From Reykjavík: South Coast, Waterfalls & Glacier Hike

If you’re planning a trip to Iceland and want to soak in some of its most iconic sights, a well-reviewed tour from Reykjavík promises a full day of breathtaking landscapes and adventure. We’ve looked into the “From Reykjavík: South Coast, Waterfalls & Glacier Hike” tour, offered by Arctic Adventures, and it’s clear that this experience appeals to travelers seeking a mix of natural beauty, guided expertise, and a little bit of adrenaline.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines so many of Iceland’s highlights into one day — from walking behind a waterfall to trekking on a glacier. Plus, it’s well-rated, with a 4.8 out of 5 from 75 reviews, which suggests most people find it worth their time and money. On the flip side, it is a long and busy day; some might find the pacing a bit tight, especially if you’re not used to packed itineraries. This type of experience is ideal for those who want a structured, comprehensive taste of Iceland’s natural wonders in a single trip.

This tour seems especially suited for active travelers who love a little adventure, don’t mind a full day on the move, and want insights from knowledgeable guides. If you’re traveling with family, older children (8+), or simply looking for a way to see the south coast without the hassle of planning, this could be a great choice.

Key Points

• All-in-One Experience: Combines glacier hiking, waterfall visits, and beach exploration in one day.
• Expert Guides: Guides are certified and knowledgeable, making the experience safer and more informative.
• Stunning Scenery: Expect impressive waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, and black sand beaches.
• Value for Money: At around $193, it covers transportation, gear, and guided tours, making it quite comprehensive.
• Long but Rewarding Day: Total duration is approximately 12 hours, so be prepared for a full day.
• Good for Active Travelers: Requires walking, some hiking, and a willingness to spend a day outdoors.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point and Early Pickup

The tour begins with a pickup from several convenient locations in Reykjavík, including major hotels and bus stops. The early start (pickups around 8-9 am) means you’ll get a head start on the day, but it also means an early wake-up call if you’re staying downtown or nearby. The small-group size (often just 7 participants) helps make the journey comfortable and intimate, with plenty of room to relax during the drive.

Scenic Drive to the South Coast

The drive itself is a highlight. Expect to pass through lava fields, cliffs, and other volcanic terrain. Your guide will share insights into Iceland’s geology and volcanic activity, which adds context to the landscapes. The drive lasts around 1.5 hours to Hvolsvöllur, with a quick break and a chance to stretch your legs.

First Waterfall: Skógafoss

Your first major stop will be Skógafoss, one of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls. With a drop of about 60 meters, it’s an impressive sight. You can climb the staircase to enjoy panoramic views from above or stand beneath the cascade to feel its power. The reviews mention this as a highlight, especially the chance to take incredible photos. Expect around 30 minutes here, enough to soak in the scenery and snap some shots.

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Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

Next, you’ll head to Reynisfjara, known for its dramatic black sand, basalt columns, and sea stacks. It’s a place that sticks in your memory for its raw, otherworldly beauty. This stop usually lasts about an hour, which is enough for photos, a quick walk along the shore, and an appreciation of Iceland’s volcanic heritage. Many reviews note how stunning this landscape is, and it’s often praised as a must-see.

Glacier Hike at Sólheimajökull

One of the tour’s real selling points is the guided glacier hike on Sólheimajökull. Once you arrive, your guide will equip you with crampons and helmets, making sure everyone is safe before setting off onto the glacier. The hike lasts about 1-1.5 hours, but some reviews mention people wishing it was longer — the glacier’s vast, rugged terrain is that captivating.

On the glacier, you’ll see icy formations, crevasses, and the striking blue ice that’s unique to glaciers. It’s a chance to experience Iceland’s icy heart up close. Guides are certified and experienced, which reassures many travelers, and they’ll share insights about how glaciers shape the landscape. The reviews repeatedly praise the glacier guides for their professionalism and safety focus.

Waterfalls Revisited: Seljalandsfoss

After the glacier, the tour continues eastward to Seljalandsfoss. Here, you’ll get the rare chance to walk behind the waterfall — a fun, wet experience that makes for some memorable photos. The waterfall is 65 meters high and originates from the nearby glacier. Expect about 30 minutes here; some reviews mention this as a favorite because of the unique perspective it offers.

Black Sand Beach and Final Stops

On your way back, the tour includes a stop at Reynisfjara again for a quick visit or to grab lunch and snacks (note that food isn’t included in the price, so plan accordingly). The black sand beach is particularly striking at dusk, which some travelers found made the scenery even more dramatic.

Journey Back to Reykjavík

The return trip is about 2.5 hours, and the day wraps up with drop-offs at various locations. The long day might leave you tired but full of incredible memories.

What’s Included and What to Expect

Included are a pick-up service from multiple Reykjavík locations, guided visits to the waterfalls, glacier, and black sand beach, a glacier hike with certified guides, and free WiFi on the bus. You’ll also be provided with all necessary glacier gear — crampons, helmets, and safety instructions.

Not included are food and drinks, so bringing snacks or a packed lunch is advisable. While the tour is quite comprehensive, some reviews note that the glacier hike itself is a bit short — around 3 hours, with some wishing for more time on the ice. Luckily, there’s an option to extend the glacier walk to 5 hours, so if you’re a glacier enthusiast, that might be worth asking about.

The Experience: What Travelers Say

Most reviews are glowing, praising the guides, scenery, and overall value. Many highlight knowledgeable guides like Casper and Vjeran, who make the experience both safe and engaging. Travelers love the variety — waterfalls, beaches, glaciers in one shot — and mention how stunning the landscapes are in person.

A few reviews mention the long hours and tight schedule but agree that the highlights make it worthwhile. For example, one traveler said, “the glacier hike was the highlight of the day,” and another gushed about the “fabulous to see” black sand beach.

Some reviewers pointed out that the glacier hike could feel rushed, especially if gear-up time eats into glacier time. Still, most agree that the guides keep everyone safe and informed, making for an enjoyable trip.

Price and Value

At around $193 per person, this tour offers a lot of bang for your buck. It includes transportation, gear, guiding, and entry to some of Iceland’s most iconic sites. For travelers wanting a comprehensive South Coast experience without the hassle of planning each stop, it’s a pretty cost-effective way to see everything.

Considering the guided glacier hike and multiple stops, many reviews say it’s “worth every penny.” Just keep in mind that food isn’t included, so budget for meals or snacks.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for active travelers comfortable with walking and some light hiking. If you have children over 8, the tour is suitable, but younger kids might find the glacier hike challenging. It’s perfect for those who want a guided, all-in-one adventure with knowledgeable guides to explain what they’re seeing.

It’s also great for travelers who prefer not to organize transport and logistics themselves and are happy with a full, structured day of sightseeing. If you’re a photography enthusiast, the stops at waterfalls and black sand beach provide ample photo opportunities.

Final Thoughts

The “From Reykjavík: South Coast, Waterfalls & Glacier Hike” tour by Arctic Adventures offers an engaging way to experience Iceland’s most famous natural attractions in a single day. Its combination of stunning scenery, active adventure, and expert guides makes it a solid choice for travelers eager to make the most of their visit.

While it’s a long day and some may find the glacier hike a bit short, the overall experience is highly praised for its value and the quality of guides. If you’re after a well-organized trip that covers waterfalls, glaciers, and volcanic beaches, this tour will likely meet your expectations.

Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned visitor looking to tick off major sights efficiently, it’s worth considering. Just be prepared for a full day outdoors — and bring your camera, warm layers, and a sense of adventure.

FAQ

Is pickup included?
Yes, pickup is available from several designated Reykjavík locations, making it easy to start your day without additional transport worries.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 12 hours, so be ready for a full day of sightseeing and activity.

What should I bring?
Bring warm clothing, hiking shoes (or rent them), a jacket, gloves, and hiking pants to stay comfortable during the hikes and walks.

Is food included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring snacks or lunch.

Can children participate?
The minimum age is 8 years old, making it suitable for families with older children or teenagers.

What about the glacier hike?
It involves a guided walk on Sólheimajökull with safety gear provided. Expect around 1 to 1.5 hours on the glacier, and consider extending the hike if you’re keen.

Is the scenery worth it?
Absolutely. Many reviews highlight the waterfalls, black sand beaches, and glacier as some of the most stunning sights in Iceland.

What if the weather is bad?
Weather can be unpredictable, but guides adapt to conditions, and many of the sights are still impressive in mist or rain. The tour is canceled only if conditions are unsafe.

How many people are in the group?
The tour tends to operate in small groups, often around 7 travelers, which helps with the personal experience.

Is it a good value?
Given the multiple stops, expert guides, gear, and transportation, most find the price reasonable for what’s offered.

If you’re after a balanced, well-reviewed way to see Iceland’s south coast in one day, this tour is definitely worth considering. It packs in adventure, scenery, and learning — all with the comfort of a guided experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: