An aerial view of Seljandsfoss
Travellers greeting a Guide from Your Friend in Reykjavik
A picture of Reynisfjara, the Black Beach
A picture of the basin of Skogafoss
A picture of Vik i Myrdal taken from a nearby hill.
A picture of rock formations by Reynisfjara, the Black Beach.
Aerial view of Skogafoss
A traveller stranding at Reynisfjara, the Black Beach
Group of riders on Icelandic horses along a black sand beach with dramatic cliffs in background
Two riders on Icelandic horses on black sand beach at sunset with Reynisdrangar sea stacks in background
Three riders on Icelandic horses trekking along black volcanic trail with dramatic coastal cliffs and sea stacks in background

Reykjavik, Iceland

Full-Day South Coast Iceland Tour: Glaciers & Horse Riding

12 hoursMin 1 guests
Listing ID : 28915
Duration12 Hours
Group SizeSmall Group
Starts AtReykjavik
LanguagesGerman, English, Spanish, French
South Coast of Iceland

South Coast Odyssey: Waterfalls, Glaciers & Horse Riding

A full-day journey through Iceland's most dramatic southern landscapes, from thundering waterfalls to black sand shores.


This South Coast Iceland tour from Reykjavik guides you through a series of iconic natural landmarks that define the country's volcanic and glacial character. Spanning 12 hours, the itinerary covers cascading waterfalls, a glacier tongue, a black sand beach, and a horseback riding experience along the shore. The difficulty level is easy, making it accessible to a wide range of travelers.

Iceland's South Coast compresses an extraordinary variety of landscapes into a single stretch of highway. Towering cliffs give way to flat black sands, and glacier tongues creep down from ice caps formed by ancient volcanoes. Each stop along this route offers a distinct perspective on how geological forces have shaped the island over millennia.

The tour weaves together natural wonders and cultural encounters, including a stop in the village of Vik for lunch and an afternoon horseback ride on the black sand beach. Icelandic horses, a breed unique to the island, are known for their smooth gait and calm temperament, providing an approachable experience even for those new to riding.

Optional add-ons allow guests to extend the day with glacier hiking, snowmobiling, or a visit to the Lava Tunnel, depending on personal interest and seasonal availability. In summer, the Dyrhólaey promontory opens as a nesting site for puffins and other seabirds, offering a remarkable wildlife dimension to the journey.

Tour Highlights

Walk behind the curtain of Seljalandsfoss, a 60-meter waterfall fed by the Eyjafjallajökull glacier.

Photograph Skógafoss from its base or climb the adjacent staircase for a panoramic view of Iceland's southern lowlands.

Stand at the edge of Sólheimajökull, a glacier tongue descending from the Mýrdalsjökull ice cap, with optional hike or snowmobile access.

Explore Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, framed by basalt columns, sea stacks, and the powerful surf of the North Atlantic.

Ride Icelandic horses along the windswept black sand shore, connecting with a centuries-old equestrian tradition.

Visit Dyrhólaey in summer to observe puffins and other seabirds nesting on the dramatic coastal cliffs.

Pass through Vik, a seaside village surrounded by black sand beaches, cliffs, and rolling hills in southern Iceland.

Itinerary

1
Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

The first major stop is Seljalandsfoss, where a path loops behind the 60-meter cascade, offering an immersive vantage point rarely possible at waterfalls elsewhere. The falls are fed by the Seljalandsá River, which originates from the Eyjafjallajökull volcano. A raincoat is recommended for the walk behind the falls.

2
Skógafoss Waterfall

A short drive east leads to Skógafoss, one of Iceland's most photographed waterfalls, dropping 60 meters near the town of Skógar. Visitors can view the falls from the base, where mist often generates rainbows on clear days, or ascend the staircase alongside for an elevated view. The waterfall is fed by the Skógá River, sourced from glaciers on Eyjafjallajökull.

3
Sólheimajökull Glacier

The tour continues to Sólheimajökull, a glacier tongue extending from the Mýrdalsjökull ice cap, where guests can observe glacial formations at close range. Optional glacier hiking and snowmobiling are available for those wishing to venture onto the ice under expert guidance. The site offers a direct encounter with Iceland's active glacial landscape.

4
Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach and Lunch in Vik

Reynisfjara presents a stark and visually striking scene, with its black volcanic sand, basalt column formations, and the Reynisdrangar sea stacks rising from the ocean. The nearby Hálsanefshellir basalt cave adds further geological interest to the visit. Caution is advised near the water due to unpredictable surf conditions.

5
Lunch in Vik

The group stops in Vik, a small coastal village situated approximately 180 kilometers southeast of Reykjavik. The village offers cafes and local restaurants where guests can rest and eat before the afternoon activities. The setting, surrounded by cliffs and black sand, provides a distinctive backdrop for a midday break.

6
Horseback Riding on the Black Sand Beach

The afternoon features a horseback riding session along the black sand beach aboard Icelandic horses, a breed known for its unique five-gaited movement and calm disposition. The experience connects participants with Icelandic equestrian culture in a landscape shaped by volcanic activity. The ride concludes before the group returns to Reykjavik.

What Is Included

Included

  • Transportation from and back to Reykjavik
  • Professional guide throughout the tour
  • Stops at Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls
  • Visit to Sólheimajökull glacier
  • Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach visit
  • Horseback riding on the black sand beach
  • Stop in Vik village for lunch break

Not Included

  • Lunch and personal meals
  • Optional glacier hike on Sólheimajökull
  • Optional snowmobiling
  • Optional Lava Tunnel exploration
  • Personal travel insurance
  • Gratuities for guides

Important Information

This is an easy-rated tour suitable for most fitness levels. Certain optional add-ons such as glacier hiking require additional physical readiness and separate booking.
Duration
The full tour runs approximately 12 hours including all stops, the lunch break in Vik, and the horseback riding session.
Meeting Point
Departure and return are based in Reykjavik. Please contact the operator at [email protected] for exact pickup location details.
What to Bring
Wear layered, weatherproof clothing and sturdy footwear. A raincoat is especially recommended for the walk behind Seljalandsfoss. Sun protection is advisable in summer months.
Cancellation
Cancellation terms are provided at the time of booking. Contact the operator directly for specific policies regarding optional add-ons and extended activities.
Accessibility
The tour is rated easy and most stops involve light walking on relatively flat terrain. Some areas such as the staircase at Skógafoss and glacial surfaces may present challenges for guests with mobility limitations.
Age Range
The tour is suitable for a broad age range given its easy difficulty rating. Specific age restrictions for optional activities such as glacier hiking or snowmobiling may apply. Contact the operator for details.

Reserve Your Place on the South Coast

Iceland's South Coast offers a concentration of natural landmarks found nowhere else on Earth. Secure your spot on this full-day tour and experience waterfalls, glaciers, black sand beaches, and horseback riding in a single journey from Reykjavik.

Book Now

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I walk behind Seljalandsfoss waterfall?
Yes, a path runs behind the cascade at Seljalandsfoss, allowing visitors to view the falls from inside the curtain of water. A raincoat or waterproof jacket is strongly recommended, as the path is exposed to significant mist and spray.
Is prior riding experience required for the horseback riding session?
No prior experience is necessary. Icelandic horses are known for their calm temperament and smooth gait, making them well-suited for riders of all backgrounds. Guides will provide instruction before the ride.
Are the optional activities such as glacier hiking included in the tour price?
No, optional activities including glacier hiking, snowmobiling, and the Lava Tunnel are not included in the standard tour and are charged separately. Contact the operator at [email protected] to arrange add-ons in advance.
Is Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach safe to visit?
Reynisfjara is a visually striking location, but its surf conditions are unpredictable and can be hazardous. Visitors are advised to stay well back from the waterline and follow all safety instructions provided by the guide on site.
When is the best time to see puffins at Dyrhólaey?
Puffins typically nest at Dyrhólaey between late April and August, with peak activity in June and July. The visit to Dyrhólaey is a summer seasonal addition to the standard itinerary.
What is the departure point for this tour?
The tour departs from and returns to Reykjavik. For the exact pickup location and timing, contact the operator directly at [email protected] prior to your travel date.
South Coast IcelandSeljalandsfossSkógafossReynisfjaraSólheimajökull GlacierBlack Sand BeachHorseback Riding IcelandVik IcelandIceland Day TourGlacier Tour IcelandDyrhólaeyReykjavik Day Trip
Last updated: 2025-07-14 | Product ID: south-coast-odyssey-waterfalls-glaciers-horse-riding

Activity

Availability

You can book up to the start time, as long as there are places remaining. Book now to guarantee your spot.

Additional Information

Physical: Wheelchair Not accessible

Duration

12 hours

Languages

German - Speaking Guide

English - Speaking Guide

Spanish - Speaking Guide

French - Speaking Guide

Additional Information

Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.

Cancellation Policy

Select Date

Meeting Point

Complete Operator information, including local telephone numbers at your destination, are included on your Confirmation Voucher. Our Product Managers select only the most experienced and reliable operators in each destination, removing the guesswork for you, and ensuring your peace of mind.

Activity Site

Complete Operator information, including local telephone numbers at your destination, are included on your Confirmation Voucher. Our Product Managers select only the most experienced and reliable operators in each destination, removing the guesswork for you, and ensuring your peace of mind.

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