South Coast and Glacier Lagoon – Private

Exploring Iceland’s South Coast and Glacier Lagoon on a Private Tour: A Deep Dive

If you’re dreaming of Iceland’s dramatic landscapes but want to skip the big bus crowds, a private tour like this one from Reykjavik could be just what you need. We’ve looked into this experience, and it appears to offer a more personal approach to seeing some of Iceland’s most iconic sights — from thundering waterfalls to shimmering icebergs.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines unbeatable flexibility with the comfort of private transportation. Plus, the fact that it’s perfect for groups of all sizes — from solo travelers to larger parties — means you can tailor your Iceland adventure to your vibe. That said, it’s not a cheap outing, but given the stops and the personalized service, the value can be justified for those wanting a more curated day.

One thing to keep in mind is that this experience is quite full-on — with around eight hours packed with sightseeing. If you’re someone who prefers a more relaxed pace or wants plenty of time at each site, you might find the schedule a little tight. But for those eager to maximize their Iceland trip, this tour hits many highlights efficiently.

It’s especially well-suited for travelers who want a seamless, guided experience without sacrificing the feeling of being part of something special. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or in a small group, this tour seems to hit the right note for quality and convenience.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Designed for small groups and private bookings, ensuring a more intimate visit.
• Comfortable Transport: Travel in a private, air-conditioned vehicle suited to your group size.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: Stops include waterfalls, black sand beaches, and ice lagoons — all iconic Icelandic sights.
• Flexible and Efficient: A full day packed with highlights, ideal if you want a lot in one trip.
• Excellent Reviews: Consistently praised for knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and good value.
• Cost-Effective for Groups: The price per vehicle makes it a better deal for groups rather than per person.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Seljalandsfoss and Gljúfurbúi Waterfalls

Your day kicks off around 7:30am at the meeting point in Reykjavik, heading south in a private, air-conditioned vehicle. The first stop is Seljalandsfoss, a waterfall that drops approximately 60 meters over the cliffs. What makes this one special is that you can actually walk behind it — a fun experience and perfect for those photos. Just 500 meters away, there’s Gljúfurbúi, a lesser-known waterfall worth the short walk.

From reviews, many travelers mention how stunning and accessible this waterfall is, with some noting that it offers fantastic photo ops. The 30-minute stop allows you to soak in the view without feeling rushed.

Skogafoss: Iceland’s Powerhouse

Next, you’ll visit Skogafoss, one of Iceland’s biggest waterfalls, with a width of 25 meters and a 60-meter drop. The spray often creates rainbows on sunny days, which is a bonus for photographers. Travelers have called it a “beautiful sight” and a highlight of their trip, with enough spray and power to make you feel the force of nature.

This stop also lasts about 30 minutes, giving you ample time to enjoy the scenery, snap some photos, and breathe in the fresh air.

Reynisfjara Beach and Basalt Columns

The tour then heads to Reynisfjara, Iceland’s famous black sand beach. The contrast of the dark sands against the white surf and the towering basalt columns that resemble a stepped pyramid make this one of the most distinctive beaches you’ll ever see. Out at sea, the basalt sea stacks of Reynisdrangar add to the dramatic scenery.

You’ll have roughly 30 minutes here. Be prepared for the often unpredictable Atlantic winds — it’s all part of the charm. Many travelers mention how mesmerizing the black sands are, and some even spot puffins or fulmars nearby.

Reynisdrangar and Birdlife

Just a short walk from the beach, Reynisdrangar is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with puffins, fulmars, and guillemots often spotted. It’s a quick stop, but one that offers excellent photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate Iceland’s bird diversity.

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon: The Main Event

The highlight for many is the visit to Jökulsárlón, a sprawling glacial lake filled with floating icebergs. It’s truly a sight to behold — ice that’s been calving off Vatnajökull glacier, slowly drifting towards the sea. The lake is about 1.5 km from the ocean and covers approximately 18 km². Recently, it became Iceland’s deepest lake at over 248 meters.

This stop typically lasts 30 minutes, but you might find that it’s enough time to take in the landscape, walk along the shores, and capture some breathtaking photos. Many reviews rave about how surreal the ice formations are and how special it feels to see such a pristine natural wonder.

The Value of a Private Tour

One of the main selling points here is the privacy. Traveling in a private vehicle means no crowded buses, and a driver-guide who can customize the experience a bit. The vehicle options range from small five-seat cars to larger 16-seat buses, so your comfort level and group size are well catered for.

The cost of approximately $1,467 for up to four people may seem steep at first glance, but when you break it down — it’s a full day’s transport and guide service, with parking fees included. For groups, it becomes quite a good deal, especially considering the personalized attention.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes the private vehicle, parking fees, and a professional driver-guide. You’ll need to bring your own lunch and snacks if you want to stay energized, as these aren’t provided. The flexibility to bring your own food is great if you have specific dietary preferences or want a picnic by the lake.

Booking and Flexibility

The tour is available for booking around 53 days in advance on average, which is good for planning ahead. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, so you can be flexible if your plans change.

What Travelers Say

The overwhelmingly positive reviews highlight the expertise of the guides, with many describing their guides as professional, friendly, and highly informative. One reviewer even called their guide “the best tour guide I have ever met,” which is high praise.

Readers also love the stunning scenery — waterfalls, black sands, glaciers, and icebergs — and many mention how the experience exceeded their expectations. The small group and private setup are appreciated, allowing for a more relaxed, personalized experience.

Some reviews mention the long day, but most agree it’s worth it to see so many of Iceland’s iconic sights in one trip. A few mention bringing waterproof clothes, especially in winter, which is worth considering if you’re visiting during colder months.

In Closing

This private tour offers a well-paced, hassle-free way to explore some of Iceland’s most famous natural wonders. It’s perfect if you value comfort, flexibility, and a more intimate experience than a large bus tour. The itinerary covers a fantastic mix of waterfalls, beaches, and glaciers, making it a comprehensive introduction to Iceland’s stunning south coast.

However, if you prefer a more leisurely visit or want additional time at each site, this might feel a bit rushed. Still, for most travelers eager to tick off multiple highlights in one day, it’s a practical, enjoyable choice.

Whether you’re a photography enthusiast, a nature lover, or someone simply wanting to see Iceland’s iconic landscapes without the hassle of self-driving, this tour seems to deliver.

FAQs

Is this a full-day tour?
Yes, the tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting around 7:30am and returning to Reykjavik by late afternoon or early evening.

Can I choose the vehicle size?
Yes, the tour offers different vehicle options, from small 5-seat cars for individuals or couples to larger 16-seat buses for bigger groups.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers private transportation, parking fees, and a professional driver-guide. Food and snacks are not included.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not explicitly marketed as family-specific, the small-group, private setup could suit families, especially those traveling with older children who can handle a full day of sightseeing.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather, and if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 53 days ahead on average, but it’s advisable to reserve early during peak seasons.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour’s start, giving you some flexibility if needed.

This private tour strikes a balance between comfort, efficiency, and the chance to see some of Iceland’s most photogenic spots without the crowd. If you’re after a personalized and well-organized day exploring the south coast and glacier lagoon, it’s definitely worth considering.