Exploring Iceland’s southeastern coast with this full-day tour from Djúpivogur offers travelers a chance to see some of the country’s most iconic sights without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. This tour takes you through rugged landscapes, glacial lakes, black sand beaches, and towering mountain peaks—all packed into a manageable 7-hour experience.
What we especially appreciate is how this trip combines scenic drives with photo stops at truly breathtaking locations. The stops at Vestrahorn and Eystrahorn offer dramatic mountain scenery, while Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach deliver those classic “Icelandic” moments of ice and black sand in perfect harmony. A possible drawback is that the itinerary is quite packed, which might leave some travelers wishing for a bit more time at each site. Still, for those with limited time or cruise passengers eager for a snapshot of Iceland’s southeastern wonders, this tour hits the mark.
This experience suits travelers who love nature, photography, and scenic drives, especially those visiting via cruise ships in Djúpivogur who want a taste of Iceland’s highlights without the complexity of a DIY trip.
Key Points
- Stunning landscapes: Experience icebergs drifting in a glacier lagoon and dramatic mountain views.
- Photographer’s dream: Multiple stops for capturing iconic Icelandic scenery.
- Convenience: All transportation and guided commentary included, making logistics simple.
- Authentic scenery: Visit areas like Vestrahorn and Eystrahorn that are less crowded than more touristy spots.
- Time-efficient: Designed to fit within a 7-hour window, ideal for cruise travelers.
- Value: The included visits to Brunnhóll farm, Jökulsárlón, and Diamond Beach add memorable experiences for the price.
This tour offers a well-rounded experience of Iceland’s southeastern coast, perfect for those with a limited schedule or cruise passengers wanting a curated taste of the region. We’ll break down each part of the trip, describing what makes it special and what you can expect along the way.
You can check availability for your dates here:Starting Point: Port of Djúpivogur
Your adventure begins right at the port, where you’ll find your coach clearly marked with the tour name. This makes for a smooth start, especially after a morning of exploring or waiting onboard your cruise ship. The tour lasts about 7 hours, which means you’ll want to start early enough to maximize your sightseeing but also be back in time for your ship’s departure.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Djupivogur.
Scenic Drive & First Stop: Vestrahorn Mountain
After leaving Djúpivogur, the journey begins with a scenic drive through Iceland’s rugged Eastfjords. The first notable stop is Vestrahorn, a mountain renowned for its striking peaks and black sand dunes. We loved the way this spot combines raw natural beauty with perfect photo opportunities—its jagged peaks reflected in shallow tidal flats make for some postcard-worthy shots.
Expect around 35 minutes here—just enough time for a brief walk and snapping pictures. This stop is less commercialized than more popular sites, giving you a chance to soak in Iceland’s natural state without crowds. If you’re into landscape photography, you’ll appreciate the dramatic contrast between the dark sands and the mountain’s rugged profile.
Main Attraction: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
The heart of this tour is the visit to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. It’s a place that lives up to expectations—large icebergs, some as big as buildings, drifting serenely across the lake toward the sea. The sight of these floating ice chunks, with their translucent blues and whites, is genuinely mesmerizing.
You’ll have about an hour here, which is just enough to walk around, take photos, and absorb the atmosphere. While the icebergs themselves are stunning, keep in mind that there’s no boat tour included—if you want that experience, you’ll need to book separately. Still, the view from the shore offers plenty of opportunities to capture the scale and beauty of the glaciers.
Many visitors have remarked on how peaceful and surreal the lagoon feels, as if you’ve stepped into a different world. One reviewer noted, “The icebergs seemed like they belonged to a different planet,” capturing the kind of awe this site inspires.
Diamond Beach: Nature’s Black-and-White Palette
Just across the road from Jökulsárlón is Diamond Beach, where ice chunks wash ashore onto black sand. The contrast here is striking—crystal-clear ice against dark volcanic sand, creating a scene that could easily be mistaken for a surreal art installation.
You’ll spend about 15 minutes at this stop, plenty of time to walk along the beach, pick out uniquely shaped ice chunks, and snap some compelling photos. It’s one of those places where the visual impact is immediate, and you’ll want to have your camera ready. Many visitors comment on the magical quality of this place, with one reviewer saying, “It’s like walking through a frozen wonderland.”
More Great Tours NearbyScenic Stop at Eystrahorn
On the return journey, the tour pauses at Eystrahorn, a rugged mountain that offers expansive views of the coastline and surrounding sea. This stop is more about appreciating the vastness of Iceland’s landscape and catching a few last photos of the day.
With around 40 minutes allocated, you’ll have time for a short walk and to take in the impressive scenery. Many find this a worthwhile stop to pause before heading back to Djúpivogur, as it rounds off the trip with a final taste of Iceland’s striking natural features.
Final Stop & Return to Djúpivogur
En route back, the coach makes a brief 15-minute photo stop before arriving back at the port. This allows you to reflect on the day and capture any last images of the coastline or mountains.
You’ll arrive back with plenty of time to prepare for your ship’s departure, making this tour especially convenient for cruise guests wanting a comprehensive day-trip without feeling rushed.
This tour’s inclusion of transportation, visits to Brunnhóll farm, Jökulsárlón, and Diamond Beach makes it a compelling choice for travelers looking for a value-packed experience. The guide’s commentary adds context to each site, enriching your understanding of Iceland’s landscape and geology.
The transportation is via comfortable coach, with a small group size typical of tours arranged through Tanni Travel, which helps keep the experience intimate and flexible. The timing is well-paced, with ample time at key sites, though some travelers might wish for a bit more time at the glacier lagoon or mountains.
Pricing-wise, the tour is competitive, especially considering the included stops and ease of logistics. For travelers who might find a DIY trip challenging—navigating Iceland’s roads and planning stops—this guided option offers peace of mind and expert insights.
If you’re a traveler who craves scenic landscapes and photo opportunities, this trip delivers in spades. It’s perfect for those visiting Iceland for a short time who want a curated experience that hits the highlights without the hassle of planning. Cruise passengers will appreciate its efficiency and proximity to Djúpivogur.
Nature lovers, landscape photographers, and anyone eager to see the iconic ice and volcanic scenery of Iceland’s southeast will find this tour worthwhile. Keep in mind, it’s a day of mostly outdoor sightseeing, so dressing warmly and comfortably is essential.
This from Djúpivogur tour offers a well-rounded, manageable way to experience some of Iceland’s most famous sights—icebergs, glaciers, mountain peaks, and black sand beaches—all within a comfortable 7-hour window. The itinerary balances scenic drives with enough time to enjoy each location, making it ideal for cruise travelers or visitors with limited days.
While it’s a busy day with little time at each stop, the highlights are undeniably spectacular. If you want an authentic, straightforward way to capture the essence of Iceland’s southeastern coast, this tour offers good value, expert guidance, and plenty of photo-worthy moments.
This experience is best suited for those who love nature, photography, and scenic landscapes, particularly if you prefer guided tours that handle the logistics while you focus on enjoying the views. It’s a smart choice for travelers wanting an immersive snapshot of Iceland’s natural beauty, with the convenience of a guided day trip.
Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, the tour includes transportation from Djúpivogur in a comfortable coach, making it easy to relax and enjoy the scenery without worrying about driving.
What are the main sights visited on this trip?
You’ll visit Vestrahorn, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Diamond Beach, and Eystrahorn, along with a stop at Brunnhóll farm.
How much time will I spend at each location?
Expect about 35 minutes at Vestrahorn, 1 hour at Jökulsárlón, 15 minutes at Diamond Beach, and 40 minutes at Eystrahorn, with additional short stops in between.
Is this tour suitable for cruise passengers?
Absolutely. The tour is designed to fit within a 7-hour window, ending back at Djúpivogur in time for your ship’s departure.
Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring snacks or purchase food during the stops if needed.
Is this tour accessible for travelers with mobility issues?
The tour involves some walking at the stops, especially at Vestrahorn and Eystrahorn, so travelers should be prepared for short walks on uneven terrain.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended to secure your spot, and you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.