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5-Day South Coast & Northern Lights Adventure
From
Min Age
Duration
Overview
Embark on a memorable 5-day journey to explore the wonders of the South Coast and witness the enchanting Northern Lights. Experience the highlights of the Golden Circle, marvel at the beauty of Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, and discover numerous other captivating attractions throughout the tour.
Highlights Of The Tour
✓ Golden Circle attractions
✓ Vatnajökull National Park
✓ Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
✓ Diamond Beach
✓ Glacier Hike & Natural Ice Cave (from Oct 1st)
✓ Katla Ice Cave (until Sep 30)
✓ Skógafoss Waterfall
✓ Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
✓ Reynisfjara black sand beach
✓ Northern Lights
✓ Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon (weather permitting)
✓ Hekla – Volcano Views (weather permitting)
✓ yjafjallajökull – Volcano / Glacier Views (weather permitting)
Included/Exclude
- Pick-up & drop off from Reykjavík
- Guided Tour in a Minibus
- Accommodation with Private Bathroom - 4 Nights
- Breakfast Each Morning at Your Hotel
- English Speaking Tour Guide
- Amazing Stops
- Ice Caving Tour
- Free WiFi on Board Your Bus
Tour Amenities
Tour Plan
About the Tour
DAY 1 – Reykjavik and Northern Lights Boat Tour
Upon arriving at your hotel around 2 PM, take some time to settle in before the evening tour. Later on, head to the ticket office located at the Old Harbor in Reykjavik to begin your Northern Lights adventure. Our knowledgeable guides keep a close eye on the aurora forecast and are experts at finding the perfect spot to witness this captivating natural phenomenon.
As you board the boat, leave the city lights behind and sail across the North Atlantic waves to ensure an unobstructed view of the Northern Lights. Sit back and relax as the magical Aurora Borealis dances across the sky above.
To enhance your experience, we’ll treat you to a captivating video about the Northern Lights, filled with Icelandic folklore, stunning photos, and interesting facts. While you wait for the lights to appear, indulge in the cozy café and bar onboard, where you can stay warm and entertained. For added comfort on the deck, we offer overalls to keep you snug.
After enjoying the mesmerizing natural display, we’ll safely return you to the harbor, where you can make your way back to the hotel for a restful night.
DAY 2 – Golden Circle and the Northern Lights in Vik
Today’s tour takes you to explore Iceland’s renowned Golden Circle, featuring three iconic highlights: Thingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss.
Our first stop is Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site rich in history. It’s where Iceland’s first Parliament, Althingi, was established in 930 CE. Not only historically significant, but Thingvellir also boasts unique geology with a rift valley formed between two tectonic plates, continually expanding as they drift apart.
Next, we’ll visit the Geysir Geothermal Area. While the original Geysir is now inactive, its neighbor Strokkur steals the show with eruptions shooting water up to 25 meters high every 10 minutes or so.
Our final stop on the Golden Circle is Gullfoss, Iceland’s most famous waterfall. Marvel at the breathtaking sight of the Hvita River cascading down in two stages into a rugged canyon, creating a golden mist and often adorned with rainbows.
After exploring the Golden Circle, we’ll journey toward the South Coast, with a chance to admire Mount Hekla’s views en route to Seljalandsfoss. This unique waterfall offers the rare opportunity to walk behind it.
Tonight, we’ll stay at a hotel near Kirkjubæjarklaustur, a charming town in the South. Away from city lights, we have excellent chances of witnessing the Northern Lights if weather conditions permit. So, with a bit of luck and clear skies, we may be treated to the mesmerizing dance of the auroras in the night sky!
DAY 3 – JOKULSARLON GLACIER LAGOON AND ICE CAVING
After enjoying a delicious breakfast at the hotel, we set out towards the East, traversing diverse landscapes ranging from lava fields to desert sands, with glimpses of majestic glaciers on the horizon. Among them is Vatnajökull, Iceland’s largest glacier.
Our next destination on this 5-day journey is Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and the nearby Diamond Beach. Marvel at the sight of floating icebergs in the lagoon, many of which find their resting place on the striking black sand at Diamond Beach. Keep an eye out for playful seals basking on the shore, adding to the enchanting scene.
From Jokulsarlon, we’ll venture to Skaftafell for another exciting adventure. During the winter months, we’ll have the thrilling opportunity to step onto the Vatnajokull glacier accompanied by a certified glacier guide and explore a natural ice cave. In the summer, we’ll visit Katla Ice Cave near Vik instead.
Tonight, our accommodation awaits in the Kirkjubæjarklaustur area once more. Before retiring for a well-deserved rest, we’ll embark on an exhilarating Northern Lights hunting adventure. With snow-capped peaks and glaciers providing a picturesque backdrop, we’ll eagerly await the mesmerizing display of auroras dancing across the night sky.
DAY 4 – South Coast Sightseeing
Day 4 is all about exploring the wonders of the South Coast and its remarkable attractions. If conditions allow, we might take a quick detour to Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon, also known as “Bieber’s canyon.”
Next, we’ll venture to the iconic Eldhraun lava field, where our knowledgeable guide will illuminate what makes it so extraordinary. Then, it’s off to Reynisfjara black sand beach, renowned as one of the world’s most stunning non-tropical beaches. Towering Reynisdrangar basalt sea stacks punctuate the shoreline, creating a breathtaking vista alongside the mighty waves of the Atlantic Ocean.
Our journey continues to Skógafoss, where a cascade of water plunges from a height of 60 meters. For those seeking adventure, there’s an option to climb 527 steps to reach the top of the waterfall. Weather permitting, you might even catch a glimpse of the famous Eyjafjallajökull volcano looming above the waterfall!
In the evening, we’ll make our way back to Reykjavik, with the possibility of stopping to witness the Northern Lights should they make an appearance
DAY 5 – Free Day in Reykjavik
Today is dedicated to exploring Reykjavik! You have an entire day to immerse yourself in the city and experience its vibrant culture.
There’s plenty to discover in Reykjavik. Begin by exploring local boutiques, charming coffee shops, and intriguing museums. Some museums even offer a unique Northern Lights experience, allowing you to witness auroras right in the heart of Reykjavik!
If you prefer the outdoors, take a leisurely stroll along the old harbor or the picturesque shoreline by the Atlantic Ocean.
For those seeking relaxation, don’t forget to pack your swimsuit! Reykjavik boasts numerous spas and swimming pools where you can unwind and soak in the Icelandic ambiance.
And of course, be sure to indulge in traditional Icelandic cuisine and sample local drinks to complete your Icelandic experience!
What To Bring
- Warm outdoor clothes
- Thermal underwear
- Waterproof jacket and pants
- Warm headwear
- Scarf
- Gloves
- Sturdy hiking boots
Cancellation Policy
More than 14 days’ notice 100% refund
Less than 14 days’ notice 50% refund
Less than 48 hours notice No refund
Cancellations or amendments with more than 14 days’ notice before trip departure:
You will be refunded 100% of the total tour price.
Cancellations or amendments with less than 14 days’ notice before trip departure:
You will be refunded 50% of your total tour price. 50% is non-refundable, as this represents our direct cost of canceling any arrangements made for your tour.
Cancellations or amendments with less than 48-hours’ notice before trip departure:
No refund will be given if tours are canceled or if amendments are made with less than 48 hours’ notice, as Tourism Iceland will be charged for all costs such as guides, transport, etc.
Extras and rental gear, booked as part of a multi-day tour fall under the terms as stated here above.
Self Drive tours are not eligible for partial cancellations of included activities and/or passenger count. Complete cancellations follow the terms mentioned here above.
Offered by Arctic Adventures, a partner vendor