Reykjavik: Glacier Hike w/ Photos, Waterfalls & Black Beach

If you’re dreaming of encountering some of Iceland’s most iconic landscapes—all in one day—this glacier hike and south coast tour might just be what you’re after. While we haven’t personally done it, I’ve read through plenty of reviews and details to give you a clear picture of what makes this trip stand out—and what to consider before booking.

What I really like about this experience is how it combines adventure and scenery. You get an up-close encounter with the Sólheimajökull glacier, which is a highlight for many travelers thanks to its dramatic ice formations and crevasses. Plus, visiting two waterfalls—Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss—adds a touch of Iceland’s fairy-tale charm, especially since each waterfall offers its own unique perspective. Then, there’s the Black Sand Beach at Reynisfjara, which is undeniably photogenic and offers a chance to walk along stunning basalt columns and striking rock formations.

A potential drawback? With a full 11-hour schedule packed with stops, this tour is long and can be quite busy, especially during peak season. Some might find that the day’s pace is a little tight, especially if you want more time at each spot to really soak it all in. Also, it’s worth noting that not everyone can participate—it’s not suitable for children under 10, people with certain health issues, or those over 95 kg/209 lbs.

All in all, this tour seems best suited for those who want a comprehensive, all-in-one day of Icelandic scenery and adventure without the hassle of planning multiple excursions. If you’re active, love photography, and want a well-organized trip with knowledgeable guides, this could be a fantastic choice.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: Combines glacier hiking, waterfalls, and a black sand beach into one day.
• Expert guides: Guides are knowledgeable, safety-conscious, and make the experience fun.
• Great value: For $189, you get a full day of scenery and adventure, plus gear and Wi-Fi included.
• Limited group size: Small groups (max 15) mean more personalized attention.
• Photos included: Guides take plenty of pictures, so you’re free to focus on enjoying the views.
• Physical activity: The glacier hike is beginner-friendly but involves about 2.5 hours outdoors and a 4 km walk.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: A Closer Look

Pickup & Transportation

Most travelers start their day early, with pickups from a variety of central Reykjavik locations, such as the Harpa Concert Hall and Hótel Klettur. The coach ride to the south coast is about 1.5 hours, giving you a chance to get comfortable and start soaking in the scenery. The bus is described as comfortable, with Wi-Fi—handy for catching up on photos or just scrolling through your feed during the drive.

Scenic Drive & Stops

Your journey takes you past several noteworthy sights, including the Hellisheiði Geothermal Plant and Eyjafjallajökull volcano—famous for shutting down European air traffic back in 2010. These stops, while brief, add context to Iceland’s volcanic activity and geothermal energy, enriching your understanding of the landscape.

Sólheimajökull Glacier Hike

This is the centerpiece of the day. Equipped with crampons, helmets, and ice axes, you’ll be guided onto Sólheimajökull, a glacier that’s constantly changing, which makes each experience unique. The hike lasts around 1 hour and involves walking over icy terrain, exploring crevasses and ice formations. Several reviews highlight how accessible and beginner-friendly the hike is—“the glacier is a must-do in Iceland,” according to one traveler, with many saying it’s an experience of a lifetime.

Travelers love the way guides make safety a priority while keeping the experience engaging. Multiple reviewers mention their guides, like Tomasz or Otto, as knowledgeable, friendly, and fun—important factors when you’re walking on potentially tricky icy surfaces.

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Waterfalls: Seljalandsfoss & Skógafoss

After the glacier, your next stops are Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss. Both are stunning, but each offers a different vibe. Seljalandsfoss gives you the rare chance to walk behind the cascading water, which many rave about. Just be prepared to get a little wet—most recommend waterproof jackets, especially if you want to venture behind it.

Skógafoss impresses with its powerful flow and the possibility to climb a staircase for a bird’s-eye view or just enjoy the thundering waters at eye level. One review called Skógafoss the “breathtaking” highlight, and most people spend about 45 minutes here.

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

Walking along Reynisfjara is a must for its dramatic basalt columns and striking sea stacks rising from the Atlantic. It’s also a popular photo spot, often featured in travel magazines. Visitors often mention how atmospheric and almost otherworldly this beach feels. You’ll have about an hour here, which is enough to snap some photos, stretch your legs, and take in the wild beauty.

Final Stops & Return

On the way back, the bus travels through volcanic landscapes and rolling farmlands, giving you one last peek at Iceland’s rugged beauty before returning to Reykjavik around 6:30-7 pm. Multiple reviews note that the long day is broken up nicely with frequent stops and breaks, making it more manageable.

What’s Included & What to Bring

For $189, you get transportation, all glacier safety gear, and Wi-Fi on board. The guides are experts, and small groups mean you’ll receive personalized attention. Guides often take photos, so you can focus on enjoying each view without worrying about capturing every moment.

However, food and drinks are not included, so bringing snacks or a packed lunch is advisable, especially considering the full day. Waterproof jackets are recommended, particularly if you want to walk behind waterfalls or explore the glacier thoroughly.

Accessibility & Suitability

The tour is designed for beginners but involves outdoor activity that’s easy to moderate. It’s not suitable for children under 10, or those with certain health issues, and it has weight restrictions (up to 95 kg). The glacier hike is physically active but not overly strenuous—most reviews mention it as doable and safe, especially with helpful guides.

Real Traveler Feedback

The reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with a 4.9-star rating from over 700 participants. Many rave about the knowledge and friendliness of their guides—“Tomasz” and “Otto” get special mentions for making the day fun, safe, and memorable. The glacier is frequently described as a “once-in-a-lifetime experience,” with people appreciating how accessible it is, even for beginners.

Photographers love the stops, especially Reynisfjara and Skógafoss, citing amazing photo opportunities. Several reviews mention how well-paced the tour is, with enough time at each stop to enjoy and explore.

Consistent Praise & Minor Downsides

The main caveat is the length and pace, which might be tiring for some. If you prefer a more relaxed day or are traveling with very young children, this might feel a bit packed. Also, the weather can be unpredictable—some reviews mention that even in bad weather, the trip remains rewarding, but expect the possibility of rain and wind.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re looking for a full-day adventure that combines ice, waterfalls, and black sand beaches, this tour offers value and variety. It’s ideal for active travelers, photography enthusiasts, and those wanting a guided experience to maximize safety and knowledge. It’s less suitable if you’re seeking a very relaxed or leisurely pace or are traveling with very young children.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the glacier hike is designed for beginners and is considered easy to moderate. Guides focus on safety and enjoyment.

How long is the glacier hike?
The hike lasts about 1 hour and covers roughly 4 km in total, with an elevation gain of about 150 meters. It’s a manageable adventure even for first-timers.

What should I bring?
You should bring waterproof clothing if you want to walk behind waterfalls, and snacks or lunch for the full day. The gear for glacier safety is provided.

Is the tour family-friendly?
It’s not suitable for children under 10 years old or those with certain health issues. The outdoor activity level may be too demanding for very young or less active travelers.

How big are the groups?
Small groups are limited to 15 participants, which helps ensure a more personalized experience.

What’s included in the price?
Transportation, glacier safety equipment (crampons, helmets, ice axes), Wi-Fi on the bus, and an expert guide are included.

Are food and drinks included?
No, those are not included, so plan to bring some snacks or a packed lunch.

What’s the best time of year for this tour?
While available year-round, the experience is especially popular in spring and summer when weather conditions are milder, although the glacier is accessible year-round.

What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers some flexibility if your plans change.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a well-organized, diverse, and memorable day exploring the south coast of Iceland, this tour delivers. It combines adventure, spectacular scenery, and professional guiding, making it a good pick for travelers who want to see key sights without the hassle of planning it all themselves.

While the day can be long and busy, the variety of stops and the chance to walk on a glacier makes it worthwhile. Just pack wisely, prepare for weather changes, and bring your camera—every moment offers a shot worth capturing. Whether it’s your first trip to Iceland or a return visit, this tour is likely to leave you with stories and photos you’ll cherish.

Final Recommendations

This experience shines brightest for those who love getting outdoors and want a balanced mix of activity and sightseeing. If you’re comfortable with walking and outdoor adventures, you’ll find this trip offers excellent value. Just remember that it’s not for everyone—those looking for a more relaxed day or traveling with very young children might want to consider other options.

All in all, if you’re eager to tick off some of Iceland’s most famous sights in one go, this tour stands out for its expert guides, stunning scenery, and the unforgettable experience of glacier hiking. It’s a solid choice for anyone wanting a full day of Icelandic adventure with plenty of photo opportunities and stories to tell.

You can check availability for your dates here: