From Skarfabakki: South Coast Tour w/ Solheimajokull Glacier

If you’re heading to Iceland and considering a day trip to the iconic South Coast, this private tour from Skarfabakki offers a pretty compelling way to see some of the most breathtaking sites. Designed to maximize your time and reduce the hassle, it’s perfect for travelers who want a well-rounded experience without the big crowds. From powerful waterfalls to glacier walks and dramatic black sand beaches, it checks many boxes for an Icelandic adventure.

What I really appreciate about this tour is how it combines natural beauty with accessibility—visiting major landmarks like Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss, plus a visit to Solheimajokull Glacier. Plus, the fact that it’s a private group means you get more personalized attention and flexibility. That said, it’s a full 10-hour day, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with long, active days of sightseeing.

One thing to keep in mind is the weather. Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable—a bit of rain or wind shouldn’t come as a surprise—and it’s wise to dress in layers and bring rain gear. Also, because it’s a guided tour, you won’t have free rein to linger at each spot, so if you’re looking for a more leisurely, self-directed exploration, this might not be your best fit. Still, for those eager to hit all the highlights in one go, it’s a solid choice.

This experience is really suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided day out that hits many of Iceland’s famous sights. It’s ideal for first-timers or those with limited time but still want to see a lot of the South Coast’s natural wonders. If you’re traveling with a group that appreciates a bit of storytelling and expert guidance, or simply want to avoid the hassle of planning each stop, this tour could be just right.

Key Points

• Private group setting offers more personalized attention
• Visit major attractions: waterfalls, glacier, black sand beach
• Comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle
• Includes all major entry fees—no hidden costs
• Long, full-day adventure suited for active travelers
• Weather can be unpredictable; dress accordingly

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering the South Coast: What the Tour Includes

We liked how this tour really covers the essentials of Iceland’s South Coast in one day. Starting from Skarfabakki Cruise Terminal, your driver and guide will pick you up and take you along this scenic route. You’ll get to experience a mix of iconic waterfalls, glacier views, and volcanic sands—all packed into roughly ten hours.

This is a well-structured itinerary, and the fact that it includes admission to all attractions means you’re good to go without worrying about extra costs. Plus, the transportation is by air-conditioned vehicle, which is a blessing given Iceland’s sometimes unpredictable weather.

The Waterfalls: Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss

Two of the tour’s highlights are the waterfalls—Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss—and they couldn’t be more different, yet equally photogenic. Seljalandsfoss is famous for its unique feature: you can walk behind it, which gives you a fantastic perspective and some great photo opportunities. It’s a crowd favorite, but the pathway behind the cascade makes you feel like you’re part of the scenery.

Skógafoss, on the other hand, is a massive curtain of water, 60 meters high and wide enough to create stunning spray and double rainbows on sunny days. Many reviewers mention how powerful and mesmerizing it is. We loved the option to climb the staircase beside Skógafoss for an overhead view of the falls and the surrounding landscape. The views from the top are well worth the effort.

Gljúfrabúi: The Hidden Gem

A lesser-known spot, Gljúfrabúi, is a waterfall within a canyon, partly hidden by a cliff. This secretive spot offers a magical vibe—perfect for photographers and lovers of off-the-beaten-path places. It’s one of those picturesque surprises that make Iceland’s scenery so special.

The Black Sand Beach: Reynisfjara

Next up is Reynisfjara, famous for its dramatic black sand, towering basalt columns, and sea stacks called Reynisdrangar. Walking along this beach, you’ll feel like you’re on a different planet—raw, powerful, and a little humbling. The waves here are strong and sometimes unpredictable, so safety is crucial, especially with children or less experienced beachgoers.

The view of Reynisdrangar from the beach is striking. Photographers especially love this spot, and it’s easy to see why—those basalt formations are fascinating and photogenic. Just be cautious of the tide and surf, as the waves can come in quickly and fiercely.

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Glaciers and the Solheimajokull Glacier

Of course, a trip to the South Coast wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the glaciers. The tour stops at Solheimajokull, an outlet glacier from the larger Mýrdalsjökull ice cap. Here, you get a close-up view of a glacier that extends from a volcano—adding a volcanic element to the icy landscape.

While the tour doesn’t specify if it includes a glacier walk, just seeing Solheimajokull from afar is impressive. This part of the trip offers a stark contrast to the waterfalls and beaches, showcasing Iceland’s volcanic and icy diversity. If you’re lucky, on clear days, the views are simply stunning.

What Travelers Are Saying

Feedback from other travelers highlights the knowledge and friendliness of the guides. One reviewer notes, “Our driver was very knowledgeable and made the long day enjoyable,” underscoring that good guidance makes a difference. Others mention the stunning scenery—“The waterfalls and black sand beach were absolutely breathtaking”—a sentiment many agree with.

Some travelers mention the full-day length, with one saying, “It’s a lot of driving, but every stop is worth it.” A few note that weather can impact the experience, so dressing appropriately and being flexible is key.

The Value of the Experience

Considering that the tour includes admission fees and private transportation, the price seems reasonable for a full day of sightseeing in a country where logistics can be tricky. It’s especially good for those who prefer guided travel, where you get insights into each site that you might miss on your own.

While meals and drinks aren’t included, bringing snacks and water is recommended, as the day can be active and filling up on the go helps keep energy levels high. The tour’s flexibility in booking and cancellation is also a plus, providing some peace of mind.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is best suited for travelers who want an efficient, guided way to see Iceland’s South Coast highlights without the stress of planning each stop. If you’re comfortable with a full day of walking and outdoor weather, it offers a lot of value. It’s not ideal for those seeking a leisurely pace or self-directed exploration, but for most first-timers or busy travelers, it’s a solid choice.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a full-day, expertly guided exploration of Iceland’s South Coast—covering waterfalls, glaciers, and volcanic sands—this tour ticks many boxes. The combination of natural beauty, expert guidance, and convenience makes it appealing, especially for those new to Iceland or short on time.

The scenery is undeniably breathtaking, the stops well-chosen, and the flexibility with booking is a bonus. Just remember to dress in layers and prepare for the weather, which can shift rapidly. You’ll come away with fantastic photos, new perspectives, and a deeper appreciation of Iceland’s dramatic landscapes.

This experience is ideal for travelers eager to pack a lot into one day without sacrificing quality or scenery. Whether you’re a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or simply someone wanting to check off some Icelandic icons, this tour offers a well-rounded and memorable day out.

FAQ

How long is the tour from Skarfabakki?
It’s approximately 10 hours long, making it a full-day adventure that covers multiple iconic sites.

What attractions are included on this tour?
You’ll visit Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, Gljúfrabúi, Reynisfjara black sand beach, and Solheimajokull Glacier.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, transportation is by air-conditioned vehicle, and it’s all included in the price.

Are all entry fees included?
Absolutely, all admission to the attractions is covered, so no extra costs there.

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

Is this tour suitable for families?
It’s generally suitable for most travelers comfortable with walking and outdoor conditions, but check weather and physical requirements if traveling with children.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, warm clothing, rain gear, snacks, and a camera.

Does the tour operate in all weather?
It runs rain or shine, so dress appropriately for Iceland’s unpredictable weather.

Is the tour private?
Yes, it’s a private group, offering a more personalized experience.

What languages are available?
The guide speaks English, making communication straightforward for most travelers.

Would I recommend this tour?
Definitely for those wanting a comprehensive, guided day exploring Iceland’s dramatic South Coast without the hassle of planning each stop—just be ready for a full day of adventure!

If you want a taste of Iceland’s most photogenic spots in one day, this tour could be just what you’re looking for. It combines ease, expert guidance, and stunning scenery—perfect for making the most of your time in this incredible country.

You can check availability for your dates here: