Skógafoss waterfall cascading down green cliffs on Iceland's south coast under a blue sky
Black sand beach with basalt columns and sea stacks on Iceland's south coast
Black volcanic sea stacks rising from the Atlantic Ocean near Reynisfjara on Iceland's south coast
Three hikers with helmets and crampons walking across a glacier with mountain backdrop in Iceland
Hiker in neon yellow jacket and white helmet crossing glacial meltwater stream on Icelandic glacier
Two hikers with gear walking across a cracked glacier under an overcast sky in Iceland
Woman with ice axe and helmet hiking on a dark glacier with green mountains in Iceland
Skógafoss waterfall cascading down mossy cliffs on Iceland's south coast with black rocky shore
View from behind Seljalandsfoss waterfall on Iceland's south coast with green plains stretching to the horizon
Basalt column cliffs and sea stack at Reynisfjara black sand beach on Iceland's south coast

Reykjavik, Iceland

South Coast & Glacier Hike Full-Day Tour from Reykjavik

12 hoursMin 1 guests
Listing ID : 20173
Duration12 Hours
Group SizeSmall Minibus Group
Starts AtSólheimajökull Parking Lot
LanguagesEnglish
South Coast of Iceland

South Coast & Glacier Hike Minibus Tour

Walk behind waterfalls, hike a living glacier, and stand on black volcanic sand — all in one day.


This full-day South Coast Iceland glacier hike brings together the region's most celebrated natural landmarks into a single well-paced journey. Small group sizes kept to a minibus ensure a more personal experience, from Seljalandsfoss to Reynisfjara. The moderate difficulty level makes it accessible to most active travellers while still delivering a genuine sense of adventure.

The South Coast of Iceland is one of the most photographed stretches of landscape in the country, and for good reason. Waterfalls cascade off towering cliffs, glaciers push slowly toward the sea, and black sand beaches stretch along an Atlantic shoreline shaped by centuries of volcanic activity. This tour covers the highlights without rushing past any of them.

Sólheimajökull glacier is a tongue of the larger Mýrdalsjökull ice cap and offers a vivid lesson in both glaciology and climate change. Your guide will point out crevasses, moulins, and ash layers embedded in the ice as you make your way across the surface. The glacier has visibly receded in recent decades, a detail your guide will address during the walk.

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach rounds out the day with a completely different kind of drama. The basalt columns, sea stacks, and powerful Atlantic surf combine to create one of the most striking coastal environments in Europe. Visitors are advised to respect the safety markers, as the waves here are known to be unpredictable.

Tour Highlights

Hike on Sólheimajökull glacier with all necessary equipment provided and an expert guide leading the way.

Walk behind Seljalandsfoss waterfall, a rare experience that places you inside the falling curtain of water.

Stand at the base of Skógafoss, one of Iceland's widest waterfalls, where mist often produces vivid rainbows.

Visit Reynisfjara, the world-famous black sand beach with its dramatic basalt column formations and sea stacks.

Travel in a small minibus group for a more intimate and flexible experience compared to large coach tours.

Learn about glacier dynamics, volcanic geology, and Icelandic landscape history from a knowledgeable local guide.

All glacier safety equipment including crampons and helmets is supplied, so no specialist gear is required.

Tour Itinerary

1
Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

The tour begins at Seljalandsfoss, a waterfall that drops from a cliff edge, allowing visitors to walk along a path behind the cascade. The experience offers an unusual perspective on the falls and the surrounding valley.

2
Skógafoss Waterfall

Next comes Skógafoss, one of Iceland's most impressive waterfalls with a drop of around 60 metres and a width of 25 metres. On sunny days the mist frequently generates rainbows visible from the base.

3
Sólheimajökull Glacier Hike

You meet your glacier guide at the Sólheimajökull parking lot and walk approximately 30 minutes to reach the ice. Once on the glacier, you will explore crevasses and ice formations with crampons fitted and safety briefing completed.

4
Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

The final stop is Reynisfjara, the volcanic black sand beach near the town of Vík. The towering basalt columns of Reynisdrangar and the powerful Atlantic surf make this one of Iceland's most memorable coastal locations.

What Is Included

Included

  • Small group minibus transport
  • Professional glacier guide
  • Crampons and ice axe
  • Helmet for glacier section
  • All glacier safety equipment
  • Guided commentary throughout

Not Included

  • Food and drinks
  • Personal travel insurance
  • Gratuities for guides
  • Pick-up from accommodation

Important Information

This tour involves moderate physical activity including a glacier hike and uneven terrain. Participants should be in reasonable physical condition and wear sturdy, waterproof footwear.
Duration
Approximately 12 hours including all stops and the glacier hike.
Meeting Point
Sólheimajökull parking lot, located along Route 1 on the South Coast of Iceland.
What to Bring
Warm layered clothing, waterproof jacket and trousers, sturdy hiking boots, and a packed lunch or snacks.
Cancellation
Please review the cancellation policy at time of booking. Weather-related changes may apply given Iceland's variable conditions.
Accessibility
The glacier hike and beach sections involve uneven and rocky terrain. This tour is not suitable for guests with significant mobility limitations.
Age Range
Recommended for participants aged 10 and above. All minors must be accompanied by a responsible adult.

Reserve Your Place on the South Coast

Spaces on this small group tour are limited by design. Secure your spot to experience Iceland's South Coast and Sólheimajökull glacier with a guide who knows the terrain.

Book Now

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need prior glacier hiking experience?
No prior experience is required. Your guide will provide a full safety briefing and fit you with crampons before stepping onto the glacier.
Is food included in the tour?
Food and drinks are not included. It is recommended to bring a packed lunch, snacks, and sufficient water for the full day.
What should I wear for the glacier hike?
Wear warm, moisture-wicking layers under a waterproof jacket and trousers. Sturdy waterproof hiking boots are strongly recommended for the glacier section.
How far is the walk to reach the glacier?
From the Sólheimajökull parking lot it is approximately a 30-minute walk across gravelly terrain before reaching the ice. The glacier has receded from its previous position closer to the lot.
Is Reynisfjara beach safe to visit?
Reynisfjara is a stunning but powerful location. Visitors must stay behind the safety markers at all times as the beach is known for sudden, strong waves called sneaker waves.
How large is the group on this tour?
The tour operates with small group sizes in a minibus, which allows for a more personal experience and greater flexibility at each stop compared to large coach tours.
South Coast IcelandGlacier HikeSólheimajökullSeljalandsfossSkógafossReynisfjaraBlack Sand BeachIceland Day TourSmall Group TourIceland AdventureMinibus TourIceland Waterfalls
Last updated: 2025-07-14 | Product ID: south-coast-glacier-hike-minibus

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

English - 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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