Reykjavik: Katla Ice Cave & South Coast Waterfalls Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Iceland and want a full day of adventure, natural beauty, and authentic experiences, this tour from Reykjavik might just be what you’re looking for. It promises a journey through some of the country’s most striking landscapes—think glaciers, waterfalls, and a mesmerizing ice cave—all guided by knowledgeable locals who love sharing their homeland.

What makes this tour stand out? For starters, the visit to the stunning Katla Ice Cave offers a rare glimpse into a constantly changing natural wonder. Plus, the Super Jeep off-road adventure adds an extra thrill to the day, taking you far beyond typical tourist spots. On the downside, it’s a long day with a fair amount of driving, so it might not be ideal if you prefer more relaxed, less structured outings.

This experience is perfect for travelers eager to see Iceland’s most iconic natural sights in one go, especially if you enjoy a mix of adventure and scenic stops. If you’re after a well-organized, informative day that combines nature’s spectacle with a bit of thrill, this tour fits the bill.

Key Points

• Majestic Ice Cave: Explore the Kötlujökull Glacier’s awe-inspiring ice cavern.
• Scenic Waterfalls: Visit iconic Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls.
• Off-road Adventure: Experience a Super Jeep ride across rugged Icelandic terrain.
• Guided Glacier Hike: Walk across the glacier, observing volcanic ash layers.
• Expert Guides: Benefit from engaging, knowledgeable guides who share stories and insights.
• Full-Day Experience: Travel from Reykjavik with round-trip transportation, scenic stops, and adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

This tour is a comprehensive way to see Iceland’s southern coast in a single day, blending scenic drives, natural wonders, and a dash of adrenaline. While it’s a packed itinerary, it’s designed to maximize your exposure to Iceland’s stunning geography without the hassle of organizing multiple transport modes yourself.

Starting Point and Transportation

The journey begins early in Reykjavik, with pickup from over 20 conveniently located spots around the city. The buses are comfortable, and the company states they aim to keep the experience smooth, though reviews note that delays can happen—so it’s wise to be ready on time. Expect a bus or coach ride lasting around 1.5 hours until you reach the southern regions. From there, the real adventure begins with the Super Jeep ride, which is a highlight for many travelers.

The Super Jeep Adventure and Glacier Exploration

The Super Jeep ride from Vík is where the experience elevates from standard sightseeing to something more memorable. These rugged vehicles are engineered for off-road terrain, allowing access to areas that regular tour buses can’t reach.

This part of the journey typically lasts around 2.5 hours, during which you’ll traverse some of Iceland’s wildest landscapes. Reviewers rave about the exhilarating off-road experience and the scenic views of Mýrdalsjökull Glacier. The guides often share stories about the area’s volcanic activity, including the past eruptions that created the black volcanic ash layers visible on the glacier.

The glacier hike itself is a highlight, where you’ll walk across ice that’s constantly changing. Seeing the layered volcanic ash embedded in the ice adds a striking visual contrast and tells a story of Iceland’s fiery past. Guides are praised for being knowledgeable and personable, making sure everyone feels safe and informed.

Visiting the Katla Ice Cave

The ice cave exploration is undoubtedly the main event. These caves are naturally formed within glaciers and offer a surreal experience—standing inside a shimmering blue ice cathedral, with the light filtering through thick ice walls. Visitors often comment on how magical and otherworldly it feels.

The guided tour inside the cave typically lasts around 30 minutes to an hour, with some reviewers wishing for longer exploration time. As one reviewer pointed out, “the cave itself was magical”, and another noted that “being on top of the glacier was a highlight of the trip.”

The guides not only lead you through the icy corridors but also share insights about the cave’s formation and the effects of climate change, which are quite visible in the shrinking size of these natural wonders.

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Waterfalls and Scenic Stops

After the ice cave, the tour continues with stops at Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss. Both waterfalls are well-loved by visitors. Skógafoss is famous for its powerful cascade and the picturesque rainbow often seen in its spray. Seljalandsfoss offers a unique experience—walking behind the falling water for a different perspective.

These stops are usually around 30 minutes each, giving enough time for photos, short walks, and soaking in the scenery. Several reviewers mention how these waterfalls are even more impressive in person and worth the time.

The itinerary also includes a visit to Vík, where you can stretch your legs, and a brief stop at a black sand beach—another iconic Icelandic landscape that looks like it belongs on another planet.

Practical Considerations

The full-day tour runs approximately 11 hours, so preparing for a long day is essential. The tour includes round-trip transportation, which is a major convenience, saving you from organizing separate transfers. The cost of $270 per person is reasonable, considering the breadth of sights and experiences included—though, of course, meals and personal expenses are extra.

One aspect to keep in mind from reviews is that the ice cave and glacier hike require a good level of physical fitness, as some parts can be slippery and demanding. The tour is not suitable for those with mobility impairments.

What to Bring and Wear

The company recommends packing warm, waterproof clothing, sturdy hiking shoes, and essentials like camera, snacks, and water. Some reviews mention that getting wet is inevitable, so a change of clothes might be helpful. It’s a good idea to come prepared to be outdoors and on your feet for several hours.

Authentic Experiences and Real Reviews

Reviewers consistently mention the expert guides as a high point. Several say their guides shared stories, historical lore, and Icelandic humor, making the long drive educational and fun. One reviewer noted, “Thomas shared his passion for Icelandic lore the entire drive,” which seems to make the experience more engaging.

Many travelers highlight the stunning scenery and the thrill of the off-road ride. As one put it, “the scenery from the glacier was like being on another planet,” emphasizing how surreal and unique this landscape is.

The ice cave receives universal praise for its beauty and fleeting nature—it’s a reminder that these formations are temporary, shrinking due to climate change, which adds an element of urgency to visiting now.

On the value front, reviewers feel the $270 price is justified by the variety and quality of experiences packed into the day. It’s a full immersion into Iceland’s south coast, with professional guides making a potentially complex day feel organized and safe.

The Sum Up

This tour from Reykjavik offers a rich blend of adventure, iconic scenery, and expert insights. It’s a well-rounded way to see some of Iceland’s most breathtaking sights without the hassle of self-driving or multiple bookings. The highlight for many will be the spectacular ice cave, a true bucket-list experience, paired with visits to two of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls.

While the day is intensive and some parts require moderate physical effort, the knowledgeable guides and scenic diversity make it worthwhile for those eager to maximize their time and truly experience Iceland’s natural wonders.

Ideal for adventurous travelers, photography enthusiasts, and anyone wanting to see the best of Iceland’s south coast in one memorable day, this tour is a reliable choice for an authentic, scenic, and exhilarating experience.

FAQs

Is pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from over 20 locations around Reykjavik, making it very convenient.

How long is the drive from Reykjavik?
The initial bus or coach ride lasts about 1.5 hours before the adventure begins in earnest.

What is the duration of the whole tour?
The tour lasts approximately 11 hours, including stops and outdoor activities.

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, so bring snacks or plan to purchase food at stops like Vík or the black sand beach.

Is the ice cave visit safe?
Yes, guides are experienced and ensure safety during the cave exploration, but some physical effort and caution are required.

Can I visit the ice cave if I have mobility issues?
No, the tour is not recommended for those with mobility impairments due to uneven terrain and physical demands.

What should I wear?
Warm, waterproof clothing, sturdy hiking shoes, and layers are essential. Expect to get wet and cold at certain points.

Is it suitable for children?
It’s generally not suitable for children under 6 due to the physical nature of the activities.

How many people are in the group?
Groups tend to be of a manageable size, with small to medium groups ensuring personalized attention.

What makes this tour a good value?
Given the inclusion of transportation, multiple scenic stops, glacier hike, and ice cave exploration, the $270 fee offers a comprehensive and memorable Iceland experience.

This full-day adventure is a fantastic way to see Iceland’s most iconic landscapes in one go, with plenty of photo opportunities and exciting moments along the way. If you’re ready for a day of scenery, thrill, and stories, this tour delivers in spades.

You can check availability for your dates here: