led by one of our guides for the duration of the tour |
Exclusions • International flights • Meals unless otherwise specified |
Accommodation options
Premium: Primarily 4-star hotels, offering high-quality amenities and services, comfortable and stylish rooms, and excellent locations with easy access to attractions.
Luxury: Combination of 4-star and 5-star hotels and lodges, providing superior amenities and exceptional service, elegant and spacious rooms, and often feature on-site fine dining and wellness facilities.
Exclusive accommodation & private lodges: Exclusively 5-star hotels and private lodges, offering unmatched luxury and personalised service, luxurious suites and private accommodations, with top-tier amenities including private pools, spas, and gourmet dining options.
Ready to make this South Iceland tour your dream summer trip?
