Iceland South Coast 2-Day Ice Cave & Glacier Lagoon Tour - Northern Lights
Two days on Iceland’s South Coast compress a national park’s worth of landscapes into one trip: basalt cliffs and black sand, dramatic waterfalls, a neon-blue ice cave and the drifting bergs of Jökulsárlón. It’s fast-paced, highly visual and guided for safety.
The Experience
Before You Go
Dress in layers
Temperatures swing from coastal wind to subzero cave air—start with a moisture-wicking base, insulated mid-layer and waterproof outer shell.
Respect beach warnings
Reynisfjara’s sneaker waves are powerful and unpredictable—stay well behind the marked safety line and heed your guide.
Follow glacier-safety instructions
Crampons, helmet and rope are provided—stay close to the guide and avoid venturing onto the glacier alone.
Plan for aurora viewing
Charge batteries, bring a tripod and be prepared to step outside the hotel late at night if the forecast lights up.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Gljúfrabúi Waterfall (a short walk behind a cliff)
- •Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon — a moss-lined gorge slightly off the main route
Wildlife
- •Seals at Jökulsárlón lagoon
- •Seabirds along the coast (auks, terns)
Conservation Note
Vatnajökull and adjacent reserves are sensitive to foot traffic and climate change; stay on marked trails, avoid trampling moss, and follow guide instructions to limit impact.
The South Coast has long been shaped by volcanic activity and coastal fishing communities; many local place names and stories date back to the Norse sagas.
Photographer's Notes
- • Behind Seljalandsfoss waterfall
- • Top of Skógafoss staircase
- • Diamond Beach shoreline facing drifting icebergs
What to Bring
Waterproof shell jacketEssential
Keeps wind and spray off during coastal stops and waterfall approaches.
Insulating mid-layer (fleece/down)Essential
Traps heat between wet outer layers and cold cave or glacier air.
Sturdy hiking boots with ankle supportEssential
Required for uneven beaches, moraine and glacier approaches; crampons fit over most boots.
Tripod and wide-angle lens
Essential for low-light aurora photos and capturing wide ice-cave interiors.
Common Questions
Do I need prior glacier experience?
No prior experience is required; guides provide instruction, helmets, crampons and harnesses and lead all glacier and ice-cave movements.
Can I see the Northern Lights on this tour?
Yes—if geomagnetic and weather conditions align the hotel’s rural location increases your chances, but auroras are never guaranteed.
How physically demanding is the ice-cave visit?
The ice cave visit involves walking on packed ice for up to a few kilometres with short climbs; basic balance and mobility are sufficient.
What footwear should I bring?
Waterproof, stiff-soled hiking boots with ankle support are recommended; guides provide crampons that fit over most boots.
Are meals included?
A continental breakfast is included at the hotel; the itinerary allows stops where you can buy food during the day.
How long is the coach transfer between Reykjavík and Jökulsárlón?
Expect roughly 5–6 hours of driving each way with stops; the tour is structured to break the trip into scenic stops rather than a single long transfer.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
2 days
Location
Höfn, South Iceland
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Comfortable walking fitness; able to manage stairs, uneven terrain and short hikes of 1–4 km.
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