Diamond Beach Iceland Tours from Reykjavík

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Why Take a Guided Tour?

Diamond Beach is a 5-hour drive from Reykjavík each way. While self-driving offers flexibility, a guided tour has significant advantages:

• No driving stress: Relax on the bus and enjoy the scenery
• Expert guide: Learn about Iceland's geology, history, and culture
• Winter safety: Professional drivers handle icy roads
• Efficient route: Multiple stops optimised for timing and light
• No car rental costs: Often more economical for solo travellers

Tour Types Compared

Tour Type	Duration	Includes	Best For
South Coast Day Tour	~14 hours	Waterfalls, Vík, Jökulsárlón, Diamond Beach	First-time visitors
+ Boat Ride	~14 hours	Above + zodiac/amphibian boat tour	Getting close to icebergs
Ice Cave Combo	2 days	South Coast + crystal ice cave	Winter visitors (Nov–Mar)
Private Tour	Flexible	Customised itinerary	Photography, special needs

South Coast Day Tours

The most popular option. These full-day tours (typically 14 hours) cover:

• Seljalandsfoss: Walk behind the waterfall
• Skógafoss: Powerful 60m waterfall
• Reynisfjara: Black sand beach with basalt columns
• Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon: Icebergs floating in the lagoon
• Diamond Beach: The main attraction!

Ice Cave Tours (Winter Only)

From November to March, natural crystal ice caves form inside Vatnajökull glacier. These incredible blue caves can be combined with Diamond Beach visits:

• 2-day tours from Reykjavík: Overnight near Jökulsárlón
• Day tours from Jökulsárlón/Höfn: If you're already in the area
• Guided access only: Ice caves require certified glacier guides

Boat Tours at Jökulsárlón

While at the glacier lagoon, consider adding a boat tour among the icebergs (just 5 minutes from Diamond Beach):

Amphibian Boat

• Large converted military vehicle
• ~40 minute tour
• Good for families and those with mobility concerns
• Runs May–October

Zodiac Boat

• Smaller, more agile inflatable boats
• ~1 hour tour, gets closer to icebergs
• More adventurous experience
• Runs May–October (weather dependent)

Private Tours

For photographers, families, or those wanting a personalized experience:

• Flexible timing (stay longer at Diamond Beach for photography)
• Customised stops along the route
• Private vehicle and guide
• Suitable for all group sizes

Expect to pay £800–1,500+ for a private day tour for a small group.

What to Bring on Tours

• Warm, layered clothing
• Waterproof jacket and boots
• Camera with charged batteries
• Snacks and water
• Motion sickness medication if prone

See our practical guide for a complete packing list.