Iceland South Coast Full Day Small-Group Tour from Reykjavik

Travel along Iceland’s south coast for a full day of incredible sights and engaging stories. Priced at $125 per person, this 10-hour tour departs from Reykjavik and offers hotel pickup and drop-off. The trip includes visits to iconic waterfalls, glaciers, volcanic landscapes, and the black-sand beach of Reynisfjara, all in a small-group setting with a maximum of 19 travelers. The tour is praised for its knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and excellent value, making it an ideal choice for those wanting a comprehensive Icelandic experience in one day.

While the tour covers many highlights at a relaxed pace, it’s important to note that lunch is not included, so travelers should plan to purchase food during the stops. Also, since weather conditions can change, a flexible attitude and waterproof clothing are recommended. This tour suits adventurous travelers looking to see the south coast’s top sights without the stress of self-driving or large groups.

Key Points

• Full-day exploration of Iceland’s south coast, with famous waterfalls, glaciers, and black sand beaches
• Luxury minibus with Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, and hotel pickup and drop-off from Reykjavik
• Guided commentary by experienced guides who share local stories and facts
• Stops at Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, Sólheimajökull Glacier, Reynisfjara Beach, and Vík
• Free time at each site to take photos, enjoy the scenery, or walk behind waterfalls
• Includes amenities like restrooms at most stops, with lunch on your own during Reynisfjara
• Recommended by 97% of over 5,000 reviews, with a 5.0/5 average rating

Exploring the South Coast’s Waterfalls and Volcanic Landscapes

The tour begins with a pickup in Reykjavik around 8:00 am, where travelers board a Mercedes Benz Sprinter, known for its comfort and Wi-Fi access. From there, the guide shares insights about Iceland’s volcanic history and landscape as the group travels along the coast.

First stop is Seljalandsfoss, a waterfall famous for its walk-behind pathway. At 65 meters tall, it offers a chance to get close to falling water—just be prepared to get a little wet during the walk. The site features restrooms, a gift shop, and a snack stand, making it convenient for a quick visit.

Next is Skógafoss, another spectacular waterfall with a 60-meter drop and 25-meter width. Visitors can ascend a staircase to a viewing platform above the falls, where they get sweeping views of the south coast and the Eyjafjallajökull glacier.

Walking on a Glacier at Sólheimajökull

The tour then continues with a visit to Sólheimajökull, a glacier tongue connected to Mýrdalsjökull. Travelers walk through a rocky valley, carved by the glacier, with layers of ash embedded in the ice, highlighting its volcanic activity.

The 45-minute stop includes walking toward the glacier, observing the chaotic terrain, and learning about the glacier’s volcanic surroundings. This stop offers photo opportunities of the striking ice layers and volcanic features, making it a highlight for nature lovers.

The Black Sand Beach of Reynisfjara

One of the most dramatic sights on the tour is Reynisfjara, the Black Sand Beach. Known for its basalt columns, sea stacks, and the natural arch, this beach looks like a scene from a myth. During summer, puffins nest along the cliffs, adding a lively touch to the landscape.

Visitors spend about 1 hour and 15 minutes here, giving ample time to explore the cave, walk along the black sands, and enjoy the rugged scenery. The site offers restrooms and a café, so travelers can grab a snack or coffee before moving on to Vík.

Photo Stop at Vík Village and Local Legends

The final stop is a short 15-minute visit to Vík, a picturesque village with a church perched on a hill. The backdrop of troll-like basalt stacks and the village’s colorful buildings make for perfect photos.

Along the way back to Reykjavik, the guide shares local stories about trolls and elves, reflecting Iceland’s folklore traditions. The group arrives back in the city around 6:00 pm.

Practicalities and Comforts of the Tour

The small-group format ensures a relaxed atmosphere, with plenty of personalized attention from the guide. The luxury minibus is equipped with Wi-Fi, allowing travelers to share photos instantly or look up additional information.

All fees and taxes are included in the $125 price, and hotel pickup and drop-off are provided from central Reykjavik. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with restrooms available at most stops, and the entire route designed for comfort and convenience.

Unpacking the Highlights of the Tour

The waterfalls of Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss are consistently praised as stunning and photogenic, with reviews highlighting the walk-behind feature of Seljalandsfoss as especially fun. The Sólheimajökull glacier offers a rare chance to see volcanic layers within the ice, emphasizing Iceland’s geological activity.

Reynisfjara Beach impresses with its black sands, basalt columns, and puffin colonies in summer. The Vík stop provides a charming village setting, along with folklore stories about trolls and elves, which add cultural flavor to the scenery.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This tour suits adventurous travelers eager to see a wide range of Iceland’s natural wonders in one day. The small-group size and guided commentary appeal to those who want an educational experience with personalized service.

While the walking involved at waterfalls and glaciers is manageable, travelers should wear waterproof clothing and comfortable shoes. The lack of included lunch means packing snacks or preparing to buy at Reynisfjara or Vík.

Final Thoughts on the Iceland South Coast Full-Day Tour

The $125 price point offers great value for a comprehensive exploration of Iceland’s south coast highlights. The expert guides, well-paced itinerary, and stunning scenery make this tour a favorite among visitors. It is particularly suitable for those who want a full-day, hassle-free trip with plenty of opportunities for photos and storytelling.

Despite some potential for weather disruptions, the flexible cancellation policy and small group size contribute to a comfortable and enjoyable experience. For anyone interested in waterfalls, glaciers, volcanic landscapes, and black sand beaches, this tour provides a memorable and well-rounded introduction to Iceland’s south coast.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included. The tour stops at Reynisfjara for a break where travelers can purchase food at onsite cafés or bring their own.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour accommodates up to 19 travelers, ensuring a comfortable and personalized experience.

How long is the trip from Reykjavik?
The entire tour lasts approximately 10 hours, with hotel pickup around 8:00 am and return around 6:00 pm.

Are the stops suitable for children?
Yes, most stops are accessible for children, but walking on uneven terrain at glaciers or behind waterfalls may require caution and appropriate footwear.

Is the tour suitable in bad weather?
The tour requires good weather to operate safely. If canceled due to weather, travelers are offered a different date or a full refund.

How do I book this tour?
Booking can be done via the provider’s platform, with most travelers booking about 54 days in advance for the best availability.