2-Day South Coast of Iceland Private Tour: Waterfalls, Glaciers and Glacial Lagoons
Two days along Iceland's most iconic coastal road, from thundering waterfalls to floating icebergs.
This 2-day South Coast Iceland private tour covers the full stretch of the island's most celebrated coastal corridor, combining natural landmarks such as Seljalandsfoss, Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, and Vatnajokull National Park into one seamless journey. Designed for small private groups, it allows a relaxed pace without the time pressure of a single-day rush. Every stop delivers a distinct landscape, making this one of the most complete overland experiences Iceland offers.
The first day moves south from Reykjavik through the farming plains of Hveragerdi before reaching the coastal waterfall corridor. Seljalandsfoss and the hidden canyon fall of Gljufrabui are followed by Skogafoss, then the Solheimajokull glacier tongue, and the basalt-columned shores of Reynisfjara. The day closes in Vik village before an overnight stay near Skaftafell National Park.
Day two opens with breakfast and a drive into Vatnajokull National Park, the largest national park in Europe. The route visits Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, Diamond Beach, Fjallsarlon Lagoon, and the glacially carved Fjardargljufur Canyon. Depending on season, the tour includes either a visit to the natural blue ice caves inside the glacier or a guided glacier hike and a hike to Svartifoss waterfall in Skaftafell.
The difficulty level is rated easy to moderate. Most stops involve short walks on well-maintained paths. The seasonal ice cave and glacier hike options require a minimum participant age of ten and appropriate footwear, which guides provide on location.
Tour Highlights
Walk behind the curtain of Seljalandsfoss, a 60-metre waterfall where a path circles the entire falls including the rock face behind the cascade.
Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach features dramatic basalt columns and sea stacks and was ranked among the ten most beautiful non-tropical beaches in the world in 1991.
Solheimajokull Glacier sits atop the active Katla volcano and offers a close-up perspective on glacial retreat caused by a warming climate.
Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon holds floating icebergs calved from Breidamerkurjokull glacier, with an optional boat trip available for a closer view.
Diamond Beach sits adjacent to the lagoon, where ice blocks wash ashore onto black volcanic sand and catch the light like scattered gemstones.
In winter, the tour enters natural blue ice caves inside Vatnajokull glacier, a seasonal formation only accessible between November and April.
In summer, a hike to Svartifoss waterfall in Skaftafell reveals a 20-metre fall framed by hanging hexagonal basalt columns formed inside ancient lava flows.
Itinerary Overview
Departure from Reykjavik with a drive past Hveragerdi, the geothermal greenhouse town. First stops are Seljalandsfoss for the behind-the-falls experience and the nearby hidden canyon waterfall of Gljufrabui.
Visit Skogafoss, one of Iceland's widest and tallest waterfalls, with a staircase leading to clifftop views. Continue to Solheimajokull glacier and the coastal promontory of Dyrhólaey, which offers a panoramic view of the black sand coastline.
Walk the black basalt sands of Reynisfjara, passing the Reynisdrangar sea stacks shaped by wave erosion. The day ends with a stop in Vik village before overnight accommodation near Skaftafell National Park.
After breakfast, enter Vatnajokull National Park and visit both Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach. Continue to the smaller but equally scenic Fjallsarlon Glacier Lagoon nearby.
Explore Fjardargljufur Canyon, a 100-metre deep glacially carved gorge stretching two kilometres. Depending on season, the group then visits the natural ice caves inside Vatnajokull (November to April) or completes a glacier hike and hike to Svartifoss in Skaftafell (May to October).
Drive back along the South Coast to Reykjavik, completing the full circuit of the island's most scenic road. Drop-off is at the original departure point.
What Is Included
Included
- Private guide and driver for both days
- Transport in a comfortable private vehicle
- Hotel accommodation near Skaftafell National Park (1 night)
- Glacier hike equipment and crampons in summer
- Ice cave visit with certified guide in winter
- Pick-up and drop-off from Reykjavik accommodation
Not Included
- Breakfast on day one and meals throughout
- Optional boat trip at Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon
- Personal travel insurance
- Gratuities for guide and driver
- Any personal expenses during the tour
Important Information
Book Your Private South Coast Tour
Secure your spot on this private two-day journey along Iceland's South Coast and experience waterfalls, glaciers, black beaches, and glacial lagoons at your own pace with a dedicated guide.
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