South Coast of Iceland Tour with Glacier Hike and Waterfalls

Planning a trip to Iceland and looking for an experience that combines the country’s most iconic sights with some hidden gems? This South Coast of Iceland tour with glacier hike and waterfalls offers a well-rounded day of natural beauty, adventure, and breathtaking scenery. It’s a comprehensive adventure for anyone wanting to see the best of what Iceland’s southern region has to offer in one day.

What I really appreciate about this tour is how it balances long drives with several stops that actually feel worth your time — no rushed moments here. Plus, the guided glacier hike on Sólheimajökull really stands out as a highlight, offering a chance to get up close to the icy landscape that defines Iceland’s volcanic glaciers. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour involves quite a bit of walking and outdoor activity, so it’s not ideal if you’re looking for a relaxed, sit-and-watch experience. It’s best suited for travelers with a moderate fitness level who don’t mind a full day on their feet.

If you’re eager to see waterfalls, walk behind cascades, hike on a glacier, and end the day on a black sand beach with sea stacks, this tour is a solid pick. It’s especially good if you want a diverse day packed into approximately 12 hours, with transportation included. Let’s break down what makes this trip worth considering and where it might fall short.

Key Points

Comprehensive Day Trip: Combines waterfalls, glacier hiking, and beaches into one trip, giving you a broad taste of Iceland’s south.

Strong Highlights: Urriðafoss’ power and Kvernufoss’ hidden charm, along with an exciting glacier hike, stand out as memorable experiences.

Good Value: At $339 per person, it packs a lot of sights and activities, with transportation and guides included.

Physical Activity Required: Expect walking and hiking, so it’s best for those with a moderate fitness level.

Weather Flexibility: Rapid weather changes are common; dress in layers and be prepared for rain or cold.

Family-Friendly? Not ideal for children under 8, or those with mobility issues, given the walking and outdoor nature of the activities.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Diving Into the Experience: What You Can Expect

This full-day tour truly hits on Iceland’s best-known natural attractions along the south coast. Starting with an early pickup from Reykjavik (with multiple pickup points to choose from), the day begins with a scenic 70-minute drive to Urriðafoss, one of Iceland’s most powerful waterfalls. We love the way this waterfall roars through the lowlands; it’s a sight that often gets overlooked but has a raw, impressive energy that’s worth witnessing.

The next stop is Kvernufoss, a hidden gem tucked away in a narrow gorge. Unlike the more touristy Skógafoss or Seljalandsfoss, Kvernufoss is less crowded, and you get to walk behind the cascade for a unique perspective — an experience many travelers describe as “unforgettable.” One reviewer mentioned, “It felt like discovering a secret spot, quiet and beautiful.” This stop is a good reminder that Iceland still holds surprises for those willing to explore off the beaten path.

The Glacier Hike: The Main Event

After a quick break at a local café for refreshments, the adventure ramps up with the glacier hike on Sólheimajökull. This is the part that really distinguishes the tour. Guided by experienced guides, you’ll don the provided hiking boots and all necessary equipment, then step onto the icy surface. Exploring icy crevasses, sculpted ridges, and volcanic ash layered within the ice gives a real sense of Iceland’s volcanic activity shaping its glaciers.

The 3.5-hour guided hike provides enough time to get comfortable walking on the ice, while also seeing some of the glacier’s most striking features. According to reviews, guests are often surprised by how accessible and fun this experience is, even if they’ve never hiked on snow before. One traveler said, “The guides made it easy to feel confident on the ice, and the scenery was just otherworldly.” Be aware that the weather can be unpredictable; dressing in layers and waterproof clothing is essential.

Black Sand Beaches and Sea Cliffs

Post-glacier hike, the tour takes you to Víkurfjara beach, famous for its black sands and striking sea stacks. As you walk along the shore, you’ll see Reynisdrangar’s sea stacks rising from the ocean, an iconic Icelandic image. Many visitors comment on the dramatic atmosphere here, especially with the pounding surf and the contrasting black sands. This stop offers plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to stretch your legs after the glacier hike.

A reviewer noted, “Walking along the black sands, I felt like I was on another planet.” It’s a quieter spot than the more famous Reynisfjara, but no less impressive. Just remember to be cautious of the powerful waves and sneaker waves that can surprise even seasoned visitors.

The Logistics and Practicalities

The tour runs roughly 12 hours, with an itinerary that includes a mix of scenic driving, sightseeing, and physical activity. Pickup from 16 locations in Reykjavik makes it convenient, and the 70-minute drive to Urriðafoss sets the tone for a day full of nature’s grandeur.

Once at Urriðafoss, you get about 20 minutes to take in the sight, which is enough for some great photos and a quick walk. Then, it’s about 30 more minutes to Kvernufoss, a spot that many find to be one of the loveliest waterfalls they’ve seen in Iceland. The 15-minute transfer to the glacier hike area ensures you’re well-prepared for the 3.5-hour trek, which is guided and includes all necessary equipment.

Lunch or snacks are not included, but there’s a scheduled stop at a local café, giving you a chance to refuel. After the glacier, the drive to Víkurfjara takes about 40 minutes, allowing travelers to relax and enjoy the scenery.

The return drive from Vik back to Reykjavik lasts around 2.5 hours, so it’s a full day. The tour ends at the original pickup points, with several drop-off options in Reykjavik.

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Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of adventure and sightseeing, don’t mind outdoor activity, and want to see a variety of landscapes in one day. It’s a good pick for those with a moderate fitness level, as the activities involve walking and hiking, but nothing overly strenuous.

If you’re traveling with kids under 8 or have mobility issues, this might not be the best fit due to the walking and outdoor elements. But if you’re comfortable outdoors and want a full taste of Iceland’s iconic scenery, this tour hits all the right notes.

The Value for Money

At $339, this tour offers a lot: guided hikes, transportation, and several key sightseeing spots. Compared to other experiences in Iceland, it’s quite reasonable considering the number of attractions covered. Plus, with a guide leading the way, you gain insights into the landscapes that you might miss venturing lone.

Many reviewers mention that the glacier hike alone is worth the price, especially given the specialized equipment and guides provided. The stops at waterfalls and the black sand beach add variety and beauty to the day, making it a well-rounded adventure.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a full day of Icelandic scenery, with the thrill of a glacier hike and the serenity of waterfalls and beaches, this tour offers a solid option. It’s especially suitable if you want a single, organized experience that covers a lot of ground without the hassle of planning multiple excursions.

The main strengths are the unique stops like Kvernufoss and the guided glacier walk—experiences that tend to leave a lasting impression. The accessibility of these natural wonders makes it appealing, but remember that you’ll need a decent level of fitness and weather-appropriate clothing.

While it’s not perfect for everyone—those with mobility issues or very young children might find it less suitable—the majority of travelers who enjoy outdoor activities and scenic drives will find this tour a rewarding way to explore Iceland’s south.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Not for children under 8 years old, as the activities involve walking and outdoor hiking. It’s better suited for older kids or teens with some stamina.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, a camera, waterproof gear, and weather-appropriate layers are recommended. The glacier hike provides equipment, but dressing well ahead of time helps.

How physically demanding is the glacier hike?
It’s guided and designed for those with a moderate fitness level. Expect to walk on ice, explore crevasses, and navigate sculpted ridges, but it’s accessible for most.

Are meals included?
No, but there is a scheduled break at a local café where you can buy snacks or lunch.

How long is the drive between stops?
The transfers range from about 15 minutes to 2.5 hours, giving some time to relax and enjoy the scenery during travel.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, Iceland’s weather can change quickly, so dress in layers. The glacier hike may be adjusted or canceled in severe weather, but guides will ensure safety.

What is the group size?
While not specified, tours like this typically keep groups manageable for a more personal experience.

This tour strikes a good balance: it’s packed with scenic stops, an exciting glacier adventure, and enough flexibility to suit most outdoor-loving travelers. If you’re after a comprehensive, active way to experience the south of Iceland, it’s worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: