Reykjavik Combo: South Coast, Glacier Hike & Northern Lights

Reykjavik Combo: South Coast, Glacier Hike & Northern Lights — A Full-Day Adventure in Iceland

Exploring Iceland’s iconic sights in just one day sounds ambitious, but this Reykjavik Combo tour aims to do just that. While many travelers are pressed for time or eager to pack their Iceland trip with memorable experiences, this tour manages to combine some of the most stunning natural attractions with the thrill of a glacier hike and the chance to see the Northern Lights.

What we really appreciate about this experience is its small-group setting, which ensures personalized attention and fewer crowds. We also love how it offers a blend of scenic drives, awe-inspiring waterfalls, and a hands-on glacier adventure—all wrapped up in one day.

That said, it’s not a perfect fit for everyone. The long hours and physical activity require some preparation, and the Northern Lights are never guaranteed. Still, for those craving a comprehensive Icelandic day-trip packed with variety, this tour hits the mark.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Small group size enhances personal service and flexibility.
• Diverse highlights include waterfalls, black sand beaches, and glaciers.
• Expert guides deepen your understanding of Iceland’s natural wonders.
• Potential for cancellations of Northern Lights or glacier activities, depending on weather.
• Long but rewarding day, approximately 16 hours in total.
• Ideal for adventurous travelers aged 8 and up willing to be active.

An In-Depth Look at the Reykjavik Combo Tour

If your goal is to tick off some of Iceland’s most famous sights in a single day, this tour offers tremendous value. For around $264 per person, you’re getting a packed itinerary that covers waterfalls, beaches, glaciers, and a Northern Lights experience, all with guided commentary to deepen your appreciation of the landscape.

Starting Point and Transportation

The journey begins with a morning pick-up from authorized locations in Reykjavik. The comfortable transportation, equipped with free WiFi, helps you relax and soak in the scenery even before the adventures start. Expect a small-group setting, with a guide-to-client ratio of 1:19, allowing for more personalized interaction and the chance to ask questions or get tailored recommendations.

The Waterfalls: Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss

Your first stop is Seljalandsfoss, famous for its unique feature: a pathway behind the waterfall. Walking behind this cascade gives an exhilarating perspective and fantastic photo opportunities. One review enthusiastically noted, “Our guide was great! Really friendly and helpful,” emphasizing the importance of having a knowledgeable guide to navigate these spots efficiently.

Next is Skógafoss, a waterfall renowned for its powerful drop and the rainbows that often appear when the sun is out. A pathway with 527 steps leads up the side, offering a panoramic view of the falls and surrounding landscape. Visitors might find that their time at Skógafoss is brief—some reviews mention spending only about 15 minutes there—so it’s worth arriving early or being ready to make the most of limited time.

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Glacier Hike on Solheimajokull

The highlight for many is the glacier hike on Solheimajokull. This part of the tour is led by certified glacier guides who provide essential equipment—crampons, helmets, and harnesses—and share insights about the glacier’s formation, movement, and crevasses.

Travelers often comment on how educational and fun the hike is. One review describes it as “awesome,” and another highlighted how hearing the ice cracking was a memorable sensory experience. It’s a physically engaging activity, so proper gear—like sturdy hiking shoes, waterproof clothing, and warm layers—is crucial. The tour emphasizes bringing rain gear, hats, gloves, and snacks to stay comfortable during the hike.

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach and Basalt Columns

After the glacier, you’ll visit the Reynisfjara black sand beach. This site is a visual feast with its striking basalt columns, caves, and the iconic Reynisdrangar sea stacks. Expect to walk along the beach and explore the formations, which are great for photos and appreciating Iceland’s volcanic origins.

One reviewer notes that this stop offers a chance to see volcanoes like Eyjafjallajökull and Hekla if the weather cooperates—on clear days, these volcanoes provide a stunning backdrop to the landscape.

Final Stop: Skógafoss and Optional Extra Views

Back to Skógafoss for a quick revisit or a chance to photograph the falls in different lighting is often included, but the overall schedule is tight. The guide will take you back to Reykjavik around 7:00 PM, leaving some free time for dinner before the Northern Lights tour.

The Northern Lights Chase

Later in the evening, the adventure continues with the Northern Lights tour. Travelers are driven out into the countryside to maximize their chances of catching this elusive phenomenon. While the lights can never be guaranteed—cloud cover, solar activity, and weather all play a role—the guides do their best to hunt for the green, yellow, white, and sometimes purple hues.

A reviewer mentioned that the guides are knowledgeable and friendly, making the evening special even if the lights don’t appear. It’s a calm, contemplative end to a busy day of exploring.

Analyzing the Value

At $264, this tour offers a solid value considering the amount of activity and diversity packed into one day. The inclusion of glacier hiking equipment, the expertise of certified guides, and WiFi on board elevate the experience from merely sightseeing to an immersive adventure.

However, it’s important to acknowledge that the schedule is long—about 16 hours—which can be tiring, especially for families or those with limited stamina. The tour is not suitable for children under 8, pregnant women, or individuals with mobility issues, primarily due to the physical nature of the glacier hike and the long hours.

While some reviews mention cancellations—such as the Northern Lights or glacier activity—these are weather-dependent and outside the provider’s control. It’s wise to have flexible expectations and possibly plan a backup night for the Northern Lights.

What Travelers Love and Should Consider

Highlights include the stunning waterfalls and their photographic potential, the educational glacier walk, and the dramatic black sand beach with basalt columns. Guides are praised for their friendly and helpful attitude, making the experience more engaging and informative.

On the flip side, some travelers express disappointment when parts of the tour, like the Northern Lights or the glacier hike, get canceled. Limited time at key stops—like only 15 minutes at Skógafoss—may also leave photographers wanting more.

The long duration and physically demanding activities mean that this tour best suits adventurous, active travelers who don’t mind a full day on the move. It’s perfect for those who want a comprehensive Iceland experience without multiple separate bookings, saving time and often money.

Final Thoughts: Who Is It Best For?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want to maximize their Icelandic experience in a single day—covering iconic landscapes and adding a glacier adventure. It appeals to adventure lovers eager to get hands-on with the environment and those who enjoy scenic travel with expert guides.

If you’re looking for flexibility, a more relaxed pace, or traveling with very young children or mobility concerns, this might not be the best fit. But if you’re prepared for a long, active day and eager to see some of Iceland’s most celebrated sights with knowledgeable guides, this tour offers a well-rounded, value-packed option.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
You’ll receive pick-up in Reykjavik, a guided glacier hike on Sólheimajökull with equipment, and the Northern Lights tour. WiFi is available on transportation.

How long does the tour last?
The combined experience is approximately 16 hours, making it a full-day adventure.

Is the Northern Lights guaranteed?
No, the Northern Lights can never be promised as they depend on weather and solar activity, but guides do their best to find clear skies.

What should I bring?
Bring sturdy hiking shoes, warm layers, rain gear, headwear, gloves, scarves, water, snacks, and a small backpack.

Are children allowed?
Children must be at least 8 years old and capable of handling the physical activity involved.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if weather or plans change.

This Reykjavik Combo tour balances adventure, scenery, and a touch of Icelandic magic, making it an excellent choice for travelers eager to see the highlights with a single booking. Just be ready for a long day, and keep your expectations flexible for those Northern Lights!

You can check availability for your dates here: