From Reykjavik: South of Iceland Full-Day Trip

Experience the breathtaking landscapes of Iceland’s South Region on this full-day tour from Reykjavik, priced at $121 per person. With a 10-hour itinerary, this guided adventure takes you to some of the most iconic sights, including Seljalandsfoss, where you can walk behind the waterfall, and the black sand beaches of Reynisfjara. The tour is highly rated with a 4.8 out of 5 from over 9,000 reviews, highlighting its popularity and solid reputation among travelers.

This tour is perfect for those who want a comprehensive taste of Iceland’s natural beauty, covering waterfalls, glaciers, coastal scenery, and charming villages. It offers good value, with guided commentary and hotel pickup options in Reykjavik. While food and drink are not included, plenty of stops provide opportunities for lunch and snacks, making it suitable for a full-day adventure filled with memorable sights.

Key Points

• Includes visits to Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls with ample time for photos
• Walk behind Seljalandsfoss (weather permitting) for a unique experience
• Stops at black sand beaches of Reynisfjara and the southernmost village, Vik
• Explores the glacier snout of Sólheimajökull with close-up views of an outlet glacier
• Tour duration is 10 hours with flexible start times and optional hotel pickup
• Highly rated with a 4.8/5 from over 9,000 reviews, praised for organization, guides, and scenery

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Starting Point and Tour Logistics in Reykjavik

The tour departs from Tour Bus Stop 12 at Höfðatorg on Þórunnartún, with pickup available from nearby hotels and guesthouses within 30 minutes of the scheduled start. Pickup from the cruise port is also possible, making this tour accessible for cruise travelers. The end point is back at the same meeting location, ensuring convenience for all participants.

The guided tour is led in English by knowledgeable guides, and the bus is described as clean and comfortable. The driver and guide work together to keep the trip running smoothly, with some reviews highlighting guides like Victoria, Ivy, and Harold as particularly engaging and well-informed.

Navigating the Itinerary and Stops

The itinerary begins with a transfer from Reykjavik, including a 1-hour drive to the south. After a brief 15-minute stop at Hvolsvöllur, the journey continues to the Skógafoss waterfall, where a 30-minute photo stop allows visitors to soak in the impressive 60-meter drop and take pictures.

Next, travelers visit Sólheimajökull, a glacier snout of the Mýrdalsjökull ice cap, for about 45 minutes. This stop offers a close-up view of an outlet glacier, showcasing Iceland’s ongoing glacial activity. From there, the tour moves to Vik, where a 50-minute lunch break takes place at the southernmost village, giving plenty of time to enjoy local scenery and perhaps a quick snack.

The journey continues with a 30-minute visit to Reynisfjara Beach, famous for its black sand and basalt sea stacks. The striking coastline provides excellent photo opportunities and a chance to experience Iceland’s unique volcanic landscape. Afterwards, a 30-minute walk behind Seljalandsfoss allows visitors to stand behind the cascading water, feeling the spray and enjoying the natural spectacle.

The tour concludes with a 1-hour transfer back to Reykjavik, completing the full-day exploration of Iceland’s southern coast.

Exploring the Waterfalls of Iceland

Seljalandsfoss is one of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls, notable for its ability to be walked behind, weather permitting. Visitors appreciate the opportunity to see this natural wonder from a different perspective. The 30-minute stop is enough to take photos and enjoy the sound of the rushing water.

Skógafoss offers a different experience with its 60-meter drop and powerful cascade. It’s a site that draws many for its grandeur and frequent rainbows. The photo stop here is set at 30 minutes, giving ample time to capture the scene and enjoy the surroundings.

The Vibrant Black Sand Beaches of Reynisfjara

Reynisfjara Beach stands out for its black volcanic sand and basalt sea stacks, which create a dramatic contrast against the white foam of the Atlantic waves. The 30-minute visit offers visitors a chance to walk along the sands, admire the natural rock formations, and marvel at Iceland’s volcanic heritage.

The beach’s Basalt columns are a defining feature, providing excellent photo opportunities. Travelers find this stop particularly memorable for its raw, unspoiled beauty and the power of the ocean.

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The Glacier Snout at Sólheimajökull

The Sólheimajökull glacier snout is a key highlight of this tour. During the 45-minute visit, visitors see an outlet glacier of the Mýrdalsjökull ice cap, illustrating the ongoing changes in Iceland’s icy landscape. The close-up view of the glacier’s surface reveals crevasses and the ever-changing nature of glacial ice.

This stop offers a tangible connection to Iceland’s glaciation and climate dynamics, making it a favorite among those interested in its natural environment.

Dining in Vik: A Coastal Village Stop

Vik, Iceland’s southernmost village, provides a 50-minute window for lunch. While the tour itself does not include food, this stop is a good opportunity to try local options or pack snacks. The village’s scenic location offers views of the ocean and surrounding cliffs, adding to the overall experience.

Many reviews praise the timing at each stop, which is generally enough for photos and brief breaks without feeling rushed. The balance of sightseeing and rest enhances the overall enjoyment of this full-day trip.

The Iconic Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

Reynisfjara is renowned for its black volcanic sands and basalt sea stacks. The 30-minute stop is perfect to walk along the beach, take photos of the towering formations, and experience the rugged coast that has become a symbol of Iceland’s volcanic activity.

Travelers often highlight this stop for its breathtaking scenery and opportunity to witness Iceland’s unique geological features. Be aware that the waves here are powerful and can be unpredictable.

Behind the Waterfalls: Seljalandsfoss

Being able to walk behind Seljalandsfoss is a defining feature of this tour. The 30-minute stop allows for a different perspective of the waterfall, providing memorable photo moments. Wet weather can sometimes limit this experience, but generally, it’s a highlight that travelers appreciate.

The experience combines natural beauty with a sense of adventure, making it one of the most beloved parts of the full-day trip.

Additional Pacing and Comfort

The tour is structured to balance travel time with sightseeing, with breaks and photo stops spaced evenly. The bus transfer times are typically around an hour, giving travelers a comfortable pace to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

The bus is described as clean and comfortable, and guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge. This setup ensures a relaxing yet engaging experience across the long day.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This South of Iceland full-day trip suits travelers eager to see Iceland’s most famous waterfalls, volcanic beaches, and glaciers on a well-organized, guided basis. It’s ideal for those who want a comprehensive day of sightseeing without the hassle of planning logistics.

While food isn’t included, the stops are timed well for meals or snacks, and the inclusion of hotel pickup adds convenience. The tour is not recommended for children under 2 years old, but beyond that, it’s accessible for most physically able travelers.

The Sum Up: A Well-Organized Journey through Iceland’s South Coast

This full-day tour from Reykjavik offers an excellent overview of Iceland’s southern landscapes. The combination of waterfalls, black sand beaches, and a glacier snout provides diverse scenery, making it suitable for first-time visitors wanting a taste of Iceland’s natural wonders.

The tour’s high ratings, friendly guides, and well-paced itinerary stand out, though travelers should prepare for some walking in potentially wet conditions. It’s a great choice for those looking for a value-packed day trip that covers many of Iceland’s most iconic sights.

This tour delivers a memorable experience of Iceland’s dramatic terrain, with the convenience of guided commentary and flexible pickup options. It’s likely to leave visitors with stunning photos and lasting memories of the south coast’s powerful beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are available from selected hotels and guesthouses in central Reykjavik, as well as the cruise port.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours from pickup to return, with scheduled stops along the way.

What are the main sights visited?
You visit Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, Sólheimajökull glacier, Vik, and Reynisfjara beach.

Can I walk behind Seljalandsfoss?
Yes, weather permitting, you can walk behind Seljalandsfoss for a unique perspective.

Is food included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but there is a 50-minute stop in Vik for lunch.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 2 years old are not allowed on this tour.

Are guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews specifically mention guides like Victoria, Ivy, and Harold as engaging and well-informed.

What should I bring?
Weather can be changeable, so waterproof clothing and sturdy shoes are recommended, especially for walking behind waterfalls.

How is the transportation?
The bus is described as comfortable, clean, and equipped with Wi-Fi in some cases, making the long day easier.

Would you recommend this trip?
Yes, especially for first-time visitors wanting an accessible, well-organized tour of Iceland’s south coast with many iconic sights and positive reviews supporting its quality.

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