Southern Coast, Waterfalls and Black Beach Tour from Reykjavik

Thinking about taking a day to explore Iceland’s stunning southern coastline? This popular full-day tour from Reykjavik gives you a taste of some of the country’s most iconic sights, without the stress of planning every detail yourself. We’ve looked into what this experience offers, and here’s what you need to know if you’re considering it.

What stands out about this tour? First, the chance to see breathtaking waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss, which are truly photo-worthy. Second, the visit to Reynisfjara’s black-sand beach—a unique landscape that you don’t want to miss. On the flip side, a possible drawback is that the tour is highly weather-dependent; poor weather can obscure the views and affect the experience.

This tour works really well for travelers who want a comprehensive day out with a knowledgeable guide and a well-organized itinerary. If you’re keen to see the southern coast’s highlights without the hassle of driving or figuring out logistics, it’s likely a good fit. However, if you’re after a more flexible or private experience, you might want to explore other options.

Key Points

• All-in-one day tour covering waterfalls, black beaches, volcanoes, and glaciers.
• Guided experience with a professional guide, including WiFi and transport in a comfortable bus.
• Multiple scenic stops with free time to explore and take photos, although some locations can get crowded.
• Weather-dependent experience, which can influence what you get to see.
• Value for money at around $119 per person, considering the number of stops and sights.
• Upgradable options include hotel pickup and drop-off for added convenience.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

This tour is designed to give you a solid overview of Iceland’s southern coast, and it’s clear that the organizers aim for a balance between sightseeing, comfort, and storytelling. Starting around 9:00 am with pickup (if you choose that option), you’ll hop onto a comfortable coach equipped with WiFi and USB charging ports.

Early Morning: Departure and Drive Through Icelandic Lands

The driver and guide will kick things off with some background about Iceland’s volcanic landscape, setting the stage for a day full of natural wonders. You’ll head south from Reykjavik through farmland, with the scenery gradually becoming more dramatic.

First Stop: Skogafoss Waterfall

Your first major stop is Skogafoss, a towering 200-foot waterfall that’s often featured in movies and commercials. You’ll love how close you can get—you can even climb a stairway to look down from above if you want a different perspective. Many reviews mention how impressive and photogenic this waterfall is, with some travelers feeling a sense of awe as they stand near its roaring water.

One reviewer shared, “The tour was very inclusive and the guide very knowledgeable,” which helps enhance the experience of these natural landmarks. Being able to walk right up to the falls means feeling the mist on your face—an energizing way to start your day.

Mid-Morning: Black Sand Beach at Reynisfjara

Next, you’ll make your way to Reynisfjara, the famous black-sand beach. Here, you’ll stroll along this unique landscape, watching the Atlantic Ocean’s waves crash against the basalt columns and sea stacks. The sight of Reynisdrangar pillars rising from the sea makes for some extraordinary photos.

Expect a roughly 45-minute stop, with plenty of time to breathe in the salty air and marvel at the powerful natural forces at work. However, be aware that this spot can get crowded, especially during peak season, which some reviews note. Still, many say it’s worth the visit for the surreal scenery.

Lunch and Local Flavors

After the beach, it’s time for a break—around an hour—to grab a meal at a local restaurant (not included in the tour price). Some travelers mention that this gives a chance to relax, reflect on the morning, and enjoy some Icelandic fare.

Afternoon Highlights: Volcanoes and Glaciers

Post-lunch, your journey continues with stops at Hekla and Eyjafjallajokull—two volcanoes that have made headlines for their eruptions and ash cloud disruptions. While Hekla has long been considered Iceland’s most active volcano, Eyjafjallajokull is famous worldwide for its 2010 eruption.

A brief stop at Solheimajokull Glacier allows you to admire an outlet glacier of the larger Myrdalsjokull ice cap. This short visit is a great way to see the icy landscape up close, although some reviews point out that this stop was canceled during a recent trip due to high winds—a reminder of how weather can impact the schedule.

Final Stop: Seljalandsfoss

The last major stop is Seljalandsfoss, a waterfall you can walk behind (weather permitting). Many visitors find this experience magical—the feeling of being enveloped by cascading water and seeing the landscape from behind is quite special. The tour usually allows about 35 minutes here to soak in the views and snap photos.

Return Journey

After a full day, your guide will take you back to Reykjavik, ending the trip with a relaxed bus ride. You’ll arrive around evening time, just in time for dinner and some well-earned rest.

The Value of This Tour

At roughly $119 per person, this tour offers a lot for the price. Considering the number of stops, the transportation, and the guidance, it’s a pretty good deal for travelers wanting to hit major sights without the hassle of self-driving. Many reviews highlight the professional guide, who shares insightful stories and helps make the long day more engaging.

People appreciate how organized and comfortable the experience is, especially with WiFi on board and the ability to leave the planning to someone else. However, it’s a long day—expect around 10 hours—and be prepared for the weather, which can be unpredictable. Some reviews mention that the tour guide’s instructions can feel a bit strict or overly cautious, but overall, most guests leave satisfied with what they see.

Group Size and Flexibility

This tour can accommodate up to 70 travelers, meaning it’s a big coach experience. While large groups can sometimes feel a bit impersonal, many travelers find that the guides do a good job of making everyone feel included. Your ability to explore each stop depends somewhat on the crowd and weather, so flexibility is key.

Considerations for Travelers

• Weather Dependency: Iceland’s weather can change rapidly, which affects visibility and experience at certain stops. Some reviewers mention that fog and rain limited their views, but even then, the scenic drive through the winter landscape was memorable.
• Time Management: The schedule is packed, so if you prefer more free time at each location or want to explore at your own pace, this might not be ideal.
• Optional Upgrades: Hotel pickup and drop-off are available, adding convenience but at an extra cost.

Real Traveler Feedback

We pulled insights from hundreds of reviews to give you an honest picture. Many rave about the knowledgeable guides—with Ellie and Rosa often singled out as top-notch—and how the scenery exceeds expectations even on cloudy days.

One guest said, “The scenery is spectacular, and the drive through snow-covered landscapes was meditative,” which perfectly captures the tour’s appeal in winter months. Conversely, some mention that crowded spots like Reynisfjara can feel overwhelming, and that the weather can dampen the experience. Still, most agree that the stops are well-chosen and offer ample opportunity for photos and short walks.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for those who want a rundown of Iceland’s south coast in one day. It suits travelers who prefer guided tours, value ease and comfort, and don’t mind spending most of the day on a bus. It’s also good for people who want to see the key sights without the hassle of planning transport and timing.

However, if you’re after a more flexible, private, or off-the-beaten-path experience, or if you’re traveling with very young children or have specific accessibility needs, you might find this tour a bit limiting. Weather-sensitive travelers should also keep in mind that some stops might be less spectacular if conditions are poor.

The Sum Up

If you’re looking for a well-organized, informative day tour that hits some of Iceland’s most famous sights—waterfalls, black sand beaches, volcanoes, and glaciers—this Southern Coast, Waterfalls, and Black Beach Tour offers considerable value. The guides’ knowledge, comfort of transportation, and the breathtaking scenery make it a solid choice for most travelers wanting a stress-free adventure.

It’s particularly perfect for those who want a guided experience that minimizes planning and maximizes sightseeing. Be prepared for a long day, unpredictable weather, and busy spots, but know that many find these experiences more than worth it.

If capturing the essence of Iceland’s rugged beauty in a single day appeals to you, and you’re comfortable with group tours, this could be just what you’re looking for.

FAQ: Your Questions Answered

Is hotel pickup available for this tour?
Yes, if you select the upgrade option, your pickup and drop-off will be arranged in central Reykjavik, making the day even more convenient.

How long does the tour last?
The full experience runs for approximately 10 hours, starting at around 9:00 am and returning in the evening.

What sights will I see?
You’ll visit Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls, Reynisfjara black-sand beach, and get views of volcanoes like Hekla and Eyjafjallajokull, plus Solheimajokull Glacier if conditions permit.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is at your own expense, and there’s a designated stop at a local restaurant.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most reviews don’t specify age restrictions, but given the length and walking involved, it’s best for older children who can handle a full day on the bus.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If conditions are too hazardous, the stop at glaciers may be canceled, but your guide will adapt the schedule as needed.

How crowded are the stops?
Popular spots like Reynisfjara can get busy, especially in peak seasons. Be prepared for potential crowds and plan your photos accordingly.

Can I customize this experience?
Since it’s a scheduled group tour, customization is limited, but the guide might be able to give you some tips for extra exploration.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly and in layers. Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended since Iceland’s weather is highly changeable.

How do I book?
You can reserve your spot online in advance—most travelers book about a month ahead, and some reviews mention booking around 6 weeks early for the best availability.

Whether you’re after a serious sightseeing day or just want to tick off iconic Icelandic spots, this tour offers a practical, scenic, and well-reviewed way to experience the south coast.