Reykjavik: Private Day Tour to the South Coast of Iceland.

If you’re dreaming of Iceland’s iconic landscapes—waterfalls, glaciers, black sand beaches—this private tour along the south coast might just be what you’re looking for. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, I’ve gathered plenty of insights and honest impressions to help you decide if it fits your travel style.

What immediately catches your attention? The focus on personalized experience with a private guide and the opportunity to see some of Iceland’s most celebrated sights in a single day. From waterfalls that seem to have been plucked from a fairytale to starkly beautiful beaches, this tour promises a full immersion into Icelandic nature.

But, as with all guided tours, there’s a key consideration: the long day’s drive—about 10 hours—means you’ll need to be comfortable with quite a bit of sightseeing on the move. If you’re craving a relaxed, slow-paced day, this might feel a bit rushed. Still, if you’re eager to tick off multiple highlights in one go, this could be a smart choice.

This experience suits those who want a comprehensive, hassle-free way to explore the south coast with the comfort of a private guide. It’s especially good for first-time visitors who want to see the essential sights without the stress of planning every detail.

Key Points

• Private tour offers a more personalized experience and flexibility.
• Highlights include Seljalandsfoss, Skogafoss, Dyrholaey, Reynisfjara Beach, and Sólheimajökull glacier.
• Duration is around 10 hours, making for an intensive day of sightseeing.
• Price is $1,350 per group of up to 3, which may seem steep but covers exclusive guide service and transportation.
• Route involves stops in iconic locations with some flexibility depending on weather or road conditions.
• Food and drinks are not included, so plan your meals accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the South Coast Private Tour

Starting Point and Transportation

The journey begins with hotel pickup in Reykjavik, which is a big plus—no need to worry about navigating Iceland’s sometimes tricky roads or fitting into busy group tours. The transportation is private, so your party has the vehicle and guide’s full attention. The drive is roughly 80 minutes from Reykjavik to the first stop, giving you your first glimpse of the stunning landscape even before reaching main attractions.

The Hellisheidi Pass and Geothermal Fields

We love the way the tour starts by passing through the Hellisheidi Pass, where rugged lava fields stretch out as far as the eye can see. Steam jets from a geothermal power plant add a bit of otherworldly charm, and it’s a great reminder of Iceland’s reliance on renewable energy. This part of the journey helps set the tone—expect a landscape that’s both stark and alive.

Seljalandsfoss and Gljúfrabúi

One of the most famous waterfalls in Iceland, Seljalandsfoss, is truly a sight to see. Standing at 63 meters (around 210 feet), it’s not just the sight but the ability to walk behind it that makes it special. We’ve read that visitors love the perspective of seeing the waterfall from behind, although crowds can get thick here, especially during peak season.

Nearby, there’s Gljúfrabúi, a hidden gem — a waterfall cascading into a gorge, often overlooked in standard tours. It’s smaller but offers a more intimate experience. As one reviewer put it, “It’s a bit of a secret, and totally worth the detour.” Keep in mind, the scenery around here is breathtaking, making it a highlight for nature lovers.

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Skogafoss and the Lunch Break

Next, the impressive Skogafoss comes into view—a 60-meter (200 feet) waterfall that’s a favorite among travelers. It’s easy to see why: the sheer power and the opportunity for photos are unmatched. The site is very accessible, and you can stand close to the water’s base, which has been described as awe-inspiring.

After this, you’ll stop for a lunch at a local bistro in Skogar. The included 1-hour break offers a chance to refuel, but keep in mind that dining options might be limited and not included in the tour price. It’s a good time to try some local fare or simply relax before continuing the adventure.

Dyrholaey and Reynisfjara Beach

Driving past Mount Eyjafjoll, the tour takes you to Dyrholaey, a rocky headland with views over the Atlantic Ocean. The area is known for its striking cliffs and nesting seabirds during certain seasons. The waves crashing against the rocks create a dramatic backdrop, and you can enjoy sweeping vistas across the coastline.

From there, it’s a short drive to Reynisfjara Beach, the iconic black sand beach with towering basalt columns resembling giant stone steps. The basalt sea stacks, known as Reynisdrangar, are a photographer’s dream. Be cautious of powerful waves—the ocean here is beautiful but can be dangerous if you get too close.

Sólheimajökull Glacier

The final highlight is the Sólheimajökull glacier, a tongue of the larger Mýrdalsjökull ice cap. The tour offers a chance to walk along the glacier’s edge and enjoy views of this icy landscape. While it’s a short visit (about an hour), it’s a chance to see firsthand how massive and impressive these glaciers are.

Return to Reykjavik

After a full day of exploring, the trip heads back, arriving in Reykjavik roughly 10 hours after departure. The return drive is a good time to reflect on the day’s sights, and many reviews mention how the journey feels like a seamless experience thanks to the driver-guide’s professionalism.

What Travelers Are Saying

Many travelers comment on how well-organized and smooth the trip runs. One review notes, “The guide was knowledgeable and flexible, making sure we saw everything at our own pace.” Others love the stunning views at each stop, especially at Skogafoss and Reynisfjara — “There’s just something incredible about these black sand beaches and basalt columns,” a visitor said.

Some mention that weather can be unpredictable and that the route might change accordingly, but that’s part of Iceland’s charm. The long day can be tiring, but for many, the value of seeing so many sights in one day makes it worth it.

A few reviewers mention that the price might seem high but considering the private service and all the stops, it’s a fair deal. It’s worth noting, though, that food isn’t included, so bringing snacks or planning for meals is your responsibility.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private tour is ideal for first-time visitors who want a convenient, guided overview of Iceland’s south coast. It’s also suitable for those who prefer a personalized experience, away from large group tours. Travelers with some mobility may find the stops manageable, but those with mobility issues should note that some locations involve walking or uneven terrain.

The long hours make it suitable for people who don’t mind a full day on the road, and those looking for a photography-focused trip will appreciate the many opportunities for stunning shots.

Final Thoughts

This Reykjavik private day tour to the south coast offers a comprehensive and comfortable way to see some of Iceland’s most stunning natural wonders. From waterfalls to beaches to glaciers, it packs a lot into a single day — perfect if you’re short on time but want to hit all the highlights.

While it’s a bit pricey, the private guide and personalized attention add a lot of value, especially if you prefer traveling in a small, intimate group. The scenery alone makes the experience worthwhile, and with some planning for meals, you’ll come away with incredible memories and photos.

If you’re after an efficient, well-organized introduction to Iceland’s south coast, and don’t mind the long day, this tour could be a great fit.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
While the tour isn’t specifically marketed as family-friendly, it might work well for older children who enjoy sightseeing and walking. Keep in mind that the day involves a lot of driving and walks at various sites.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for the weather. Iceland’s weather can change quickly, so layers and waterproof gear are smart choices.

Does the price include food?
No, food and drinks are not included. You’ll have a stop for lunch at a local bistro, but you’ll need to pay separately unless you bring your own snacks.

How flexible is the schedule?
Since it’s a private tour, the guide can typically accommodate some preferences or adjustments, but overall, the route and timing are subject to weather and road conditions.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The route can change depending on weather, which is quite common in Iceland. Your guide will adapt the plan to ensure safety while trying to maximize sightseeing.

Are there any stops for photos?
Absolutely. Each of the main sights offers plenty of opportunities for photos, especially at Skogafoss and Reynisfjara.

How long is the drive between sites?
Drive times range from 20 to 80 minutes, depending on the location. The overall schedule is designed to maximize sightseeing while managing travel time comfortably.

All in all, this private tour provides a balanced mix of convenience and Icelandic beauty. Whether you’re after the classic sights or a more tailored experience, it’s worth considering for your south coast adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: