Reykjavik: 3-Day Golden Circle, South Coast & Blue Lagoon
ID: GYG1119057-1717927
Category:
Country: Iceland
Duration:
3 days
Description
Embark on a 3-day guided tour from Reykjavik. Explore the Golden Circle, South Coast, and Blue Lagoon, and see Iceland's most iconic natural wonders.
Day 1: The Golden Circle – Þingvellir, Geysir, Gullfoss & Friðheimar
Begin your adventure on Iceland’s famous Golden Circle, home to some of the country’s most iconic landmarks. First, visit Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet and Iceland’s first parliament was founded in 930 AD.
Continue to the Geysir Geothermal Area, birthplace of the word “geyser,” to watch the spectacular Strokkur geyser erupt skyward every few minutes.
Next, marvel at the mighty Gullfoss Waterfall, the “Golden Falls,” where glacial waters plunge in two tiers into the Hvítá River canyon.
End the day at Friðheimar Greenhouse, where fresh tomatoes are cultivated year-round using sustainable geothermal energy. Explore this unique greenhouse setting and learn about Iceland’s innovative approach to agriculture.
Overnight in the Vík area, an ideal base for exploring the South Coast.
Day 2: White Glaciers & Black Sands – Jökulsárlón, Diamond Beach & Skaftafell
Travel east along Iceland’s scenic South Coast to the awe-inspiring Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. Formed around 60 years ago, this icy lagoon is dotted with drifting icebergs in dazzling shades of white and blue, calved from the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier tongue. Here, you also have the option to join an Amphibian Boat Tour (extra cost), which takes you among the icebergs for a closer view of this extraordinary landscape.
Just across the road, stroll along Diamond Beach, where glittering icebergs wash ashore against the black volcanic sands, creating a striking natural contrast.
In the afternoon, explore Skaftafell Nature Reserve in Vatnajökull National Park, a haven of glaciers, waterfalls, and rich greenery. Highlights include Svartifoss Waterfall, framed by striking basalt columns, and numerous hiking trails offering panoramic glacier and mountain views.
Day 3: Volcanoes, Waterfalls & the Blue Lagoon
Journey back along the South Coast, with views of glacier tongues, volcanic peaks, and rugged black sand beaches. Stop at Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach to admire its dramatic basalt columns and crashing Atlantic waves—always keeping a safe distance from the surf. In summer, this area is also a great spot to see Atlantic puffins nesting on the nearby cliffs (mid-April to mid-August).
Continue to Skógafoss Waterfall, a 60-metre cascade famed for its rainbows, then to Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, where a footpath leads behind the curtain of water for a unique perspective (waterproof clothing recommended).
End your journey at the world-renowned Blue Lagoon, one of National Geographic’s 25 Wonders of the World. Here you can soak in mineral-rich geothermal waters and enjoy the soothing silica mud experience (this is an optional extra). From the Blue Lagoon, return to Reykjavík for drop-off at your hotel.
Highlights
- Feel the power of nature as you explore Iceland's dramatic landscapes
- Explore the Golden Circle, including Þingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss
- Walk along Diamond Beach and see icebergs at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
- Visit the Blue Lagoon and soak in its mineral-rich geothermal waters
- Discover the South Coast's black sand beaches and powerful waterfalls
Guiding languages
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Waterproof clothing recommended for Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
Chance to spot puffins during summer season
Long summer days and Midnight Sun enhance the experience
Room Allocation: Guests booking for one person will be accommodated in a single room. Bookings for two people will be placed in a double room. Bookings for three people will be accommodated in a double room with an extra bed or a triple room, depending on availability.
INCLUDED
- Pickup and drop-off at your hotel or a nearby bus stop
- Small group tour in spacious vehicle with no restrictions on luggage allowance
- Free Wi-Fi on board
- Expert guidance from a professional local guide
- Accommodation in Vík area with private bathroom for 2 nights
- Breakfast at the hotel
- Visit the greenhouse at Friðheimar Geothermal Farm
NOT INCLUDED
- Airport transfers
- Accommodation in Reykjavík
- Optional tours (Bathing at the Blue Lagoon, Amphibian Boat Tour Jökulsárlón)
- Meals other than breakfast at hotels
When should I book?
To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.
Cancellations
This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 24 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 24 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.