Private South Coast & ATV Adventure on Black Beaches
Waterfalls, volcanic shores, and a two-hour ATV ride across Iceland's legendary black sand beaches
This private South Coast ATV adventure combines three of Iceland's most iconic natural landmarks with an exhilarating off-road experience on the black sand beaches near Myrdalsjokull glacier. Over ten hours, you will visit Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls, walk the volcanic sands of Reynisfjara, and ride an ATV along Solheimasandur to reach the famous DC3 plane wreck.
The South Coast of Iceland concentrates a remarkable density of geological wonders within a single day's drive. Cascading waterfalls fed by glacier-capped volcanoes, basalt columns shaped over thousands of years, and a coastline constantly reshaped by the North Atlantic make this region one of the most visually dramatic stretches of road in Europe.
The private format of this tour means your group sets the pace and shares the experience without joining a larger crowd. A dedicated guide accompanies you from the waterfall stops through to the ATV base, providing context for each location and ensuring safety on the black sand terrain.
The ATV segment takes place on Solheimasandur, a volcanic beach where the rusted fuselage of a United States Navy DC3 aircraft has rested since its emergency landing in 1973. Riders also gain views of Dyrholaey, the southernmost promontory of Iceland, and the ice cap of Myrdalsjokull stretching across the horizon.
Tour Highlights
Walk behind Seljalandsfoss waterfall on a path that circles the full 62-metre curtain of spring water.
Stand at the base of Skogafoss, a 60-metre waterfall wide enough to produce rainbows on clear days.
Explore Reynisfjara black sand beach and observe the towering Reynisdrangar basalt sea stacks.
Ride an ATV for two hours across Solheimasandur with a certified guide leading the way.
Visit the DC3 plane wreck that has been embedded in the black sand since a 1973 emergency landing.
Admire the ice cap of Myrdalsjokull glacier and the Dyrholaey promontory from the Solheimasandur coastline.
Receive all necessary safety gear and a briefing before the ATV ride begins at the glacier base.
Itinerary
The first stop on the South Coast drive is Seljalandsfoss, a 62-metre waterfall fed by spring water from the moor Hamragarðaheiði. A walking path leads behind the curtain of water along the cliff face, offering a perspective unavailable at most waterfalls. Waterproof clothing and shoes with good grip are strongly recommended as the path can be slippery from spray.
Skogafoss drops 60 metres from a cliff that once marked the former coastline of southern Iceland, with a width of up to 30 metres after heavy rainfall. The flat ground at its base allows visitors to approach closely, and a 527-step staircase leads to an observation platform above. On sunny days the volume of spray frequently produces a double rainbow over the falls.
Reynisfjara is a black sand beach formed from volcanic basalt, ranked among the top beaches in the world by Big 7 Travel in 2021. The site features the Reynisdrangar sea stacks, basalt column formations along the cliffs, and the Halsanefshellir basalt cave at the southern end of the beach. The waves at Reynisfjara are powerful and unpredictable; visitors are advised to keep a safe distance from the water at all times.
At the ATV base near Myrdalsjokull glacier, the guide provides all riders with the required safety gear and a briefing covering ATV operation and route guidelines. A valid driver's license is required to operate a quad bike. Single riders and groups with an odd number of participants must book a single-ride ATV.
The guided ATV ride covers the black sand coastline of Solheimasandur, with views of Dyrholaey and the Myrdalsjokull ice cap along the route. A key stop is the DC3 aircraft wreck, a relic of a 1973 emergency landing that has remained on the beach ever since. After visiting the plane, riders continue to the Jokulsá river and the foot of the mountain before returning to the base.
What Is Included
Included
- Private guide for the full South Coast tour
- ATV guide for the Solheimasandur ride
- ATV rental for the 2-hour ride
- Safety gear and briefing for the ATV segment
- Transport along the South Coast itinerary
Not Included
- Food and beverages
- Gratuities
- Personal travel insurance
- Waterproof clothing and grip footwear (recommended personal gear)
Important Information
Book Your South Coast ATV Adventure
Secure your spot on this private tour combining Iceland's most celebrated waterfalls, black sand beaches, and an off-road ATV experience on Solheimasandur.
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