Private South Coast Tour: A Journey to Icelands Stunning Shore

Explore Iceland’s South Coast with a Private Guide and Custom Pace

This private South Coast tour in Iceland, offered by Car Buddy at $1,460 per group (up to 3 people), provides an intimate and flexible way to see the country’s most iconic natural wonders. With a duration of approximately 11 hours, the tour covers famous waterfalls, glaciers, volcanic beaches, and scenic viewpoints, all in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle with free Wi-Fi. The tour is designed for small groups, ensuring you get personalized attention and the chance to explore at your own pace.

What makes this tour a standout is its combination of carefully curated stops and the flexibility to spend more or less time at each location. The expert guides are local storytellers who bring Iceland’s landscapes and history to life, making for a more engaging experience. While the price is higher than some group excursions, reviews highlight the value of private service and unmatched comfort. For those seeking a personalized day on the South Coast, this tour offers a thoughtful balance of sights, stories, and relaxed travel.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience for up to 3 people
• Duration of around 11 hours, starting in Reykjavik
• Visits include Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, Sólheimajökull Glacier, and Reynisfjara Beach
• Comfortable air-conditioned vehicle with Wi-Fi and bottled water
• Admission tickets included for key stops like Seljalandsfoss; others are free
• Highly praised for knowledgeable guides and flexible pacing

Departure from Reykjavik and Scenic Drive to the South Coast

The tour begins in Reykjavik, where you’ll meet your guide and private vehicle. The drive out of the city offers scenic views of Iceland’s rolling countryside and farmland, setting the tone for a day focused on nature’s grandeur. The journey typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours before reaching the first stop, with the option to pass through the peaceful town of Selfoss for a quick break or stretch, depending on your preferences.

This private experience ensures a relaxed pace, with the ability to customize the start time and stops along the way. The comfortable vehicle is equipped with Wi-Fi and chargers, making the trip both enjoyable and convenient.

Visiting Seljalandsfoss: Walking Behind a Waterfall

The first major attraction is Seljalandsfoss, a 60-meter waterfall famous for its unique feature: the opportunity to walk behind the cascade. This perspective offers a dramatic view of the water plummeting down ancient cliffs, creating a spectacular photo opportunity.

While walking behind the waterfall may be limited in winter due to weather conditions, the sight itself remains captivating year-round. The admission ticket is included in the tour. Adjacent to Seljalandsfoss, the smaller Gljúfrabúi waterfall is accessible via a short walk, offering a peaceful spot within a lush canyon. Access to Gljúfrabúi may be restricted in winter, but its tranquil atmosphere makes it worth mentioning if conditions allow.

Skógafoss: Iceland’s Iconic Waterfall

Next up is Skógafoss, one of Iceland’s largest waterfalls with a powerful cascade that creates frequent rainbows on sunny days. Visitors can get close to the base for impressive views or climb the staircase to enjoy panoramic vistas from above. The area around Skógafoss is also home to the Skógafoss Museum if time permits, offering insights into Icelandic history and culture.

This stop is often highlighted for its sheer natural power and beauty, making it a favorite among visitors. The free admission allows ample time to appreciate the roaring falls and snap memorable photos.

Optional Stops: Skogar Museum and Kvernufoss

Depending on your available time, the tour offers optional visits to Skogar Museum and Kvernufoss. The museum showcases artifacts and replicas of historic buildings, providing a glimpse into Iceland’s past. It’s a 30-minute stop that can be added if your schedule allows.

Kvernufoss is a more secluded waterfall, accessible via a short hike through a scenic canyon. Often walkable behind in summer, it’s a peaceful spot to enjoy nature’s quiet beauty. Access may be limited in winter, but the area’s natural charm remains impressive.

Exploring the Sólheimajökull Glacier and Ice Lagoon

A highlight of the tour is Sólheimajökull Glacier, where you visit the edge of this striking glacier, distinguished by black ash streaks and blue ice. A short hike takes you near the glacier’s front, leading to the glacier lagoon, where floating icebergs create a surreal landscape.

This stop offers an excellent chance to observe Iceland’s ongoing volcanic and glacial activity. No additional admission cost is involved here, but the experience is enriching, especially with the guide’s insights on the glacier’s features and formation.

Dyrhólaey and Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

Following the glacier, the tour moves to Dyrhólaey, an elevated viewpoint offering sweeping views of the coastline, black sand beaches, and sea cliffs. In the summer months, puffins may be spotted nesting in the area, adding a lively touch to the scenery.

Next, travelers explore Reynisfjara Beach, famous for its black volcanic sands and towering basalt columns. The adjacent Halsanefshellir Cave provides a close-up view of these formations when tides are low, and the Reynisdrangar sea stacks rise dramatically from the ocean, legend says as the remains of trolls turned to stone. These stops are all free and offer fantastic photo opportunities.

Relaxing in Vik and Return Journey

The small village of Vik marks the final stop, giving travelers time to relax, enjoy a meal (additional fees apply), or simply take in the scenic surroundings of mountains, glaciers, and beaches. Afterward, the journey back to Reykjavik takes about 2 hours, with the option for drop-off at your hotel, Airbnb, or preferred location within the city.

The tour concludes with a drop-off in Reykjavik, completing the enriching day with memorable views and stories.

Practical Details and What’s Included

This private tour includes a luxury vehicle with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and charging ports. It also offers all tolls and parking fees, along with luggage space for convenience.

The admission tickets for Seljalandsfoss are included, but other stops like Skógafoss or Reynisfjara are free. The tour does not include meals or accommodations, so planning for lunch or dinner in Vik or Reykjavik is recommended.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Others

The private nature of this tour allows for a customized experience, with the flexibility to spend more time at preferred sites or skip others. The local guides are known for their storytelling, making the experience both informative and engaging. The comfort and convenience of transportation, combined with the attention to detail in planning stops, makes this a strong choice for travelers wanting a relaxed, tailored day along the South Coast.

Honest Look at the Limitations

While the price may be higher than group tours, many reviews emphasize the value of personalized service and professional guidance. Tour availability is often booked around 50 days in advance, so early planning is advisable. The tour’s length of 11 hours is well-balanced, but travelers should be prepared for a full day with some walking involved.

Final Thoughts on the Private South Coast Adventure

This private tour of Iceland’s South Coast offers a well-rounded experience of the region’s most celebrated sights, all within a comfortable and flexible framework. The stops are thoughtfully chosen, and the guides’ local knowledge enhances each visit. It’s especially suited for small groups or couples who value personalized attention and wish to explore at their own pace.

While the cost is notable, the quality of service, private vehicle, and customizable itinerary make it a compelling option for those wanting a more intimate exploration of Iceland’s stunning shore. It’s ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed, educational, and scenic day with no rush.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for winter visits?
Yes, but some stops like Gljúfrabúi and Kvernufoss may have limited access due to weather conditions. The itinerary remains flexible to adapt to winter weather.

Does the tour include meals?
No, meals and accommodations are not included. Travelers should plan to bring snacks or purchase food in Vik.

Can I customize the stops during the tour?
Yes, as a private tour, the guide can adjust the pace and stop choices based on your preferences, making for a tailored experience.

How do I book this tour?
Booking is typically done in advance, with an average booking window of 50 days. Contact details are available through the provider, Car Buddy.