Iceland in a Day: South Coast, Glacier Hike, & Northern Lights

Reykjavik , Iceland

Iceland in a Day: South Coast, Glacier Hike, & Northern Lights

Active

(13 reviews)

16h

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

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Experience the best of Iceland on this full-day adventure, combining the breathtaking South Coast, a glacier hike, and a chance to witness the magical Northern Lights—all in one unforgettable combo!

Discover the raw beauty of Iceland’s South Coast, where powerful waterfalls crash down rugged cliffs and black sand stretches along the coastline. Step onto the Sólheimajökull Glacier for an unforgettable guided hike, exploring the dramatic blue ice formations and deep crevasses of this ever-changing frozen landscape.

After an action-packed day, enjoy some free time to relax and recharge in Reykjavík before heading out for the Northern Lights hunt. Venture into Iceland’s dark winter skies, far from city lights, where you’ll have a chance to witness the dazzling Aurora Borealis dancing in shades of green, purple, and pink.

This thrilling and scenic journey blends Iceland’s most iconic landscapes with adventure and the magic of the Arctic sky, making it an experience you’ll never forget.

Available options

8:00

Pickup included

What's included

Reykjavik pick up & drop off

A guided glacier walk on Solheimajokull glacier

Northern Lights hunt in a minibus

Sightseeing tour along the South Coast of Iceland

Certified guides

What's not included

Food & drinks

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 4.5

13 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

This is a combo tour of 2 different tours, a south coast sightseeing tour with a glacier walk and a hunt for the Northern Lights. You are dropped of at your original pickup point in Reykjavik in between tours.

The northern lights are a natural phenomena, and as such can not be guaranteed. The success of the northern lights tour is heavily dependent on weather conditions, the operator reserves the right to cancel this part of the tour until 18:15 on the day of departure. If the tour goes ahead and no northern lights are seen we offer you the chance to join another evening´s departure free of charge upon availability. Note: you must contact the operator to rebook.

Important notes

This is the ticket for your adventure tour. Please make sure to bring it with you on the tour and present it to your guide when he arrives to pick you up. Mobile vouchers are accepted. The pick up for the first part of the tour starts at 8:00am.

Please note that you are responsible to inform the operator (info@adventures.is) where you would like to be picked up for your tour no later than 48 hours prior to your tour departure. You can find a list of available pick up points here: https://adventures.is/information/pick-up/

It is important to note that this tour is a combo tour. After the South Coast and glacier walking part you will be dropped off at your designated pickup point. You will have time to get some dinner before you will be picked up again for the second part of your combo tour, the hunt for the Northern Lights.
* From 1st of March to 15th of April and 1st of September to 31st of September, pick up for the northern lights starts at 21:30.
* From 1st of October to 28th of February, pick up for the northern lights starts at 20:30

The tour is approximately 16 hours in duration.

We recommend that you bring with you warm layers, waterproof jacket and pants, head wear, gloves, scarves, water bottle, snacks and a small backpack is always useful. Strong hiking shoes are absolutely essential, ice crampons are provided for your glacier walk, it is not possible to fit them to any other kind of footwear. Packed lunch is highly recommended as this is a full day tour. Your guide will however also be making stops on the way whereas you can purchase lunch and snacks.

The northern lights are a natural phenomena, and as such they can never be guaranteed. The success of the northern lights tour is heavily dependent on weather conditions, the operator reserves the right to cancel this part of the tour until 18:15 on the day of departure. If the tour goes ahead and no northern lights are seen you are offered the chance to join another evening´s departure free of charge upon availability. Note: you must contact the operator at info@adventures.is to re-book.

About Reykjavik

Reykjavik is the world's northernmost capital city, known for its vibrant cultural scene, stunning natural surroundings, and unique Icelandic charm. It offers a blend of modern amenities and ancient geothermal wonders, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.

Top Attractions

Hallgrímskirkja

This iconic church is a landmark of Reykjavik, known for its distinctive architecture and towering spire. It offers panoramic views of the city from its tower.

Architecture/Religious 1-2 hours Moderate (ISK 1000 for the tower)

Harpa Concert Hall

A stunning modern concert hall with a glass facade that reflects the surrounding landscape. It hosts a variety of performances and events.

Architecture/Entertainment 1-2 hours Free to enter, performance tickets vary

Blue Lagoon

A geothermal spa known for its milky-blue waters rich in minerals. It's a popular spot for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Nature/Relaxation Half a day Expensive (ISK 49,900 and up)

Reykjavik Art Museum

A museum showcasing contemporary Icelandic and international art. It's housed in a striking building with a glass facade.

Museum 1-2 hours Moderate (ISK 1400)

Perlan Museum

A unique museum located in a glass dome that offers a variety of exhibits, including a glacier exhibit and a planetarium.

Museum 2-3 hours Moderate to Expensive (ISK 3,990 and up)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Plokkfiskur

A traditional Icelandic fish stew made with mashed potatoes, white fish, onions, and béchamel sauce.

Main Course Contains fish and dairy

Hákarl

Fermented shark, a traditional Icelandic delicacy known for its strong smell and taste.

Snack Contains fish

Skyr

A thick, creamy Icelandic yogurt-like dairy product, often served with berries or cream.

Dessert Contains dairy

Rúgbrauð

A dense, dark rye bread traditionally baked underground using geothermal heat.

Bread Vegan

Popular Activities

Glacier hiking and ice climbing Whale watching Snowmobiling on a glacier Caving and lava tunnel exploration Visiting geothermal spas like the Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon Enjoying a traditional Icelandic massage or spa treatment Taking a leisurely walk around Tjörnin Lake in Reykjavik Visiting museums and galleries

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the warmest time of the year with long daylight hours, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The city is lively with numerous festivals and events.

8°C to 13°C (46°F to 55°F) 46°F to 55°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Icelandic
Widely spoken: English, Danish, German
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Icelandic Króna (ISK)

Time Zone

GMT+0

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Iceland is a very safe country with low crime rates. However, it's always important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure your safety.

Important Precautions:

• Keep your valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
• Be cautious when using ATMs, and only use ATMs located in secure, well-lit areas
• Research tour operators and rental companies before booking to ensure they are reputable and legitimate

Getting there

By air

Keflavík International Airport • 50 km (31 miles) from Reykjavik

By bus

BSÍ Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is efficient and affordable, with frequent services and easy-to-use ticketing.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Bustravel, Uber (limited availability)

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Reykjavik Hlemmur Vesturbær

Day trips

Golden Circle

230 km (143 miles) from Reykjavik • Full day

A popular day trip route that includes three of Iceland's most famous attractions: Þingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss Waterfall.

South Coast

150-200 km (93-124 miles) from Reykjavik • Full day or overnight

A scenic drive along Iceland's south coast, offering a variety of attractions, including waterfalls, black sand beaches, and glaciers.

Snæfellsnes Peninsula

240 km (149 miles) from Reykjavik • Full day or overnight

A scenic peninsula known as 'Iceland in Miniature' due to its diverse landscapes, including mountains, glaciers, lava fields, and beaches.

Festivals

Reykjavik Arts Festival • Late May to early June Iceland Airwaves • Early November Reykjavik Winter Lights Festival • Late January to early February

Pro tips

Visit the Blue Lagoon or another geothermal spa for a relaxing and rejuvenating experience
Explore Reykjavik's street art and murals, which can be found throughout the city
Take a day trip to the Golden Circle or another nearby attraction for a taste of Iceland's natural wonders
Try traditional Icelandic food, such as lamb soup, fish stew, and fermented shark
Visit a local brewery or distillery and sample Icelandic craft beer or spirits