3-Day Summer Golden Circle & South Coast with Glacier Hike

If you’re dreaming of Iceland’s dramatic scenery, this 3-day tour promises a well-rounded taste of some of the country’s most iconic sights. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviews and detailed itineraries suggest it offers a memorable adventure filled with glaciers, waterfalls, black sand beaches, and more.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the diverse stops — from the historic Þingvellir National Park to the otherworldly Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon. Second, the expert guides (like Svavar, Sebastian, Yakoda, and Guss), who help you navigate Iceland’s often-changing weather with humor and insight. Third, the value for money, given the number of highlights packed into three days, including glacier hiking and boat rides.

However, a possible drawback is the fast-paced nature of the itinerary—visitors might feel a bit rushed at some sites. If you prefer slower, more relaxed exploration, this tour may feel hurried, especially on the second and third days.

Overall, it’s an excellent choice for travelers who want to maximize their Iceland experience in a short period, especially those eager to see glaciers, waterfalls, and stunning coastal scenery. It suits adventurous, active travelers who don’t mind spending long days on the road but want a guided, organized experience.

Key Points

• Comprehensive trip covering Golden Circle, South Coast, and Jokulsarlon
• Expert guides enhance understanding and safety
• Includes glacier hike with gear provided for a hands-on experience
• Boat ride at Jokulsarlon adds an authentic icy adventure
• Accommodation with breakfast included offers convenience
• Weather can be changeable, so packing appropriately is essential

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the 3-Day Iceland Tour

Day 1: The Golden Circle – A Classic Iceland Introduction

Your adventure kicks off with the famous Golden Circle, a route that showcases some of Iceland’s most iconic landmarks. The day begins with a pickup from Reykjavik, where you’ll meet your professional guide—likely Svavar, who gets high praise for being both funny and knowledgeable.

First stop is Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site where you can walk between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. Travelers mention how this area provides a surreal feeling of standing on the edge of two continents while surrounded by volcanic landscapes. Next, the group visits Gullfoss, the roaring waterfall that reveals Iceland’s raw power, and Geysir, home to the famous erupting hot springs that shoot boiling water into the air every few minutes.

One of the highlights is a visit to Kerid Crater, a volcanic crater lake with vibrant red slopes—an Instagram favorite. The day includes some fun surprises, like extra stops to a tomato farm and horse feeding, which add authentic Icelandic flavor. As Lok noted in a review, “the first day was great to see all the listed attractions, with extra stops and a humorous guide.”

Staying overnight near the Golden Circle area or in Reykjavik makes it easy to rest before the next day’s adventures, with breakfast included.

Day 2: South Coast & Waterfalls – From Waterfalls to Glaciers

The second day is packed with some of the most spectacular waterfalls and black sand beaches Iceland has to offer. You’ll visit Seljalandsfoss, famous for the unique feature of walking behind the cascading water—an experience that leaves many travelers awestruck. Nearby, Skogafoss offers a more powerful, thunderous fall, with a staircase leading to panoramic views from above.

Reynisfjara beach, with its black sand, basalt columns, and the Reynisdrangar sea stacks, is a must-see that gives you the feeling of being on Mars. Reviewers like Mehdi appreciated the well-chosen food stops at this stage, which help break up the long day.

Perhaps the highlight of the day is the glacier hike on Solheimajokull. With all necessary equipment provided, this guided walk offers a rare chance to step onto real ice, marvel at crevasses, and learn about Iceland’s glaciers from a professional guide. One reviewer, Mehdi, mentioned the guides Yakoda and Guss, who made the experience both informative and fun, despite moments of feeling rushed—an understandable trade-off considering the number of sites to see.

Overnight is spent in a hotel located between Vik and Hofn, keeping travel manageable and allowing you to wake up ready for the next day’s sights.

Day 3: Glacial Lagoon & Coastline Wonders

The third day dives into the icy marvels of Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, where floating icebergs create a landscape straight out of a fantasy novel. A boat ride into the lagoon offers an intimate view of moving ice, with reviewers emphasizing how magical this experience is. The Diamond Beach, scattered with ice chunks glistening on black sand, is a photographer’s paradise.

Additional stops include the Fjadrargljufur River Canyon, a winding, moss-covered gorge that looks like it belongs in a fairy tale. You might also see the Eldhraun Lava Fields—a vast, eerie expanse of moss-covered lava created during a huge volcanic eruption.

After a full day exploring, you’ll head back to Reykjavik. Traveling this route gives you a comprehensive look at Iceland’s diverse landscapes—from rugged coastlines and volcanic formations to ice-filled lagoons.

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Practical Considerations and Tips

Transportation & Group Size

The tour is operated by David The Guide Iceland, with comfortable transportation that makes long days easier. While specific group sizes aren’t specified, guided tours like this typically keep groups manageable for personalized attention.

Cost & Value

At $990 per person, the price reflects the inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional guide, glacier hiking gear, a boat ride, and breakfast. This level of convenience and variety provides good value, especially considering the costs individual activities might incur if booked separately.

What to Bring

Packing sensible clothing is key. Bring comfortable shoes, warm layers, and a camera to capture the unforgettable scenery. Sunscreen and water bottles are also recommended, as weather can change quickly.

Weather & Timing

Iceland’s weather in summer can be surprisingly unpredictable—rains and wind are common, so be prepared. Tour operators advise booking in advance during high season, and being ready for pickup at designated times.

Accessibility & Restrictions

The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, or wheelchair users. It involves outdoor activities, including glacier hikes, which require a good level of mobility.

Cancellation Policies

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change unexpectedly.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

Lok highlighted the extra stops and the charismatic guide Svavar, saying, “the first day was great with extra stops to a tomato farm and horse feeding,” adding to the tour’s authentic feel. Sebastian’s patience and friendly attitude on the second and third days also left a strong impression—many travelers appreciated guides who combined humor with expert knowledge.

Mehdi appreciated the well-organized stops and food tips, even noting that, “we sometimes felt a bit rushed,” which is a fair trade-off considering the packed itinerary.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for adventurous travelers eager to see a broad swath of Iceland’s landscapes in a short time. It’s especially suited for those comfortable with long days on the road and outdoor activities like glacier hiking. The tour’s inclusions, from boat rides to waterfalls, offer a well-rounded experience without the hassle of planning each stop independently.

If you’re after a value-packed, guided Icelandic adventure that covers top highlights with expert guides, this tour delivers. It’s also a good pick for travelers who appreciate authentic, spontaneous stops and aren’t afraid of variable weather.

FAQs

Is transportation provided? Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, with comfortable transport for all participants.

What’s included in the price? It covers the guide, glacier hiking equipment, boat ride at Jokulsarlon, breakfast, and transportation. Lunch and dinner are not included.

Do I need to bring my own gear? No, all necessary glacier hiking gear is provided, but you should bring comfortable shoes, warm clothing, sunscreen, and a camera.

Can I book this tour and pay later? Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, offering flexibility in planning.

Is the tour suitable for children? The description doesn’t specify age restrictions, but given the glacier hike and outdoor activities, it’s best suited for older children and teenagers.

How demanding is the glacier hike? It’s guided, with all equipment provided, and suitable for most active travelers; however, it involves walking on ice and some physical activity.

What happens if the weather is bad? The itinerary might be adjusted, but the guides are experienced in handling Iceland’s unpredictable weather, ensuring safety and a memorable experience.

Is there free time during the tour? The schedule is quite packed, with limited free time, but the stops are well-chosen to maximize sightseeing.

Can I customize the itinerary? The tour is pre-arranged, but the guides often include extra stops or tips based on conditions and group interests.

What should I do if I want to extend my trip? Consider booking additional days in Reykjavik or the surrounding areas—many travelers combine this tour with other adventures.

This 3-day tour offers an all-encompassing glimpse of Iceland’s stunning landscapes, from thundering waterfalls and volcanic craters to icy lagoons and black sand beaches. The combination of professional guides, diverse stops, and included activities like glacier hiking and boat rides makes it a compelling option for travelers eager to see Iceland’s highlights efficiently.

While the pace might feel hectic for those seeking a more leisurely exploration, it’s perfect for active travelers ready to pack their days with adventure and awe. The real bonus is how well-organized and value-packed the experience is, ensuring you get maximum bang for your buck.

If you’re after a guided, hassle-free journey through Iceland’s natural beauty — with knowledgeable guides and authentic stops along the way — this tour delivers a memorable, photo-worthy adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: