South Coast Day Tour with Horse Riding(optional)

If you’re dreaming of Iceland’s iconic landscapes—think waterfalls, black sand beaches, and dramatic cliffs—then the South Coast Day Tour might just be on your radar. This full-day excursion promises a good look at some of the most striking sights along Iceland’s southern shores, all in comfortable transportation, with the added option of horseback riding if you’re feeling adventurous. It’s a popular choice for those wanting a taste of Iceland’s natural beauty without the hassle of planning multiple stops.

What really stands out about this tour are its stunning views—each stop offers a different kind of natural spectacle, from powerful waterfalls to expansive black sands. Plus, the cultural experience of riding a horse along the coast is pretty unique, giving you a different perspective of Iceland’s landscape. That said, there’s a chance the experience might feel a little rushed, depending on how the group pacing works on the day you go. It’s great for anyone keen on seeing key landmarks comfortably, especially if you’re short on time but still want a deep dive into the south coast’s highlights.

If you’re someone who loves picturesque scenery and doesn’t mind a packed timetable, this tour could suit you well. However, if you’re after a more relaxed, less structured day or want to focus solely on horseback riding, you might want to consider other options or extend your trip.

Key Points

• Stunning landmarks: Stops at Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, Dyrhólaey, Reynisfjara Beach, and Vík.
• Comfortable transport: Travel in an air-conditioned minivan, making the long day more pleasant.
• Flexible experience: Horse riding is optional and can be added separately.
• Time-efficient: Cover all major sights in roughly 8 hours.
• Guide and language options: Tours led by guides speaking multiple languages; includes live commentary.
• Pickup included: Convenient pickup from Reykjavik hotels or designated spots, but outside Reykjavik, you’d need alternative arrangements.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown

Pickup and Introduction

The tour kicks off with pickup from your Reykjavik accommodation—an easy start that means you don’t have to worry about navigating or parking. The guide will probably give a quick overview and some tips to get ready for the day ahead.

Seljalandsfoss

Your first stop is Seljalandsfoss, one of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls. We loved the way you can walk behind it—sure, it’s often crowded, but the view from behind the cascade makes it worth sharing the space with other visitors. It’s a 40-minute stop, enough time to snap some photos and soak in the atmosphere.

Skógafoss

Next up, Skógafoss impresses with its sheer power and size. This 40-minute visit gives you a chance to get close, maybe even climb the stairs to view it from above. Travelers often say it’s a highlight and that the spray and roar of the falls give an authentic Icelandic vibe.

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Dyrhólaey

The Dyrhólaey cliffs offer panoramic views of the coast, with its massive arch-shaped rock formation. Spend about 50 minutes here—perfect for taking in the sweeping vistas and spotting puffins in season. The cliffs are quite dramatic, with a sense of wildness that’s hard to beat.

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

Reynisfjara is probably the most iconic black sand beach in Iceland. The 40-minute stop here is usually a visual feast: towering basalt columns, the roaring Atlantic, and the charming Reynisdrangar sea stacks. Be aware that the waves can be unpredictable and strong—always keep a safe distance.

Vík Village

Finally, the tour visits Vík, a charming village with breathtaking surroundings. The 50-minute window here is enough for a quick stroll, some photos, or a coffee break. It’s a sweet way to end the day with views of the coast and a glimpse into local life.

Return to Reykjavik

The journey wraps up with a comfortable ride back to Reykjavik, leaving you with plenty of memories and photos of Iceland’s south coast.

Horse Riding Option: A Unique Touch

The horse riding experience is a highlight for many, offering a chance to see the coast from a different angle. It’s an optional add-on, booked separately, and costs extra. If you love animals or want a more immersive experience, it’s worth considering. Riders should contact the tour provider in advance to add this to their package.

What to Expect

While not included in the standard package, horse riding can be a serene way to connect with Iceland’s landscape, especially along the black sand beaches. Some reviews mention the experience as a real highlight, with guides making the ride accessible for different skill levels.

How the Experience Holds Up: Pros and Cons

The Positives

• Stunning scenery: Each stop offers incredible views that are exactly what you see in Iceland’s tourism photos.
• Comfortable transportation: The air-conditioned minivan makes long hours more bearable, especially under Iceland’s variable weather.
• Guided insights: The multilingual guides provide context and local tips, enriching the experience.
• Convenience: Round-trip pickup from Reykjavik saves the hassle of planning transportation.

The Challenges

• Time constraints: With only around 40–50 minutes at each location, you might feel a bit rushed—especially if you love lingering in beautiful places.
• Optional horse riding costs extra: If you decide to add horseback riding, it’s an additional expense, and availability might depend on the day.
• Group size and pacing: Since it’s a private group, the experience is tailored, but the schedule is still quite packed, which can limit flexibility.

The Value

Given the number of key sites covered and the comfortable transport, this tour offers good value for those wanting a comprehensive snapshot of Iceland’s south coast. The price might seem steep when considering the short stops, but if you factor in the convenience and quality of the sights, it’s generally fair.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits travelers who want a structured, efficient day with guaranteed highlights—perfect for first-timers or those short on time. It’s also great for people who enjoy natural scenery and don’t mind a busy schedule. The option of horse riding appeals to those looking to add a special touch, but it’s not necessary to enjoy the core experience.

If you’re traveling with family or friends and want to explore the south coast comfortably, this could be a good fit. Keep in mind, though, that if you prefer a more relaxed pace or to focus solely on horseback riding, other options might be better.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, your round-trip transportation from Reykjavik is included, and you’ll travel in a comfortable air-conditioned minivan.

Can I add horseback riding?
Absolutely, horse riding is an optional add-on and is charged separately. Contact the provider in advance to include it.

How long do we spend at each stop?
Expect about 40–50 minutes at each major site, which is enough for photos and quick exploration but may feel tight if you want to linger.

What should I bring?
Bring weather-appropriate clothing, sunscreen, a personal medication if needed, and a reusable water bottle. The weather can change quickly.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly specified, the stops are mainly sightseeing, and horseback riding is optional, so it could suit families with older children comfortable with a full day of sightseeing.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak multiple languages, including English, Hindi, Icelandic, Dutch, Spanish, and French, providing accessible commentary for diverse travelers.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a well-organized day that hits all the major highlights of Iceland’s south coast, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially good if you prefer comfortable transportation and want to see iconic waterfalls, beaches, and scenic cliffs without the hassle of planning each stop yourself. The stunning views will stay with you long after you leave, making it a solid choice for capturing the essence of Iceland’s natural beauty.

However, if you prefer more flexibility or wish to spend longer in fewer locations, consider other options. The added horseback riding can be a delightful bonus if you’re open to the extra cost and want a more personal interaction with Iceland’s horses and landscape.

This tour offers a balanced, practical way to experience some of Iceland’s most photographed landscapes—sure to leave you with plenty of memorable moments.

Remember: Always check availability, especially for the horse riding, and confirm pickup details to ensure a smooth day. Happy travels!

You can check availability for your dates here: