South Coast and Glacier Hike from Reykjavik

If you’re dreaming of standing on a glacier, gazing at powerful waterfalls, and experiencing Icelandic nature without the stress of logistics, a guided tour from Reykjavik might just be what you need. We’ve looked into the South Coast and Glacier Hike tour and found it offers a compelling mix of adventure and scenery, all wrapped up in a well-organized package. Whether you’re an avid hiker or just looking to tick off glacier sights with ease, this tour might be worth considering.

What immediately caught our eye are the included gear and safety equipment—no need to worry about bringing your own—and the opportunity to learn directly from knowledgeable guides. Plus, with stops at famous waterfalls like Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss, you get more than just the glacier experience; you’re also soaking in iconic Icelandic sights. That said, keep in mind that the whole venture is weather-dependent, which is typical for outdoor adventures in Iceland but still worth noting.

A potential downside is that the trip can get canceled, especially if weather conditions are poor—something quite common in Iceland. One reviewer even shared frustrations about a last-minute cancellation without prior notice, which is a good reminder to plan some flexibility into your schedule. This tour will suit travelers who are comfortable with moderate physical activity and want a stress-free, guided way to see the glaciers and waterfalls without renting a car or navigating public transport.

If you’re after a comprehensive day out that combines glacier exploration, waterfalls, and expert insights, this tour aligns well with your interests. Just be prepared for the weather, bring layered clothing, and maybe pack a picnic to maximize your day. Now, let’s walk through what you can expect from start to finish.

Key Points

• Hassle-free experience with round-trip transport from Reykjavik
• Includes all gear and safety equipment, making it accessible for beginners
• Guided by local experts who share insights on glaciers and Icelandic nature
• Stops at Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls—some options to walk behind Seljalandsfoss if weather permits
• Weather-dependent: cancellations are possible, so flexibility is key
• Aimed at those with moderate fitness levels comfortable with a full day outdoors

The Journey Begins: Pickup and Transportation

The adventure starts early, with a 9:00am pickup at the BSÍ Bus Terminal in Reykjavik. This is convenient for most travelers staying in the city, especially since the tour provides air-conditioned transportation, ensuring comfort on the roughly 2-hour drive to the glacier. The small group setting (up to 50 travelers) helps keep things intimate and manageable—more personalized attention from guides, less chaos.

The drive itself is part of the experience. You’ll pass through Iceland’s stunning landscapes, with views of volcanic fields and open sky, building anticipation for what’s to come. We imagine it’s a relaxing way to begin a day filled with adventure.

Arriving at Sólheimajökull Glacier

Once you arrive at Sólheimajökull, the scenery hits you immediately. This glacier tongue extends from Iceland’s fourth largest glacier, Mýrdalsjökull, and is known for its dramatic ice formations. The guides will issue all necessary hiking gear and safety equipment, meaning you don’t need to worry about bringing your own gear. They’ll demonstrate how to use crampons safely, turning what might seem intimidating into a manageable activity.

The glacier walk lasts around 2 to 2.5 hours, during which you’ll get close to ice sculptures, ridges, and deep crevasses—an environment that feels straight out of a documentary. The guides are a highlight here; one review praised a “great and informative guide,” who helped understand how these icy giants are forming and changing. You’ll learn about the glacier’s disappearance and climate impact, adding a layer of understanding to the visual spectacle.

Walking on the ice with crampons provides a sense of achievement, and the terrain is mostly accessible, making this suitable for those with moderate fitness. But it’s still a good idea to be comfortable walking on uneven surfaces for a couple of hours.

Exploring Icelandic Waterfalls

After completing the glacier hike, the tour moves on to two of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls: Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss. These stops are a real treat. Skógafoss, with its towering cascade, is an awe-inspiring sight, and many visitors are drawn to its thunderous drop and potential for rainbows on sunny days. You might find the climb up beside it rewarding for panoramic views.

Seljalandsfoss is perhaps even more unique because you can walk behind it—if the weather allows. One traveler noted, “if weather permits it is possible to walk behind Seljalandsfoss,” which adds a magical element to the experience. However, since Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable, it’s smart to have flexible expectations.

These waterfalls provide photo opportunities and a chance to stretch your legs after the glacier walk. The stops are brief but impactful, giving you a real sense of Iceland’s powerful natural forces.

The Return: Reflection and Relaxation

On the way back to Reykjavik, you’ll have time to reflect on your day. The journey is smooth and well-paced, with the guides sharing stories and insights along the way. If you’re hungry, consider bringing a picnic lunch, as the tour doesn’t include food or drinks. Many travelers choose to eat before the tour or pack snacks for later in the day.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price of $186 per person seems reasonable when you consider what’s included: all necessary hiking gear, safety equipment, transportation, and a professional, local guide. You won’t need to worry about renting gear or navigating unfamiliar terrain — it’s all taken care of.

However, food and drinks aren’t included, so packing a lunch or snack is advisable, especially since there’s no designated lunch stop during the tour. This adds some flexibility but also means a bit of planning on your part.

The Experience and Its Variability

While most reviews are positive, it’s worth mentioning the cancellation risk. One traveler mentioned that their trip was canceled due to a snowstorm, and they hadn’t received prior notice. Weather plays a significant role in outdoor tours like this, and cancellations are handled with either a different date or a full refund. This is typical but highlights the importance of being flexible and understanding Iceland’s unpredictable climate.

On the bright side, a reviewer praised the guide’s expertise, saying, “the trip was an amazing opportunity to get onto a glacier that’s quickly retreating and learn about the process.” This underscores the value of going with a knowledgeable guide who can enhance your understanding of what you’re seeing.

Is This Tour Worth It?

Considering the cost, what you get is a guided experience that removes the hassle of planning. All gear, transport, and expert insights are included, making it a good value for those wanting a comprehensive day trip. The stops at waterfalls add variety and scope to your adventure, making it more than just a glacier hike.

However, be aware that if weather doesn’t cooperate, your experience could be affected, and cancellations are possible. Also, a full day outdoors means you’ll need moderate physical fitness and appropriate clothing.

This tour is a solid pick for travelers who want to see Iceland’s stunning south coast and glaciers without the fuss of organizing transportation or gear. It’s ideal for those comfortable with moderate physical activity and eager to learn from local guides. If you’re traveling with a sense of adventure but prefer a guided experience, you’ll likely appreciate the blend of scenery, education, and convenience.

It’s less suited for travelers with mobility issues or those who prefer a more relaxed sightseeing day without hikes. Also, if weather is a concern, be prepared for possible cancellations or changes in plans.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children 9 years and younger are not permitted on this tour, likely due to safety concerns on the glacier and hiking terrain.

What should I bring?
Bring warm clothing, rain gear, and hiking boots. Since food isn’t included, packing a picnic lunch or light snacks will help you stay energized.

What happens if the weather is bad?
This tour depends heavily on weather conditions. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

How physically demanding is the tour?
It requires a moderate level of fitness. The glacier hike lasts around 2 hours on uneven terrain, but most participants find it manageable with proper gear and guidance.

Can I walk behind Seljalandsfoss?
Yes, if weather permits, you can walk behind this waterfall, which is a unique and memorable experience.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the trip includes air-conditioned vehicles, making the roughly two-hour drive from Reykjavik comfortable and scenic.

What’s the cost relative to the experience?
$186 is a fair price considering all included gear, transport, and expert guides. It offers a comprehensive way to experience Iceland’s glaciers and waterfalls without additional expenses.

If you value a well-organized, educational, and scenic day trip from Reykjavik, this Glacier and South Coast tour checks many boxes. It offers a chance to witness some of Iceland’s most dramatic natural features—ice, waterfalls, and volcanic landscapes—without the stress of planning each detail yourself. The inclusion of all necessary gear and professional guides makes it accessible for a wide range of travelers, especially those new to glacier hiking.

While weather conditions can affect your plans, the overall experience seems to deliver a genuine taste of Iceland’s wild beauty. It’s particularly suitable for travelers who enjoy a mix of adventure and sightseeing, and who want to leave with a deeper understanding of the glaciers that are shaping Iceland’s landscape.

If you’re prepared for a full day outdoors, enjoy learning from local experts, and want a hassle-free way to see the south’s highlights, this tour could be a memorable highlight of your trip.

I hope this detailed look helps you decide if this glacier and waterfalls tour fits your travel style. Iceland’s natural wonders await—you just need to pick the best way to experience them.