Private Diamond Beach & South Coast Day Tour in Iceland

If you’re dreaming of visiting Iceland’s famed South Coast, this private tour promises a way to see some of the most iconic sights with a personal touch. While I haven’t taken this exact journey myself, I’ve read through plenty of reviews and detailed descriptions, and I’m here to give you a clear, honest picture of what you can expect.

What really stands out about this tour are the flexible itinerary and personalized attention — having your own guide and vehicle means you can spend more time at the spots you love and skip the ones that don’t excite you. Plus, with visits to jaw-dropping waterfalls, a black sand beach, and a glacier lagoon, the scenery is about as dramatic as it gets in Iceland.

One thing to keep in mind is that this is a long day—roughly 12 to 14 hours—so it’s best for those who are comfortable with a full schedule. The price, at just over $666 per person, might seem steep, but when you factor in the private setup, all transportation, and entry fees, it can be an excellent value for a tailored experience. This tour suits travelers who want a more intimate, flexible, and in-depth look at Iceland’s South Coast, whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with a small group.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience means you can explore at your own pace with a dedicated guide.
• Includes all major South Coast highlights like Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, Reynisfjara, and Jökulsárlón.
• Convenient door-to-door pickup from Reykjavik simplifies logistics.
• Excellent reviews emphasize knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery.
• Long day but well-paced with flexible stops and ample time at each site.
• Cost reflects personalized service and all-entry fees, making it good value for a private tour.

What the Tour Covers and Why It Matters

This private tour is designed to give you a comprehensive day exploring Iceland’s South Coast, renowned for its waterfalls, volcanic black sand beaches, and glacier marvels. Starting from Reykjavik, you’ll be picked up directly from your accommodation, meaning no fuss with finding a meeting point. The journey in a clean, air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi is pleasant and comfortable, especially after long drives in Iceland’s sometimes unpredictable weather.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Hveragerdi
Your first stop is Hveragerdi, “the flower village,” famous for its geothermal activity and greenhouses. It’s a charming warm-up for your day and a chance to see Iceland’s geothermal power in action. Though just a quick visit, it’s a nice introduction to the country’s volcanic nature.

Stop 2: Selfoss
Next, you’ll pass through Selfoss, a rapidly growing town close to major attractions. It’s more of a transit point, but useful to know the area is a hub before heading further south.

Stop 3: Seljalandsfoss
One of Iceland’s most beloved waterfalls, Seljalandsfoss is approximately 60 meters tall with a unique feature—you can walk behind it! This gives you a fantastic perspective, and many visitors say it’s one of the most memorable spots. The included entry fee makes it easy to enjoy this natural wonder without extra fuss.

Stop 4: Skógafoss
Just a bit further down, Skógafoss is another massive waterfall with a 60-meter drop. Standing right next to it, you’ll really feel the power of the water. Be prepared to get a little wet if you go close, but it’s worth it. The view from the top is impressive, and you can even climb a staircase for a different perspective.

Stop 5: Reynisfjara Beach
Reynisfjara is famous worldwide for its black volcanic sands and towering basalt columns. The roar of the Atlantic here is intense, and the surreal landscape makes for spectacular photos. Visitors often find it both awe-inspiring and a little eerie, but safety is key—stay away from the powerful waves.

Stop 6: Vik í Myrdal
A brief stop here to stretch and admire the views of the southernmost village on the Icelandic mainland, right beside Reynisfjara. It’s a good place to grab a coffee or some quick snacks before heading further east.

Stop 7: Diamond Beach
This is one of those places you’ve seen pictures of—crystals of ice that glisten like diamonds on black sand. The amount of icebergs varies depending on how many calve from the glacier lagoon, so each visit feels unique. It’s a photographer’s paradise and a highlight for many travelers.

Stop 8: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Finally, you’ll visit Jökulsárlón, Iceland’s most famous glacier lagoon. Floating icebergs, calm waters, and the chance to see seals make this a truly special spot. While the tour doesn’t include boat rides, the visual spectacle alone is worth the visit. It’s the perfect ending to a day full of extraordinary sights.

What It’s Like in Practice

The reviews highlight how personalized and flexible the experience truly is. One traveler shared, “Alex was an excellent tour guide and flexible,” which hints at the laid-back, accommodating nature of the trip. You’re not on a rigid schedule; instead, your guide can adjust stops if you want more time or suggest extra photo opportunities.

Another reviewer said, “He went above and beyond to ensure we enjoyed our day,” showing that guides like Alex often make the difference between a good trip and a memorable one. The private setup means you’re not rushed, and you have the freedom to ask questions and dive deeper into each location’s history or geology.

The pacing is designed to balance sightseeing with enough downtime, so you don’t feel overwhelmed. The long hours are typical for a full-day tour, but with private transportation, you avoid the fatigue of crowded buses or tight schedules.

The Value and Cost

At $666.50 per person, this tour is an investment, but a fair one considering the private vehicle, all entrance fees, WiFi, and the personalized guide service. For travelers seeking a tailored experience rather than a large group bus tour, the cost easily justifies itself. The reviews consistently mention the quality of the guide and the stunning locations, making it clear that this trip is about quality over quantity.

If you compare it with other options, having the flexibility to skip or linger at certain spots, especially around popular places like Reynisfjara or Jökulsárlón, adds significant value. Plus, the convenience of door-to-door pickup and drop-off in Reykjavik means you save time and energy, making this tour ideal for those who want to maximize their sightseeing without extra hassle.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private journey suits a wide range of travelers. It’s perfect for couples wanting a romantic day, small groups of friends, or even families (depending on children’s comfort with long drives and walking). If you’re someone who values expert guidance and the ability to customize your day, this tour fits the bill.

It’s less suited for travelers on a tight budget, or those who prefer a more structured, less flexible tour setup. Since it’s a full 12–14 hours, it’s best for those in good health and comfortable with long days of sightseeing.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour doesn’t explicitly specify children, the length and nature of the stops suggest it’s best suited for older kids or teenagers comfortable with a full day of sightseeing.

Are there restroom facilities on the vehicle?
No, the tour doesn’t include onboard restrooms, so plan accordingly before starting.

What’s included in the price?
All fees and taxes, private transportation, WiFi hotspot, luggage charges, and USB charging facilities are included.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour weather-dependent?
Yes, the experience is dependent on good weather. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How long are the stops at each site?
Stop durations vary—from about 20 minutes at Seljalandsfoss to 50 minutes at Jökulsárlón—enabling you to take photos, explore, or relax.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, this tour is typically booked 104 days ahead on average, reflecting its popularity.

Is the vehicle comfortable?
Yes, it’s a clean, air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi and USB chargers, meant to keep you comfortable during long drives.

What if I have extra luggage?
Luggage charges are included, but it’s best to inform the tour provider in advance if you have excess baggage.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Absolutely, since it’s a private tour, your guide can adapt stops based on your interests and timing.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a personalized, flexible way to see Iceland’s South Coast, this private tour offers a lot of value. The combination of stunning scenery, knowledgeable guidance, and the freedom to explore at your own pace makes it stand out. It’s especially suited to travelers who want a more intimate experience, rather than being part of a big bus group.

While the long day might be tiring, the comfort of private transportation and the chance to tailor your stops could make it a highlight of your trip. Given the glowing reviews, it’s clear that many find this tour both memorable and worthwhile. Whether you’re marveling at Skógafoss, walking behind Seljalandsfoss, or marveling at icebergs floating in Jökulsárlón, you’re sure to leave with incredible memories of Iceland’s natural wonders.

Additional Tips

• Dress warmly and comfortably, especially since you’ll be outdoors a lot.
• Bring camera gear and plenty of memory cards—these locations are picture-perfect.
• Prepare for a full day, but also bring snacks or water to stay energized.
• Confirm your pickup details beforehand, especially if you have specific luggage needs.

This tour is a fantastic way to see Iceland’s South Coast with a personal touch, making those once-in-a-lifetime sights even more special.