Reykjavík: South Coast Wonders & Northern Lights Tour

If you’ve been dreaming of Iceland’s dramatic landscapes—think waterfalls, glaciers, black sand beaches, and the elusive Northern Lights—this 16-hour guided tour might be worth considering. It promises to cover some of the most iconic sights along the South Coast and offers a chance to witness the aurora in the countryside.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it balances sightseeing with a relaxed pace—there’s enough time to soak in the scenery without feeling rushed. Plus, the fact that it includes free photos under the Northern Lights and hot cocoa to keep warm makes it feel thoughtful and well-organized.

Of course, no tour is perfect, and one thing to keep in mind is the weather dependence of the Northern Lights. If the forecast isn’t favorable, the aurora hunt might be canceled or rescheduled, which could be disappointing. But if you’re flexible and love the idea of exploring Iceland’s natural beauty in a full-day trip, this could be a good fit.

This tour tends to suit travelers who want a comprehensive view of Iceland’s south and are comfortable with a full day on the go. It’s especially appealing for those who appreciate guided comfort, local insights, and a chance to capture memories with free photography. If you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or even a small family, it’s flexible enough, provided children are over age 6.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary: Covers waterfalls, glaciers, black sand beaches, and the Northern Lights.
• Comfort and convenience: Includes pickup and drop-off, a guide, and free photos.
• Weather dependent: Aurora sightings are not guaranteed, but re-tries are available.
• Duration and pace: 16 hours allowing for a full day but with enough breaks.
• Value for money: Offers a mix of sightseeing, cultural treats, and memorable photos.
• Ideal for: Those seeking a full-day Iceland adventure with a focus on natural wonders.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Iceland’s South Coast: What to Expect

This tour kicks off early in the morning with pickup at your hotel or a designated meeting point in Reykjavík, so you’ll want to be ready by 8:00 AM. The convoy of buses or coaches then heads eastward, and right away, you’ll notice how the landscape begins to transform—from urban sprawl to open plains, volcanic formations, and icy valleys.

The Drive and First Stops

The first leg of the journey takes around 1.5 hours to Hvolsvöllur, where a brief 15-minute break offers a chance to stretch your legs and grab a snack or coffee. From there, the tour continues for about 40 minutes to Skógafoss, one of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls. Standing in front of Skógafoss, you’ll feel the raw power of water crashing down from 65 meters, often creating rainbows in the mist. People often describe it as awe-inspiring; one reviewer noted, “We loved the way Skógafoss made us feel tiny in the face of nature’s strength.”

Waterfalls and Black Sand Beaches

Next up, you’ll visit Seljalandsfoss, another iconic waterfall, which is best known for the pathway that lets you walk behind it—an experience many find magical, especially when catching sunset or sunrise photos. The tour then heads to Vík í Mýrdal, the southernmost village, which offers a scenic stop with views of snowy cliffs and the Atlantic Ocean.

The highlight here is Reynisfjara Beach, famous for its black sands and basalt columns. The roaring Atlantic waves crash against the striking sea stacks, Reynisdrangar, making for dramatic photos. Travelers often comment on the raw beauty here; one said, “Reynisfjara’s black sands and towering basalt columns are unlike anything I’ve seen before.” Keep in mind, the beach can be dangerous with unpredictable waves, so always stay a safe distance from the water.

Glaciers and Ice

After lunch and more sightseeing, the tour moves to Sólheimajökull Glacier, where a guided walk reveals blue ice veined with volcanic ash—a stark reminder of Iceland’s volcanic activity and icy landscapes. The tour provides a closer look at the glacier’s surface, which many find fascinating; it’s a chance to see Iceland’s volcanic and icy forces at work in tandem.

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More Waterfalls and Return

The next stop is Seljalandsfoss again, giving you another chance to appreciate this waterfall from a different angle or snap some additional photos. The journey back to Reykjavík takes roughly two hours, during which you might enjoy the landscape changing as the day progresses.

Evening: The Northern Lights Experience

Once back in Reykjavík, there’s a brief break for dinner before the evening adventure begins. The Northern Lights tour departs with the goal of escaping the city’s light pollution, heading into the quiet countryside. This part of the experience is highly weather-dependent, but when conditions align, you’ll be greeted by shimmering green or pink lights dancing across the night sky.

Guides do an excellent job of creating a cozy atmosphere—think hot cocoa, Icelandic treats, and warm wool blankets. They also capture free photos of you and your loved ones under the aurora, which is a real bonus, especially since photography at night can be tricky without the right equipment. One traveler remarked, “The guides took such care to make sure everyone got good photos, which was a lovely touch.”

The aurora might play out in waves or stretch across the entire horizon, offering a truly memorable sight. If the lights don’t appear, the tour offers unlimited re-tries within three years, so you have a good chance to see them on a future night.

The tour wraps up around midnight, with drop-off back in Reykjavík.

Practical Aspects and Tips

This tour is priced to include several key experiences, plus the convenience of transportation and guided commentary, making it a solid value for a full day of exploring Iceland’s highlights. The transportation is by bus or coach, and the day is quite full, so bring comfortable shoes, warm outdoor clothing, and a camera. Weather can be unpredictable, so packing layers, a hat, and weather-appropriate gear is smart.

Since the tour is long—about 16 hours—you should be prepared for a full day on the move. The stops are well spaced, with breaks for rest, photos, and lunch, but don’t expect a leisurely pace all day. If you’re traveling with children over six, this could be suitable, but very young kids might find the long hours challenging.

Noteworthy Points:

• Pickup begins at 8:00 AM from various Reykjavík locations; arriving 10 minutes early helps smooth the process.
• The Northern Lights viewing depends on clear skies and solar activity—if canceled, re-tries are available.
• If the aurora isn’t visible, you won’t get a refund but can rebook or wait for a future chance.
• The tour is operated by Arctic Adventures or their sister company, Your Day Tours, so vehicle branding may vary.

Is This Tour for You?

If you’re after a comprehensive day of Iceland’s south coast highlights, this tour covers all the must-see spots and offers the thrill of aurora hunting. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy guided experiences, want to learn about Iceland’s geography, and are comfortable with an early start and a long day.

Travelers who appreciate photo opportunities and don’t want to miss out on iconic waterfalls and glaciers will find this especially appealing. But remember, the Northern Lights are weather-dependent, so patience is key, and flexibility will pay off.

This tour provides a solid mix of Iceland’s natural beauty—whether the weather cooperates or not. It balances adventure, comfort, and the chance to create memorable photos, making it a worthwhile option for adventurous travelers eager to see Iceland’s South Coast and catch the auroras.

FAQs

Is the Northern Lights tour weather-dependent?
Yes, the aurora is heavily dependent on weather conditions. If the forecast is poor, the tour might be canceled or rescheduled. However, you’ll have unlimited re-tries within three years if you don’t see the lights, so there’s a good chance for another opportunity.

What time does the tour start and end?
Pickup begins at 8:00 AM in Reykjavík, and the entire day lasts about 16 hours, with the tour returning around midnight.

Are meals included?
The tour includes a dinner break, but specific meals are not covered. You should bring snacks and drinks for the day, especially for the long travel times.

Is this suitable for children?
Children over 6 years old should find the duration manageable. Very young kids may find the long hours and outdoor conditions challenging.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, hats, a camera, food and drinks, outdoor gear, and a daypack are recommended. Weather in Iceland can change quickly, so layering is wise.

How many stops are there, and what are they?
Stops include Hvolsvöllur (break), Skógafoss, Vík (lunch and sightseeing), Reynisfjara Beach, Sólheimajökull Glacier, and Seljalandsfoss. Each offers unique photo opportunities and scenery.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended, especially during peak seasons. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What if I don’t see the Northern Lights?
If the aurora isn’t visible, you can rebook or wait to try again, as the tour offers unlimited re-tries for three years.

In the end, this tour is a solid choice for those wanting a full day of Iceland’s dramatic landscape and the chance to see the Northern Lights with some comforts along the way. It balances the must-see sights with the nuances of Iceland’s unpredictable weather, making it a practical and memorable experience for most travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here: