Private Day Trip To The Icelandic South Coast from Reykjavik

The Private Day Trip to the Icelandic South Coast from Reykjavik offers an intimate way to experience some of Iceland’s most dramatic landscapes. For $420 per person, this 10-hour journey features pickup in Reykjavik, a private guide and driver, and stops at iconic sites like Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls, Reynisfjara black sand beach, and the volcanic area around Eyjafjallajökull. The tour is designed for those who prefer a personalized experience over traditional bus tours, providing a flexible pace and dedicated attention from the guide.

This private tour is perfect for visitors seeking unrushed sightseeing, expert insights into Iceland’s geology, and customizable stops. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy nature’s raw beauty, photography, or want a more intimate connection with Iceland’s landscapes. While the price might seem high, the inclusion of hotel pickup, private transportation, and the personal attention of a knowledgeable guide makes this a compelling choice for those who value comfort and tailored experiences.

Key Points

• Private tour with personalized service and hotel pickup in Reykjavik
• Stops at Seljalandsfoss, Skogafoss, Reynisfjara black sands, and Eyjafjallajökull volcano
• Duration of about 10 hours, perfect for a full day of exploration
• Expert guidance from a professional driver and guide, with in-depth knowledge of Iceland’s geography and geology
• Group discounts available, and mobile tickets make booking straightforward

Starting Point and Logistics in Reykjavik

The tour departs from Reykjavik at 10:00 am, with pickup offered from your accommodation or a nearby meeting point. The private vehicle ensures comfort through Iceland’s scenic routes, and the full-day experience ends back in Reykjavik, making it convenient for onward plans. The minimum of two adults per booking and child rates apply when sharing with two paying adults, making it flexible for different group sizes.

Exploring Iceland’s Iconic Waterfalls: Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss

The first stops are Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss, both free to visit and among Iceland’s most photographed waterfalls. Seljalandsfoss, towering at 65 meters, is famous for the trail that allows visitors to walk behind the cascading water, offering a unique perspective. With 45 minutes allocated, you can marvel at its power and take memorable photos.

Next is Skogafoss, also 45 minutes and renowned for its impressive width and height. Its easy accessibility makes it a favorite, and it’s been a filming location for Vikings and Thor. Its strong visual impact leaves a lasting impression, especially for those interested in cinematic landscapes or nature photography.

Dyrhólaey: The Natural Rock Formation and Birdwatching Spot

Between the waterfalls and Vik, the tour makes a 45-minute stop at Dyrhólaey, a stunning natural arch and promontory. The rock formation offers stunning views of the south coast, with a bird nesting area that may be seasonally active. Although the formation itself is off-limits from pedestrian traffic, the roads leading up provide spectacular vistas of beaches and cliffs.

Access to Dyrhólaey’s viewpoints requires driving on unpaved roads, so SUVs are recommended. This stop is ideal for photographers and bird enthusiasts, giving a snapshot of Iceland’s coast and wildlife.

Eyjafjallajökull Volcano: The Famous Ice-Capped Stratovolcano

The Eyjafjallajökull area serves as a highlight for geology enthusiasts. The ice-cap covered volcano gained global fame during its 2010 eruption, which significantly impacted air travel. The 10-minute stop provides a visual overview of the volcano’s geological history and eruption.

You won’t be hiking, but the view of the stratovolcano and its surrounding glaciers offers insight into Iceland’s volcanic activity. This stop emphasizes the power of nature and Iceland’s volcanic landscape, making it a compelling visit.

The Charm of Vik and Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

Vik is a small Icelandic village that serves as a gateway to Reynisfjara, one of the most iconic black sand beaches in the country. The 45-minute stop allows for a leisurely walk along the volcanic sands, exploring geologic formations, sea stacks, and sea bird colonies.

Reynisfjara’s black sands and cliffs create a surreal atmosphere, and the sea stacks of Reynisdrangar** add to its legendary feel. Visitors appreciate the minimal crowds in the private tour setting, making photography and exploration more comfortable.

Mercury Grail: The Tour Operator’s Role and Service

The tour is operated by Mercury Grail, known for professional guiding and personalized service. Many reviews highlight Andreas as a prompt and attentive guide who combines geological expertise with friendly conversation. He often adjusts timing—allowing extra time at stops or making recommendations for lunch—ensuring a tailored, relaxed experience.

The private vehicle provides door-to-door pickup and drop-off, removing the stress of coordinating transportation. The availability of group discounts and mobile tickets simplifies the booking process.

The Route and Driving Experience

The tour takes you along Iceland’s southern edge, with scenic drives between each stop. The routes include unpaved roads around Dyrhólaey, so SUVs are preferable. The pacing is designed to avoid feeling rushed, with 45-minute stops at each major site and enough time to absorb the scenery without fatigue.

The guide’s knowledge enhances the drive, explaining geological formations, volcano history, and local stories, making the scenic journey as enriching as the stops themselves.

Weather Considerations and Tour Flexibility

Many reviews mention less-than-ideal weather conditions but praise the guide’s humor and flexibility. Even on cloudy or rainy days, the spectacular landscapes of waterfalls and beaches maintain their visual impact. The tour’s private nature allows for adjustments based on weather, ensuring a comfortable experience.

Physical Fitness and Accessibility

The tour requires moderate physical fitness—walking along beaches and around viewpoints is involved. While most stops are accessible via short walks, unpaved roads at Dyrhólaey may challenge some. The private setup makes it easier to adapt to individual needs, but travelers should be prepared for occasional uneven terrain.

Why Choose This Private South Coast Tour?

This private tour stands out for its customizable itinerary, intimate atmosphere, and expert guiding. It offers the flexibility to spend more time at preferred spots, unlike large bus tours. The dedicated guide ensures you gain depth of knowledge about Iceland’s volcanic activity, waterfalls, and wildlife.

The scenery along the route is simply breathtaking—from cascading waterfalls to black sands and volcanic formations. The personalized service and small group size create a relaxed environment where questions and requests are welcomed.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

Travelers who value comfort and customization find this tour particularly appealing. It’s well-suited for photographers, geology buffs, or those seeking a more exclusive experience. If you want a full day of scenic exploration with a knowledgeable guide, this tour offers great value.

Limitations to Consider

The price point might be higher than group tours, but the personalized service and flexibility justify it. The drive is quite long, so travelers should be prepared for a full day of sightseeing. Also, some stops involve unpaved roads, so a SUV is recommended.

Iceland’s South Coast Private Tour: Final Thoughts

This private day trip from Reykjavik provides an intimate and flexible way to discover Iceland’s southern landscapes. The expert guide helps unravel geological stories behind iconic sites like Seljalandsfoss, Skogafoss, and Reynisfjara, making the scenery more meaningful.

While the cost is higher than standard tours, the dedicated attention, comfort, and customized experience make it a worthwhile choice for those who want more than just a snapshot of Iceland’s natural wonders. It suits travelers who appreciate personalized service and want to explore wild landscapes in a relaxed, unrushed manner.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at your Reykjavik accommodation.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 10 hours, starting at 10:00 am and ending back in Reykjavik.

What stops are included in this tour?
Stops include Seljalandsfoss, Skogafoss, Dyrhólaey, Eyjafjallajökull volcano, and Reynisfjara black sand beach.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, child rates apply when sharing with two paying adults, and the physical activity involved is moderate.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but recommendations for lunch can be provided by the guide.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes are recommended, especially for walking around beaches and viewpoints.

Can I customize the stops or the route?
As a private tour, the guide can adjust the itinerary based on your interests and weather conditions.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.