From Reykjavik: Katla Ice Cave and South Coast Day Tour

Vik , Iceland

From Reykjavik: Katla Ice Cave and South Coast Day Tour

Active

(108 reviews)

12h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Join a guided tour on a minibus to the South Coast most popular sites & explore the magnificent Katla Ice Cave on super-jeep ride through an off-road. Join an expedition to explore the South Coast and the magnificent Katla Ice Cave. Enjoy the most famous locations in the South Coast like Seljalands waterfall, where you can walk behind in the summer time, Skogafoss waterfall, and the black sand beach, with fun and creative guides. Hop on a super-jeep and take a seat with your fellow adventurous companions. Make sure to fasten your seatbelt for a 40-minute off-road bumpy ride into the outstanding wilderness.
On the way to the ice cave, your guide will share with you interesting stories about the Katla volcano, its destructive eruptions, and irreversible consequences. The views on the way are breathtaking, you will feel like you are on the moon.
Once the exploration has finished your driver guide will be waiting for you to guide you back to Reykjavik capital area.

Available options

From Reykjavik: Katla Ice Cave and South Coast Day Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Minibus transportation for a Small Group (max 18 people)

Katla ice cave & super-jeep ride tickets

WiFi on board

Pickup and drop-off from designated Bus stops in Reykjavik

English Speaking Guide

All Necessary Glacier Equipment to access the ice cave: helmet and crampons

Detailed itinerary

This is one of the most powerful glacier waterfalls in Iceland, with a dramatic 60-meter drop. You can walk behind it in the summer time since the its waters fall from a cliff that forms a wide cave behind it.

Stop 2

This is one of the most famous glacier waterfalls in Iceland, must see when travelling to the South Coast.
Skógafoss – which means “forest waterfall’ in Icelandic’, is one of Iceland’s largest and most beautiful waterfalls, with another dramatic 60-meter drop (197 feet), and one of few waterfalls that can be viewed from the top.

Stop 3

Reynisfjara – also known as the Black Sand Beach. formed after numerous volcanic eruptions in the area, slowly eroding the lava over millions of years.
At this breathtaking place, you will also be welcomed by massive basalt columns. Basalt columns have a special shape because of the way the lava cools. They are shaped in the form of a cave, perfect spot for pictures! Mind the waves at this location: you will see the power of the Atlantic ocean there!
usually this is the place where you can grab some lunch at the restaurant you will find at location.

Hop on a super-jeep and take a seat with your fellow adventurous companions. Make sure to fasten your seatbelt for a 40-minute off-road bumpy ride into the outstanding wilderness.
On the way, your guide will share with you interesting stories about the Katla volcano, as well as tales and facts related to this fascinating and remote area in the South of Iceland. The views on the way are breathtaking, you will feel like you are on the moon.
Before entering the cave, your guide will provide you with all the safety gear needed before accessing the ice cave. Pay attention to your guide's safety instructions. Reach up the glacier hill to access the majestic Katla ice cave. Underneath the glacier waits the mighty volcano Katla where the both the glacier and the ice cave takes their name from. Once the exploration has finished, start making your way back to the meeting point in Vik, where your driver guide will be waiting for you to guide you back to Reykjavik capital area.

What's not included

Food and drinks

Hiking Boots Rental (1,750 ISK)

Waterproof Jacket Rental (1,750 ISK)

Waterproof Pants Rental (1,750 ISK)

Hat and Gloves Combo with Logo (3,000 ISK)

Neck Warmer with Logo (500 ISK)

Summer Cap with Logo (1,500 ISK)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.6

10 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

98 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Age limit for this tour is 8 years

The total duration includes travel time

Important notes

Please be ready at 8:00 AM at your designated pick up location. We start picking up at the bus stops around downtown Reykjavik and then move on to locations outside the centre. The pick up process usually takes up to 30 minutes.
Due to traffic regulations, we can't stop at all hotel entrances downtown, so please read carefully if you will be picked up at your hotel or at the nearest designated Bus Stop (usually no further than a couple of mins walk).
For walking distance to bus stops, please check busstop.is.

About Vik

Vik is a charming coastal village in South Iceland, known for its stunning black sand beaches, dramatic basalt columns, and picturesque landscapes. It's a gateway to some of Iceland's most iconic natural wonders, including Reynisfjara Beach and the Reynisdrangar sea stacks.

Top Attractions

Reynisfjara Beach

One of Iceland's most famous black sand beaches, known for its basalt columns, powerful waves, and the Reynisdrangar sea stacks.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Reynisfjall Mountain

A striking mountain with dramatic cliffs and views over Reynisfjara Beach and the surrounding area.

Nature 1-3 hours depending on hike length Free

Dyrhólaey Arch

A dramatic rock arch formation with panoramic views of the coast and Reynisfjara Beach.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Vík í Mýrdal Church

A historic wooden church with a rich history and beautiful views over the village and coast.

Historical 30 minutes to 1 hour Free (donations appreciated)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Lamb Soup

A hearty soup made with Icelandic lamb, root vegetables, and herbs.

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat, gluten (from bread served with it)

Fish and Chips

Freshly caught fish, typically cod or haddock, battered and fried, served with chips (fries).

Lunch/Dinner Contains fish, gluten (from batter and chips)

Skyr

A thick, protein-rich Icelandic yogurt-like dairy product, often served with berries or fruit.

Breakfast/Snack Dairy product, can be sweetened or plain

Popular Activities

Hiking Ice caving Photography Beach walks Coffee breaks with a view Stargazing Visiting local churches and museums Exploring Icelandic crafts and history

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer offers the best weather for outdoor activities, with long daylight hours and milder temperatures. However, it's also the busiest time of year.

8°C to 15°C (46°F to 59°F) 46°F to 59°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Icelandic
Widely spoken: English, Danish, Norwegian, Swedish
English: Widely spoken, especially in tourist areas

Currency

Icelandic Krona (ISK)

Time Zone

GMT+0 (Western European Time)

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Vik is generally safe, but visitors should be cautious of natural hazards like powerful waves and unpredictable weather.

Important Precautions:

• Stay away from the water's edge at Reynisfjara Beach due to powerful waves
• Be cautious of weather changes and dress appropriately
• Follow safety guidelines for all activities, especially hiking and ice caving

Getting there

By air

Keflavík International Airport • 130 km (80 miles) northeast of Vik

By bus

Reykjavík Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are available but infrequent. Check schedules in advance.

Taxis

Available • Apps: None widely available, call local taxi services

Rentals

Car

Neighborhoods

Vik Village Center

Day trips

Seljalandsfoss and Gljúfrabúi Waterfalls

30 km (18 miles) northeast of Vik • Half day

Two stunning waterfalls where you can walk behind the cascading water. Seljalandsfoss is one of Iceland's most famous waterfalls, while Gljúfrabúi is a hidden gem tucked into a canyon.

Katla Ice Cave

60 km (37 miles) northeast of Vik • Full day

A breathtaking ice cave formed within the Katla volcano. Guided tours are required to enter the cave.

Thakgil (Þakgil)

40 km (25 miles) northeast of Vik • Half day to full day

A stunning glacial valley with dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, and hiking trails. It's a popular spot for camping and outdoor activities.

Festivals

Vík í Mýrdal Music Festival • Late June to early July

Pro tips

Visit Reynisfjara Beach at different times of day for varying light and wave conditions
Dress in layers and be prepared for rapid weather changes, especially near the coast
Book tours and accommodations in advance, especially during peak season
Try local Icelandic cuisine, including lamb soup and fresh seafood
Be cautious of the powerful waves at Reynisfjara Beach and stay away from the water's edge