From Reykjavik: South Coast, Waterfalls & Glacier Hike

Reykjavik , Iceland

From Reykjavik: South Coast, Waterfalls & Glacier Hike

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(315 reviews)

12h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover Iceland’s breathtaking south coast on this full-day adventure from Reykjavík! Marvel at the thundering waterfalls of Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss, take a guided glacier walk on Sólheimajökull, and explore the dramatic black sand beach of Reynisfjara, home to towering basalt sea stacks.

Start your journey with a scenic drive along Iceland’s rugged coastline. We stop at Skógafoss, a stunning 60-meter waterfall, and visit Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, where powerful waves crash against volcanic black sands - home to iconic basalt sea stacks.
You will gear up for an easy glacier hike on Sólheimajökull, where you’ll explore blue ice, deep crevasses, and dramatic formations.

We also stop at Seljalandsfoss, where you can walk behind the cascading water for a unique view. On the way back to Reykjavík, relax and enjoy stunning views of Iceland's iconic South Coast.

Available options

08:00 AM

Pickup included

What's included

Seljalandsfoss & Skogafoss Waterfalls

Specialized glacier gear (helmet, harness, walking ice axe, glacier crampons)

Guided, beginner-friendly glacier hike on Solheimajokull Glacier

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

English-speaking, certified glacier guide

Convenient Reykjavík pickup and drop off

Detailed itinerary

No car required! Start your memorable journey to the iconic south coast with convenient pickup from select stops in Reykjavik.

Stop 2

Feel the power of one of Iceland’s most iconic falls as Skógafoss crashes 60 meters into a wide misty basin. Walk right up to the spray for photos, or climb the staircase beside the waterfall for sweeping views over the valley and the South Coast

Stop 3

Next, enjoy a truly unforgettable walk on ice with a beginner-friendly guided hike on Sólheimajökull Glacier, a stunning outlet of Mýrdalsjökull on Iceland’s South Coast. In a small group, you’ll meet your certified glacier guide at the parking lot, gear up with crampons, an ice axe, and helmet, and walk across a dramatic landscape to the glacier, passing a beautiful lagoon dotted with floating icebergs. Then you’ll step onto real glacier ice for about 1.5 hours of easy hiking, weaving between ice ridges, crevasses and shimmering blue formations. Along the way, your guide will share stories about climate, history, and the area, with plenty of time for photos and taking in the views. It’s a fun, safe and unforgettable way to experience Iceland’s ice world - no previous glacier experience required.

Stop 4

Step onto Iceland’s most famous black-sand beach, where basalt columns rise like a natural cathedral and the Atlantic surf roars in. You’ll see the Reynisdrangar sea stacks offshore and the striking geology that makes this coastline so dramatic - plus important safety guidance for the powerful “sneaker waves.”

Leisurely stroll along the black sand beach known for its famous basalt columns and caverns. Witness the Reynisdrangar cliffs and basalt rock stacks that rise from the sea.

Stop 5

A picture-perfect waterfall with a pathway that can let you view the cascade from behind for an unforgettable perspective. In winter the trail can be icy or closed, but the stop is still spectacular from the front, with dramatic cliffs, mossy rock, and constant shifting light.

We will make our way back to the capital where you will be dropped off at your selected pick-up point.

What's not included

Food and drinks

Hiking boots with ankle support

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.7

184 reviews

5★

147

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

131 reviews

5★

119

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Minimum age is 8 years old and minimum shoe size is 35 EU

Please bring warm outdoor clothing, waterproof jacket and pants, packed lunch, gloves, hat and good hiking shoes

Please note that the order of the itinerary can be altered if weather conditions change

For the glacier hike: In order to safely fit our specialized glacier crampons, guests must have a shoe size between 35-50 EU

Hiking boots with ankle support are mandatory for the glacier hike portion of the adventure (available to rent for a fee)

This tour is rated as easy, but guests should be prepared to walk ~3-4km over uneven terrain

Important notes

Please note: Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support are required for the glacier hike. Boots and waterproof jackets and pants are available to rent for a fee if required.
In order to safely fit our specialized glacier crampons, guests must have a shoe size between 35-50 EU.

Please inform the operator (info@adventures.is) where you would like to be picked up for your tour no later than 48 hours prior to your tour departure. Pick up is offered from select Reykjavik pick up points. Please find a full list of available pick up points by visiting https://adventures.is/information/pick-up/

About Reykjavik

Reykjavik is the world's northernmost capital city, known for its vibrant cultural scene, stunning natural surroundings, and unique Icelandic charm. It offers a blend of modern amenities and ancient geothermal wonders, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.

Top Attractions

Hallgrímskirkja

This iconic church is a landmark of Reykjavik, known for its distinctive architecture and towering spire. It offers panoramic views of the city from its tower.

Architecture/Religious 1-2 hours Moderate (ISK 1000 for the tower)

Harpa Concert Hall

A stunning modern concert hall with a glass facade that reflects the surrounding landscape. It hosts a variety of performances and events.

Architecture/Entertainment 1-2 hours Free to enter, performance tickets vary

Blue Lagoon

A geothermal spa known for its milky-blue waters rich in minerals. It's a popular spot for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Nature/Relaxation Half a day Expensive (ISK 49,900 and up)

Reykjavik Art Museum

A museum showcasing contemporary Icelandic and international art. It's housed in a striking building with a glass facade.

Museum 1-2 hours Moderate (ISK 1400)

Perlan Museum

A unique museum located in a glass dome that offers a variety of exhibits, including a glacier exhibit and a planetarium.

Museum 2-3 hours Moderate to Expensive (ISK 3,990 and up)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Plokkfiskur

A traditional Icelandic fish stew made with mashed potatoes, white fish, onions, and béchamel sauce.

Main Course Contains fish and dairy

Hákarl

Fermented shark, a traditional Icelandic delicacy known for its strong smell and taste.

Snack Contains fish

Skyr

A thick, creamy Icelandic yogurt-like dairy product, often served with berries or cream.

Dessert Contains dairy

Rúgbrauð

A dense, dark rye bread traditionally baked underground using geothermal heat.

Bread Vegan

Popular Activities

Glacier hiking and ice climbing Whale watching Snowmobiling on a glacier Caving and lava tunnel exploration Visiting geothermal spas like the Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon Enjoying a traditional Icelandic massage or spa treatment Taking a leisurely walk around Tjörnin Lake in Reykjavik Visiting museums and galleries

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the warmest time of the year with long daylight hours, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The city is lively with numerous festivals and events.

8°C to 13°C (46°F to 55°F) 46°F to 55°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Icelandic
Widely spoken: English, Danish, German
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Icelandic Króna (ISK)

Time Zone

GMT+0

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Iceland is a very safe country with low crime rates. However, it's always important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure your safety.

Important Precautions:

• Keep your valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
• Be cautious when using ATMs, and only use ATMs located in secure, well-lit areas
• Research tour operators and rental companies before booking to ensure they are reputable and legitimate

Getting there

By air

Keflavík International Airport • 50 km (31 miles) from Reykjavik

By bus

BSÍ Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is efficient and affordable, with frequent services and easy-to-use ticketing.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Bustravel, Uber (limited availability)

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Reykjavik Hlemmur Vesturbær

Day trips

Golden Circle

230 km (143 miles) from Reykjavik • Full day

A popular day trip route that includes three of Iceland's most famous attractions: Þingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss Waterfall.

South Coast

150-200 km (93-124 miles) from Reykjavik • Full day or overnight

A scenic drive along Iceland's south coast, offering a variety of attractions, including waterfalls, black sand beaches, and glaciers.

Snæfellsnes Peninsula

240 km (149 miles) from Reykjavik • Full day or overnight

A scenic peninsula known as 'Iceland in Miniature' due to its diverse landscapes, including mountains, glaciers, lava fields, and beaches.

Festivals

Reykjavik Arts Festival • Late May to early June Iceland Airwaves • Early November Reykjavik Winter Lights Festival • Late January to early February

Pro tips

Visit the Blue Lagoon or another geothermal spa for a relaxing and rejuvenating experience
Explore Reykjavik's street art and murals, which can be found throughout the city
Take a day trip to the Golden Circle or another nearby attraction for a taste of Iceland's natural wonders
Try traditional Icelandic food, such as lamb soup, fish stew, and fermented shark
Visit a local brewery or distillery and sample Icelandic craft beer or spirits