South Iceland Highlights and Northern Lights Combo Full-Day Tour

Explore South Iceland’s Iconic Landmarks and Northern Lights in One Day

The South Iceland Highlights and Northern Lights Combo Full-Day Tour offers an impressive way to see some of the country’s most striking natural sights without the hassle of planning or driving. Priced at $169.00 per person, this 14-hour journey departs from Reykjavik, with convenient pickup options and a mobile ticket for easy access. Bookings are typically made around 54 days in advance, reflecting its popularity.

What truly makes this tour stand out is the seamless combination of daytime sightseeing and evening aurora hunting. You visit Skogafoss, one of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls, walk alongside the Solheimajokull Glacier, and explore the Reynisfjara black sand beach. Afterward, your guide takes you far beyond city lights for a chance to see the Northern Lights, with a guarantee to try again if the aurora does not appear initially.

While some may find the day packed, the tour’s well-organized stops and the chance to see Iceland’s signature landscapes make it an excellent pick for those eager to maximize a single day’s adventure. Keep in mind, lunch is not included, but comfort is prioritized with onboard WiFi, a restroom on the bus, and hot chocolate during the Northern Lights hunt.

Key Points

• Includes both South Iceland sightseeing and Northern Lights hunt
• Stops at Skogafoss, Solheimajokull Glacier, Reynisfjara Beach, and Seljalandsfoss
• Pickup from Reykjavik with easy meeting points
• Optional reattempts for Northern Lights if not visible the first night
• Comfort features include WiFi, restrooms, and hot cocoa
• Tour duration approx. 14 hours, with most stops around 30-60 minutes

Starting Point and Overall Schedule in Reykjavik

The tour begins at Bus Stop #12 Höfðatorg, Þórunnartún 6, 105 Reykjavík. From here, the coach takes you on a carefully planned route through some of Iceland’s most stunning southern sights. The typical day starts early, with about two hours to reach Skogafoss, allowing plenty of time to admire this immense waterfall from ground level or from the pathway leading to the top.

After visiting Skogafoss, the route continues with a 45-minute stop at Solheimajokull Glacier. Here, a brisk walk along a glacial lagoon leads to the Sólheimajökull glacier, where you have the opportunity to touch the ice and observe the impact of climate change firsthand. The next stop is Reynisfjara, Iceland’s most famous black sand beach, known for its sea stacks and geometric cliffs.

In the charming village of Vík, the group pauses for about an hour to enjoy a lunch break (lunch not included). The journey then continues to Seljalandsfoss, a photograph-worthy waterfall with a winding pathway behind it, offering a unique perspective of this natural wonder.

The return to Reykjavik covers approximately three hours and ten minutes, providing a comfortable buffer for sightseeing and travel. After the daytime adventure, the tour transitions into the Northern Lights chase, where you are taken far beyond city lights for the best chance to witness the aurora borealis, with hot chocolate served during the experience.

Visiting Iconic Waterfalls: Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss

Skogafoss is a highlight of this tour, famous for its powerful cascade and spectacular views. Visitors can choose to enjoy the scene from ground level or climb a winding staircase to observe the waterfall from above. This stop lasts about 30 minutes, making it a perfect introduction to Iceland’s dramatic waterfalls.

Seljalandsfoss offers a different perspective, with a winding pathway behind the waterfall that allows visitors to walk behind the cascading water. It’s often described as Iceland’s most photographed waterfall. The 30-minute stop here provides ample time for photos and to take in the astonishing scenery.

Walking on Sólheimajökull Glacier

The Solheimajokull Glacier stop is a 45-minute experience where a brisk walk leads alongside a glacial lagoon. The highlight is the chance to touch the actual glacier ice, gaining insight into the effects of climate change as this ancient glacier continues to retreat. The landscape is stunningly rugged, and the exposure to this frozen marvel is memorable.

Discovering Reynisfjara’s Black Sand Beach

Reynisfjara, often called Iceland’s most beautiful beach, is renowned for its black volcanic sand, sea stacks, and geometric cliffs. The 30-minute stop here involves taking in the dramatic coastline and listening to safety guidance regarding the cautionary creeper waves. Its unique volcanic features make it a favorite among visitors.

Lunch Break in Vík Village

The tour includes a 60-minute stop in the picturesque village of Vík, providing a chance to stretch and enjoy a meal on your own. Although lunch is not included, the village offers various options to grab a quick bite before resuming the journey.

Exploring Reynisfjara: Safety and Scenic Views

The Reynisfjara beach features massive cliffs and cave formations created from geometric volcanic rock. Visitors are advised to stay dry and cautious due to the notorious creeper waves. The stop provides an excellent opportunity for photos and to appreciate Iceland’s volcanic energy up close.

Visiting the Iconic Waterfall: Seljalandsfoss

Seljalandsfoss stands out not only for its beauty but also for its walkable pathway behind the falls. This interactive experience offers a unique angle from which to view the water plunging down. The 30-minute stop gives enough time for photos and to marvel at this nature’s spectacle.

The Northern Lights: A Guided Chase

Post-sightseeing, the Northern Lights tour begins with a 4-hour drive beyond Reykjavik’s city lights. With the promise that if the aurora does not appear, passengers can try again on a future night, the experience emphasizes flexibility. During the chase, travelers enjoy hot chocolate and a knowledgeable guide helps spot the shimmering lights, which are described as wavy and mesmerizing.

Practical Details and Comfort Features

The tour features WiFi onboard, so you can share photos or stay connected. A restroom is available on the coach, and the air-conditioned vehicle keeps comfort consistent. For added convenience, hot chocolate is served during the Northern Lights hunt, making the evening experience cozy and enjoyable.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This full-day combo suits those eager to see a diverse range of Icelandic landscapes in one trip. The stops are well-paced, and the guided commentary adds context to each location. The Northern Lights hunt offers an excellent chance to witness the aurora, especially with rebooking options if the lights are initially elusive.

However, travelers should brace for a full day, with standing, walking, and some bus time. The tour is most suitable for adventurers comfortable with cold weather and those who value guided logistics over independent exploration.

Final Thoughts on the South Iceland Highlights and Northern Lights Tour

This tour offers a balanced combination of scenic stops and aurora chasing that highlights some of Iceland’s most iconic sights. The well-organized itinerary ensures you experience waterfalls, glaciers, and beaches efficiently, with plenty of photo opportunities.

The Northern Lights chase is a highlight, especially with the rebooking guarantee and the warmth of hot chocolate during the hunt. The positive reviews praise the knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and good value for money.

While some may find the daylong schedule intense, this tour provides a comprehensive snapshot of South Iceland’s natural beauty, perfect for those with limited time or first-time visitors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is lunch included in this tour?
No, lunch is not included. There is a 60-minute stop in Vík where travelers can find nearby options to eat.

What are the main stops on this tour?
Stops include Skogafoss, Solheimajokull Glacier, Reynisfjara Beach, Vík, and Seljalandsfoss.

How long is the Northern Lights tour?
The Northern Lights hunt lasts approximately 4 hours, with flexibility for rebooking if the aurora is not visible initially.

Are amenities available on the bus?
Yes, the bus is equipped with WiFi and a restroom for passenger comfort.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour accommodates up to 60 travelers, ensuring a comfortable group experience.

Can I see the Northern Lights if the weather is poor?
The tour requires good weather for aurora viewing. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but physical activity, like walking on glaciers or behind waterfalls, should be considered.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made around 54 days in advance, reflecting its popularity.

What makes this tour stand out compared to others?
The combination of classic South Iceland sights with the guaranteed Northern Lights chase and comfort features like WiFi and hot chocolate make it a well-rounded experience.

What do reviews say about this tour?
Reviewers praise the guides’ professionalism, stunning scenery, and the value. Some mention disorganization but overall, the feedback is highly positive, emphasizing the guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge.

This South Iceland Highlights and Northern Lights Combo offers a full-day adventure that balances natural beauty, practical comfort, and a chance to witness the aurora borealis, making it a popular choice for visitors eager to pack in Iceland’s top sights in one trip.