South Coast Day Tour from Reykjavik
Waterfalls, glaciers, black sand beaches, and volcanic landscapes in one remarkable day.
The Iceland South Coast day tour takes travelers through some of the country's most dramatic scenery, from thundering waterfalls to ancient glaciers and jet-black beaches, all within a single, carefully routed day trip from Reykjavik.
Departing along what guides refer to as the Viking Trail, the journey passes through the agricultural lowlands of Selfoss and Hvolsvollur before the terrain shifts into something far more elemental. Ice caps appear on the horizon, glaciers descend from the highlands, and the Westman Islands emerge offshore.
A small group format means each stop receives proper attention rather than a rushed glance. Guides draw on Iceland's geology, history, and folklore to place each landscape in its wider context, turning a scenic drive into something more substantive.
The route reaches its southernmost point at the black sand beach of Reynisfjara before turning back toward the capital, leaving travelers with a coherent sense of Iceland's South Coast rather than a disconnected series of snapshots.
Tour Highlights
Walk behind the curtain of Seljalandsfoss, one of Iceland's most distinctive waterfalls, where a path circles behind the falling water.
Discover Gljufrabui, a waterfall hidden inside a narrow canyon in the cliff face, accessible on foot when conditions allow.
Stand at the base of Skogafoss, a 60-meter waterfall whose spray creates ideal conditions for photography throughout the day.
Approach Solheimajokull glacier, a tongue of ice descending from Myrdalsjokull, offering a close view of Iceland's glacial terrain without a separate hike booking.
Explore Reynisfjara black sand beach, where basalt columns rise from the shore and North Atlantic waves crash with considerable force.
Pass through the village of Vik i Myrdal, a small coastal settlement set against dramatic cliffs and one of Iceland's most photographed communities.
Travel with an experienced guide who contextualizes each location through Iceland's volcanic geology, settlement history, and Norse folklore.
Itinerary
The tour departs Reykjavik and heads east through the lowland farming communities of Selfoss and Hvolsvollur. As the route progresses southward, the flat agricultural landscape gives way to volcanic highlands and the first glimpses of distant ice caps.
The first stop is Seljalandsfoss, where a path behind the waterfall offers an unusual perspective on the falling water. Nearby, Gljufrabui sits concealed within a rocky canyon and rewards those who venture inside when weather permits.
The route continues to Skogafoss, one of Iceland's largest waterfalls at 60 meters in height. Time is set aside here to take in the scale of the falls and explore the immediate surroundings before moving on.
A detour from the main road leads to the snout of Solheimajokull glacier, an accessible vantage point where the scale of Iceland's glacial geography becomes tangible. Note that glacier hikes are not part of this tour.
The coast road leads to Reynisfjara, where black sand, basalt columns, and powerful surf define one of Iceland's most compelling beach environments. The nearby village of Vik i Myrdal marks the southernmost point of the day's route.
The group turns back toward Reykjavik along the same corridor of volcanic and coastal scenery. Guides remain available for questions throughout the return journey before arrival back at the capital.
What Is Included
Included
- Transportation in a comfortable vehicle
- Experienced local guide throughout
- Small group experience
- Stops at all listed locations
- Geological and historical commentary
Not Included
- Glacier hiking equipment or guided glacier hike
- Meals and beverages
- Personal travel insurance
- Gratuities for guides
- Entry fees to any paid attractions
Important Information
Reserve Your Place on the South Coast
This small group tour fills quickly during peak travel periods. Secure your seat to explore Iceland's most celebrated coastal and glacial landscapes in a single day from Reykjavik.
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