3-Day Ice Cave, South Coast, Golden Circle and Northern Lights

Explore the enchanting landscapes of Iceland on this comprehensive 3-day tour. Venture into the country’s stunning natural wonders, from the renowned Golden Circle to the captivating south coast. Set out on a glacier hike, uncover the mysteries of an ice cave, and seek out the mesmerizing Aurora Borealis. With an experienced guide by your side, explore the fragile ecosystem and geological marvels that make Iceland a true wonder of the world. Prepare to be immersed in a journey that promises to leave a lasting impression – one that may just inspire you to return and uncover more of Iceland’s hidden gems.

This experience made our list of the 15 Best 3 Day Tours In Reykjavik.

Key Points

• A 3-day guided tour exploring Iceland’s stunning natural landscapes, including the Golden Circle, south coast, and ice caves.
• Glacier hike and super jeep ride to access the remote ice cave, providing a unique opportunity to witness the power and beauty of glacial landscapes.
• Discover the region’s natural wonders such as Skógafoss waterfall, Reynisfjara black sand beach, and Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon.
• Explore Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss waterfall, and the Geysir geothermal area, showcasing Iceland’s raw geological forces.
• Opportunity to witness the mesmerizing Aurora Borealis, with professional photography assistance and warm gear provided.

Trip Overview

This 3-day guided tour across Iceland’s stunning natural landscapes offers travelers a comprehensive exploration of the country’s renowned Golden Circle, the captivating south coast, and the opportunity to venture into the mesmerizing ice caves.

Accompanied by an English-speaking guide, you’ll embark on a glacier hike and a thrilling super jeep ride to access the ice cave, all while equipped with the necessary safety gear.

The tour also includes two nights’ accommodation with breakfast and complimentary WiFi on the transport.

Whether you’re seeking to witness the ethereal northern lights or learn about Iceland’s breathtaking natural wonders, this action-packed itinerary ensures an unforgettable adventure.

Glacier Hike Experience

On the glacier hike, participants explore the icy realm, donning crampons to navigate the frozen expanse safely and explore the captivating formations.

Under the guidance of experienced guides, explorers traverse the glacier, marveling at the intricate patterns and vibrant blues of the ice.

The glacier hike offers:

• Breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes
• Opportunities to learn about the formation and dynamics of glaciers
• Insights into the fragile ecosystem and the effects of climate change
• A thrilling sense of adventure and connection with the natural world

With safety gear and expert supervision, the glacier hike promises an unforgettable experience amidst Iceland’s majestic glacial wonders.

Ice Cave Exploration

The ice cave exploration offers visitors a rare and enchanting chance to venture deep into the heart of a glacial wonderland. Participants are transported by a rugged super jeep to the remote location of the ice cave, where they can marvel at the captivating formations sculpted by nature over centuries.

Guided by experts, guests don specialized safety gear and embark on a spectacular journey through the iridescent blue walls of the cave. The experience provides a unique opportunity to witness the power and beauty of Iceland’s glacial landscapes up close.

With the proper equipment and knowledgeable guides, travelers can safely explore these ephemeral natural wonders and capture breathtaking photographs to remember their icy adventure.

South Coast Highlights

Travelers exploring Iceland’s captivating South Coast will encounter a diverse array of natural wonders, from cascading waterfalls and black sand beaches to towering cliffs and glacial lagoons. This region offers an unforgettable experience, showcasing the country’s rugged beauty.

Among the highlights are:

• Skógafoss, a majestic waterfall cascading over a 60-meter cliff, where visitors can admire the thundering waters and hike to a viewpoint above.

• Reynisfjara, a enchanting black sand beach flanked by striking basalt columns and the Reynisdrangar sea stacks.

• Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon, where enormous icebergs calve from the nearby Vatnajökull glacier and float peacefully in the mirror-like waters.

• Fjađrárgljúfur, a breathtaking canyon with towering walls carved by glacial rivers over centuries.

Golden Circle Adventure

Exploring the beloved Golden Circle route showcases some of Iceland’s most iconic natural attractions, providing visitors with a diverse sampling of the country’s stunning landscapes. The first stop is Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site that straddles the boundary between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. Next, witness the powerful Gullfoss waterfall cascade down its three-tiered glacial ravine. Complete the loop at the Geysir geothermal area, home to the famous Strokkur geyser which erupts every 5-10 minutes. These natural wonders offer an unparalleled opportunity to experience Iceland’s raw geological forces firsthand.

Attraction	Highlight
Thingvellir National Park	UNESCO World Heritage site on tectonic plate boundary
Gullfoss Waterfall	Powerful three-tiered glacial cascade
Geysir Geothermal Area	Home to the famous erupting Strokkur geyser

Northern Lights Pursuit

Chasing the ethereal northern lights is a captivating highlight of any Iceland adventure, offering visitors a chance to witness nature’s mesmerizing celestial displays. Though sightings can’t be guaranteed, this guided pursuit maximizes the opportunity to experience the dancing Aurora Borealis against Iceland’s dramatic landscapes.

The northern lights pursuit includes:

• Monitoring real-time weather and solar activity to identify the best viewing conditions
• Driving to remote locations away from light pollution for optimal visibility
• Providing warm overalls, gloves, and other necessary gear to ensure comfort
• Capturing the experience with professional photography assistance

With an experienced guide leading the way, you’ll have the best chance of spotting this breathtaking natural phenomenon during your Iceland adventure.

Accommodation and Meals

The tour includes 2 nights of accommodation with breakfast, allowing participants to rest and refuel between daily adventures. Lodgings are selected for their proximity to key sights and comfortable amenities.

Breakfast provides a hearty start to the day, fueling hikers and explorers. Lunches and dinners, however, aren’t included, allowing travelers the flexibility to sample local cuisine at their own pace.

Whether it’s a cozy guesthouse, charming hotel, or rustic cabin, the accommodations prioritize a good night’s sleep and nourishing meals to recharge for the next day’s activities. With these practical details taken care of, participants can focus on seeing Iceland’s stunning natural wonders.

Tour Logistics and Policies

This 3-day guided tour of Iceland’s natural highlights has a straightforward pickup and logistics to ensure a smooth experience. Participants start their adventure with morning pickups from designated bus stops, not individual hotel entrances, to efficiently gather the group before departing. The maximum group size is 19 travelers, allowing for a more intimate and personalized journey.

The tour can be canceled due to poor weather, with full refunds available for cancellations up to 24 hours before the start time. However, cancellations within 24 hours receive no refund.

Travelers should also note that:

• Pickup starts at 8:00 AM and may take 30 minutes
• WiFi is provided on board
• Lunch and dinner, as well as gear rental, aren’t included

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Hiking Gear Instead?

Yes, you can bring your own hiking gear instead of renting it. The tour allows participants to use their own gear, as long as it meets the necessary safety standards for the glacier hike and ice cave tour.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The maximum group size for this guided tour is 19 travelers. The small group size allows for a more personalized experience and easier navigation through Iceland’s natural highlights.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour does not offer an option to extend the duration. It is a fixed 3-day itinerary covering the specified natural highlights. Travelers who wish to explore Iceland further should consider booking a separate, longer tour or extending their trip independently.

Can I Request a Specific Pickup Location?

Guests can request a specific pickup location, but the tour operator may not be able to accommodate all requests. Pickup is from designated bus stops to ensure timely departures and efficient logistics for the group.

How Often Do the Northern Lights Typically Appear?

The northern lights, or aurora borealis, are a natural phenomenon that can be seen most frequently during the winter months in Iceland. However, their appearance is dependent on solar activity and weather conditions, with sightings being more common on clear, cloudless nights.

Recap

This 3-day guided tour across Iceland’s stunning landscapes offers an immersive experience.

Travelers will explore the renowned Golden Circle, captivating south coast, and venture into ice caves.

They’ll embark on a glacier hike, ride a super jeep to access the ice cave, and seek out the mesmerizing Aurora Borealis, all while enjoying two nights’ accommodation with breakfast and an English-speaking guide providing insights into the fragile ecosystem and showcasing Iceland’s raw geological wonders.