South Coast. Private Day Tour from Reykjavik

Discover the rugged beauty of Iceland’s south coast with this private full-day tour from Reykjavik. Priced at $638 per person, the tour lasts approximately 10 hours and includes hotel pickup and drop-off. Led by a knowledgeable guide, this VIP-style experience features visits to Seljalandsfoss, Skogafoss, Dyrhólaey, Reynisfjara Beach, and Solheimajokull Glacier. The tour is fully private, ensuring personalized attention, and is suitable for most travelers who enjoy comfortable, scenic exploration.

While food and drinks are not included, the tour offers ample opportunities for photography, sightseeing, and learning about Iceland’s natural wonders. With 85 glowing reviews and a perfect 5.0-star rating, this tour is highly recommended for those seeking an in-depth, flexible adventure beyond Reykjavik.

Key Points

• Private full-day tour lasting approximately 10 hours from Reykjavik
• Visits to key attractions: Seljalandsfoss, Skogafoss, Dyrhólaey, Reynisfjara, and Solheimajokull Glacier
• Price of $638 per person includes hotel pickup and drop-off
• Guide Sergi is praised for knowledgeable, friendly service and photography tips
• Customizable experience with the benefit of personalized attention
• Weather conditions are not a problem as the tour operates in all weather, but proper dress is recommended

Exploring Iceland’s South Coast on a Private Basis

This full-day private tour from Reykjavik offers an intimate way to explore Iceland’s iconic south coast. For $638 per person, travelers enjoy a 10-hour journey with the advantage of hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring convenience from the start. Led by a driver-guide, the experience emphasizes personalized attention, with a focus on spectacular waterfalls, glaciers, black sand beaches, and dramatic coastal scenery.

The fully private nature of this tour means that only your group participates, providing flexibility to adjust the pace and focus on your interests. It’s a great choice for those who want a VIP experience with expert guidance and photography assistance — all while avoiding the crowds often seen on larger group tours.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The itinerary covers some of Iceland’s most famous sites, starting with the Seljalandsfoss waterfall, where the hidden trail behind the falls offers a unique perspective. Next, the Gljufrabui waterfall provides an intimate, less crowded stop in a gorge nearby. The Skogafoss waterfall impresses with its 60-meter height and vibrant rainbows on sunny days, plus the option to walk to an observation deck.

Further along, the Dyrhólaey headland presents stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and glaciers covering volcanoes. The nearby Reynisfjara Beach showcases black sand, basalt columns, and Reynisdrangar rocks, offering spectacular photo opportunities. The Solheimajokull Glacier adds an adventurous element, where you can walk the trail and touch ancient ice; glacier hikes can be arranged additionally.

The Highlights: Waterfalls, Beaches, and Glaciers

Seljalandsfoss is one of Iceland’s most recognizable waterfalls, fed by meltwater from Eyjafjallajokull, with the trail behind the falls allowing for memorable photos from all angles. Skogafoss, with its sheer height of 60 meters, often produces double rainbows and offers the chance to walk upstairs for a panoramic view. Both waterfalls are free to visit, but the admission for Seljalandsfoss is included in the tour.

Dyrhólaey is a dramatic cliff formation with a historic lighthouse, offering spectacular vistas of the black sand beaches and glaciers. The Reynisfjara Beach attracts visitors with its towering basalt columns and powerful Atlantic waves, making it one of Iceland’s most iconic black sand spots.

The Solheimajokull Glacier is a tongue of the larger Mýrdalsjokull ice cap, known for its ice formations like crevasses and steep ridges. While a glacier hike is optional and can be booked separately, the walk to the glacier itself is included, and visitors can touch the ice and see its ancient features.

Logistics and Personalization

The pickup and drop-off service in Reykjavik simplifies planning, allowing travelers to relax and enjoy the scenery without logistical concerns. The guide is praised for knowledgeable commentary, sharing insights into geology, history, and science. Many reviews highlight guide Sergei’s friendly manner, photo tips, and local knowledge, which elevate the experience.

This private tour ensures that the pace is tailored to your group’s interests and energy levels. It operates in all weather conditions, so travelers should dress appropriately, especially for outdoor stops like Reynisfjara and Glaciers.

The Route and Pacing

The tour covers multiple stops within approximately 10 hours, so pacing is balanced — enough time to explore each site without feeling rushed. The itinerary includes about 30 minutes at Seljalandsfoss, another 30 minutes at Gljufrabui, an hour at Skogafoss, and similar durations at Dyrhólaey, Reynisfjara, and Solheimajokull. Lunch is typically recommended at the nearby Bistro Bar after Skogafoss.

Travel times between stops are managed efficiently, with the guide providing local insights and shortcuts where possible, ensuring a smooth experience throughout the day.

Photography and Sightseeing Tips

Many reviews praise the guide’s ability to capture memorable photos using cell phones and professional tips. The stops at waterfalls and beaches are ideal for landscape photography, especially in good light or with rainbows at Skogafoss. The guide often offers suggestions on the best photo angles and timings for dramatic shots.

Travelers should bring adequate camera gear and dress in layers to handle Iceland’s unpredictable weather. The scenic views at every stop make this tour a photographer’s paradise.

The Glacier Experience and Optional Hikes

While the main tour does not include a glacier hike, the Solheimajokull Glacier stop invites those interested to organize additional guided hikes. The ice formations and steep ridges are impressive even from the trail, offering a glimpse into Iceland’s glacial landscape. The touching of ancient ice is an optional but memorable aspect of the visit.

Review Summary and Guide Excellence

The tour consistently receives stellar reviews, with 86 five-star ratings. Visitors frequently mention guide Sergei’s friendly, knowledgeable style, often describing him as amazing and very accommodating. His photography assistance and insight into Icelandic culture are highlighted as major positives.

The pacing and personalized attention are key reasons this tour earns top marks, with many reviewers noting how it feels relaxed and tailored to their interests. Despite weather challenges, the guides keep the experience enjoyable, emphasizing that the tour operates in all conditions.

Final Thoughts on This South Coast Private Tour

This private day trip offers a comprehensive exploration of Iceland’s south coast, combining scenic beauty with expert guidance. The cost of $638 reflects the personalized service, VIP experience, and exclusive access to top attractions. It suits travelers who value flexibility, comfort, and local insights.

While food and drinks are not included, the stops provide ample opportunities to photograph, explore, and learn about the region. The full-day itinerary ensures a balanced mix of sightseeing, with enough time at each location to appreciate nature’s grandeur.

This tour is an excellent choice for those seeking an immersive, private adventure into Iceland’s most striking landscapes, led by guides who are praised for their knowledge and friendliness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off in Reykjavik are included in the tour.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, providing ample time to see all stops comfortably.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but lunch options are available nearby after Skogafoss.

Can this tour accommodate all weather conditions?
Yes, it operates in all weather conditions, so travelers should dress appropriately for outdoor stops.

Is there an option to hike on the glacier?
The glacier hike is not included but can be organized separately if desired.

How many people are in each group?
This is a fully private tour, so only your group participates, ensuring personalized attention.

Who is the guide?
The tour is led by a driver-guide, often praised for knowledgeable commentary and friendly service.

What are the main attractions?
The main stops are Seljalandsfoss, Gljufrabui, Skogafoss, Dyrhólaey, Reynisfjara Beach, and Solheimajokull Glacier.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour offers flexible pacing, making it suitable for families and friends.

How do I book this tour?
Booking is straightforward via the provided link, with most reservations made 78 days in advance on average.