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Iceland South Coast – map + 21 best attractions

Last updated on November 1, 2023 by Claire Robinson - this article contains affiliate links. If you purchase through them, I get a small commission ( more )

Within 2 hours of driving from Reykjavik starts the famous Iceland South Coast. With easy access, it offers mazing scenery: waterfalls, fjords, glaciers, lagoons, icebergs and black sand beaches!  Below is my guide to help plan your Iceland South coast itinerary with map, best attractions, tips, photos…

Before my tips + photos, here are my favorites for Iceland:

My favorite platform to rent a car in Iceland: DiscoverCars

The unmissable boat tour: Whale Watching

Fun activity: Swimming in Silfra Fissure

My favorite places to stay:

• Reykjavik: see best rated hotels – e.g. Vintage Boutique Hotel
• Lake Myvatn: see best rated hotels – e.g. Hotel Laxa
• Vik area: see best rated hotels – e.g. Hotel Vik i Myrdal

Why visit the South Coast of Iceland?

The South Coast of Iceland is a world of majestic and colorful landscapes:

• from impressive 60m high waterfalls,
• to long black beaches where you don’t see the end,
• to easily accessed white glacier tongues melting into lagoons.
• And you can also walk around blue and white icebergs sparkling on the dark sand
• or inside swirling canyons and fjords…
• Plus, in June, the lupin fields turn all that pink and violet and in Winter, the glaciers give you crystal caves. 

It is a great region to discover on your  Road trip around Iceland

Let me show you around…

Below is a short video I made to show you a snapshot of the beautiful landscapes you can admire when visiting South Iceland including the waterfalls, the icebergs and Vestrahorn. 

Is South or North Iceland better?

Most visitors visit the South Region as it is easier to access, close to Reykjavik. Both regions are very different and worth a visit. In my opinion:

• South Iceland is more romantic with elegant waterfalls, lagoons, icebergs…
• North Iceland is more impressive with a post-apocalyptic feel: geothermal fields, craters, lava, canyons…

More photos after the planning tips.

Planning tips – Iceland South Coast

How to get to south iceland & map.

It is very easy to reach this region it is all in length between the sea and the Mountains of the Central Highlands. And the Ring Road (Road 1) leads you through it with all the major points of interest not far from it.

• Reykjavik to Vik – 2h15 drive
• Vik to Jokulsarlon – 2h15 drive
• Jokulsarlon to Höfn – 1h drive

How long to plan to visit South Iceland?

Considering the driving distances, with only one day from Reykjavik, you can only see a portion of the coast (the first half to Vik). If you are planning a road trip:

• I think 3 days allow you to see the highlights
• But 5 days is best to go in depth and see all the variations in landscapes.

Option 1 – Self-drive

For the freedom of stopping wherever you want and spending more time in the places you really enjoy, renting a car is the best solution. Driving on the South Coast of Iceland is actually really easy. The Ring Road is there all along, and the side roads are short and in good conditions. Plus all major locations have large carparks.

You can read my articles about

• planning an Iceland road trip
• how to rent a car in Iceland  
• driving in Iceland
• Note: if visiting in Winter, head to my article about driving in Winter

Need to rent a car in Iceland?

• Compare prices on my favorite platform:   Discovercars.com – one of the best rated comparison sites!
• Prefer a  compact car  for the narrow streets in villages
• Consider their full coverage option – it for peace of mind! 
• Book early to have a large choice of vehicles!

See all my tips

Option 2 – South Coast Iceland Tours

Considering the amazing landscapes everywhere, organized tour from Reykjavik to Vik or the South Coast are a good idea. This way you can remain the whole time the nose against the window.

South Coast Iceland Tour Options include some of the best day trips from Reykjavik :

• Reykjavik to Vik Tour – it includes stops at Seljalandsfoss, Skogafoss and the black sand beaches around Vik – Check out program and book
• Jokulsarlon Tour from Reykjavik – Drive all the way to the amazing lagoon and its icebergs – Check out program and book
• Overnight South Coast Tour – with an overnight trip, you get to see a lot more of the South Coast and spend less time in the bus –   Check out Winter program – or check out a Summer program and book

Map of Southern Iceland + itinerary tips + place to stay

Top 5 things to do in south iceland.

Let’s start with a map highlighting 5 of the most famous attractions in South Iceland to help you get oriented:

• Seljalandsfoss waterfall
• Skogafoss waterfall
• Vik and its black beach (Reynisfjara)
• Jokulsarlon glacial lagoon
• Diamond beach

Below is a South coast map of Iceland attractions. It to give you an idea of

• what is referred to as the South coast of Iceland
• the locations of its 2 main towns: Vik and Höfn
• The 4 most famous attractions
• The locations of other points of interest (complete South Iceland map available in my eBook )

All my favorite locations are included (with GPS coordinates, map of region and planning info) in both my travel guide eBooks that help you easily plan your Iceland road trip :

Plan your dream trip to Iceland with my guides!

• 8 easy-to-plan maps
• 100+ pre-selected locations
• GPS coordinates 
• Useful planning tips
• 130+ large photos 

• 2 easy-to-plan maps
• 30 stops, 10 detours
• 70+ large photos 

The towns of South Iceland

The main touristic towns are :

• Vik in the middle of the coast with black sand beaches all around
• Höfn the gateway town to the East Fjords

In between are very small settlements.

South Coast driving times

• Reykjavik to Seljalandsfoss = 2h drive
• Seljalandsfoss to Vik = 50min
• Vik to Jokulsarlon = 2h30
• Jokulsarlon to Höfn = 1h10

Road trip in South Iceland Itinerary Tips

You can use the list of places to see below to help you select what you want to see on your itinerary. Here are a few tips to help you plan your itinerary in South Iceland:

• If you are doing a ring road tour and continuing to the South coast and the East Fjords, better to group by locations day after day.
• But if you are driving back to Reykjavik after the South Coast, you can skip locations to see them as you return. This will help to balance the views and the time on the road. For example, you can stop at Seljalandsfoss at the beginning and see Skogafoss, the other major waterfall on the return drive.
• Accommodations are mainly in Vik and Hofn, although you have a few options in between, so take the driving time to accommodations into account
• Plan a sunset and sunrise at Jokulsarlon, it is a truly magnificent location
• Sunset at Seljalandsfoss is also worth planning to take photos from behind the waterfall

Note: If you don’t want to book everything yourself, consider booking a Self-Drive Tour Package (see my article to help you choose )

3 days return along South Iceland (Summer) – itinerary example with highlights

• Day 1 Depart from Reykjavik Stop 1 – Seljalandsfoss – walk behind + walk to Gljufrabui Stop 2 – Skogafoss – enjoy the rush of water, walk up the stairs and maybe a little along the river Stop 3 – Reynifjara black beach – enjoy the basalt column and a long walk on the black sand Night in Vik –  see the best rated accommodations in Vik  
• Day 2 Stop 1 – Explore Skaftafell National Park Stop 2 – Admire the turh church Hofskirkja Stop 3 – Walk along Jokulsarlon, admire the icebergs + Explore Diamond beach Choose between 2 activities: Glacier walking at Skaftafell or boat at Jokulsarlon Sunset at Jokulsarlon Night near between Jokulsarlon and Höfn –  see the best rated accommodations in Höfn
• Day 3 Stop 1 – Sunrise at Jokulsarlon Stop 2 – Admire the other glacial lagoon at Fjallsarlon Stop 3 – hike at the Fjadragljufur canyon Drive back to Reykjavik (if early, detour to the Blue lagoon) Night in Reykjavik – see best rated accommodations

Find out more itineraries including the South Coast:

• My suggested itineraries for 5 days in Iceland
• My suggested for 7 days in Iceland itineraries
• My 4 itineraries to spend 10 days in Iceland
• And my favorite itinerary for 14 days around Iceland

What to wear

Check out my complete article with detailed suggestions and tips on what to wear and pack for Iceland

Where to stay along the Icelandic South Coast

There are many accommodations along the Ring Road on the South Coast of Iceland: hotels, campsites, Guesthouses…

There are 2 main accommodation hubs along the South Coast:

• Vik The town of Vik with its black sand beaches. It is a really practical area to stop for the night See the best rated accommodations in Vik   For example: Vik i Myrdal  with a choice of modern rooms. Plus a delicious restaurant – See more photos and availabilities Hotel Katla Hofdabrekka, close to Vik but more in nature, large comfortable rooms – See more photos and availabilities

Höfn The town of Höfn at the East end before continuing to the East fjords or turning around to drive back to Reykjavik –  see the best rated accommodations in Höfn For example, the Höfn Berjaya Iceland, right by the harbor – see more photos and availability

• If you want to stay even closer to Jokulsarlon to get there at night if the aurora activity is high, the closest accommodations  with great ratings are Hali Country Hotel  and  Skyrhusid Guesthouse . The drive to the lagoon is only 10 minutes.

More hotels and accommodation ideas in my article: Where to stay in South Iceland

Where to stay in Iceland?

My favorites:

• Reykjavik , capital city:   see best rated accommodations  – or  my article on where to stay
• Selfoss , between Golden Circle and South Coast: see best rated accommodations
• Vik,  near waterfalls and glaciers:  see best rated accommodations
• Höfn , gateway to the East fjords:  see best rated accommodations
• Egilsstadir , between fjords and North Iceland:  see best rated accommodations
• Reykjahlid , for the wonders of Lake Myvatn:  see best rated accommodations
• Akureyri , capital of the North:  see best rated accommodations
• Grundarfjordur , on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula:  see best rated accommodations

TOP 5 – Best things to do on the South Coast of Iceland

#1 – seljalandsfoss.

About – One of the most visited spots in Iceland. The 60 m drop can be disappointing as you arrive on the parking but don’t worry, the magic of this waterfall starts when you walk behind it!

More – Photos and planning info on my article about Seljalandsfoss

#2 – Skogafoss

About – Another one of the most visited spots in Iceland, Skogafoss is a very elegant 60m high curtain waterfall. You can get up-close at the bottom or climb the steps to the viewing platform higher up.

More – Photos and planning info on my article about Skogafoss

#3 – Reynisfjara black sand beach

About – The South coast has many black sand beaches, but the most famous is Reynisfjara with its stacks of basalt columns. Just be careful with the waves!

More – Photos and planning info on my article about the Iceland black sand beaches

#4 – Jokulsarlon Lagoon

About – The lagoon of Jokulsarlon and its icebergs are THE HIGHLIGHT of the South Coast of Iceland. The glacier releases huge chunks of ice that float towards the sea.

More – Photos and planning info on my article about Jokulsarlon lagoon

#4 – Diamond Beach (Jokulsarlon Beach)

About – Just across the lagoon, the beach is less visited but can be spectacular. The tide often pushes back small and big icebergs on the black sand of the beach

More – Photos and planning info on my article about Diamond beach

I don’t drink coffee

But I also like other drinks and sweets! Do you like the free content you find on my blog? All my tips and practical information, without intrusive advertising…

11 other South Iceland Attractions

#6 – fjadrargljufur canyon.

About – A little off Road 1, this tortuous canyon is easily accessible and a nice change in scenery, yet a lot less tourists visit it. Its name uses the Icelandic word for feather due to how the canyon is shaped

More – Photos and planning info on my article about Fjadragljufur

#7 – Skaftafell National Park – glacier

About – Beautiful land with great hikes, incredible views towards the sea and a glacier tongue to explore

More – Photos and planning info on my article about Svartifoss & Skaftafell

#8 – Svartifoss 

About – The Svartifoss waterfall is the most famous sight in the Skaftafell park. Its organ-like basalt columns makes it quite unique

#9 – Fjallsarlon

About – Less visited than its neighbor Jokulsarlon, this lagoon presents better view of its glacier and some interesting surrounding mountains

More – Photos and planning info on my article about Fjallsarlon

#10 – Vestrahorn

About – What a magnificent mountain! This view requires a short detour, but I recommend taking the time to admire those cliffs against the black sand

More – Photos and planning info on my article about Vestrahorn

#11 – Vik & Beach

Another black sand beach by the small town of Vik. You can also climb to the small church for nice views of the cliff. In June the area is covered with lupin flowers.

#12 – Giant Mossy Lava Field

As you drive along Road 1 you will cross many lava fields. This one is not indicated. There is just a small place to stop on the North side of the Ring Road. It is quite special as the lava rocks are covered with a thick layer of moss, and trees have started to grow. Just be careful not to walk too much on the moss as it takes a very long time to recover.

#13 – Solheimajokull glacier

You can go hiking on the glacier ( see options ) but you can also only enjoy a short walk to the tongue of the glacier to admire its shape and glacial river.

#14 – Plane wreck

Plane wreck on black sand, east of Vik – 45min walk one way. Not my thing, but many people love it.

#15 – Hofskirkja

Turf church built in 1884. This style of church was being created to protect from the harsh cold. This particular church is a more luxury version with more wood.

#16 –  Dverghamrar

A short stop to see basalt columns. If you have see some in other places, this may not be as interesting.

Plan your trip to Iceland this Summer:

• My itineraries :  5 days ,  1 week ,  10 days ,  2 weeks
• Where to stay in Iceland
• Where to stay in Reykjavik: best hotels
• 36 tips to rent a car in Iceland
• Guide to driving in Iceland
• How to plan a road trip in Iceland

5 Fun activities in Southern Iceland

If you want to cut your driving and scenery watching with some fun activities, here is a selection on the South Coast of Iceland:

#17 – Boat ride on Jokulsarlon Lagoon

Enjoy a boat tour to get really close to the icebergs and to the Glacier tongue. Departure from Jokulsarlon lagoon. From May to October Reserve your seat

#18 – In Winter – Visit the Natural Ice Cave ***

Discover some of the most amazing places to see in Iceland in Winter: the natural ice caves in glaciers. Some are blue, others black.. Where the ice is sparkling and intense blue. Unforgettable! Departure from Jokulsarlon lagoon From November to March

Check out my article to choose your ice cave tour , or Reserve your spot on my favorite one .

#19 – Skaftafell Glacier Hike (Medium difficulty)

Discover the world of glaciers. How they move, what they look like once you are on them. This is an impressive world. Departure from Skaftafell visitor center Reserve your spot

#20 – Skaftafell Ice Climbing 

Enjoy a hike on a glacier plus the climb of an ice wall. Departure from Skaftafell visitor center Book your spot

#21 – Westman Islands (Vestmannaeyjar)

Take a short flight to the island to spend the day there. And enjoy a RIB boat tour to discover the sea caves and cliffs around the island. Departure from Bakki airport Or take a boat tour See options

Iceland South Coast in Winter

The South Iceland is very accessible in Winter thanks to Road 1. You still have to be careful and prepared, winds can be strong. But it is one of the easiest parts to visit because everything is so close to the Ring Road.

Learn more on my article about the South Coast of Iceland in Winter

Want to see more of the best Iceland has to offer?

• All my favorite things to do in North Iceland – read article
• Itinerary suggestions –  read article
• 45 Most beautiful landscapes in Iceland in pictures – read article
• The best stops on the Ring Road – read article
• The best locations off the beaten path around Iceland – read article
• 21 Most beautiful waterfalls in Iceland – read article
• 5 best Lava Fields in Iceland – read article
• The 10 best lava caves in Iceland –  read article
• The 5 most beautiful black sand beaches in Iceland – read article
• The Golden Circle – read article
• The Snaefellsnes peninsula – read article
• The best things to do in North Iceland –  read article

Planning a trip to Iceland?

Check out my travel guide to help you plan:

Plan your dream trip in Iceland thanks to my guide

• 8 maps to easily plan your itinerary
• GPS coordinates direct to the carparks
• Tips to make the most of your time
• 130+ original photos to help you choose

And keep track of your own trip!

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South Coast of Iceland: 30 Top Sights & Attractions (+Map & Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: April 15, 2024

The South Coast of Iceland is one of the most beautiful and most visited regions in Iceland. Together with Reykjavik , the Golden Circle, and the famous Blue Lagoon, the South Coast is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country and an indispensable part of pretty much every Iceland itinerary , especially if this is your first time in Iceland.

Easily accessible via the Ring Road that encircles the entire island, Iceland’s South Coast stretches for over 320 km (200 miles), approx. between Selfoss town and Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon. Some of the most beautiful places of Iceland are located along the southern coast and this area also offers some great attractions and fun outdoor activities such as glacier hiking or ice caving.

But with so much to see and do on the South Coast of Iceland, it can be hard to narrow down the best options and decide where to go, especially if you only have one or two days here….

In this article, we feature all the best things to do on Iceland’s South Coast : the most beautiful natural sights, popular attractions, and the best activities that are worth your time the most. In addition, we also include some lesser-known places, the hidden gems of the Icelands’ south coast .

Even if you visit just a few of these places, it will make your trip so much more special! For each of the highlights mentioned in this article, we also include practical tips and information that will help you plan your trip. Find out!

Top 4 Experiences & Tours on the South Coast:

• Natural Ice Caves (Oct-March).
• Glacier Hike .
• Lava Tunnel .
• Lava Show .

TIP: To make it easier to plan your self-drive South Coast tour, we also created a map indicating all the Iceland South Coast attractions mentioned in this article. You can save it to your phone and use it during the trip as well.

The must-see places are indicated with a purple star, the lesser-visited places that are also nice to see if you have more time are indicated in red. We also included some of the best activities (yellow). Remember that often, those lesser-known places and unique activities will make your trip much more memorable than just visiting the main highlights where everyone goes!

Take a look at the map below and scroll down for more info about each of the sights of this beautiful region!

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

Good to know: If you want to tour the South Coast on your own, you’ll be glad to know that this part of Iceland is quite easy to visit by regular car. Furthermore, the main South Coast attractions are usually well accessible in any season (although you should read this if you are planning on driving in Iceland in winter !). If you are driving, you may want to check this 4-day Iceland itinerary with tips on how to plan your visit to this part of Iceland.

Ideally, you plan at least two days for the highlights of the South Coast of Iceland . If you want to see and do everything on this list, you’ll likely need at least 4-5 days. If you want to see the best of Iceland’s South Coast in just one day, consider going with an organized tour and let them do all the driving while you enjoy the scenery.

TIP: If you want to visit the South Coast and Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon as a day trip from Reykjavik, you should know that it will be a very long drive ( this is the most popular day tour ). If visiting in winter, when the days are short and driving conditions unpredictable, you should really opt for a 2-day tour as one day will be much too short to enjoy it. For a self-drive winter trip, please see our Iceland winter itinerary .

Without further ado, here are the best places to see and best things to do on the South Coast of Iceland:

1. Seljalandsfoss

Seljalandsfoss Waterfall is one of the first stops when touring the South Coast from Reykjavik. It’s one of the most famous waterfalls in Iceland, best known for the fact that you can walk behind it. While the path is muddy and you will get wet (a bit), don’t miss this experience. It’s a short easy walk that only takes a few minutes, just be sure to wear good hiking shoes and a rain jacket to enjoy it!

Seljalandsfoss is an extremely popular South Coast attraction and all the tours stop here as well. So ideally, you visit here very early in the morning or late in the evening. On the other hand, most people move on quite quickly, so it’s usually not overly busy.

Good to know: In winter, the path behind the waterfall is usually closed and you need stabilicers or crampons to even get closer to the falls. But if you are visiting Seljalandsfoss in a warmer season and the walk behind the falls is open, it’s a must-do! Don’t worry, it’s just a short easy walk that will only take a few minutes. You may get wet, so make sure you are wearing a rain jacket!

Info: Seljalandsfoss waterfall can be visited at any time of the day, the whole year round. There is no fee to enter, but you have to pay for the car parking. There are bathroom facilities here and you can also get coffee and small snacks at the souvenir shop.

TIP: Just near Seljalandsfoss, there is another lesser-known waterfall, Gljúfrabúi, that’s worth a visit as well. A short drive further, you can find yet another hidden gem – Nauthúsagil Waterfall. More info about these waterfalls further below – points #19 and #26.

2. Skógafoss

Skógafoss waterfall is another must-see on Iceland’s South Coast. This waterfall is very picturesque and is considered one of the most beautiful waterfalls of Iceland. Let’s just say that if you’d ask someone to paint a waterfall, it would probably look like Skogafoss. It’s truly picture-perfect. This is also one of the Game of the Thrones filming locations and also a backdrop for countless films and videos featuring Iceland.

With a drop of 60 meters (200 ft) Skogafoss is one of the tallest waterfalls in Iceland ( Haifoss waterfall in the highlands is more than twice as high and there are a few others that are even higher). Either way, it’s an impressive sight! And if you visit on a sunny day, you can often see a rainbow on the falls.

If you don’t mind doing some steep stairs, take a staircase to the top of the waterfall. The views of the surroundings and the sight of the water tumbling down are well worth a short climb! At the top, you can also make a short hike for even more spectacular views. This is also where the (strenuous) hike Fimmvorduhals to Thorsmork in the highlands starts.

Info: There is no fee to visit the waterfall and parking is also free of charge. There is a campsite and a hotel here, as well as other facilities. The waterfall is just off the Ring Road and you can visit day and night and in all seasons.

TIP: Check out the nearby Skogar Museum – more info further below at #13.

3. Jökulsárlón

Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon is probably the most unique place on Iceland’s South Coast and one of my personal favorites. This glacial lake is filled with icebergs coming from the nearby glacier and the scenery here changes all the time. No matter how many times you’ve been here, Jokulsarlon surprises you time and again.

There are two ways to visit the glacier lagoon – on foot or by boat. The easiest way to admire the beautiful scenery here is by simply taking a walk along the eastern shore of the lagoon. You can see plenty of icebergs and often also seals swimming around them.

And if you want to get closer to the icebergs, you can also take a boat tour (May to mid-November only). You can choose between an amphibian boat tour or a zodiac boat tour. If you are visiting in the summer (May – September), you may want to consider a kayaking tour between the icebergs instead. It’s one of the most unique South Coast activities!

Are Jokulsarlon boat tours worth it? The boats take you closer to the icebergs and the scenery around you is absolutely beautiful, so it is well worth it. If, however, you are visiting Iceland on a budget or don’t have much time, you can also see some amazing scenery without going on a boat. It’s not an absolute must.

Info: There is no fee to visit Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon itself, but boat tours aren’t cheap. Facilities are limited here.

TIP: Since Jokulsarlon is one of the most popular places on the South Coast of Iceland, it’s always very busy here during the day. For a more unique experience, stay at one of the hotels nearby , and come here late in the evening and/or early in the morning. You can also visit the nearby Fjallsarlon glacier lagoon that’s much less known (see #20 below for more info).

4. Diamond Beach

Jokulsarlon Beach or Diamond Beach , are in fact two beaches split by a bridge at the opposite side of the road from Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon. These names aren’t really official names and many Icelanders never heard of the ‘Diamond Beach’, yet, all the tourists talk about it…. Diamond Beach probably got its name because of all the icebergs scattered all around on the black sand and sparkling in the sun like diamonds.

These two beaches are usually filled with icebergs that are coming from the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon. In general, there are more and bigger icebergs here in winter than in summer, but you really never know how it will look like before you get there.

Also, one beach can have much bigger icebergs than another. It all depends on the weather, the temperatures, and even on the direction of the wind. I suggest that you take a look from the bridge where the biggest chunks of ice are and go to that side.

Good to know: The best time to visit Diamond Beach is at sunset during the winter months. That’s when there’s lots of ice here and it’s indeed sparkling like diamonds. But even in summer, it’s well worth a trip! This is also a great place to see the Northern Lights in Iceland (+-September to April).

5. Reynisfjara – Vík Black Sand Beach

The black sand beach Reynisfjara near Vik town is another must-see place when visiting Iceland’s South Coast! Some people also refer to this beach as Vik Beach or Reynisdrangar – it’s all the same place. Reynisfjara is the beach itself, whereas Reynisdrangar refers to the rock formations that you see in the sea here.

Also, when you see Vik mentioned in any itinerary, they usually simply mean visiting this beach. While there are also some other things to do in Vik town, Reynisfjara beach is actually the main attraction here.

Famous for its black sand and beautiful rock formations, Reynisfjara is also home to some very impressive basalt columns. Be sure to check out the Hálsanefshellir Cave !

Good to know: Often included in various lists of the most beautiful beaches in the world, Reynisfjara is in no way a typical beach. In fact, the waves and the currents here are so strong that it can be dangerous just to walk too close to the water . It happens quite often that people are swept off their feet by a wave that suddenly comes further inland, and there have been quite a few fatal accidents here as well. So bear this in mind and be sure to keep a safe distance from the water at all times!

Info: There are bathroom facilities here and a cafe in the car parking area. A visit to the beach and the parking are free of charge, but there is a small fee for the use of public bathrooms. The last time we were there, bathrooms inside a cafe (for clients) were free of charge.

TIP: Also Reynisdrangar View from the other side of the mountain (at the beach right in front of Vik town) is a very nice photo stop in this area. This is the view you see in the featured image at the very top of this article. I indicated this viewpoint on our map as well. There’s one more nice place to see nearby – Dyrhólaey . You can read about it further below (see #15).

6. Skaftafell (Vatnajökull National Park)

Skaftafell is a nature reserve on the South Coast of Iceland. Now part of the bigger Vatnajökull National Park, it used to be called Skaftafell National Park in the past. If you are looking to do some hiking in southern Iceland, this is probably the best place for that.

There are quite a few hiking trails for all difficulty levels here, including a few shorter hikes that you can do even if you are just passing by and have an hour or two to spare. But there are also several longer hikes for those who want to get further off the beaten path and see more of the stunning scenery of South Iceland.

The easiest hike is that to the tongue of Skaftafellsjökull glacier , and takes about 1 hour in total. Keep in mind that you can’t walk on the glacier. If you are interested in doing a glacier hike, there are several good places for that on the South Coast. More information about glacier hiking further below.

One of the most popular hikes is that to Svartifoss waterfall – see next point for more info. My personal favorite is the Sjónarnípa hike that passes the Svartifoss waterfall and goes through some amazing scenery before opening up some amazing views of the glaciers, the coast, and the valley below. This hike is moderate and takes about 2-3 hours and it’s absolutely worth it!

Info: Skaftafell has a visitor center where you can get all the information about available hikes and trail conditions. In principle, you can hike here the whole year, but be sure to check the weather and the trail information if traveling in winter. At the moment, there is a small day fee, which is 750ISK (about 6 USD) per car. There’s also a campground here as well as a few places where you can get something to eat.

7. Svartifoss Waterfall

Svartifoss (aka the Black Waterfall) is also one of the highlights of Iceland’s South Coast that is considered a must. It’s located in the Skaftafell nature reserve (former Skaftafell National Park) and is the most popular place here.

The hike to Svartifoss isn’t long (about 1.5 km – 1 mile one way), but it goes uphill. It’s not a challenging climb and everyone including kids and the elderly should be able to do this. If you just walk to the waterfall and back, count about 1.5 hrs in total (+-45 minutes one way).

This is probably the most popular hike in Iceland, so it will be busy. If you want to avoid the crowds, visit very early in the morning or later in the evening.

TIP: Instead of going up and down the same way, you could opt for the longer circular hike Svartifoss – Sjónarsker – Sel . There is an old turf house at Sel which makes this hike a bit more special as well. This hike is about 5.5 km (3.4 miles) in total and will likely take you at least 2 hours.

8. Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon

Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon is probably the most famous canyon of Iceland. When we first visited here some 15 years ago, even locals couldn’t point us the way to get here. Nowadays, it’s one of the most popular attractions of Iceland’s south coast.

Fjadrargljufur is really suffering from its own popularity. At one point, some viewpoints and paths had to be closed due to the disrespectful behavior of tourists who just wouldn’t stay on designated paths. Now there is a new viewing platform to give you a nice view and to prevent people from walking where it’s not allowed. So please stay on the paths, be careful, and enjoy the amazing scenery!

Good to know: All the viewpoints and walking paths are at the top of the canyon. The best way to explore the area is by simply walking the path along the rim of the canyon. According to locals, it is possible to hike at the bottom of the canyon, but you’d probably have to start lower by the river and you’d have to walk in the water at some point. Not something I’d consider, even in summer… If you want to see the canyon from yet another viewpoint, walk to the bridge.

Info: There are two car parking areas, one of them accessible to regular cars (lower) and the other one for 4×4 only (higher). You can leave your car at one of these parking areas and take a walk along the canyon and back the same way. Unless you have someone drop you off at one parking and pick you up at another one, you’ll have to do this hike twice anyway. However, most people don’t even walk far, just visit the viewpoints close to the main car parking and move on.

9. Heimaey Island (Westman Islands)

Heimaey Island (aka Vestmannaeyjar) is the only inhabited island of the Westman Islands, just off the southern coast of Iceland. It’s a beautiful day trip destination in this part of the country. So if you have a day (or at least 5-6 hours) to spare, consider a short excursion to the Westman Islands.

Vestmannaeyjabær town was completely devastated by the lava flow from the Eldfell volcano in 1973. Today, the town is rebuilt, and you can learn all about its past in Eldheimar Museum . In town, you can also visit Sea Life Trust Beluga Whale Sanctuary , hike to Mount Eldfell , or take a speedboat tour around the island.

Heimaey Island is also home to one of the largest puffin colonies in Iceland . So if you are traveling in summer and want to see puffins, this is a great place to add to your itinerary!

Info: Heimaey Island can be reached by Vestmannaeyjar ferry from Landeyjahöfn. You can leave your car on the mainland and explore the island on foot or take this popular tour if you find a walk to the puffins too long . For more information on what to expect and how to get to the island, please see our detailed destination guide via the link below.

LEARN MORE: How to Visit Vestmannaeyjar – Heimaey Island

10. Glacier Hiking

Glacier hiking is one of the most popular things to do on the South Coast of Iceland. If people choose just one tour here, it’s often a glacier hike. The reason for this is that glacier hiking isn’t too strenuous and can also be done in all seasons.

There are several locations where you can go glacier hiking on the south coast. All the hikes go to one of the glacier tongues of the enormous Vatnajökull Glacier and they are all quite similar in terms of the scenery and prices. Since glaciers move and change, you never know exactly what kind of ice formations you’ll get to see, so just go with an open mind and enjoy the scenery around you.

The most popular places to go glacier hiking in Iceland are Sólheimajökull Glacier (see also point #21 below) and Svínafellsjökull Glacier

• Best-value glacier hike that starts at the Skaftafell. Here you can see all the tours that start in this area .
• Best-value glacier hike at Solheimajokull . Here you can see all glacier tours that start in this area . Some tours also go ice climbing. This is where we went on one of our trips.

Info: Glacier hiking is quite easy and pretty much everyone in regular physical condition can do it. The minimum age for most glacier hikes in Iceland is 8 years. We had people of over 70 in our group and they managed just fine. For more info, what to expect, what to wear, and where to go, please see our guide below.

LEARN MORE: Glacier Hiking in Iceland

11. Raufarhólshellir Lava Tunnel

If you are looking for something unique to do in Iceland, then you won’t want to miss the Raufarholshellir lava tunnel . It’s located just 35 minutes from Reykjavik and is just a small detour when driving to the most popular waterfalls on the south coast of Iceland.

This is one of the longest lava tubes in Iceland and it’s been made very accessible to tourists, with walkways and stairs allowing you to easily explore this unique underground site created by a volcanic eruption some 5,200 years ago. You can only visit here with a guide and the tour takes 1 hour.

The Raufarhólshellir lava tunnel can be visited the whole year round! In a way, it’s even more spectacular in the winter when you can see some spectacular ice formations at the entrance of the cave.

Info: The lava tunnel is quite accessible, but you do need to be in good physical shape in order to visit it. Basically, you have to be able to do stairs and walk on uneven terrain.

TIP: Be sure to reserve a timed slot in advance in order to guarantee a place when you get there. They have tours every hour, but if it’s full (and it often is) and you didn’t book upfront, you may have to wait for a few hours for the next available tour.

Good to know: This is one of the attractions that you can easily visit from Reykjavik even if you don’t have a car. There are tours that include a bus transfer from the city , and you only need about 3 hours for this excursion.

12. Ice Caves of Vatnajökull Glacier

Another highlight among Iceland’s South Coast attractions are the natural ice caves inside Vatnajökull Glacier . If you ever wanted to walk inside a real glacier cave, this is your chance!

Please note that you cannot visit ice caves on your own. Most of them can only be reached by a super jeep and you’ll have to go with a guided tour.

The most popular ice cave tours start near Jokulsarlon glacial lagoon or Skaftafell and run from the beginning of October to the end of March (some also in the beginning of April). Normally, the nicest ice caves of Vatnajokull are only accessible in winter. However, there is also one ice cave – Katla ice cave – that – if conditions allow – can be visited in every season. Below is an overview of some of the best natural ice cave tours in South Iceland:

• Ice cave & glacier hike tour near Skaftafell .
• Ice cave tour from Jokulsarlon .
• Katla ice cave tour from Vik (the only tour that runs the whole year). You can also visit this ice cave on a tour from Reykjavik .

13. Icelandic Lava Show

One of the newest additions to the South Coast attractions is the Icelandic Lava Show in Vik . If you want to learn all about lava and actually see real molten lava in action (and maybe even poke it with a stick), don’t miss this place!

This is a very special experience, unique to Iceland, and something you can’t easily find anywhere else (unless you encounter an active volcano on your travels). It’s indoors, accessible to everyone, and is a great place to visit with your whole family at any time of the year.

Furthermore, it’s open every day, doesn’t take much time to visit (the show takes 45 minutes), and is conveniently located in Vik where everyone visiting the South Coast passes anyway. So it’s very easy to include the lava show in any South Coast itinerary.

Info: The center is open daily, from 11 AM and the last show is at 8 PM. If you want to be sure to visit, it’s best to book your tickets in advance .

14. Skogar Museum

Skogar Museum is located less than 2km from Skogafoss waterfall. While the waterfall attracts big crowds, the museum is less known.

This site consists of 3 museums (folk museum, turf houses, and transport museum) and is a great place to get acquainted with the way people lived in Iceland in the past. My personal favorite part is the open-air museum where you can see typical Icelandic architecture and cute turf houses . In fact, this is the best place to see turf houses on the South Coast of Iceland. Don’t miss it!

Info: Skogar Museum is open daily except December 24. In June, July, and August, it’s open between 10 AM and 6 PM. From September to May – from 11 AM to 4 PM. For more info, please check their website .

TIP: There is a beautiful little-known waterfall near the museum – Kvernufoss. So if you are looking for even more waterfalls to visit in southern Iceland, you may want to check this one out. More info below.

15. Kvernufoss Waterfall

Just a short walk from the parking at the Skogar Museum, you can find another hidden gem of the South Coast of Iceland, Kvernufoss Waterfall . Not many people know about this waterfall and because you need to take a bit of a walk in order to see it, it’s usually very quiet here.

Kvernufoss also has a path where you can walk behind the waterfall, just as in Seljalandsfoss (minus the crowds)! Well worth it if you can spare some time.

Info: From the car parking, walk behind the museum and follow the fence until you get to the stairs over the fence. From there on, just follow the path. You’ll likely need at least 30-45 minutes for a visit here.

16. Dyrhólaey & Kirkjufjara

Dyrhólaey is a small nature reserve just near Vik and close to the famous Reynisfjara beach. It’s a very popular stop along the south coast.

One of the main sights is the stunning coastline with a large volcanic rock with a big arch in the ocean. You can easily see it from Dyrhólaey Viewpoint. Dyrhólaey Lighthouse is also nice to see, but I wouldn’t go out of the way for it. If you are lucky, you might be able to spot some puffins here in summer.

TIP: If you have some extra time, you could walk down to Kirkjufjara beach from here. It’s a beautiful downhill hike, but if you leave you car on top, you’ll have to get back up again, so keep that in mind. Or you can ask a designated driver in your group to pick you up at the bottom, which is by far the best way to do this.

Info: Dyrhólaey is a very nice photo stop and you don’t need much time here (unless you go hiking). It’s beautiful at sunset. Expect it to be very windy!

17. Stokksnes

Stokksnes is a small peninsula on the southeastern part of Iceland’s coast. This is the most eastern point of all the south coast attractions mentioned in this article. It’s about 1-hour extra drive eastwards from Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon. Most people touring the south coast don’t get this far.

The main reason to come here is the stunning coastal scenery with Vestrahorn mountain as a backdrop. This is a very popular place for photographers and when the weather conditions are favorable, indeed, one of the most picturesque places you’ll see in the region. Because it’s further away from all the main tourist places, it’s less visited than most other scenic locations in south Iceland.

There’s also a model Viking village, but everyone comes here for the scenery.

Info: This place is located on private land and there is a fee to enter. At the moment of writing, it’s about 900 ISK (7 USD) per person. There is also a small cafe at the car park.

18. Ingólfshöfði Cape (Puffins)

Ingolfshofdi Cape is one of the hidden gems of Iceland’s South Coast. Because it’s only accessible with a tour, not many people know about it or visit this place. The scenery here is absolutely unique and this is also one of the best places to see puffins in southern Iceland.

You can only visit Ingolfshofdi Cape with this tour and take my word for it – it will be one of the most memorable things you did in Iceland! An open tractor-pulled cart takes you to the island of Ingólfshöfði where you walk over the most surreal black sand landscape and visit bird cliffs that are home to a big colony of puffins.

We did this tour many years ago on our very first visit to Iceland. And even after many other trips to various parts of Iceland and many incredible places and experiences, it remains one of the most special, most unique places we visited in Iceland.

So if you are planning a trip to Iceland’s South Coast in summer, want to see puffins, and are looking for something unique to do, you may want to include Ingolfshofdi in your itinerary.

Info: The tour only runs between the end of May and mid-August (when puffins are around) and only a few days a week. So you have to book this tour in advance if you want to visit here. Wear good hiking boots, layers, and a wind- and waterproof jacket. Even in summer, you may need gloves, a buff, and a warm hat because there is usually a lot of wind.

19. Hofskirkja

Hofskirkja is a small turf church in South-East Iceland, between Skaftafell and Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon.

The church was originally built at the end of the 19th century and is the last turf church built in Iceland. It was restored in the ’50s and is one of the few remaining turf churches in the country (our other favorite is Grafarkirkja in Trollaskagi Peninsula in North Iceland ).

The church is still functional, although I have never seen it open. Around it is a fenced area with a very interesting graveyard.

Info: This is just a quick photo stop, so you only need a few minutes for a visit here. Still, it’s well worth a short detour when passing by. For years, Hofskirkja has been one of the must-do stops along the South Coast of Iceland!

20. Fjallsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Fjallsarlon Glacier Lagoon is located just a short drive from the famous Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon but is much less known or visited. The scenery here is very impressive as well, but it’s not nearly as busy as its famous neighbor. Fjallsarlon remains one of Iceland’s secret gems of the south coast.

If you are visiting here in summer, you can opt for a boat ride between the icebergs. If you want to avoid the crowds at Jokulsarlon, this is a great way to explore this unique glacial scenery and get close to the ice. It’s incomparably quieter than at Jokulsarlon.

Info: Boat tours on Fjallsarlon run between May and the end of October.

21. Eldhraun Lava Fields

There are lots of lava fields all over Iceland, but if you want to see a really nice one in southern Iceland, the Eldhraun lava field is probably one of the best places to be.

The lava here comes from a volcanic eruption at the end of the 18th century. It’s covered with a beautiful green carpet of moss.

Located near the Ring Road between Vik and Kirkjubaejarklaustur, this is just a quick photo stop that doesn’t require much time. There are several pull-offs where you can easily see this endless lava field.

Info: The vegetation here is fragile and there are also sharp rocks, cracks, etc. so do not walk in the lava field. At some places, however, there are visible paths and so if you absolutely want to take a walk, be sure to follow those paths.

22. Sólheimajökull Glacier

If you want to get closer to one of the tongues of the Vatnajökull glacier, Solheimajokull is one of the best places to do that. Just a bit off the Ring Road, there is a car parking area and an easy path guiding you to the base of the glacier (about 15 minutes walk).

This is a popular place to go hiking on a glacier, but you cannot walk on the glacier on your own, only with a guide – see below. But even if you are not going on a tour, it’s well worth seeing from close by. This is the place where we did a glacier hike during one of our trips to Iceland.

TIP: If you want to go hiking on a glacier, this popular tour starts at this location . If you are feeling a bit more adventurous, you can also opt for a glacier hike and ice climbing tour – see here . It’s also possible to go kayaking on the glacial lagoon here . Whatever option you choose, you have to book in advance!

23. Svínafellsjökull Glacier

Svínafellsjökull is another glacier tongue of the Vatnajokull glacier.

Located just near Skaftafell, it can be reached by a short bumpy road, just 2.5 km off the Ring Road. From the car parking it’s just a very short walk to the viewpoint where you can see the glacier.

If you are not planning to go hiking on ice and just want to see a glacier from close by, this is probably one of the best places where you can do it quite easily and without wasting much time.

24. Gljúfrabúi Waterfall

Gljúfrabúi waterfall is located just 5 minutes walk from the famous Seljanadsfoss (see #1 above). But because it’s somewhat hidden inside the gorge and isn’t visible until you get to it, most of the tourists visiting Seljalandsfoss don’t even know about it.

In the past, you could walk up closer to the waterfall, but the last time I visited, that path was closed. It is still possible to reach the waterfall by walking inside the gorge, but – depending on how high the water level is – your feet might get wet if you do this. Also, if you get too close to the falls, you’re likely to get wet too. So ideally you wear very good waterproof hiking boots (rain boots would be ideal here) and a rain jacket if you decide to walk inside the gorge.

Info : It takes just a few minutes to visit Gljúfrabúi. Follow the path to the left from Seljalandsfoss and you’ll see informational panels and an entrance to the narrow gorge on your right side. You don’t have to go deep inside the gorge in order to see the waterfall – you can just peek inside. The picture below was taken from the entrance to the gorge.

25. Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck

If you are looking to visit one of the most Instagrammable locations of Iceland South Coast, you may want to check out the abandoned DC plane wreck on the black beach Sólheimasandur . This US Navy airplane crashed here in 1973 (everyone survived) and has been laying on the beach ever since.

The scenery here is very special and the airplane wreck makes for a perfect prop for some dramatic and moody pictures. To tell you the truth, I don’t really get the hype, but many people find it worthwhile to hike for over 2 hours in order to see it. The good news is that since recently, there are also easier ways to get to this old airplane – see info below.

Info: The plane wreck is about a 3.8 km (2.4 miles) walk from the parking (so about 7.5 km (5 miles) in total). You cannot drive to the airplane wreck and have to leave your car at a new car parking next to Ring Road (we indicated it on our map). The hike isn’t hard, but it’s often very windy and cold here, so do not underestimate it. It’s not the best idea to hike here in winter, unless with someone who knows the area very well.

TIP: If you want to see this famous plane wreck the easy way, you can also get there and back with a shuttle from the car parking. That way, the whole tour only takes less than an hour and you don’t have to walk far in the wind and the cold. Shuttles operate every day between 10 AM and 5 PM, every 35 minutes. If you don’t book in advance, you might also be able to catch it on the spot (if it’s not too busy). In that case, be sure to have a credit card as they don’t take cash (see also our guide to costs and money matters in Iceland for more info)

Another alternative is to go on an ATV tour that starts on the other side of the road, at Mýrdalsjökull Base Camp. It’s a 2-hour tour that not only brings you to the DC plane crash but is also a fun way to explore more of the area. You can also book this day tour from Reykjavik that – together with the main highlights of the South Coast – also includes the ATV tour to the plane wreck.

26. Hjörleifshöfði Cave

If you are looking for more lesser-known places to see on the South Coast of Iceland, you may want to check out Hjörleifshöfði Cave . It’s a very special cave at the beach and once you are inside it, you have a nice ‘framed’ view of the ocean.

Some people find this place not worth it, while others say it’s one of the nicest secret spots of the south coast and away from the crowds. You decide.

Info: Hjörleifshöfði Cave can be reached by car following a gravel ‘road’, about 2.5 km from the Ring Road. It’s not a difficult drive in summer, but probably not the best idea to drive here in the snow.

27. LAVACentre

LAVACentre in Hvolsvöllur is another recently opened tourist attraction on Iceland’s south coast. This new state-of-the-art lava center is a great place to learn more about Iceland’s volcanic history and how earthquakes and volcanoes continue to shape this unique country.

With special light effects and interactive displays, this is a great place for the whole family. They also show a film about volcanic eruptions and their impact on the environment. You can opt for the cinema ticket only, but we recommend the full experience. Don’t miss their observation deck!

While still quite new, LAVA Centre is quickly gaining in popularity and many consider it a must-stop when touring Iceland’s south coast. If you visit, it’s probably best to come here at the beginning of your trip, so that you learn more about the origins of the scenery that you’ll see when touring this area.

Info: LAVA Centre is located about halfway between Reykjavik and Vik, about 1.5 hours drive from Reyjavik and about 1 hour from Vik. Normally, it’s open daily the whole year round. There is also a restaurant on-site and the food is very good. You can book your tickets in advance here .

28. Nauthúsagil Gorge & Waterfall

Nauthúsagil gorge (the Bull Shed Ravine) is a hidden gem not too far from the famous Seljalandsfoss waterfall. It may not look very special at first, but deep inside the gorge, you can find one of Iceland’s most unique waterfalls, aka Nauthúsagil Waterfall .

The waterfall can only be reached by walking inside the gorge. It’s not a long walk (10-15 minutes) and it’s not difficult at all, however, you’ll be walking up the stream over some slippery stones, so you risk getting your feet wet. There are also some chains for support and to help you stay dry at the most challenging parts. If you have good hiking boots, the walk is easier than it sounds and the waterfall is well worth the effort.

If you have more time, you can also climb the hill above the gorge for some nice views of the surroundings.

Info: Nauthúsagil gorge is located along road F249 that goes to Thorsmork Valley. It’s just 10 km from the Ring Road and the gravel road up to here is in good condition. However, since it’s a gravel ‘F’ road, in principle, you need a 4×4 vehicle that’s allowed to drive on the F roads to drive here. Because of this, this waterfall remains one of the hidden gems so close to some of the most popular South Coast attractions.

29. Horseback Riding

You’ll have plenty of opportunities to see Icelandic horses when driving around Iceland and there are also many places where you can go horseback riding . Horse riding is so popular that there are many places where you can do this all across the country.

On the south coast, check out Solhestar horse riding tours . This place is a about 45 minutes drive from Reykjavik and their tours also include pick-up from the city, or you can also drive there yourself.

Alternatively, as you drive around, you will see signs for horse riding tours in south Iceland. There are tours for all levels, from family-friendly tours of just an hour to full-day tours, or even multi-day tours.

30. Hot Springs & Pools

Iceland’s south coast is also famous for its geothermal pools and hot springs . There are countless locations in Iceland where you can experience this. Many hotels have hot tubs, every bigger town in Iceland has a swimming pool with saunas and hot tubs, and there are many bigger geothermal pools and also small natural hot springs all over the country.

There are no big touristy geothermal pools on the south coast of Iceland. (We are not counting the most popular of them all, the Blue Lagoon which is on Reykjanes Peninsula close to the airport, the amazing Sky Lagoon in Reykjavik , or the geothermal pools at the Golden Circle).

However, there are lots of amazing local swimming pools in different towns all along the south coast. In addition, there are some nice natural hot springs if you are feeling more adventurous.

One of the nicest natural hot springs in south Iceland is Reykjadalur Hot Springs near Hveragerði town. Reykjadalur Thermal River is a natural hot spring in a warm river that you can reach by taking a hike from the Reykjadalur car parking area (indicated on our map). The hike is about 3.8 km (2.4 miles) and takes about 1 hour each way. You can visit here at any time of the day and in any season, however, you might need crampons to hike here in winter.

Take your swimwear and towels and also pack some snacks or a picnic lunch if planning to stay here longer. You can easily visit Reykjadalur on your own, but there is also a tour from Reykjavik if you don’t have a car.

TIP: When choosing your South Coast accommodation, look for hotels that have hot tubs. Alternatively, choose towns that have good communal swimming pools (see this local website for a complete overview ). Local pools in Iceland offer amazing quality at a low price and since most of them are open late in the evening, it’s a great way to relax at the end of the day after all the sightseeing.

Iceland South Coast FAQ

The distance between Reykjavik and Jokulsarlon glacier Lagoon is about 380 km (236 miles). It takes 4.5 – 5 hours to drive the entire south coast without any stops. This driving time doesn’t take into account potential delays due to bad weather in winter.

With one day on the south coast, you can visit Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls, Vik black sand beach, and maybe even Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon and Fjadrargljufur Canyon. If you do this as a day trip from Reykjavik, it will take 14-16 hours. In that case, it’s best to go with a tour. Definitely don’t do this as a self-drive trip in winter!

While it’s possible to see the main highlights in one day, you really should plan at least two days for Iceland’s south coast. This will allow you to see the waterfalls, Vik beach, Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, visit Skaftafell, and a few lesser-known places. In addition, you could do one extra activity such as glacier hiking, horse riding, or ice caving. If you want to explore the south coast deeper, plan 4-5 days here.

You can visit the South Coast of Iceland the whole year round and every season offers something unique. In summer, the days are long and the roads are good so you can see a lot in a short time. It’s a good time for hiking, horseback riding, and seeing puffins. In winter, you can visit natural ice caves, see (partially) frozen waterfalls and bigger icebergs on Diamond Beach. If you stay at least one night on the south coast, you could even be lucky to see the Northern Lights.

Iceland’s South Coast is better known and much more visited than the North Coast. This is mainly because it is closer to Reykjavik and better accessible the whole year. Furthermore, there is a lot to see and do without having to cover huge distances. However, you can’t really compare these areas in terms of natural beauty. Both – South and North Iceland – have a lot to offer and so if you can, definitely visit both. North Coast is generally much quieter, especially if you get a bit off the beaten path.

Planning a trip to Iceland and not sure where to start? Check out these itineraries:

• 1 Day in Reykjavik (all the musts in the city)
• 4 Days in Iceland (South Coast & Golden Circle)
• 7 Days in Iceland (All the musts of South Iceland & more)
• Ring Road of Iceland (Complete circle in 10 days)
• 10 Days in Iceland (off-the-beaten-path itinerary)
• Iceland Winter Itinerary
• Icelandic Highlands Itinerary
• Iceland Itinerary Suggestions for Any Trip (from 1 to 14 days)

More destination guides all over Iceland:

• Reykjavik (Top sights in the city)
• Snaefellsnes Peninsula (West Iceland)
• Reykjanes Peninsula (Southwest, close to Reykjavik)
• Myvatn (North Iceland)
• The Westfjords (Northwest)
• Siglufjordur (North Iceland)
• Trollaskagi Peninsula (North Iceland)

READ ALSO: Iceland Travel Tips

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

Images: personal collection and Depositphotos.com

More tips for your trip to Iceland:

• Where to go: Best Places to See in Iceland
• Airport transfers: How to Get to Reykjavik from Keflavik Airport
• Budget: How Expensive is Iceland (& How to Save Money)
• Accommodation: Where to Stay in Iceland & Where to Stay in Reykjavik
• Packing: What to Wear in Iceland in Winter & What to Pack for Iceland in Summer
• Tours: Best Tours and Day Trips in Iceland & Best Half Day Tours from Reykjavik
• Winter trip: Best Winter Experiences in Iceland & Tips for Visiting Iceland in Winter
• More: Check our Iceland travel guide for even more inspiration and tips

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Monday 2nd of October 2023

Thank you for your article. Your provided information was very valuable for our Iceland trip. Thank you for creating such gifts!

Wednesday 6th of December 2023

@Jurga, awesome guide! do you have anything on the golden circle?

Thursday 5th of October 2023

Glad to help, Elena. Appreciate your kind feedback!

Sunday 16th of April 2023

Absolutely brilliant article. A lot of efforts have been taken to put up a great content like this. Love the map and the tips provided. Thank you so much!

Monday 17th of April 2023

Thank you for your kind feedback, Swati. Indeed, lots of time (and many trips to Iceland) were needed in order to create this and other guides on our blog. So I really appreciate your kind words! Happy travels!

Steven Harley

Sunday 6th of June 2021

While were are visiting Iceland in September we would like to visit the newest active volcano. Any suggestions on how best to accomplish this goal? We are ambulatory seniors.

Hi Steven, I see that you already asked this question in our FB group, so maybe you already have your answer. I'll just add that if you don't know where to start and don't want to worry about keeping an eye on the ever-changing situation around the volcano, you can also join a tour that brings you to the volcano. At the moment, there are quite a few tours already that go to this active volcano. You can see the whole selection of volcano tours here. And here are some of the best options: 1. Late afternoon tour that visits a few highlights of the Reykjanes Peninsula and takes a short hike to the volcano. This tour is also available as a private tour, but obviously more expensive. You can find more details and book it here. 2. Early morning / full-day tour that seems to hike much more and spend even more time at the volcano. You can find more details and book this tour here. Hope this helps. 3. Morning/ full day tour that includes a hike to the volcano and - optional - tickets to the Blue Lagoon. See here. Most of the tours seem to say that the hike is about 45 minutes one way (so 1.5 - 2 hours in total) and from everything I heard, it's not too difficult, so should be doable for you. Hope this helps.

South Coast Of Iceland Travel Guide: 8 Stops You Can’t Miss!

Between the beautiful black sand beach and the biggest waterfalls in the country, traveling to the south coast of Iceland is a MUST on any traveler’s Itinerary.

This area already gets a lot of hype, and for good reason. But did you know there are a ton of hidden gems in South Iceland just waiting to be discovered? 

Inside this epic South Iceland itinerary, I’ll be sharing it all. Highlights, hidden gems, and jaw-dropping natural attractions, these are the things you absolutely cannot miss when visiting the South Coast. 

Table Of Contents:

Why Visit The South Coast of Iceland?

South coast iceland tour vs. driving it yourself, south iceland itinerary map.

• Seljalandsfoss

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

Skaftafell national park, jökulsárlón glacier lagoon.

• Diamond Beach

Let’s take a trip down to the South of Iceland, shall we? 

Let me tell you why you absolutely should visit the South Coast of Iceland. 

First of all, it’s super easy to reach from Reykjavik, making it accessible for everyone. You can reach it via the Ring Road that runs through and connects the entire island.

But what really sets it apart is the breathtaking landscapes you’ll witness. Seriously, some of Iceland’s most incredible natural wonders can be found here!

The best part is that there are so many incredible sights packed closely together, making it easy to create an unforgettable South Iceland itinerary. 

That being said, with so much natural beauty to experience, you’ll want to make sure you have at least a few days for your South Iceland trip.  The South Coast spans about 300 km (or 200 miles) and there’s a LOT to see. So give yourself lots of time to take it all in without feeling rushed! 

Now you might be wondering… 

Should I find a South Iceland tour…

Or drive it myself?

And personally, I’m always going to recommend renting a car in Iceland and going at your own pace!

Doing a road trip allows for more flexibility and fun.

You can eat at those local places – rather than at popular tourist traps.

You can extend your stay if you’re loving one place, or shorten it if you’d rather move on.

AND you get to stop at all of those amazing hidden gems along the way…rather than just sticking to the main highlights.

So yeah…my advice is always going to be to rent a car and drive the South Coast yourself!

Now let’s get into my all-time favorite Iceland South Coast driving route!!

For your convenience, I’ve put all of these South Iceland attractions on a digital map!

To make the map interactive, simply click on the bracket in the right-hand corner.

I’ve even included some of the best places to eat along your South Coast route.

Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

The first stop on your South Iceland itinerary is Seljalandsfoss. As you’re cruising down the Ring Road, you will be able to see Seljalandsfoss for miiiiles away. Seljalandsfoss sits at a large cliff and spans a whopping 60m. Seriously friends…this is one of Iceland’s most majestic waterfalls!

Walking towards the almighty Seljalandsfoss Waterfall will be an incredible site in and of itself…

But in my opinion, it’s not even the coolest view of Seljalandsfoss. 

One of the most unique things about this waterfall is that you’re actually able to walk BEHIND it and see it from a unique perspective!

So if walking behind one of the world’s most impressive waterfalls is on your bucket list, you better go ahead and add Seljalandsfoss to your South Coast itinerary.

There are so many different vantage points to take in when visiting Seljalandsfoss, so make sure to take your time while exploring the area. Covering all of the angles will help you get the best photos of this beautiful waterfall.

Pro Tip: If you decide to do walk behind the Seljalandsfoss waterfall in the winter, it’s best to use crampons on your shoes – the spray from the waterfall makes the path extremely slippery.

As you continue your journey from Seljalandsfoss down the ring road, prepare for even more waterfall goodness.

The second step on your South Iceland itinerary is the Skógafoss waterfall – one of Iceland’s most iconic falls. It will seriously take your breath away! 

And it’s not just any old waterfall—it’s a legend in its own right. Rumor has it that the first Viking settler at Skógar hid a chest of shimmering gold coins in a cave behind the waterfall. Talk about hidden treasures! 

Pro Tip: If you want to experience Skógafoss in its full beauty, be sure to climb the stairs that lead to the top for an awe-inspiring view! 

Dyrhólaey is truly a unique sight. An arch-like promontory jutting out into the ocean…this spot is definitely a South Iceland must-see! 

Dyrhólaey is actually divided into two parts. 

If you go to the lower parking lot, you will have an incredible view of the Black Sand Beach and Reynisfjara.

And if you take the more treacherous path up to the top parking lot, you’ll get the best view of the arch – and that iconic lighthouse as well! Pro Tip: Dyrhólaey is also an amazing spot to see puffins in Iceland ! Just note: if you go during nesting season, there’s a chance the road may be closed. 

No trip to South Iceland would be complete without a visit to Reynisfjara, one of Iceland’s most famous black-sand beaches, also home to the famous Hálsanefshellir cave.

Every year this awe-inspiring sight draws countless tourists, and it’s easy to see why. As you stroll along the beach, you’ll witness magnificent basalt stacks that rise from the ocean, creating a mesmerizing backdrop for that iconic black sand beach photo everyone wants to capture. 

But I do want to mention, friends – while beautiful, Reynisfjara can also be dangerous if you’re not careful.

The waves can be crazy high and the currents in the water are VERY strong.

So enjoy the black sand beauty without getting too close, and exercise precaution at all times. 

Many travelers choose to include a stay in a small, charming village named Vík as part of their South Iceland trip. It conveniently sits halfway between Reykjavik and the end of the south coast.

Because of its proximity to so many of Iceland’s most famous natural wonders, Vík is a bustling area considering the size of the village! 

Consider stopping here overnight to break up your Iceland south coast driving route.

Just look for the iconic white church with its charming red roof, overlooking a set of picturesque houses, and you’ll know you’ve made it to Vík. 

Pro Tip: Check out our Vík travel guide video for where to stay, what to eat, and things to do!

Now, let’s move on to the next stop on our South Iceland adventure: Skaftafell National Park. 

This expansive park offers a ton of activities and attractions to explore. However, one experience that shouldn’t be missed is the hike to Svartifoss waterfall . This black-column waterfall actually inspired the architecture of the renowned Hallgrímskirkja Church in Reykjavik.

The hike itself is quite manageable, taking approximately 45 minutes each way, and the trail is relatively easy to navigate. 

This is one of South Iceland’s most gorgeous waterfalls, so don’t leave the country without seeing it! Pro Tip: Skaftafell National Park is also one of the most popular places for camping in Iceland if you feel like staying overnight. 

And finally – we’ve reached the grand finale: Jökulsárlón. This mesmerizing glacier lagoon located in South Iceland is an absolute must-visit. Believe me when I say that if you skip Jökulsárlón, you’re missing out on one of the most breathtaking places in the world!

Personally, it’s one of my all-time favorite destinations, regardless of the time of year. I just can’t express enough how much I adore this place. It’s a sight that leaves me awe-struck every single time.

Picture a peaceful lagoon that catches icebergs that fall off of the mighty Vatnajökull Glacier. These icebergs float across the water, showcasing a beautiful display of colors—bright blues, pure whites, and even subtle traces of black ash.

And as if that wasn’t stunning enough, what happens next always blows my mind! As the current picks up, it begins to drag the icebergs into the ocean.

I always watch this dance completely mesmerized, gazing out at the floating icebergs being carried out into the sea.

It’s a completely magical experience, friends!

Pro Tip: The best time to see the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon at its finest is from May to October. During this period, more ice breaks off the glacier, creating a higher number of icebergs in the lagoon. As the year goes on, fewer icebergs can be seen as less ice breaks off the glacier.

Don’t forget: Diamond Beach

Just a quick stroll across the street, and you’ll find yourself on a beach where icebergs wash up onto the black sand. This is an incredible sight, particularly during the colder months when more ice chunks remain on the shore.

This beach is known as Diamond Beach or Crystal Beach, and it’s located just across from Jökulsárlón. So, you get to experience two breathtaking sights in one place. Trust me, you won’t want to miss it. It’s truly awe-inspiring!

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ICELAND SOUTH COAST: TOP LOCAL THINGS TO SEE & DO!

For anyone that is visiting Iceland, the South Coast should definitely be on top of your   “Must do Things in Iceland”   list.

The South Coast is one of the absolute most beautiful regions in Iceland, with natural wonders, Waterfalls, Black Sand beach, Vik coastal town, Puffins, Icelandic Glaciers and more.

Have you started packing your bags yet?

In this blog post I will show you my best local tips for an unforgettable South Coast adventure!

Let's go!

3 Best Ways to Explore the South Coast of Iceland

You can explore the beautiful South Coast of Iceland in three absolutely awesome ways.

1. the Small Group South Coast Iceland tour.

This is my #1 recommendation for most people. This is the highest rated South Coast adventure day tour from Reykjavik. In one day you will be able to explore the full South Coast, see incredible sights, have a great time and most importantly, make the most of your time as this tour will be lead by an excellent local guide that knows the land like the back of his hand!

If you are only visiting Iceland for a few days. This is definitely the best option.

Get more information and find your South Coast tour here.

2. Rent your own car and do a self-drive tour!

Renting a car in Iceland definitely allows more freedom and if you plan to go further up the South/East coast or travel the whole ring road and spend a couple of nights you will need a good car.

3. Private South Coast tour

If you are travelling with a group of 8+ we might be able to create a private group experience for you. This would allow us to mix the pros of both option 1 & 2, with a great local guide but still more freedom to create the itinerary depending on what you are most interested in :)

Get in touch with us for a private tour of the South Coast.

south coast iceland attractions map

Icelandic nature is at it’s best on the South Coast and you will see many of Iceland best faces. The sights will include powerful waterfalls, glaciers, incredible coastlines, brutal cliffs, old volcanoes, lava fields, moss, black sand, animals and more! It’s speciality definitely being the two huge waterfalls.

The South Coast is very beautiful and (usually) accessible all year round.

SELJALANDSFOSS WATERFALL

One of the most famous waterfalls in all Iceland. And for a very good reason. It’s huge, it’s powerful and wait for it … you can walk behind it! Make sure to dress in waterproof raincoat (or similar) as you definitely want to walk the circle. Also grab your camera, when are you ever going to have a photo-op like this?

Seljalandsfoss is approx. 1,5 hours drive from Reykjavik.

SKOGAFOSS WATERFALL

Another of the top South Coast attractions, Skogafoss Waterfall.

Are you starting to see a pattern? “Foss” means a waterfall in Icelandic. This is definitely one of the more powerful waterfalls in the country and when walking up to it you will feel the vibration as the water hit’s the bottom of the waterfall.

You can walk all the way up to it and that is my favourite experience (you can also catch incredible photos there …) AND you can walk up a staircase next to the waterfall for a view from the top!

THE BLACK SAND BEACH ICELAND

People from all over the world (and locals alike) travel to the Black Sand Beach next to Vík to soak in the incredible views, see the ruthless Atlantic waves, the black sand and the unique lava formations.

Actually, almost every single beach around Iceland has black sand! A lot of travellers don’t know this as they visit the Black Sand beach to experience this. However, this beach is famous for a very good reason – it is exceptionally beautiful with it’s basalt lava rock formations, the large lava cave and the “Reynisdrangar” cliffs standing out in the ocean.

The name for this beach in Icelandic is Reynisfjara.

VIK: SMALL COASTAL TOWN

Vik is a tiny cute town with small houses, incredible views, a few good restaurants, hotels, camp site and it’s very own black sand beach. For most one day South Coast adventures, here is when people start driving back to Reykjavik.

the town of Vik is located centrally in South Iceland and as many beautiful attractions can be found further away – it is too much driving for most people in one day. So, if you plan to rent a car – drive yourself – and camp along the way. Vik or any nearby camp site is perfect.

But for those planning to drive back to Reykjavik – or if you are joining the South Coast Small Group tour, the adventure continues as you will be driving back but stopping at more fun and unique places on the way to Reykjavik.

There are a few other nice towns you will drive through on your South Coast adventure such as Hveragerði geothermal town, Selfoss, Hella, Hvolsvöllur and more. I personally really like Hveragerði as it offers beautiful walking trails and natural hot springs but Selfoss also has a decent restaurant scene.

WHERE TO SEE THE PUFFINS ON THE SOUTH COAST?

It is well worth mentioning that between April – September there are huge flocks of Puffins and other unique Atlantic sea-birds that nest in the cliffs near Reynisfjara – The Black Sand Beach.

Sometimes you can travel up the cliffs of Dyrhólaey for amazing views of the black sand beach and get an overview of the Puffins.

However, most times when I have visited the Black Sand Beach in the summers, you can spot flocks of the birds flying above you or swimming in the sea.

SVINAFELLSJOKULL GLACIER

Iceland has more than 250 glaciers scattered all across the island which in total covers approx. 11% of Iceland. Many of those are in and around the South Coast.

One of the most beautiful views is of Svinafellsjokull Glacier. There are two photos above of that exact glacier, stunning right?

It is possible to walk to the roots of the glacier when you travel yourself by car but do not enter or hike on the ice without a licensed guide as the glaciers can be very dangerous.

In the South Coast tour, you will visit the Svinafellsjokull Glacier.

GOOD THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE EXPLORING THE SOUTH COAST

Just a couple of things to keep in mind …

The South Coast is a beautiful long stretch and it takes a little time to explore. Don’t let it stop you but just be prepared for a long day. To give you an idea, the fantastic South Coast tour I have been raving about is usually 10-11 hours. With this in mind you might want to buy a few delicious snacks in Reykjavik before heading out to keep you energetic! However, there are of course lots of good restaurants on the road.

Don’t be afraid of driving or doing a tour in Iceland because of the weather or the roads. Actually, driving in Iceland is incredibly beautiful, fun and as far as I know, safe. The roads are forever swinging between the beach and mountains which makes it fun as the scenery is always changing but the speed limit is not high (90 km/h or 55 mph) so the traffic is not so scary.

If you are driving yourself, it is a good idea to check out the conditions on the road beforehand .

NATURAL HOT SPRINGS IN SOUTH ICELAND

Just like glaciers, the natural hot springs are scattered all across our beautiful country. And just as I like to explore glacier caps, the hot springs are my favourites!

There are a few in South Iceland. Gamla Laugin or the Secret Lagoon is absolutely wonderful, then there is Hrunalaug, Seljavallalaug and the hike to Reykjadalur (steamy valley).

There is one amazing tour that we do offer that can take you to the wonders of the Golden Circle and then dip into the wonderful Secret Lagoon natural Hot spring. I highly recommend it – and here is a direct link to the hot spring tour .

But unfortunately I don’t know of any other tours that can take you to the hot springs.

Here however is a blog to a better guide of Hot Springs in Iceland .

NORTHERN LIGHTS ON THE SOUTH COAST

If you are travelling in Iceland from September – April, you might just have a fantastic chance to witness the dancing aurora borealis (the Northern Lights) during your stay!

And your chance to see the Northern Lights is great on the South Coast, just like everywhere else in Iceland. With Reykjavik city maybe being the only exception as the light pollution might dramatically affect your chances. Bottom line, seeing the Northern Lights in the country-side is a great idea!

If you are doing a South Coast tour during peak winter, you might just end your tour by driving back to Reykjavik in darkness. And if so – and the Northern Lights are active during that particular night – your driver will of course let you know and stop the car!

However, your best chance to see the Northern Lights is to either rent your own car and head out of the city following a Northern Lights activity map or do a Northern Lights tour .

Doing the special Northern Lights tour maximises your chances of seeing the infamous aurora borealis as you will be guided by a Northern Lights expert – that has carefully examined the aurora forecast for your particular night and together you will go out on a Northern Lights hunting mission!

You can find more information about our best recommended Northern Lights tour here.

I hope from the bottom of my heart that this blog about the South Coast in Iceland has been helpful and that you have learned something new – and that it will make your Iceland adventure even more fun. See you soon in Iceland!

Learn More:   the Best South Coast tour in Iceland  

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Iceland South Coast Tours

Small group guided tours in the south coast of iceland.

South Coast Tours in Iceland

• Popular Day Tours
• Multi-Day Tours
• Popular activities
• About South Coast
• Popular attractions in South Coast

The South Coast is one of the gems of Iceland. On an Iceland South Coast tour you can expect to encounter many of the country’s best features including black sand beaches, vast lava fields, majestic waterfalls, glaciers and much more. We offer day tours and overnight tours that guide you through this beautiful region. Check out our selection of South Coast tours below.

POPULAR DAY TOURS OF THE SOUTH COAST OF ICELAND

Discover the beauty and the diverse natural features of Iceland’s south coast. Join us for a guided tour. We guarantee you a truly unforgettable day.

South Shore Adventure

South Coast, Waterfalls & Glacier Hike

South Coast, Jokulsarlon & Diamond Beach Day Tour From Reykjavik

South Coast & Horseback Riding

Sensational Iceland - South Coast, Glacier Hike & Northern Lights

South Coast & Dc-3 Plane Wreck Tour

Popular multi-day tours of the south coast of iceland.

Why not explore Iceland’s southern coastline over multiple days? Choose from out wide selection of guided small group adventures.

2 Day South Coast, Ice Cave, Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon Tour

3 Day South Coast & Golden Circle Tour

6 Days Around Iceland Adventure

4 Day Tour: Golden Circle, Jokulsarlon, South Coast, Landmannalaugar

7 Day Complete Iceland

8 Day Iceland Ring Road Tour

5 Day Snæfellsnes Peninsula And South Iceland Tour

9 Day - Around Iceland, Highlands and Volcano Adventure

The ultimate Iceland and Highlight Hitter - 8 Day Tour

4 Day - Golden Circle, South Coast, Ice Cave & Recently Erupted Volcano

4 Day Northern Lights, Snaefellsnes & Glacier Lagoon

Popular activities on the south coast of iceland.

From glacier hiking, ice-caving, kayaking snowmobiling, just to name a few, Iceland’s south has a lot to offer. Check out our array of activities to find the right adventure for you.

Glacier Explorer - Moderate Glacier Hike in Skaftafell

Blue Ice - Ice Climbing Adventure

Glacier Experience - Sólheimajökull Easy Glacier Hike

Glacier Wonders - Easy Glacier Hike in Skaftafell

Katla Ice Cave (Under The Volcano) Tour

Glacier Xtreme - Glacier Hiking & Ice climbing tour

Crystal Ice Cave Tour with Super Jeep Ride

Skaftafell Blue Ice Cave & Glacier Hike Tour

Jökulsárlón Boat Ride and Glacier Hike

Jökulsarlon Glacier Lagoon Kayak Tour

Glacier Kayak Adventure

Black Sand Beach Horse Riding Tour

Must-see south coast iceland highlights.

Skógafoss, Seljalandsfoss and Gljúfrabúi Waterfalls

Skógafoss is one of Iceland’s most visually astounding waterfalls. This remarkable natural attraction has a drop of 60 meters (197 feet) and stretches 25 meters (82 feet) wide, making it one of the biggest in the country. Because of the amount of spray produced from the cascade, visitors can spot at least one rainbow any time the sun is out.

For the best view of   Skógafoss, take the steep staircase that leads to the observation deck. Nesting seabirds often line the path to the top.

Seljalandsfoss shares first place as one of the most majestic waterfalls in the country and is one of the most photographed attractions in all of Iceland. Part of the river   Seljalandsá, the 60-meter (200-foot) falls originate from beneath the  Eyjafjallajökull glacier. The narrow cascade of the falls descends from a tall cliff, once a former coastline. Visitors can walk the path that circles all the way around the cascade and peek beneath the curtain of the waterfall. The sea is also visible from the sight across the lowlands.

Less than a kilometer from Seljalandsfoss lies a hidden gem.   Gljúfrabúi   (or Canyon Dweller) is a stunning waterfall located at Hamragarðar. The lesser-known falls is the perfect spot for photographers and nature lovers looking for peace.

The 40-meter (131 foot) high Gljúfrabúi hides behind a giant, outward-facing cliff. Because of this sneaky “hiding spot,” this waterfall is often overlooked by the thousands of travelers visiting Seljalandsfoss.

Reykjadalur Hot Spring Valley

Just an hour’s drive from Reykjavík lives a hot spring oasis. Reykjadalur ,   the Valley of Steam, is a magnificent geothermal area filled with endless hot springs and a bubbling river.

In summer the surrounding green hills come alive with flora, especially lupins. Chemicals in the soil dye the earth pink, yellow, red and blue and provide a whimsical atmosphere.

Reaching the valley requires a 40-minute hike featuring lovely views along the way. The closest town is   Hveragerði. Travelers can find a variety of service stations, an information center, cafes and restaurants.

Dyrhólaey Rock Cliffs and Arches

Dyrhólaey Peninsula is a 120-meter seacliff known for its extraordinary panoramic views of Iceland’s South Coast. Famous for breathtaking vistas and staggering rock formations, this is the perfect spot to take in Iceland’s natural beauty. The main feature of the promenade is its giant rock arch formed by centuries of erosion. Dyrhólaey translates to   Door Hill Island, a direct reference to the famous archway.

In addition to landscape views, the peninsula is the perfect spot to watch wildlife. There are a multitude of bird species including the popular Atlantic Puffin.

At the top of Dyrhólaey you’ll notice an old white lighthouse. Built in 1919 and completed in 1927,   Dyrhólaeyjarviti   was the first lighthouse in the area. The interior has since been renovated and transformed into a charming luxury hotel.

Located on the southernmost part of the mainland, Dyrhólaey is a popular stop for sightseers traveling the Ring Road route.

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach is one of Iceland’s most iconic attractions. The volcanic black shoreline is surrounded by picturesque sea stacks, basalt columns and cliffs. In fact, National Geographic ranked Reynisfjara among the   Top 10 Non-Tropical Beaches on the planet .

The nearby cliffs and sea stacks are home to arctic seabirds, including the popular puffin, attractive to wildlife lovers.   Reynisfjall   is the name of the mountain that towers above the beach. Inside the mountain wall you’ll discover a naturally formed cave, perfect for a picnic shelter! Reynisfjara is approximately two and a half hours from Reykjavik by car. Many South Coast tours include this attraction on their itinerary.

Vík Village

The charming coastal village of   Vík   is the southernmost town on the   Icelandic mainland. The area is surrounded by a variety of scenic landscapes and popular points of interest. As the last stop on travelers’ Iceland South Coast trip, the village is still within reach of natural attractions and activities. The terrific paragliding and zipline spots in the region attract thrill-seekers the world over.

In addition to the nearby natural attractions, Vík is the area’s main service center. Though the village is only home to about 300 residents, it offers multiple restaurants, cafes, shops and gas stations. Tourists staying overnight in Vík might even have a better chance of seeing the   Northern Lights!

Eldhraun Lava Field

The impressive Eldhraun lava field (“Fire Lava“) is the largest of its type in the world. It was formed during the biggest eruption in history, which lasted from 1783 to 1784. Today the 565 square kilometers (351 square miles) field is one of South Iceland’s most magnificent attractions.

Thick green moss covers the vast area, with the   Ring Road   crossing over for spectacular views. Along the way, there are several rest stops where you can pull over and snap some photos. North of nearby   Lake Laufbalavatn   lies an intricate lava tube system featuring more than 200 caves. Tours offer the chance to explore these geological wonders.

Skaftafell in Vatnajökull National Park

Tucked away in Europe’s largest national park,   Vatnajökull is Skaftafell Nature Reserve . The reserve was once its own park but joined with Vatnajökull National Park in 2008. Located just off Ring Road, it has become one of the most popular sightseeing routes on the South Coast.

A hiker’s oasis, the region offers trails through diverse landscapes, including lush forests, towering trees and impressive mountain views. The   Skaftafell Visitor’s Center   has trail maps, guides and information about the region. Travelers who wish to extend their stay can choose between hotel accommodations or campsites.

SOLHEIMAJOKULL GLACIER

Solheimajokull  is a glacier between the Katla and Eyjafjallajokull volcanoes. It’s approximately 5 miles (8 kilometers) long and 1.2 miles (2 kilometers) wide and is part of the larger Myrdalsjokull Glacier, which lies just on top of the caldera of the Katla Volcano.

Solheimajokull is easy to access and surrounded by breathtaking, snow-capped mountains making it popular with locals and tourists. We recommend that you  hike to the top of the glacier . There you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the South Coast and outstanding photo opportunities.

If you intend to explore Solheimajokull, we highly recommend that you book a guided tour . With a tour guide, you’ll be able to safely traverse across the top of the glacier, try out ice climbing, and explore the existing ice caves. Just like most of the glaciers in Iceland, Solheimajokull is rapidly melting away and experts have warned that it may no longer be accessible even a decade from now.

VATNAJOKULL GLACIER, ICE CAVE, AND NATIONAL PARK

Vatnajokull National Park is one of three national parks in Iceland. It contains the  Vatnajokull Glacier ,  Skaftafell Nature Reserve , and  Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon . Each of the components of the national park is an attraction in itself. Its unique landscape of it was created by river erosion, glacial movements, and volcanic eruptions.

Vatnajokull Glacier takes up the majority of the national park and is the largest glacier in Europe . It covers approximately 9% of Iceland and hides several volcanoes underneath. Scientists have declared that volcanic eruptions are long overdue. Nevertheless, they do monitor the area carefully and have determined that, for now, it’s still a safe place to hike.

According to the Guinness World Records, the Vatnajokull Glacier has the longest sight line in the world , allowing you to see for a whopping 340 miles (550 kilometers). If you haven’t put the Vatnajokull National Park and Glacier on your bucket list yet, then you should soon! Climate change is already affecting Iceland’s natural treasures , and melting icebergs are causing the land surface to rise as much as 1.4 inches annually. Vatnajokull offers hiking tours , a chance to explore ice caves, and the opportunity to cruise on one of the lagoons that wash its shore of it.

EYJAFJALLAJOKULL

Eyjafjallajokull is one of the very few stratovolcanoes in Iceland. A stratovolcano is described as a volcano whose caldera is hidden under a glacier. Usually, eruptions of this type of volcano are very dangerous, as the world witnessed firsthand with this one’s eruption in 2010.

The explosion disrupted European air travel for a couple of weeks, stranding hundreds of airplanes and passengers. Neighboring towns in Iceland were evacuated due to lava ash floods.  Thanks to its notoriety, Eyjafjallajokull Volcano is still one of the most visited volcanoes in Iceland, and is perfectly safe these days, hosting hundreds of tours to its peak and ice cave.

There are a few ways you can explore the volcano. The most popular way is the  Fimmvörðuháls Trail , a circular hike around the volcano. The trail takes around a day to hike and is considered to be fairly easy.

The second way to explore the volcano is to traverse the surrounding glacier. After the eruption, the glacier shrunk significantly and became less popular. However, it remains an astounding place of glorious natural beauty. The hike to the glacier is very difficult and should only be attempted with an experienced guide. You can also try  riding on a glacier with a snowmobile  on one of our tours.

VESTMANNAEYJAR

Vestmannaeyjar  is an archipelago of around 30 islands south of the mainland. It has around four thousand inhabitants and became world-famous after a volcanic eruption in 1974. During the eruption, in an attempt to tame the hot-like-hell lava, locals pumped seawater directly onto the lava. The waters helped to cool and redirect the flow, and to save the lives and homes of 5,300 people. As a result, the island is now a popular tourist attraction, with an extended harbor and a runway for planes.

Vestmannaeyjar is also widely visited for its natural beauty and the many adorable puffins who consider the island their home. Over ten millions of puffins come to Iceland to breed each year and most of them choose Vestmannaeyjar.

For a more extensive list of interesting places to see, have a look at our guide to the  best places to visit in Iceland .

Svínafellsjökull – The Hollywood Glacier

Svínafellsjökull glacier is renowned for its unusual features and scenic views. The glacier is an outlet glacier of   Vatnajökull, the largest ice cap in Europe. It is one of Iceland’s most popular glacier hiking sites due to its raw beauty and formations.

Not just beloved by hikers and photographers, it has also become a popular Hollywood shooting location. Visitors may recognize the rugged landscape from   Star Wars, Batman and Game of Thrones.

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon – Diamond Beach

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is an iconic Iceland attraction. Glittering ice floes floating on the water like giant diamonds. Glacier lagoons are lakes filled with the meltwater from nearby glaciers. At 248 meters (814 feet) deep, Jökulsárlón is the deepest lake in Iceland.

Breiðamerkurjökull Glacier   feeds the lagoon and is an outlet of   Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest ice cap. Volcanic activity in the area pushed up the glacial sediments under Breiðamerkurjökull, creating a shoreline. Nicknamed   “Diamond Beach,”   the black sand strip is covered in giant icebergs that have washed ashore.

The icebergs of Jökulsárlón are notable not just for their size but also for their color. While many are solid white, most also glow electric blue with black ash streaks from volcanic eruptions.

The famed lagoon has appeared onscreen in the James Bond films   A View to Kill   in 1985 and   Die Another Day   in 2002,   Lara Croft: Tomb Raider   in 2001, and 2005’s   Batman Begins.

Sólheimasandur DC3 Plane Wreck

Banked on the shore of   Sólheimasandur Beach sits the shell of an age-old plane. The   DC Plane Wreck   is a popular attraction in South Iceland. Visitors come to explore and photograph the giant former plane surrounded by wild landscapes.

The former US Navy aircraft has lain on the beach since 1973. Multiple theories have circulated on what caused the forced landing, but fortunately, no one was hurt. The easiest way to reach the plane is on a horse riding, ATV or walking tour. Discover a piece of aviation history!

SECRET LAGOON

The Secret Lagoon  in Iceland is a natural hot spring. Located in a geothermally active area close to the small town of Fludir, it’s the oldest public pool in Iceland.

The lagoon is a part of the  Golden Circle route  and is widely visited by both tourists and locals alike. While similar to the Blue Lagoon, it’s cheaper and more rural, situated in the middle of a moss-covered lava field.

The Secret Lagoon is accessible all year long and the temperature of the water is constant at 100° Fahrenheit (38-40° Celsius). Apart from perfectly warm water, the lagoon has other attractions to offer nearby. Geothermal hot spots and a small geyser surprising visitors every 4 minutes are there to entertain. The pool is surrounded by wooden pathways, which together with the steam rising from the pool create a mystical, picture-worthy scene.

The Secret Lagoon in Iceland is as enjoyable in the winter as it is in the summer. It’s a sublime experience to bathe in hot, geothermal water in the crisp winter air. If you’re really lucky, then the flickering colors of the Northern Lights may dance across the night sky during your visit – an unforgettable experience that you’ll treasure forever.

FIMMVORDUHALS TREK

Fimmvorduhals  is a trail between the  Eyjafjallajökull  and  Mýrdalsjökull glaciers . It stretches out through the diverse terrain for around 15 miles (25 kilometers), connecting Skogar with the Thorsmork Valley and can only be accessed during summer. The weather on the trail is very unpredictable and anything from summer rain to severe hails is possible. The trail is devoured by local hikers and is a site of pilgrimage for adventure seekers from around the world.

While it is possible to complete the trail in a day, we recommend taking your time and really soaking in the breathtaking scenery. There are two mountain huts on the way to the Thorsmork Valley , where you can stay overnight if you want to spend more than one day in the area. While the trail is only 15 miles (25 kilometers), it’s not recommended for absolute beginners. To get the most out of it you should be in relatively good physical condition.

HEKLA VOLCANO

Hekla  is the most active volcano in Iceland and has erupted over 20 times since 874 c.e., with another eruption expected soon. Nonetheless, scientists suggest that the volcano is perfectly safe to explore for now. During the Middle Ages, Icelanders called it the Gateway to Hell, though it’s now often referred to as the Queen of Iceland. The last eruption took place from February 26 to March 8, 2000.

The volcano looks a lot like an overturned boat, with active craters stretching over both sides. At one time, it was covered by birch and willow trees. Due to human interference and volcanic eruptions, the soil around the volcano has transformed into a vast, moss-covered lava field.

Hiking  is very popular in the area around the volcano. While you’re able to hike to the summit of the volcano on your own, it’s strongly recommended that you go in the company of an experienced mountaineering guide. Hekla Volcano is rather unpredictable, so the information that our qualified guides are able to provide will make the adventure safe and insightful.

FJAÐRÁRGLJÚFUR

In the southeast of Iceland,  Fjadrargljufur Canyon stretches out for about 1.2 miles (2 kilometers) and 330 feet (100 meters) into the ground. At the bottom, the glacier-fed Fjadra River carves out its rugged, steep walls. Fjadrargljufur Canyon is located close to the Ring Road and yet is largely unknown. To get to it, you need to drive east towards Hofn and exit the road near Kirkjubæjarklaustur Village. Then take the mountain road no. F206 and ride for a few more minutes until you reach the parking area.

There are two ways you can hike the canyon: you can take a path at the top that goes along the rim of the ravine, or if you prefer a more extreme hike, walk down to the bottom of the canyon. Regardless of the path you choose, you’ll be rewarded with enchanting views of moss-covered rough stone and a rapidly flowing river. Please note hiking along the bottom of the canyon might require you to wade the river at some points. Also, if you hike from east to west, expect to be surprised by the playful waterfall, cascading down the gorge.

Must-Do: Most Popular Activities

Glacier hiking sólheimajökull and mýrdalsjökull glacier.

Sólheimajökull is one of the most easily accessible Iceland glaciers on the South Coast. Just 158 kilometers (98 miles) away from Reykjavik, it is a popular place to go glacier hiking . Unlike glaciers surrounded by giant mountains, Sólheimajökull offers clear views for those who reach the top.

Thrill-seekers who want to try ice climbing have their choice of many different ice walls. Tour guides provide all necessary equipment for safe and fun glacier adventures.

Sólheimajökull is an outlet glacier of the giant   Mýrdalsjökull ice cap , the fourth largest ice cap in Iceland. The mighty glacier is home to the infamous   Katla Volcano.

Explore the hidden treasures beneath the glacier. Deep beneath the ice caps lie the glittering natural ice caves of Iceland. During this unmissable experience, learn the secrets of the caves on an   ice caving tour . Your guide will share fascinating facts about the history and formation of the caves.

Step inside and travel back in time through ancient ice. Each cave is unique and changes every year, so you will never see the same one twice. For safety reasons, these tours are only offered during the winter months. This is the perfect seasonal activity that everyone should add to their bucket list.

Horseback Riding

Explore the magical South Coast landscapes on horseback . The   Icelandic horse   was first brought to the country during the   Viking age. Because of their popularity, laws were put in place to prevent the breed from being mixed with other horses, which means they have remained the same for almost 1000 years!

The most distinctive feature of this breed is their unique gait, called the “tolt.” Channel your inner Viking as you explore the beautiful sights of this region.

Trekking Landmannalaugar and Thorsmork

Landmannalaugar and Thorsmork are popular hiking regions in the southern part of the Icelandic Highlands. About 55 km (34 mi) apart, these areas have vastly different landscapes. Trekking tours offer the opportunity to trek between the two valleys.

Landmannalaugar is a multicolored, geothermal valley enclosed by rhyolite mountains. During the summer it is one of Iceland’s most popular hiking spots. Landmannalaugar translates to “People’s Pools” as it is filled with natural geothermal baths where hikers can take a dip.

In the center of the area, an inky lava field stretches out over several kilometers. The surrounding mountains feature hues of green, yellow, purple, red, blue, white and black, providing surreal visuals.

Thorsmork is a completely different world from the bare, smoky valley of Landmannalaugar. This lush green valley is rich with birch forests, various mosses and Arctic flowers. The flora and fauna of the area offer the perfect habitat for multiple bird species and Arctic foxes.

Hvannadalshnúkur Summit

Hvannadalshnúkur, or Hvannadalshnjúkur, is the tallest mountain in Iceland. Towering 2,109.6 meters (6952 feet) tall, it is the highest peak of   Öræfajökull volcanic glacier   inside Vatnajökull National Park. The pyramid-shaped peak is best seen from the southern towns of Höfn and Vík on the Ring Road.

Those brave enough to summit this beast should be warned that it requires a good fitness level. While you don’t need to be an expert, you should only hike the mountain in the company of an experienced mountain guide. The route involves icy grounds, steep inclines and crevasses. Adventurers who do embark on this adventure will be rewarded with outstanding views.

Golden Circle

The   Golden Circle   is the best-known tour route in Iceland. The 300-kilometer (186 miles) tour guides you to three popular natural attractions: Geysir Geothermal Area, Gullfoss Waterfall and Þingvellir National Park. Get a taste of the country’s fascinating landscapes.

The Geysir Geothermal Area   is a hot spring oasis in the Haukadalur Valley. It features the famous Great Geysir, the active Strokkur and smaller Smiður and Litlí-Strokkur geysers. The area is decorated with fumaroles, mud pits and hot springs.

A ten-minute drive from Geysir and the furthest point on the Golden Circle is   Gullfoss , the “Golden Waterfall.” One of the most marvelous and powerful waterfalls in Iceland, it cascades 32 meters (105 feet) down. This two-tiered waterfall is truly a sight to behold.

The biggest attraction on the Golden Circle is   Þingvellir National Park . The park was named a   UNESCO World Heritage Site   due to its geological and historical importance. It is the birthplace of the Icelandic parliament, founded in 930 CE, the world’s longest ongoing parliament. The park marks the separation between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. Visitors can stand between two continents at once!

Snorkeling Silfra Fissure

People come from all over the world to snorkel the waters of Silfra . Located in   Þingvellir National Park,   this freshwater fissure is one of Iceland’s most beloved natural wonders. This underwater marvel is situated between the   North American and Eurasian plates   and is the only place in the world you can swim between continents.

In addition to its unique geology, the azure waters of Silfra have visibility of over 100 meters. The water maintains a temperature of two to three degrees celsius, so underwater tours are offered year-round. No wonder snorkeling at   Silfra Fissure   has been rated one of the   Top 5 activities in the world by Trip Advisor !

The Blue Lagoon

The   Blue Lagoon   is easily the most famous geothermal spa in Iceland. People come from all over the world to soak in its steamy neon blue waters. The lagoon is filled with rich minerals, silica mud and green algae, all famous for their healing properties. In fact, the Blue Lagoon is the number one treatment for psoriasis in Iceland and skincare products are made from its contents.

Located on the volcanic Reykjanes Peninsula, southwestern Iceland it is only a 30-minute drive from Reykjavík. Many tours include a trip to the lagoon as an optional extra. Enjoy a soak in these magic waters !

Kayaking On Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Kayaking across Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is a hands-on adventure across the lake. Paddle through giant, glittering ice floes as you weave across the lake. Your knowledgeable guide will share interesting facts about nature, history and wildlife around the lagoon. Tours are open to both first-time and experienced kayakers.

On your adventure, you’ll witness and explore   Vatnajökull National Park, the largest glacier in Europe, from a unique angle. Lucky kayakers might spot   seals   playing between the icebergs.

South Coast Iceland Map

South Coast Self-Drive Tours

Driving through the south of Iceland is easy. Self-drives on Iceland’s South Coast follow the Ring Road, the primary road in the region. Most of the popular attractions are scattered along the road and can be reached on foot. During this unforgettable experience, you’ll witness incredible landscapes, waterfalls and glaciers. No wonder it’s one of the most popular road trips in the world!

There are many perks to   self-drive tours , such as the freedom to travel at your own pace, spontaneous pit stops and good value. There are numerous gas stations and villages throughout the Ring Road route, so solo travel in this area is safe and easy. However, there are a few things to keep in mind before you hit the road.

Not all attractions in South Iceland are easy to access and are instead located inland.   Thórsmörk   and   Landmannalaugar   are the two most difficult areas in South Iceland to reach. While most attractions can be reached by normal car, these sites require an experienced driver and a   4X4   vehicle with big tires. It is highly recommended that drivers purchase full insurance.

Icelandic roads can be difficult to navigate, with narrow passes, curves and hills. Driving the South of Coast Iceland in winter can be hazardous. Extreme weather conditions turn already tricky roads into a safety hazard, so checking the forecast is a must.

Roads in the highlands are challenging even in summer. In some cases, you will drive on unpaved roads and cross unbridged rivers. River crossings are not insured.

Highland roads are only open to the public during summer (mid-September to mid-June). Beyond that, they are only accessible by   Superjeeps. Only drivers with specialized driver's licenses may operate Superjeeps.

If you want to enjoy the scenic attractions of the highlands in the winter join a Thórsmörk or   Landmannalaugar tour .

Where to Stay on Iceland’s South Coast

The South Coast of Iceland offers accommodations for all types of travelers. From luxurious hotels to guesthouses to   campsites, there is no shortage of options. Adventurers exploring the mountains needn’t worry about finding a place to lay their head. Enjoy a traditional hotel or try   traditional mountain huts. Several accommodation options include restaurants with buffets as well as bars. For no-hassle travel, many multi-day and self-drive tours include pre-arranged accommodation.

Here are our top choices for places to stay in South Iceland without compromising on comfort or budget:

ADVENTURE HOTEL GEIRLAND

Adventure Hotel Geirland offers a comfortable and peaceful stay amidst South Iceland's natural beauty. Located in a scenic area, it provides guests with peaceful mountain views and easy access to local attractions. Adventure Hotel Hof offers 45 rooms in double and triple layouts, ensuring a comfortable stay with shared or private bathrooms. Its location near the breathtaking Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon and the scenic Skaftafell area of Vatnajökull National Park makes it perfect for exploring the iconic attractions. Guests can enjoy delicious meals made from local ingredients at the hotel's restaurant. The hotel values guest comfort with daily housekeeping, complimentary parking, and luggage storage.

ADVENTURE HOTEL HOF

Adventure Hotel Hof , situated in the Öræfi region, is set against the backdrop of Iceland's glacier-carved landscapes. It has contemporary comforts but with the warmth of Icelandic hospitality. The hotel offers 45 rooms in double and triple options, catering to a restful stay with choices of shared or private bathrooms. It’s conveniently situated near the Ring Road, making it an excellent base for activities such as hiking in Skaftafell or ice cave tours at Vatnajökull National Park. Hotel Hof ensures a pleasant stay with amenities like daily housekeeping, free parking, and luggage storage.

OTHER SOUTH ICELAND HOTELS, GUESTHOUSES, HOSTELS

• Hotel Ranga
• Hali Country Hotel
• Frumskogar Guesthouse
• Hot Springs Hotel
• Minniborgir Cottages and Restaurant
• IceBlue Lodge
• Kerlingarfjöll Highland Resort
• Volcano Huts Þórsmörk

Camping is a cheap, fun accommodation option for the rugged adventurer.   Skaftafell   is arguably the most popular campsite location in South Iceland. Visitors must book in advance. Upon arrival, visitors can find information about the nearby hiking trails at the   Skaftafell Visitors Centre. Campsites include bathrooms, showers, running water (hot and cold), cafeterias, outdoor grills and washing machines. Campgrounds are open all year round.

Þakgil   is another scenic campground in the region. The grounds are located in a valley 20 km from Vík and are surrounded by mountains. Thanks to the mountain cover, the weather in Þakgil is quite mild. The common dining room on the grounds is housed in a cave. Campers can enjoy a unique and cozy dining experience in front of the fireplace.

Hikers will find several routes with varying levels of difficulty all around the campgrounds, including one to   Mýrdalsjökull Glacier.

Which cities and towns are located on the South Coast of Iceland?

Multiple towns and villages are dotted throughout South Iceland.   Selfoss   is the largest town in the region, offering various shops and restaurants. Another popular town is   Hveragerði, popularly known as “flowertown” due to its geothermal cultivation and greenhouses.

Hveragerði is home to the horticultural department of Iceland’s Agricultural University and is open to visitors in the summer. On the seaside, you’ll find   Stokkseyri   and   Eyrarbakki, charming villages with rustic wooden houses.   Vik   is perhaps the most famous seaside town, offering scenic ocean views and black sand beaches.

Are tours along the South Coast of Iceland also available from Reykjavik?

Yes. There are multiple small-group tours that depart from the capital, providing transportation there and back. Check the departure points on your tour to find which excursions leave from Reykjavik.

How long does it take to travel the whole South Coast of Iceland?

The total drive time from Reykjavik to Vik, without stopping, is   2h 30 minutes. Day tours along the South Coast, which take you to popular points of interest, range from about   10-12 hours. Travelers who wish to spend their time at each attraction may opt for a self-drive tour and spend the night in Vik.

What’s the best time to visit the South Coast of Iceland?

Every season has something special to offer. Summer is the high season for tourism in Iceland. Visitors can enjoy activities such as kayaking, hiking and horseback riding. For self-drivers, the roads are safer to navigate in summer.

Winter is just as special. The popular ice caving tours are only offered during this season and are an unmissable activity. As a bonus, travelers spending the night in Vik have the chance to spot the famous   Northern Lights.

Is it dangerous to travel the South Coast of Iceland by yourself?

No. Self-drive tours are a lovely way to explore all the region has to offer at your own pace. The Ring Road is easy to navigate when the weather is nice. Iceland’s South Coast in winter, however, is trickier to maneuver and traveling with a group or   private tour   is recommended.

Where are the best places to eat along the South Coast of Iceland?

You’ll have no problem finding a place to grab a bite on your Iceland South Coast drive. The region offers a range of restaurants, bistros and cafes ranging from classy to casual. Check out our full   food guide   on   Where to Eat on the South Coast   for a list of recommendations.

POPULAR ATTRACTIONS ON THE SOUTH COAST OF ICELAND

Whether you’re looking for stunning waterfalls, magical black sand beaches or majestic glaciers, Iceland’s south coast has it all.

Blue Lagoon

The Most Famous Geothermal Spa in Iceland

Silfra Fissure

Snorkeling and Diving Spot in Between Two Tectonic Plates

Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

The Crown Jewel of Iceland

The Diamond Beach

An Ice-Speckled Beach on the South Coast of Iceland

Secret Lagoon

Geothermal Pool & Hot Springs near the Golden Circle

Skogafoss Waterfall

A Must-See Waterfall in South Iceland

Fimmvörðuháls Hiking Trail

Iceland's Trail Between Two Glacier

Hekla Volcano

The Queen of Icelandic Volcanoes

Reykjadalur Valley

The Hot Spring Valley in Iceland

Reynisfjara Beach

The Most Famous Black Sand Beach in Iceland

Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

Walk Behind a Waterfall in Iceland

Vík í Mýrdal

The Southernmost village in Iceland

Iceland's Ring Road

Travel the Famous Route 1 Highway Around Iceland

Skaftafell Nature Reserve

Iceland's Glacier Paradise

Sólheimajökull Glacier

Home of the Sun in South Iceland

Vatnajökull Glacier & National Park

Europe's Largest Glacier

Eyjafjallajökull

Iceland's Most Famous Volcano

Vestmannaeyjar

An Archipelago in Iceland

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South Iceland Tours & Trips

Search amongh the Iceland packages and find the right adventure package for you through South Iceland. We've got 124 tours going to South Iceland, starting from just 3 days in length, and the longest tour is 10 days. The most popular month to go is August, which has the most number of tour departures.

154 South Iceland tour packages with 2,070 reviews

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• Coach / Bus

Iceland Express

The tour was great! Our tour guide Jonas went above and beyond to make us feel welcomed, safe, and comfortable. I would recommend this tour to anyone who wants to have a quick glimpse of key spots in Iceland in a short time. We were also very lucky to get a wonderful group of fellow travelers. People matter!

• Hiking & Trekking
• Mountain Hikes

Laugavegur Trek - 4 Day Hiking Tour (Huts)

The walk was excellent. Louis the tour guide was exceptional. His knowledge about the area and geology was brilliant. I will always remember Louis!!!

• Sightseeing
• Northern Lights
• Christmas & New Year

3 Day - Golden Circle, South Coast, Jökulsárlón & Ice Cave

Rodger was too good of a guide as he can speak about anything and everything in Iceland and took us to lot of extra spots which were not included in the package. Someone who has very good understanding of the area can only know about such spots. We really enjoyed dinner conversations with him and the entire group. Will be back in winter soon.

Land of the Northern Lights - 5 days

Despite having recent problems in Iceland due to eruption and earthquakes as couldn't go to Blue Lagoon, but our group did best to cover most of the beauties of Iceland. I pray for the people of Iceland facing the disaster and appreciate the resilience of people of Iceland. Our tour guide August was brilliant with humour and knowledge. Well planned trip except few drawbacks as the flight option suggested by the tour was the worst ever experience I had with Wizz air. Overall the tour was enjoyable.

Iceland's Golden Circle in Depth

Pros: We had a great time on the golden circle tour in Iceland mainly due to our tour guide Josef. He was very knowledgeable, professional and gave us a memorable tour. He did the driving as well as the tour. Our group was 10 people which was a perfect size in the van. The hotels were clean. All the sights were great. The only con : wished the tour added the blue lagoon geothermal spa rather than the secret lagoon . Secret lagoon small, not even close to what the blue lagoon offers. All in all great trip! Glad we went. Will travel with intrepid again.

5 Days Land of Northern Lights

Very well organised with a fantastic guide

Iceland Escape

It was a great time. Everything was easily followed and organized well. Only drawback was the weather, and not being able to see the northern lights during our time. All things considered, will definitely be going back to Iceland.

• Health, Spa & Wellness

Wellness Iceland

Great ceo and great trip! Would definitley reccomend!

Iceland Discovery

seamless, no glitches, hiccups or issues from booking entirely online...whenever i texted w questions, they got right back....an awesome value for my money... am planning next year already!!!! thank you for wonderful experience

Iceland Northern Lights & Golden Circle

The tour was fantastic- superbly organised and co-ordinated by our guide Francois. A memorable trip, with so many lovely memories.

5-Day Laugavegur Trek in Huts

The group was professional and informative. The trek itself was dramatic and spectacular, as if being on another planet

12 Days Self-drive | Everything your must see in Iceland Ring Road Tour

Excellent itinerary, great hotels, easy to read maps with lots of good information. Iceland is unique and beautiful, full of contrasts, wildlife and natural beauty.

3 Day Winter Package with Golden Circle, South Coast & Aurora

Normally I don't write review for the tours that I went. If they rendered the services according to the itinerary stated which I think that is just the usual services what I paid for. I had an excellent trip with my guide, Rachel on the tours and she is knowledgeable and helpful. One more thing that I would like to compliment is the follow up on the Northern light tour on that day, I would receive an email informing me the bus number when there is a change of bus, I was not checking my email, they called up my mobile to inform which I am very grateful that I did not missed out on the tour. Overall I am happy with this company operator and would recommend anyone to use them.

6 Days Iceland | Golden Circle, South Coast, Snæfellsnes, Reykjavik City Tour & Airport Transfer (Group Tour)

Everything was organized perfectly. The company did their best to accommodate me every step of the way and always responded promptly to all of my messages.

Explore Iceland National Geographic Journeys

What people love about south iceland tours.

It was very informative. The sites spectacular.

The tour was great and the guide, Sindre, was exeptional. He told us many historic, geological and scientific stuff, and also Icelandic legends during the driving time, making the driving time more enjoyable. He is a very patient and funny guy, who couldn’t wait for the perfect time to make a joke for us!!The first day was a little bit rushed, especially compared to the third one, but we were able to see all the highlights. The glacier hike and ice cave experience was amazing, thanks to Jergus, who changed the plan for our group in order to have more time and enjoy it as much as possible! I couldn’t have asked for better guides for these 3 days. Thank you so much

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A Guide to visiting the South Coast of Iceland

Posted on May 11, 2021 August 4, 2021 Author Priya Leave a comment

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The South Coast has some of the most scenic spots in Iceland – from walking behind a waterfall, checking out the view from the craggy cliffs of Dyrholaey and getting up close to glistening icebergs in a black sand beach, there is so much to see and do. While Golden Circle in Iceland is extremely popular, I highly recommend spending a couple of nights in Southern Iceland to enjoy the stunningly varied landscapes it has to offer.

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Visiting South Coast of Iceland

Situated four and half hours drive away from Iceland’s capital, Reykjavík (on a good day with clear roads in summer), without stops, you’ll be driving for nine hours in total if you decide to visit the South Coast of Iceland and back in one day. Trust me you will want to stop at the scenic points and a few unmarked ones along the way.

Plan for a night or two at the Southern Coast of Iceland and visit the area which really gives Iceland the name, the land of fire and ice. The landscape and weather change dramatically every few minutes, so plan accordingly.

South Coast of Iceland Map

While there are many tours ( like this full day tour from Reykjavik ) you can book, the best way to see Southern Iceland is by renting a car and hitting that ring road (officially referred to as Road Number 1), a road that runs circular through the entire island. Coming from North America it was an easy transition for us as Icelanders drive on the right. You can rent a car (See here for great deals from AutoEurope , you can save up to 30% and also get upgrades).

Use this South Coast Iceland map to plan your adventure.

How to Use This Map:  Use your fingers or computer mouse to zoom in on the details. Click the tab in the top left-hand corner of the map to view the layers (places and the driving route). You can click the icons on the map to get more information about each point of interest. If you click the star next to the title of the map, this map will be added to your Google Maps account. To view it on your phone or computer, open Google Maps, click the menu button, go to “Your Places,” click Maps, and you will see this map on the list.

10 Scenic Stops on the South Coast of Iceland

What is on the South Coast of Iceland? Seljalandsfoss is considered the beginning and Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon is widely considered the end of the South Coast. For the purposes of this post we will start at the first and most famous spot, Seljalandsfoss and make our way through the 10 stunning scenic spots on the South Coast of Iceland:

Seljalandsfoss

Skógafoss .

• Reynisfjara & Reynisdrangar

Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon 

Skaftafell & svartifoss, vatnajökull , jökulsárlón , diamond beach.

There are many more unmarked spots, waterfalls and adventures on the South Coast of Iceland. One of the best adventures in the Southern part of Iceland, after a stop at Seljalandsfoss waterfall and Skogafoss waterfall, was riding Snowmobiles on the Mýrdalsjökull , an icecap covering one of Iceland’s largest volcano, Katla. We were able to explore and experience the wilderness and the breathtaking views over South Iceland on this ride.

See a visual story of the spectacular sights and adventures in Iceland

Seljalandsfoss waterfall is considered a must-see stop on the South Coast sightseeing route, in large part due to the fact that visitors can actually walk behind the cascading water here. This makes the stop particularly beloved by photographers who jump at the chance to snapshot the waterfall from behind.

Skógafoss is one of the largest waterfalls in Iceland, which boasting a drop of 60 metres and a width of 15 metres, and another major attraction along the South Coast. You can feel the power as the water pounds through this 25 meter wide falls from that height. You can walk up close or take the 60-meter staircase to the top and view the falls from above.

Dyrhólaey’s origin can be traced back to when it was a volcanic island, separate from mainland Iceland, known as “ Cape Portland ”. Today, Dyrhólaey is a small peninsula that is connected to the rest of the country. We stayed at the lighthouse here for a night and woke up to some amazing view. You can still visit the lighthouse but unfortunately, you can’t rent it anymore.

This promontory is best known for its fantastic views over Iceland’s South Coast, as well as the birdlife. Puffins, Pufflings (baby Puffins are the cutest!) and other seabirds can be seen on the Dyrhólaey’s towering cliff faces and the enormous rock arch that dominates the scene. 

Reynisfjara & Reynisdrangar 

Reynisfjara is an excellent example of the volcanic shorelines that characterize Iceland’s coasts, it one of the most popular stop-off points for sightseeing tours along the South Coast. The black sand beach of Reynisfjara between Vík í Mýrdal village and Dyrhólaey, roughly 180 kilometers from Reykjavík.

1991, National Geographic voted Reynisfjara as one of the Top 10 non-tropical beaches to visit on Earth . Don’t miss Reynisdrangar , an impressive rock formation situated near the shore of Reynisfjara beach on the South Coast of Iceland. The basalt sea stacks situated under the mountain Reynisfjall. You can climb the basalt columns but be careful, as they can be slippery. The waves and currents at this beach can be unpredictable so keep an eye on them.

Vík: the Southern most village in Iceland

Vík í Mýrdal is a small coastal village found on Iceland’s South Coast. With a population of only 300 people, it is the southernmost village in Iceland. It is a great place to spend a night if you are exploring the many adventures in Iceland ‘s South Coast. It is also the lunch stop and souvenir shopping destination for those partaking in a sightseeing tour. 

The trolls at  Reynisdrangar  which are 66 meters high rock pillars that jot out of the ocean south of Mt. Reynisfjall can be seen and photographed from Vik.

At some point during initial settlement in Iceland, Skaftafell was inhabited as a farmstead and was the location for a number of administrative meetings between different Chieftains. The Öræfajökull eruption of 1362 decimated the community in its entirety, making the area uninhabitable. Hence, the area has been referred to as “ the wasteland ” or Skaftafell ever since.

Today however the region boasts incredible beauty, the country’s tallest peak, Hvannadalshnúkur, as well as the country’s tallest waterfall, Morsárfoss is here in this area.

A short hike from the visitor center brings you to Svartifoss waterfall , flanked by impressive columns.

Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon’s 100-meter cliffs hold a two-kilometre long river in South Iceland. A relatively quiet spot on the South Coast, it is a little off the beaten path. The road to get here is unpaved and a little bumpy but worth it getting off the Ring Road to get to this spot. There are a couple of narrow pathways that take you up the steep walls of the canyon. 

Fjaðrárgljúfur is pronounced Fyath-raor-glyu-fur , try saying that a few times!

With a total surface area of 8,100 km2 and an average width of 400 metres to 600 metres, Vatnajökull is the largest glacier in both Iceland and Europe. Vatnajökull reaches a maximum ice width of approximately 1000 metres and has over thirty different outlet glaciers! That should give you some idea as to the glacier’s scope. You can see it right from the Ring Road. One of the best adventures in Iceland is the glacier hikes .

In fact, the South Coast of Iceland has some of the best adventures where you can walk on glaciers, go waterfall chasing, climb on top of old volcanoes or thousand-year-old canyons carved by ancient rivers.

Vatnajökull National Park covers approximately 11% of the country, covering canyons, mountains and even volcanoes. Another excellent example as to why Iceland is known as the  “Land of Ice and Fire”.

In my opinion, Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon is the prettiest spot in Iceland. How often can you drive up to an icy blue lake with giant chunks of ice floating in the water? The best part is that you can actually ride a boat to get a closer look at the glacier wall and icebergs. This is area so serene and beautiful and one of my favorite spots on the Southern coast of Iceland.

You can do a boat tour on the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon or the nearby smaller Fjallsárlón Glacier Lagoon. The Zodiac boats get you up close to the ice than the Amphibian boats. We saw an Ice shelf calving while we were there.  A surreal experience and one of the best tour in Iceland!

See our Glacier hike and Zodiac boat tour

Only five minutes walk from Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Diamond Beach is a strip of black sand beach where icebergs wash up onto the Icelandic coast. The icebergs glisten like diamonds against the jet black sand giving the beach its name.  If you plan to be here around sunset, the photos of the icebergs catching the sun are brilliant. Diamond beach is one of our favorite place for photos in Iceland where we spent a good couple of hours admiring and photographing the “diamonds.”

Book your Iceland tours here:

Where to stay when visiting the south coast.

We stayed for 3 nights at this Hotel in Vik , a modern hotel on the South Coast of Iceland. It had floor-to-ceiling windows and a nice restaurant where we had the best Icelandic lamb soup.  There are a few other guesthouses and cottages in the area as well.

Don’t miss spending a night or two inside Þingvellir National Park on the “Golden Circle” route of Iceland. ION Adventure and Luxury hotel would also be the perfect place from where you can see the Northern Lights if you are traveling in the winter months.

I hope you find this guide to South Coast helpful when planning your trip to Iceland.

You might also like: 10 Easy Adventures in Iceland Snowmobile ride on a Glacier Hiking & a Zodiac boat ride through Glaciers Northern Iceland Diamond Tour A perfect 7 day Iceland Itinerary

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Learn how to easily plan your dream trip to Iceland with helpful guides and tips!

14 Best Iceland South Coast Tours Worth the Spend

April 12, 2022 //  by  Iceland Trippers //   Leave a Comment

Looking for the best Iceland South Coast tours? You have come to the right place!

Iceland is an amazing country full of waterfalls , rugged landscapes, and other breathtaking sights. The South Coast is home to many of these stunning views, and with so many options to choose from, we know it can get overwhelming when trying to decide what to do during your trip. Especially when considering the best Iceland South Coast Tours!

But no worries! We are here to help! Below we will go through the some of Iceland’s south coast tours one by one so you can see what best fits your needs and preferences! We promise, you won’t be disappointed with what you pick!

These tours of Iceland’s south coast will be unforgettable, and whether you go in the winter or summer, there is always something to do and see. So make your Iceland adventure amazing! And be prepared by booking tours in advance so your trip runs smoothly!

1. From Reykjavik: South of Iceland Full-Day Trip

If you are looking for the best of the best Iceland South Coast tours with every penny, we suggest a full-day trip from Reykjavik ! This tour will take you south of Iceland and will allow you to experience nature at its finest.

See waterfalls, black sand beaches, and walk behind the cascades of Seljalandsfoss after seeing glaciers. This tour lasts for 10 hours and features a live tour guide, so you will get a full day of information!

Spending the day exploring the dramatic landscapes of the south coast, makes this one of the best Iceland south coast tours. From rivers to waterfalls, and mountains and glaciers, you will have time for breaks, photo stops, and more! Enjoy your coast with this guided tour!

Click Here to Book: From Reykjavik: South of Iceland Full-Day Trip

2. Iceland: Full Day South Coast, Black Beach & Waterfalls Tour

If beaches and waterfalls are your thing, look no further than the Full Day South Coast Tour that features beaches and waterfalls ! This is one of the best day-long Iceland South Coast tours!

For over 10 hours, you and your tour group will discover the incredible landscapes on the South Coast with the help of a live tour guide. Leaving Reykjavik, you will see amazing waterfalls, volcanos, glaciers, and black sand beaches on this tour.

Please make sure to be ready at the meeting point 30 minutes before departure. This will ensure you are ready to travel through the farming regions of southern Iceland! You’ll experience the Land of Fire and Ice with dramatic cliffs, caves, natural landscapes, and more.

Click Here to Book: Iceland: Full-Day South Coast, Black Beach & Waterfalls Tour

3. From Reykjavik: Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon Full-Day Trip

Interested in witnessing the south coast by bus? This Lagoon Full-Day Trip is one of those Iceland South Coast tours you will love! This tour bus will let you witness floating icebergs and stunning scenery.

And if you are interested and happen to be visiting during warmer seasons, you can reserve your ticket for a boat cruise on this tour! This takes you to see the Glacier Lagoon spectacle up close!

On this day tour, you will spend 14 hours traveling and witnessing Iceland’s largest and deepest glacier lagoon. And when done, you will also head back to Reykjavik, but not before stopping a few more times. Who wouldn’t want to see the village of Vik, a beach with black sand, and a waterfall in addition to the largest glacier in Europe?

Click Here to Book: From Reykjavik: Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon full-Day Trip

4. Sólheimajökull: Guided Glacier Hike

If you are looking for one of those Iceland’s south coast tours that is more interactive, look no further than the Sólheimajökull Guided Glacier Hike! This tour offers a different perspective. It is family-friendly too! Don’t forget to check out our tips for Solheimajokull Glacier!

Get stunning views of the crevasses and glacier mills on this small-group experience. As you walk with a certified glacier guide, you’ll spend 3 hours hiking across the ice of the Sólheimajökull Glacier. This is truly one of the best things to do in Vik!

You’ll also get to discover ice cave tunnels and glacier lagoons! Don’t worry too: all of your glacier gear like ice axes and helmets are included in this! So book today and take a hike– literally! Don’t forget to check out our list of the best Ice caves in Iceland!

Click Here to Book: Sólheimajökull: Guided Glacier Hike

5. South Coast Classic: Full-Day Tour from Reykjavik

Iceland south coast day trips are the best! So why not experience one of the most classic experiences with one of those Iceland south coast tours? The South Coast Classic Full-Day tour lets you walk behind the thundering veil of the Seljalandsfoss waterfall.

You’ll also get to take in views from the top of the Skogar waterfall! And better yet? You’ll hit all the classic stops like a famous black-sand beach, and the charming coastal village of Vik.

For over 10 hours, you’ll follow a live tour guide to the admission of a variety of sites. The in-bus audio guide provides a more in-depth knowledge of everywhere you stop, and you’ll learn tons about the basalt columns at the beaches, the waterfalls, and more!

Click Here to Book: South Coast Classic: Full-Day Tour from Reykjavik

6. From Reykjavik: South Coast Day Trip with Glacier Hike

Looking to explore? Try one of the best Iceland South Coast tours that is a day long and takes you on a glacier hike ! It is truly an adventure. On this trip, you will explore the south coast after leaving Reykjavik.

For over 11 hours you will visit a hidden waterfall, see volcanos and waterfalls above it, learn about Icelandic Sags, and hike to the top of a glacier in a small group!

With this tour, you are picked up and dropped off in Reykjavik. You’re also guaranteed to be a part of the glacier hike, and all gear for this hike is provided. And when you’re done awing at the ice, you’ll also see black sand beaches and fishing villages! This tour is a win-win!

Click Here to Book: From Reykjavik: South Coast Day Trip with Glacier Hike

7. From Reyjkavik: South Coast Full-Day Trip

If you are going to experience the south coast of Iceland, chances are you need a full day to do it! So check out the South Coast Full-Day Trip ! This is one of those tours that is so worth it, as it is leisurely and relaxing!

If you are looking for one of the best Iceland South Coast tours, look here. This full-day trip (which is 10 hours long) allows you to take in all the natural wonders of the South Coast. You’ll see waterfalls, rock formations, glaciers, and more!

Better yet? This tour is small-group! With a mini-bus and a guided tour, there is only 19 passengers allowed on this tour. Thus, it feels intimate and personal! You’ll learn tons, make friends, and get to enjoy volcanos, veils behind waterfalls, and more.

Click Here to Book: From Reykjavik: South Coast Full-Day Trip

8. Skaftafell: 5 Hour Glacier Hike Adventure

If you are looking to really connect with nature, consider one of those Iceland South Coast tours that allows you to really dive deep and interact with the land around you. We are suggesting you check out the Skaftafell 5 Hour Glacier Hike Adventure!

This tour is truly an adventure. You get to physically walk on a glacier and explore the formations and deep crevasses of Vatnajökull for 5 hours!

Better yet, this tour is limited to 10 participants, so it is a small group. During this day trip, you will follow a live tour guide who will show you all the nooks of a huge glacier. Your gear is included, of course! The access of Jökulsárlón Glacier alone is totally worth it. So check it out! And book soon: this is one of those Iceland South Coast tours that is likely to sell out!

Click Here to Book: Skaftafell: 5 Hour Glacier Hike Adventure

9. Crystal Cave Tour from Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Ever heard of a crystal cave? The Crystal Cave tour is one of the few Iceland South Coast tours that allows you to visit inside the caves in Europe’s biggest glacier!

Standing in this cave you will marvel at the shades of blue that surround you. For over two hours you will explore these caves of the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon with a guide and proper gear.

Stunning photos will not capture the true beauty of this magical world. Guests love this tour, and it sells out quickly, so make sure to book today, because we promise this is one of those Iceland South Coast tours you don’t want to miss!

Click Here to Book: Crystal Ice Cave Tour from Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

10. From Jökulsárlón: Crystal Blue Ice Cave Super Jeep Tour

We love variation, so we want to provide you with one of those Iceland South Coast tours that looks at the ice caves, but also has a spin on it when compared to the previous tour! This Ice Cave Super Jeep Tour offers what its title suggests– a jeep!

Hopping on a super jeep, this tour will take you up Jökulsárlón– up the Glacier Lagoon. From there you will park and walk inside the Blue Ice Caves to witness all of the insane beauty it has to offer.

This is truly a unique experience and is immersive. Many people suggest going on this tour during the wintertime, but book quickly, as this is a popular tour! And don’t forget to enjoy Vatnajökull National Park while riding in those jeeps too. Southern Iceland is one of the best things to witness!

Click Here to Book: From Jökulsárlón: Crystal Blue Ice Cave Super Jeep Tour

11. Katla Ice Cave and Super Jeep Tour from Reykjavik/Vik

If the idea of an ice cave gets you excited, consider taking one o those Iceland South Coast Tours that lets you to spend all day near them! The Katla Ice Cave and Super Jeep Tour take you on a full-day guided tour.

For 11 hours you will discover the natural wonders of Iceland’s south coast in jeeps. In particular, this tour lets you connect with the natural ice cave that is at Kötlujökull Glacier, so it is different from other ice cave tours.

You can also enjoy the views that look over the Mýrdalsjökull Ice Cap! The smaller hidden trails that compose this tour allow you to take your jeep on a more private and interactive course. You’ll leave Reykjavik or Vik and truly drive along the country’s south coast before getting to walk along with it and immerse yourself in the stunning caves!

Click Here to Book: Katla Ice Cave and Super Jeep Tour from Reykjavik/Vik

12. South Coast, Glacier Hike, and Northern Lights Winter Tour

This tour is one of those Iceland south coast tours that you must do in winter! The South Coast Glacier Hike and Northern Lights tour takes you on a full-day adventure. You will get to explore the south coast and glaciers during the day. And during the evening?

Let’s just say you’ll be hunting for some stunning lights! For over 16 hours, you’ll get an up-close and personal view of glaciers, volcanoes, black sand beaches, waterfalls, and cliffs.

But what makes this tour special is that after being dropped off in Reykjavik for some dinner time, you’ll once again be picked up for the portion of the tour that is made for the Northern Lights! Hunt those jewel-bright colors in the sky. You don’t want to miss it!

Click Here to Book : South Coast, Glacier Hike, and Norther Lights Winters Tour

13. Sólheimajökull: Kayaking by the Glacier

If you are looking for one of those Iceland’s south coast tours that really encourage adventure, look no further than the Sólheimajökull Kayaking tour ! This lets you take a closer look at the icebergs and landscapes of the southern coast.

For an hour, and in a small group (no more than 8 people!), you’ll get to take in the breathtaking views of Sólheimajökull. While paddling around icebergs in the lagoon, you’ll enjoy the beautiful outlet.

And while this is an adventure tour, it is also relaxing! Listen to your live tour guide, paddle at your own speed, and just enjoy! And don’t worry: dry suits and training for your kayaking methods are given when you first meet your guide. They don’t want you cold or standard! But at the end of the day, visit these calm waters and see what you can only see when you are close up.

Click Here to Book: Sólheimajökull: Kayaking by the Glacier

14. From Reykjavik: South Coast and Black Beach ATV Ride

Adventure is half of the fun when considering which Iceland south coast tours to book. So consider one that features an ATV ride! The South Coast and Black Beach ATV Ride tour lets you take a quad bike out to witness all of the highlights of the south coast.

On this tour, you will follow the coastline of Iceland with your guide and get to stop at breathtaking spots: waterfalls, the pathways behind these falls, black sand beaches, and more!

But what people tend to love about this tour is that DC3 army plane wreck. On this tour, you get to see this wreck up close. It is located in the middle of nowhere, but on your ATV you are able to get up close and personal! And do you really want to miss out on riding this bike on a volcanic beach? We think not!

Click Here to Book: From Reykjavik: South Coast and Black Beach ATV Ride

And there you have it, folks! 14 of the best Iceland South Coast tours you can take during your trip. So whether you want to hike, take a bus, kayak, see an ice cave, or chill at a black sand beach, we promise there is a tour for you. Your days in the Land of Fire and Ice will be magical with the help of these south coast tours. They’ll let you truly experience it all! Enjoy!

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South Iceland Tours

Day tours to iceland´s south coast.

Brimming with glaciers, volcanoes, waterfalls and black sand beaches, the South Coast of Iceland offers you unforgettable adventures at every turn. Browse our wide selection of South Coast tours and come with us to discover this magical part of the country for yourself! For more information on the South Coast of Iceland, scroll down the page . 

South Coast Iceland Tours

South Coast, Diamond Beach & Jökulsárlón Tour

Travel along the exciting South Coast of Iceland and visit the breathtaking Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, Diamond beach, and stop at Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls!

South Iceland, Waterfalls and Black Sand Beach Tour

Travel through the ever-changing landscape of South Iceland and discover some of the country’s most iconic volcanoes, glaciers and waterfalls.

South Iceland & Glacier Hike Tour

Travel across lush farmlands of south Iceland visiting volcanoes and thundering waterfalls and take a walk on the Sólheimajökull glacier landscape

Experience The Highlands - Sightseeing and Baths

South iceland & black sand beach private tour.

Private journey along Iceland’s most spectacular South Coast with a walk on the black sand beach and witness the beauty that defines the land of fire and ice.

South Coast & Northern Lights Mystery

Experience the best of Iceland´s South Coast with an evening Northern Lights Tour.

Exploring the Spectacular South Coast of Iceland: A Journey of Natural Wonders

In the land of fire and ice, there is a place brimming with breathtaking landscapes and awe-inspiring natural wonders - Iceland´s South Coast. With its glaciers, volcanoes, waterfalls, and black sand beaches, this region offers an unforgettable adventure at every turn. Whether you're a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or a curious traveler, a trip to the South Coast of Iceland is a must. Join us on a journey to discover the beauty of this magical part of the country.

Unveiling the Marvels of Iceland´s South Coast

Natural wonders of the south coast tours.

From the moment you set foot on this majestic coastline, you'll be surrounded by a tapestry of immense glaciers, towering waterfalls, and black sand beaches. The South Coast of Iceland is a haven for nature lovers, offering a plethora of natural wonders to explore.

One of the most iconic natural features of the South Coast is its majestic waterfalls. The region is home to two of Iceland's most famous waterfalls - Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss. Seljalandsfoss waterfall is a true marvel, with its cascading waters plunging over a cliff into a serene pool below. What sets this waterfall apart is the unique opportunity to walk behind the curtain of water, providing a truly immersive experience. Skógafoss Waterfall, on the other hand, is a powerful force of nature, with its thundering waters creating a mesmerizing display. The sheer size and beauty of these waterfalls will leave you in awe.

Waterfalls along Iceland's South Coast

Venture further along the South Coast and you'll discover more hidden gems in the form of waterfalls. The region is dotted with numerous smaller waterfalls, each with its own unique charm. From the picturesque Gljúfrabúi, hidden within a narrow canyon, to the graceful Skógasafn, cascading down a series of steps, these waterfalls offer a tranquil escape into nature's embrace. Take a moment to bask in the beauty and serenity of these hidden treasures.

Glaciers and ice caves on the South Coast Day Tours

As you explore the South Coast of Iceland, you'll soon encounter the icy wonders of the Vatnajökull National Park, home to Europe's largest glacier. The Vatnajökull Glacier is a sight to behold, its vast expanse stretching as far as the eye can see. For the adventurous souls, exploring the glacier and its surrounding ice caves is an experience like no other. Step into a world of shimmering blue ice, intricate formations, and a sense of tranquility that can only be found in the heart of a glacier.

Black sand beaches and basalt columns on Iceland's South Coast

No day tour to the South Coast of Iceland would be complete without a visit to the enchanting black sand beaches. Reynisfjara, with its striking basalt columns and towering cliffs, is a sight that will take your breath away. Feel the power of the Atlantic Ocean as the waves crash against the shore, creating a symphony of sound. Take a leisurely stroll along the black sands and let the beauty of this unique landscape wash over you.

Exploring the charming villages of Iceland's South Coast

Beyond the natural wonders, the South Coast is also home to charming villages that offer a glimpse into the local way of life. Vik, a picturesque coastal village, is a popular stop for travelers. Explore the quaint streets, visit the historic church, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. The village of Höfn, known for its delicious seafood, is another gem worth exploring. Immerse yourself in the local culture, indulge in fresh seafood delicacies, and savor the warm hospitality of the locals.

Wildlife and birdwatching opportunities on South Coast tours

The South Coast of Iceland is teeming with wildlife, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers. Keep an eye out on your day tour for puffins, Arctic terns, and other seabirds as they soar through the skies. If you're lucky, you might even spot seals lounging on the rocky shores. The diverse range of habitats in the region provides ample opportunities to observe and appreciate Iceland's unique wildlife.

Adventure activities along Iceland's South Coast attractions

For those seeking an adrenaline rush, day tours to the South Coast offers a wide range of adventure activities. Embark on a thrilling glacier hike and get up close and personal with the icy wonders of Vatnajökull. Go ice climbing and conquer the frozen walls of an icefall. If you prefer something on the water, try kayaking on the glacial lagoon of Jökulsárlón, where you can paddle among icebergs and witness the beauty of nature up close. Whatever your adventure of choice, the South Coast has something to offer for every thrill-seeker.

Planning day tours to Iceland's South Coast

When planning your day tours to the South Coast of Iceland, it's important to consider the best time to visit. The summer months, from June to August, offer long daylight hours and milder weather, making it an ideal time to explore the region. However, if you're hoping to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights, the winter months of September to March provide the best opportunity. Be sure to pack warm clothing for your day tour, as the weather can be unpredictable and temperatures can drop significantly, even in the summer.

The South Coast of Iceland is a non-stop picture parade of magnificent landscapes that will leave you in awe. From the world-famous Golden Circle to the dramatic black sand beaches, towering waterfalls, and glacier lagoons, this region has it all. Let's dive into the highlights that await you on a South Coast tour!

Waterfalls - Nature's Cascading Masterpieces on Iceland's south coast

The geological formations of waterfalls.

Waterfalls are formed through a combination of geological processes and the forces of nature. In South Iceland, the unique landscape provides the perfect conditions for the creation of these cascading masterpieces. The region's volcanic activity and glacial meltwater contribute to the formation of deep gorges and steep cliffs, which in turn give rise to the stunning waterfalls.

The erosion caused by the constant flow of water over centuries carves out these natural wonders, leaving behind sheer cliffs and breathtaking cascades. The basalt rock formations common in South Iceland add to the beauty of the waterfalls, with their hexagonal patterns creating a mesmerizing visual spectacle.

Famous Waterfalls in South Iceland

Iceland´s South Coast is home to a plethora of famous waterfalls that attract visitors from all over the world. One such iconic waterfall is Skógafoss, known for its thundering roar and impressive height. Standing at 60 meters tall and spanning a width of 25 meters, Skógafoss is a sight to behold. The sheer power of the cascading water creates a mesmerizing mist that adds to the ethereal atmosphere surrounding the waterfall.

Another must-visit waterfall in South Iceland is Seljalandsfoss. What sets Seljalandsfoss apart is the unique opportunity to walk behind the curtain of water. This rare experience allows visitors to get up close and personal with the cascading water, providing a truly immersive encounter with nature. The ethereal beauty of Seljalandsfoss, combined with the ability to explore it from different angles, makes it a favorite among photographers and nature enthusiasts.

The Beauty and Power of Skógafoss

Skógafoss, with its thunderous roar and towering presence, showcases the raw power of nature. As you approach the waterfall, you'll be greeted by the deafening sound of water crashing against rocks, creating a symphony of nature's might. The mist generated by the cascading water creates a mystical atmosphere, adding to the allure of Skógafoss.

For the adventurous souls, climbing the stairs to the top of Skógafoss rewards you with a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscapes. From this vantage point, you can witness the full magnitude of the waterfall's grandeur, as it tumbles down the cliff face with unyielding force. The sheer power and beauty of Skógafoss make it a must-visit attraction on South Iceland day tours.

Exploring the Majestic Seljalandsfoss waterfall

Seljalandsfoss, with its graceful cascade and unique feature of being able to walk behind the waterfall , is a true gem of South Iceland. As the water gracefully flows down the cliff, it creates a mesmerizing display of nature's beauty. The delicate mist that surrounds Seljalandsfoss adds to the ethereal atmosphere, making it a favorite among photographers and nature enthusiasts.

Walking behind Seljalandsfoss is an experience like no other. As you step into the hidden alcove behind the cascading water, you'll be enveloped in a world of wonder. The sound of water crashing against rocks, combined with the gentle mist on your face, creates a sensory experience that is both exhilarating and calming. Exploring Seljalandsfoss from different angles allows you to appreciate its otherworldly allure and capture unique photographs that will leave a lasting impression.

Discovering the Hidden Gem of Gljúfrabúi

Hidden away from the prying eyes of most visitors, Gljúfrabúi is a hidden gem that awaits those willing to venture off the beaten path. Nestled within a narrow canyon, this waterfall offers a secluded and intimate encounter with nature. To reach Gljúfrabúi, you'll have to wade through a shallow river and enter a small cave. Once inside, you'll be greeted by the mesmerizing sight of the cascading water, as it gracefully flows down the moss-covered rocks.

The intimate setting of Gljúfrabúi allows for a deeper connection with nature. The peacefulness of the surroundings and the gentle sound of water provide a serene atmosphere, perfect for contemplation and reflection. If you're seeking a moment of tranquility away from the crowds, Gljúfrabúi is the ideal destination.

Hiking and Adventure Opportunities near Waterfalls

South Iceland's waterfalls not only offer picturesque views but also present a myriad of hiking and adventure opportunities. The diverse landscapes surrounding the waterfalls provide the perfect backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the region on foot. Whether you're a novice hiker or an experienced trekker, South Iceland has something to offer for everyone.

The popular Fimmvörðuháls hiking trail takes you on a journey through some of South Iceland's most breathtaking landscapes. Starting at Skógafoss, the trail leads you through a volcanic moonscape, past numerous waterfalls, and eventually to the famous Þórsmörk Nature Reserve. The hike offers unparalleled views of the cascading waterfalls and allows you to immerse yourself in the raw, untamed beauty of the region.

For the adrenaline junkies, canyoning and rappelling adventures near waterfalls provide an exhilarating experience. Descending down the steep cliffs, surrounded by the roaring water, is an adrenaline-filled activity that will get your heart pumping. These adventure opportunities near the waterfalls of South Iceland add an extra level of excitement to your visit, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime.

The South Coast of Iceland is home to some of the most stunning waterfalls in the country. With massive glaciers come meltwater, creating a spectacle of cascading water. Here are a few waterfalls you shouldn't miss:

Skógafoss - This impressive 60-meter waterfall faces directly south, offering a great chance to see rainbows reaching into the sky on sunny days. Climb the steps to the top for breathtaking views.

Seljalandsfoss - Unlike other Icelandic waterfalls, Seljalandsfoss allows you to walk all the way around it, providing a unique perspective and an opportunity to see it from behind.

Gljúfrabúi Waterfall - Often overlooked, this hidden gem is partially concealed and can be discovered by following the stepping stones in the stream near Seljalandsfoss. Venture through a small canyon to reveal this stunning cascade.

Svartifoss - Named for the dark basalt columns surrounding it, Svartifoss (the Black Waterfall) is one of the highlights of a visit to Skaftafell National Park.

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach - A Volcanic Wonder

Prepare to be amazed by the world-famous Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach. The black sand beach is a very popular stop when visiting the south coast of Iceland. Take a memorable stroll along the volcanic black sand, surrounded by towering basalt formations and powerful Atlantic waves crashing upon the shores. Keep an eye out for the craggy rock formations just offshore, said to be petrified trolls!

Formation of the Black Sand Beach

The formation of Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach is an extraordinary natural phenomenon that dates back to ancient volcanic activity. The beach's jet-black sand is a result of the erosion of basaltic lava, which was formed when molten lava cooled rapidly upon contact with the ocean. Over time, this volcanic material was broken down into fine grains, creating the unique black sand that covers the beach.

The beach's iconic basalt columns are another fascinating feature that adds to its allure. These hexagonal pillars were formed through the slow cooling and contraction of lava flows, resulting in the characteristic geometric shapes. The mesmerizing sight of these towering columns, coupled with the contrast of the black sand, creates a surreal and otherworldly atmosphere.

Reynisfjara's formation is a testament to the power and beauty of nature, showcasing the intricate processes that have shaped the Earth over millions of years. It serves as a reminder of Iceland's volcanic origins and the constant evolution of our planet.

Unique features of Reynisfjara

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach is renowned for its unique features fromed from volcanic eruptions, which set it apart from other beaches around the world. One of the most striking aspects is the presence of Reynisdrangar, the basalt sea stacks that rise dramatically from the sea. These towering formations, standing up to 66 meters tall, create a captivating visual spectacle and provide a stunning backdrop for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike. The features are all the result of old volcanic eruptions.

Another notable feature of Reynisfjara is the impressive basalt cave known as Hálsanefshellir. Located near the beach, this cave offers a glimpse into the ancient geological history of the area. As you explore its dark chambers, you'll be surrounded by the echoes of crashing waves and the play of light filtering through the narrow openings, creating an ethereal experience.

The picturesque cliffs that frame Reynisfjara Beach are yet another unique aspect of this volcanic eruptions wonder. Carved by the relentless force of the Atlantic Ocean, these cliffs exhibit fascinating rock formations and intricate patterns, showcasing the ever-changing nature of the coastal landscape.

Safety precautions for visiting Reynisfjara

While Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach is undeniably beautiful, it's important to be aware of the potential dangers that come with visiting this natural wonder. The powerful waves and unpredictable currents of the Atlantic Ocean can pose a significant risk to unsuspecting visitors. It is crucial to exercise caution and adhere to the following safety precautions:

Stay away from the water's edge : The waves at Reynisfjara can be deceptively powerful and can easily sweep you off your feet. It's essential to keep a safe distance from the water's edge and never turn your back on the ocean.

Beware of sneaker waves : Sneaker waves, also known as rogue waves, can unexpectedly surge ashore with tremendous force. Always be vigilant and watch out for any signs of unusual wave patterns or sudden changes in the water's behavior.

Respect the warning signs : The beach is equipped with warning signs that indicate the potential dangers. Take these signs seriously and follow any instructions or recommendations provided.

Keep an eye on children : Children should be closely supervised at all times when visiting Reynisfjara. The strong currents and steep cliffs can pose a significant risk to their safety.

By being cautious and respectful of the ocean's power, you can enjoy the beauty of Reynisfjara while ensuring your safety and the safety of those around you. Don´t be afraid to ask your tour guide if you have questions.

Wildlife at Reynisfjara

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach is not only a haven for geology enthusiasts but also boasts a diverse range of wildlife. The rocky cliffs provide nesting grounds for various seabird species, including puffins, fulmars, and guillemots. These graceful birds can be observed soaring above the cliffs or diving into the ocean in search of food.

The beach itself is home to a variety of marine life, with seals occasionally spotted basking on the rocks or swimming close to the shore. If you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of whales or dolphins in the distance as they navigate the deep waters of the Atlantic.

For nature lovers, Reynisfjara offers a unique opportunity to witness the interconnectedness of land and sea and to appreciate the delicate balance of ecosystems thriving in this volcanic environment.

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon - A Glacial Paradise

One of the most iconic attractions on the South Coast is the famous Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. Witness the meeting of the glacier Breiðamerkurjökull and the ocean as giant pieces of ice calve from the glacier and float serenely out to sea. Nearby, at Diamond Beach, you'll find glittering fragments of icebergs carved into stunning shapes by the wind and waves.

Formation and geographical features of Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is a result of the retreat of the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier. As the glacier melts, large blocks of ice break off and float in the lagoon, creating a stunning display of icebergs. The glacial waters, sourced from the Vatnajökull ice cap, are incredibly clear and take on a mesmerizing blue hue. The lagoon is surrounded by black sand beaches, contrasting the pristine icebergs and creating a unique and picturesque landscape.

The lagoon is constantly changing due to the movement of the icebergs. As they float towards the mouth of the lagoon, they eventually make their way to the Atlantic Ocean, creating a dynamic and ever-evolving environment. The size and shape of the icebergs vary greatly, with some towering several meters above the water, while others are smaller and more delicate.

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is not only visually stunning but also serves as an important research site for scientists studying glacial retreat and the effects of climate change. As the glaciers continue to melt, the lagoon is expected to grow in size, making it an even more significant natural phenomenon.

Unique wildlife and flora at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is not only a glacial paradise for humans but also a haven for various wildlife species. One of the most iconic inhabitants of the lagoon is the Atlantic seal. These curious creatures can often be seen basking on the floating ice or swimming gracefully in the glacial waters. Visitors can witness these majestic animals up close during boat tours of the lagoon, providing a truly unforgettable experience.

In addition to seals, Jökulsárlón is a popular spot for birdwatching enthusiasts. The lagoon attracts a wide variety of bird species, including Arctic terns, great skuas, and puffins. The sight of these birds soaring above the icebergs is a true spectacle and adds to the overall enchantment of the lagoon.

The flora surrounding Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is sparse but resilient. The harsh conditions of the glacier tongue environment have given rise to unique plant species that have adapted to the extreme cold and limited nutrients. Mosses, lichens, and small flowering plants can be found scattered across the black sand beaches, adding a touch of color to the stark landscape.

Activities and attractions at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon in Southern Iceland

There are numerous activities and attractions that allow visitors to fully immerse themselves in the beauty of Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. One of the most popular options is a boat tour of the lagoon. Hop aboard a zodiac or amphibian boat and navigate through the icebergs, getting up close and personal with these natural wonders. The knowledgeable guides provide insights into the formation of the lagoon and its inhabitants, making the experience both educational and awe-inspiring.

For those seeking a more tranquil experience, simply standing at the edge of the lagoon and taking in the breathtaking scenery is a must. The stillness of the water, the towering icebergs, and the distant sound of cracking ice create a sense of serenity that is hard to find elsewhere. Be sure to bring your camera and capture the beauty of Jökulsárlón in all its glory.

If you're feeling adventurous, consider taking a guided glacier hike on the nearby Breiðamerkurjökull glacier. Strap on crampons and explore the icy terrain, marveling at crevasses, ice caves, and ice formations. This thrilling experience offers a unique perspective on the glacial environment and is sure to leave you with lasting memories.

Tips for visiting Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Dress warmly: The weather near the lagoon can be unpredictable, with strong winds and low temperatures. Layer your clothing and bring a waterproof jacket to protect yourself from the elements.

Be mindful of the wildlife: While observing the seals and birds at Jökulsárlón can be a highlight of your visit, it's important to respect their space and not disturb them. Keep a safe distance and use binoculars or a telephoto lens to get a closer look.

Book boat tours in advance: Boat tours at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon are popular and can fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist season. To secure your spot, it's advisable to book your tour in advance.

Pack snacks and water: There are limited dining options near the lagoon, so it's a good idea to bring snacks and water to keep yourself energized throughout the day.

Stay safe: The lagoon can be slippery, especially around the edges where the ice meets the water. Take caution when walking and wear appropriate footwear with good traction.

Best time to visit Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

The best time to visit Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon depends on the experience you're seeking. In the summer months of June to August, the weather is milder, and the days are longer, allowing for more exploration time. This is also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds.

If you're hoping to witness the Northern Lights dancing above the lagoon, plan your visit between September and April. The winter months offer a unique opportunity to see the lagoon illuminated by the vibrant colors of the Aurora Borealis. However, keep in mind that the weather can be harsh during this time, with limited daylight hours and colder temperatures.

Regardless of the season, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is a sight to behold and will leave you in awe no matter when you visit.

The Formation of Diamond Beach

Diamond Beach owes its existence to the nearby Breiðamerkurjökull glacier, which is a part of the larger Vatnajökull glacier. As the glacier slowly advances, chunks of ice break off and float downstream towards the Atlantic Ocean. These icebergs then get washed ashore, adorning the volcanic black sand beach with their presence.

The black sand is a result of volcanic activity in the area, creating a stark contrast against the translucent icebergs. The constant interaction between the icebergs and the waves shapes them into various forms and sizes, making each visit to Diamond Beach a unique experience.

Unique Features of Diamond Beach

What sets Diamond Beach apart is the ethereal beauty of the icebergs against the dark sand. The icebergs come in different shades of white and blue, and their smooth surfaces reflect the sunlight, creating a dazzling display of colors. As the waves crash onto the beach, they gently polish the ice formations, making them glisten like radiant diamonds.

No two icebergs are the same, and each one has its own unique shape and texture. Some icebergs are small and delicate, while others are massive and imposing. Visitors can spend hours exploring the beach, marveling at the intricate patterns and details of the ice formations.

Wildlife at Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, located just a short walk from Diamond Beach, is not only home to stunning icebergs but also a rich variety of wildlife. The lagoon serves as a sanctuary for various bird species, including Arctic terns, puffins, and great skuas. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the opportunity to observe these fascinating creatures up close.

If you're lucky, you might even spot seals swimming among the icebergs. The lagoon provides an ideal habitat for seals, and they can often be seen basking on the ice or diving into the cold waters. Witnessing these playful creatures in their natural environment is a truly magical experience.

Best Time to Visit Diamond Beach and Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

The best time to visit Diamond Beach and Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon is during the summer months, from May to September. The weather is relatively mild, and the days are long, allowing for more time to explore and appreciate the beauty of the area. Additionally, the summer months offer the chance to witness the Midnight Sun, where the sun remains visible throughout the night.

During the winter months, from October to April, the region transforms into a winter wonderland. However, the weather can be harsh, with temperatures dropping below freezing and limited daylight hours. Despite the challenging conditions, the icy landscape takes on a whole new level of beauty, and the Northern Lights may even make an appearance.

Skaftafell National Park - Hiking Amidst Glaciers

Part of the Vatnajökull National Park, Skaftafell offers a range of hiking trails suitable for all levels of experience. From the path leading to the mesmerizing Svartifoss waterfall to viewpoints overlooking glaciers, the park's diverse landscapes will leave you in awe. Don't miss the opportunity to explore this natural wonderland.

Glaciers - The Frozen Giants of Iceland

No visit to the South Coast of Iceland is complete without encountering its glaciers. Two of the most accessible glaciers in the country, Sólheimajökull and Mýrdalsjökull, are located in this region. Vatnajökull, Europe's largest ice caps glacier, covers a significant portion of the South Coast. Explore the glacier tongues and witness the raw power and beauty of these frozen giants.

Choose Your South Coast Adventure

Now that you've discovered the wonders of the South Coast of Iceland, it's time to choose your adventure. Gray Line Iceland offers a variety of South Coast tours catering to different interests and preferences. Here are some tour options to consider:

South Iceland, Waterfalls, and Black Sand Beach Tour - Ideal for families, this tour provides a complete experience of South Iceland's natural wonders.

South Iceland & Black Sand Beach Private Tour - Perfect for small groups and couples seeking a more intimate experience.

South Coast & Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Tour - A photographer's dream, this tour encompasses the visual diversity of the South Coast and includes the unforgettable Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach.

South Iceland & Snowmobile Adventure ,  South Iceland & Glacier Hike Adventure , South Iceland & Paragliding Adventure Tours - For those seeking an adrenaline rush, these adventure tours will take your Iceland experience to new heights.

Get Ready for an Unforgettable Journey on the South coast of Iceland

Embark on a South Coast adventure with Gray Line Iceland, and get ready for a journey of a lifetime. From towering waterfalls to majestic glacier hikes and natural ice caves, the South Coast of Iceland is a land of natural wonders waiting to be explored. Book your tour today and let us guide you through this captivating region. Discover the beauty, immerse yourself in the culture, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Welcome to the South Coast of Iceland, where adventure awaits!

Which Iceland South Coast Tour to Take

● South Iceland, Waterfalls, and Black Sand Beach Tour is great for families  and offers you the most complete experience of South Iceland’s natural wonders.

● South Iceland & Black Sand Beach Private Tour is great for small   groups and couples .

● South Coast & Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Tour is a photographer’s dream with all of the visual diversity of South Iceland and the unforgettable Glacier Lagoons and Diamond Beach for your subjects.

● South Iceland & Snowmobile Adventure , South Iceland Sightseeing & ATV Adventure , South Iceland, and Glacier Hike Adventure , South Iceland & Paragliding Adventure Tours will work well for adventurers looking to kick their Iceland experience up a notch.  

South Coast of Iceland FAQs

1. how long is a south coast tour.

The duration of our South Coast tours varies depending on the specific tour you choose. Our tours range from approximately 8-14 hours in length, allowing you ample time to explore the highlights of the South Coast and create unforgettable memories. Iceland's south coast stretches along the Ring Road and the Atlantic Ocean, so there are multiple options.

2. What is the best time to visit the Iceland´s South Coast?

The South Coast of Iceland is beautiful year-round, offering different experiences depending on the season. Visiting Iceland's south coast during the summer months (June to August), you can enjoy long daylight hours and lush green landscapes. In winter (December to February), you have the chance to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights dancing in the night sky. Spring and autumn bring their own unique charm, with vibrant colors and fewer crowds. Choose a time that aligns with your preferences and interests.

3. Do I need to be physically fit to join the South Coast of Iceland tours?

Our tours to Iceland´s South Coast are designed to cater to a wide range of fitness levels. While some tours involve moderate hiking or walking for a glacier hike, others require minimal physical exertion. It's important to read the tour descriptions and check the activity level before booking. If you have any specific concerns or accessibility needs, feel free to reach out to our team, and we'll be happy to assist you.

4. Are the South Coast of Iceland tours suitable for children?

Many of our South Iceland tours are family-friendly and suitable for children. However, the suitability may vary depending on the age and interests of your child. We recommend checking the tour descriptions or contacting our team for more information on age restrictions and suitability for children.

5. What should I bring on the tours of Iceland´s Southern Coast?

To make the most of your South Coast tour, we recommend bringing the following items:

Comfortable and weather-appropriate clothing, including layers, a waterproof jacket, and sturdy shoes.

A camera or smartphone to capture stunning landscapes and memorable moments.

Snacks and water to keep you energized throughout the day.

Sunscreen and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun (especially during the summer months).

A sense of adventure and curiosity to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the South Coast.

6. Do you offer pick-up service?

Yes, we offer pick-up service for local Reykjavik hotels or the closest bus stop. We also have options for cruise ship passengers. You can select hotel pickup when booking your tour.

Plan your Iceland South Coast Itinerary with Gray Line Iceland and embark on a journey of a lifetime with an amazing tour guide who will fill your day with interesting stories. From towering waterfalls to majestic glaciers, this region will captivate your senses and leave you with memories to cherish. Choose from one of our many South Coast tours and let us guide you through the wonders of Iceland's South Coast. Book your tour today and get ready for an unforgettable experience!

Maps & Merlot

10 Must-See Highlights on Iceland’s South Coast

If you’re looking for a destination that’s a “pinch me, is this even real” type of amazing , then look no further, my friend, Iceland is it. From the endless green hills to absolutely unreal waterfalls, I could not get enough of Iceland’s South Coast. Iceland’s South Coast continues to top traveler’s bucket lists (along with Iceland’s majestic Golden Circle and the ever-famous Blue Lagoon ), and it is for good reason. Not only is the area extremely easy to reach, but the South Coast offers some of the most diverse, pristine landscapes in the world.

Set out on a journey of a lifetime to Iceland’s South Coast and take in stunning fairytale vistas complete with waterfalls, glaciers, and black sand beaches. Iceland’s South Coast stretches from Reykjavik to the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon in the east.

Keep in mind that this list just covers 10 sights that I would consider “must-see,” but that there are SOOOO many beautiful, unique things to do and see on Iceland’s South Coast. Even if you only have a long weekend in the country ( I had 4 days in Iceland ), the South Coast is absolutely a must-do!

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What is Iceland’s South Coast?

This is kind of obvious based on the name alone…it’s the South Coast of Iceland, which you can reach by driving southeast from Reykjavik. It is one of the most easily accessible parts of the country, which you can reach via the Ring Road (Route 1).

You can find basically every cool natural phenomenon… in one day I saw volcanoes, waterfalls, glaciers, and black sand beaches . So if you’re looking for dramatic landscapes, indecisive weather, and some seriously tongue-twisting names, you have to check out Iceland’s South Coast.

Should I Self-Drive or Take an Iceland South Coast Tour?

There are pros and cons to each, so let me help you out here.

Self-drive : You can stop where you want and take photos of every single waterfall and field of flowers. If you haven’t been to Iceland, trust me when I say you’ll want to pull over and take photos literally every 5 minutes. Tourists’ cars sitting on the side of the highway at the most random locations is proof of this. Cons include navigating yourself (I always get lost), high gas prices, expensive rental cars, and occasionally difficult road conditions (read: a Floridian trying to drive in snow).

Iceland South Coast Tour: All of the planning is done for you, but the stops are also pre-planned, so you have less flexibility. However, the guides will give you Icelandic history tidbits the whole way (loved these!), and it’s totally acceptable to nap along the way.

Decision: As a solo traveler, it made sense for me to choose a tour. I opted to do the GeoIceland South Coast Tour , and absolutely loved it. The small group size (11 people) was ideal, the guide worked in a stop for a pretty field of flowers, and he was full of random Icelandic knowledge. For example, did you know Reykjavik means “smoke bay,” since it always looks like it’s smoky? Side note: it is not actually smoky, but it does have a lot of geothermal steam!

One of our bonus stops was to stop and frolic in this field of lupin! These purple flowers are actually not native to Iceland, and were introduced about 80 years ago to stop wind erosion. They’ve basically taken over, but have also done a marvelous job of stopping wind erosion.

10 Must-See Sights on Iceland’s South Coast

This is probably the hardest part…you could probably make about 1000 separate stops, but that would take a really long time, so I went ahead and picked some of my faves for you!

Brown Trout Falls

Iceland’s government doesn’t publicize this one too much, since they want to convert it to a hydroelectric dam. My advice? Hurry up and go!

Skogafoss Waterfall

Aside from being gorgeous (and freezing!), Skogafoss is also featured in Justin Bieber’s “I’ll Show You” music video. I definitely wasn’t expecting it going in, but I learned a lot about Biebs that day.

Solheimajökull Glacier

You can hike up to the glacier (I may have ignored the don’t continue past here sign) and actually touch it!

There are surprisingly few towns outside of Reykjavik, but Vik is one of them. For a town with a population of only 300, they got ONE MILLION visitors last year. Do the math: that’s 3,333 visitors per inhabitant! I don’t know about you, but I’m definitely not that popular.

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

This is the black sand beach you see in all of the photos (and for good reason). It’s definitely not a swimming beach, but will live up to the dramatic views that Iceland’s South Coast promises.

Stop here for views of the black sand beaches from above. Plus, you get the added perk of this arch!

Eyjafjallajökull Volcano

Yes, that’s right…the volcano that spewed ash back in 2010 and brought European air travel to a screeching halt. Personally, what I remember most were the newscasters trying to pronounce this volcano’s name (and failing so miserably).

Fun fact: Icelanders tend to string a bunch of nouns together to name a place, so Eyjafallajokull actually means islands-mountains-glacier…now wouldn’t that have been easier to say? Also, I completely butchered it every time I tried to say it, but it sounded so nice rolling off the tongue of a native Icelander.

Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

This is a fun one…you can actually run behind the waterfall here…or walk very safely! Turns out the waterfall had very cold water, so this Florida girl had to move quickly. I’d advise wearing a rain coat!

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Boat through the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon —I was so sad to miss this, but needed another day in Iceland. The glacier lagoon looks like a magical place to boat through the icebergs. It’s on my bucket list!

It’s basically a deep lake that fills with icebergs as the large Breiðamerkurjökull glacier breaks apart. It’s also a beautiful place to catch a sunrise or sunset; I will definitely be making a trip back to Iceland for a boat ride in the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon.

Falljökull Glacier

Hike the Falljökull glacier from Skaftafell –Make your way up some icy slops and watch the glacier in action. This is about a half day experience, so if you’re interested, make sure to plan in advance!

Like this post?! How about…

• The Supreme Foodie’s Guide to Reykjavik

Flying to Iceland

Finding cheap flights to Iceland has never been easier, as airlines continue to expand their routes. I’d recommend searching through eDreams.net . They scan tons of different travel discount sites and feature special flight deals. You can typically find good flights on IcelandAir.

You’ll fly into Iceland’s Keflavík Airport, which is about 45 minutes outside of Reykjavik. As a nice perk, the airport offers free unlimited WiFi, which I used to pass the time as I waited in the immigration line.

Where to Stay in Reykjavik

Most folks begin or end their Iceland South Coast itinerary in Reykjavik, so I’ll provide hotel recommendations for the city. While you’re at it, you’ll probably have a little extra time to explore the city, so don’t miss these top 10 Insta-worthy photo spots in Reykjavik .

Boutique Hotel: Stay at Hotel Ódinsvé —this hotel has an awesome location downtown, and offers cool amenities like a terrace and café bar. Try and book one of the rooms with a balcony so you can enjoy the views!

Mid-Range: I’d recommend Hotel Frón ; this hotel is also centrally located and even has kitchen facilities in the apartments, which definitely comes in handy if you end up using Reykjavik as a home base.  

Budget: If you’re looking to avoid hotels and go the hostel route, I recommend checking out  Hostelworld ; there are plenty of options in Reykjavik! My personal hostel recommendation is  Loft Hostel .  You have an amazing location in the heart of the city, and I absolutely loved the ambiance of the common area/bar and outside terrace.

Local Stay: Another option to forgo the hotels and stay at this adorable house in the heart of Reykjavik . You’ll enjoy views of old town and the harbor while being surrounded by quaint restaurants and shops. One of the cool things about the house is that it is owned by a family of artists, which gives the home many unique touches. Also, the house includes parking, which is somewhat rare in Reykjavik these days!

Where to Stay in Vik

If you’re continuing your road trip through Iceland instead of heading back to Reykjavik, Vik is a natural stopping point for the evening before continuing on. There are plenty of options for hotels, restaurants, and shops (compared with the rest of Iceland’s South Shore, at least). My recommendation is Hótel Kría . The hotel has its own cocktail bar, a restaurant authentic Icelandic cuisine, and you can reach the black sand beaches in a 5 minute walk! Plus, you can enjoy breathtaking mountain views from the property.

Iceland Resources

Lucky for you, I have so many detailed posts about Iceland, so use these guides to help plan your trip!

• Your Breathtaking 4 Day Itinerary in Iceland
• 12 Best Tips to Know Before Visiting the Blue Lagoon
• The Ultimate Guide to Iceland’s Golden Circle
• 10 Best Photo Spots in Reykjavik

I hope this guide to the Iceland’s South Coast was helpful! What other recommendations do you have for visiting Iceland’s South Coast? Let me know in the comments. And remember, always chase those waterfalls!

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25 comments.

Oh yes, it looks like Iceland’s south coast is definitely worth a visit! #feetdotravel

Yes, for sure! It was so gorgeous there

We visited the more or less the same places but rented a car. Really loved Iceland and am looking forward to go back. I have to start saving though. You know how the prices are int there! #feetdotravel

Agreed, the prices there are nuts! I’d love to go back one day and rent a car too, it just didn’t make sense this time since I was solo

This post brings back some good memories. We rented a car and we did the ring road by ourselves. It’s incredible how nice Iceland is, I would go back next year for sure. Love your pictures, everything looks so green compared to when we went.

Thanks! I’ve heard so many amazing things about the ring road, I’ll definitely have to get back and do it one day

Wow! It looks absolutely fabulous! I love all the dramatic landscapes… reminds me a little of the South Island of New Zealand.

Another place I’ve been dying to go!

Great advice! My boyfriend and I are hoping to do the southern coast of Iceland soon and I’ll definitely remember these tips xo

Awesome, hope it’ll be helpful! And have lots of fun 🙂

I love going to places with stunning landscape and Iceland’s southern coast looks like my kind of site. Your pictures are stunning!

Thanks so much! And if that’s what you’re into, I’d definitely recommend getting over there soon!

This looked like an incredible trip. Iceland’s South Coast is truly stunning. Thanks for sharing the info. 🙂

Thanks Shona!

Yet another great post on Iceland – so many stunning landscapes and you have managed to fit so much into your trip! Love all the gorgeous waterfalls and the black sand beach is amazing!

Thanks so much!

Great suggestions for the south coast of Iceland. Love your photos. I like the flexibility of renting a car to be able to stop and take photos. I hope to visit Iceland someday and pinned this for later use. Thanks for sharing! #feetdotravel

Thanks for the kind comment 🙂 Hope it will be helpful on your future trip!

we were in Iceland in winter so we have seen all the same places but in such a different weather condition

I bet winter was a beautiful time to visit too! I’d love to go back and see it in the snow

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Thanks for this great site and recommendations for the south coast. I can’t seem to find Brown Trout Falls; every good search takes me to Brown Trout fishing; is there a city or landmark to help find it on a map?

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Best South Coast Tours in Iceland

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Best 7-Day Northern Lights Self Drive Tour Through South Iceland to Jokulsarlon Ice Cave

3-Day Northern Lights Tour of Iceland’s Golden Circle & South Coast with Ice Caving & Glacier Hiking

Skaftafell Glacier Hiking Tour on Vatnajokull

Best Ice Cave Tour in Vatnajokull Glacier Starting from Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Epic South Coast Day Tour from Reykjavik to Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

South Coast Minibus Tour with Glacier Hike & Transfer from Reykjavik

1-Hour Zodiac Boat Tour of Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Small Group 10 Hour South Coast Tour with Waterfalls & Reynisfjara with Transfer from Reykjavik

2 Day Ice Cave Tour with South Coast Waterfalls & Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

South Coast Tour from Reykjavik to Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon Including Boat Ride

Best 1-week Summer Self-Drive Tour of the Ring Road of Iceland & Golden Circle

Amazing 6-Day Northern Lights Winter Self-Drive Tour on Iceland's South Coast with Ice Caving

8-Day Summer Self-Drive Tour of the Complete Ring Road with the South Coast In-Depth

Affordable 1-Hour Boat Tour of Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

The Katla Ice Cave Tour

Fantastic 1 Hour Horseback Ride on a Black Sand Beach with Transfer from Vik

Relaxing South Coast Tour from Reykjavik to Solheimajokull Glacier

Immersive 3-Day South Coast & Golden Circle Tour with Transfer from Reykjavik

Breathtaking 6-Day Northern Lights Hunting Package of Iceland with Ice Caving

8-Day Guided Northern Lights Winter Tour of the Complete Ring Road of Iceland

Glacier Hiking Tour in Skaftafell

Ice Caving Super Jeep Tour of Katla with Transfer from Vik

Amazing 5-Day Northern Lights Winter Vacation Package in Iceland with Ice Caving & the Blue Lagoon

Afternoon 6 Hour Golden Circle Tour to Gullfoss, Geysir & Thingvellir with Transfer from Reykjavik

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Self drive tours in iceland, tour calendar, nature tours in iceland, adventure tours in iceland, cheap bus tours in iceland, top tour destinations in iceland, verified customer reviews.

Read first-hand reviews by customers from across the world

Artidtaya Piriyasopagul

It’s such a great tour, highly recommended to directly book with company! Ann, staff helped me booking the tour just late evening before date of our trip because the agency had failed the booking (months advance booking but inform failure of booking in the morning of the day before the tour date). Thor, the guide of our trip, is professional, nice, funny, careful and very kind to my mother-in-law and her friend who senior with age of 68-70. We also have nice accompanies from Poland. Thank you everyone for the good experience.

Yew Ming Kong

It was a great experience. This tour really made the trip for us. AJ was our tour guide and he was extremely personable, experienced and insightful in ice cave and Iceland in general, being a local himself. He had lot of fun stories and facts, and kept us engaged right from the get go in the jeep ride. The ice cave was spectacular, we would never have learnt or experienced Iceland in this eyeopening manner if not for the tour. It was important because it was not only aesthetic, but also bore great responsibility on us to take care of the planet seeing how global warming is affecting nature. AJ gave us an extremely humorous and knowledgeable geology session after the ice cave. He has great photography skills on his Nokia too. Anyone would be lucky to have AJ as the tour guide. It would have been better if the time spent in the ice cave was longer as it was shorter than expected!

Jessica Lynas

My first time solo travelling I was a little nervous about big groups so this was recommended to me instead. It was amazing I couldn't recommend anything else for solo travellers. The groups are small enough that you don't feel overwhelmed but still have the opportunity to make friends if you wanted. Siggi was amazing cracking jokes and getting everyone involved. 10/10

Garrett M Wood

So glad I booked this Self-Drive Tour with Guide to Iceland. They quickly helped me with last-minute changes prior to our trip and we didn't have any issues with our bookings during the trip, we just had to show up and enjoy ourselves. It made the whole process so much less stressful and I will definitely be booking with them in the future. Also, this tour hit a lot, if not all of the primary tourist destinations. There is a good bit of driving, but honestly, Iceland is so beautiful my husband and I didn't mind at all. Thank you, Guide To Iceland!

What is the South Coast?

The South Coast of Iceland contains some of the country’s most beloved natural attraction, from Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls to Reynisfjara black sand beach and Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon.

The South Coast is also home to some of Iceland’s prettiest towns and villages. Directly beside Reynisfjara black sand beach is the village of Vík í Mýrdal, home to approximately 330 inhabitants. Vík is known for its reserved culture, as well as for it being the perfect spot to grab a bite a eat or do a little souvenir shopping.

Other towns along the South Coast worthy of a visit are Selfoss (the largest town in the region), Hveragerði, Flúðir, Hella and Hvolsvöllur.

While the South Coast boasts an untold number of major attractions, there are also great swaths of land that are hauntingly barren as a result of glacial flooding that has wreaked havoc on the area for centuries.

Sólheimasandur is one such area, a makeshift volcanic desert that sits between the South Coast’s ancient sea cliffs and today's shoreline. The DC plane wreck is, perhaps, what Sólheimasandur is most famous for, having crash-landed there in 1973.

In stark contrast, some of the areas are luscious and green, particularly its long stretches of farmland and Skaftafell Nature Reserve, found within the unique and awe-inspiring Vatnajökull National Park.

Those with an extended stay in Iceland have no reason not to explore this most majestic of regions, a stretch of shoreline as much characterised by its beautiful nature and settlements as it is by the breadth of opportunities available. Birdwatchers, culture fiends and photographers will find this area as special as glacier hikers, snowmobilers, cavers or even paragliders.

Frequently asked questions

What are the most popular attractions along the south coast of iceland, when can i see the ice caves on the south coast of iceland, how far do day tours along the south coast of iceland take you, how long does it take to travel iceland's south coast, where can i stay along iceland's south coast, is iceland's south coast crowded, are there any active volcanoes on the south coast of iceland, is reynisfjara black sand beach at vik dangerous, do i need a 4wd to drive along the south coast of iceland, what is south iceland known for, what should i wear on a tour to the south coast, how long does a typical south coast tour last, are south coast tours in iceland suitable for children, what is the best time of year to visit the south coast, are there any hiking trails on the south coast, can i go ice climbing on a south coast tour, are there any restaurants or cafes on the south coast, are there any cultural attractions on the south coast, can i book a private south coast tour.

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15 Best Iceland South Coast Tours to take this year

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Searching for the best Iceland south coast tours? That’s great! The southern coast of Iceland is the perfect spot to kick start your adventure in the Land of Fire and Ice. 

Through these handpicked tours, you will embark on a journey of discovery from Reykjavik to Vik and witness some of Iceland’s most awe-inspiring wonders, such as the gorgeous Seljalandsfoss, the dramatic black sand beaches, and glaciers.

For those seeking adventure, explore vast expanses of lava fields for an unforgettable experience! 

We took many of these tours ourselves and they were amazing. The south coast tours in Iceland are open all year round. You will also find seasonal add-ons such as the northern lights tour or combo tickets like entry to the newest Sky Lagoon. Most importantly we also share cost-saving 2, 3 , and 4 day south coast Iceland tours in this guide!

15 Absolute Best Iceland South Coast Tours

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Best Iceland South Coast Tour: TOP Pick

Our pick is the South Coast Classic Full-Day Tour from Reykjavik because it’s the most popular excursion covering the marvelous waterfalls with enough free time to explore.

1. South Coast Classic: Full-Day Tour from Reykjavik (10.5 hours)

➤ BOOK this Classic South Coast day tour from Reykjavik

♡ RATING : 4.7 Out of 5 stars – with more than 3000 positive reviews

Why choose this tour?

This is one of the BEST and most popular South Coast Iceland tours that showcase the iconic natural landmarks. 

On this guided tour, you will get to see the Seljalandsfoss waterfall, go up close and behind it, check off the Skogafoss, the famous black sand beach at Reynisfjara, and spend quality time in Vik. 

The 10+ hour tour is perfect if you are on a short trip to Iceland, and wish to explore the waterfalls near Reykjavik with ease. You will have ample break stops along the way. 

The lunch stop is in Vik, and you will get the opportunity to shop at the Icewear outlet or use the time to explore on your own. 

The tour includes round-trip transportation from the capital city, and their buses are clean and spacious. 

Tour Highlights

☑ Seljalandsfoss waterfall

☑ Skogafoss waterfall 

☑ Basalt columns at the Reynisfjara black sand beach

☑ Visit the village of Vík

☑ Visit the glacier snout of Sólheimajökull

☑ Affordable tours to book

🛒 Click to book this Classic South Coast day tour from Reykjavik

2. From Reykjavik: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach (14 hours)

➤ BOOK this Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon Diamond Beach day tour

♡ RATING : 4.7 Out of 5 stars – with more than 2000 positive reviews

Why book this tour?

Along with the iconic stops of Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, this day tour from Reykjavik also takes you to experience the giant icebergs in Jokulsarlon Glacial Lagoon. 

Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon is filled with blue glacier ice and icebergs that drift around in an oval-shaped lake. The lagoon was formed by a melting glacier, and its size grew significantly over the years due to climate change. 

Today, you can take boat tours of the lagoon to observe the icebergs up close and take photos. Due to its unique location, the lagoon is also home to a variety of wildlife. 

And to top it off, on this south coast full day tour you will also stop at Diamond Beach. This is a beautiful and unique natural attraction located on the south coast of Iceland in Vatnajökull National Park. 

It is known for its black sand and diamond-like crystal fragments scattered along the shoreline, giving it an otherworldly feel. You will have time to explore the beach and take photos of its majestic beauty. 

From the majestic Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon to the spectacular waterfalls, you’ll want to capture each moment on this trip!

Tour Highlights: 

☑ Visit Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon (and optional boat tour)

☑ Stop at the beautiful waterfalls of Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss

☑ Mountains and glaciers of Skaftafell National Park

☑ Diamond Beach

🛒 Click to book Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach

3. From Reykjavik: South Coast & Glacier Hike (12 hours)

➤ BOOK this South Coast full day tour with a guided hike

♡ RATING : 4.9 Out of 5 stars – with more than 280 positive reviews

Explore Iceland’s South Coast and go on a glacier hike with a tour guide! 

On this 12 hour day trip from Reykjavik, you will get to experience some of the largest glaciers of Iceland, and see the waterfalls of Skógafoss and Seljalandson on the same excursion. 

The natural wonders of Seljalandsfoss and Skógarfoss waterfalls are included. Plus a stop at the Reynisfjara black sand beaches. 

The tour then makes its way to Dyrhólaey cliffs and then stops at the Sólheimajökull glacier for a hike. 

The guided hike is the highlight of this South Coast tour and equipment is provided for all participants. 

This tour is also great if you are new to hiking as you will be led by a local expert. Previous travelers have said that the hike is quite accessible for all ages, and even people with knee problems. Just ensure you bring your hiking boots and proper gear to enjoy the trail and the views!

Tour Highlights:

☑ Hike up Sólheimajökull glacier with a local expert 

☑ Check off Seljalandsfoss waterfall

☑ Take a stroll along the black sand beach of Reynisfjara and its basalt caverns

☑ Equipment is provided – helmet, crampons, compass

🛒 Click to view the tour of the South Coast with a guided hike

4. From Reykjavik: South Coast and Black Beach ATV Ride (11 hours)

➤ BOOK this South Coast small group tour and an ATV Ride

♡ RATING : 5 Out of 5 stars – with more than 20 positive reviews

Enjoy the best of the south coast of Iceland on this 11 hour day tour. You will get to soak in the views of the waterfalls aka – Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss. 

This is one of the day tours on this list that features a stop at the DC3 plane wreck from 1973. Normally, south Iceland excursions do not cover this, and you have to rent a car and drive there yourself. 

And the BEST part of this day tour is riding a powerful ATV on the black volcanic beach. Yes…guidance is provided and a great experience is guaranteed – all along you will see views of Sólheimasandur and the Eyjafjallajökull glacier. 

☑ South Coast highlights – Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfall

☑ See the DC3 army plane wreck

☑ 2 hour ATV ride (don’t forget your driver’s license)

☑ Black sand beaches

🛒 Click to book this South Coast full day tour with Black Beach ATV Ride

5. Reykjavik: Private Golden Circle and South Coast Tour (12 hours)

➤ BOOK this Golden Circle and South Coast private tour

♡ RATING : 5 Out of 5 stars – with more than 5 positive reviews

See the best of southern Iceland highlights on this single day trip! This is a premium and private tour that is perfect for families of four, or friends. 

The cost of this tour is per 4 guests (so you can share/split the costs and enjoy the benefits!)

The excursion usually takes place with a pick-up at Reykjavik accommodation and includes the highlights of the South Coast and Golden Circle tours – both on the same day!

You will explore the beautiful Nesjavallaleid scenic route with your private transportation, and stop at the Thingvellir National Park, which is famous for being the site of the first parliament both in Iceland and the world. 

Then explore the Geysir hot spring area, followed by a quick stop at the Faxi Waterfall. 

Next, the waterfalls of Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss await you. 

But before that, you will stop for lunch at Katla Restaurant, located in the Lava Centre – Hekla volcano. Here you will also see the views of Eyjafjallajokull and stop at Solheimajokull where you can enjoy a lovely walk. 

The tour includes stops at Dyrholaey Cliffs and Reynisfjara, where you can admire black sand beaches, sea stacks, and basalt columns.

This private tour also offers a stop at the Secret Lagoon (during the months of April – September), where you can soak into the warm waters of the spa.

☑ Best of southern Iceland’s highlights in one day

☑ Explore Thingvellir National Park

☑ See the eruption of Geysir

☑ Enjoy the views of 3 iconic waterfalls Gullfoss, Skogafoss, and Seljalandsfoss

☑ Walk on Black Sand Beach

☑ Admire the views from Dyrholaey

☑ Hotel pick and drop off

☑ Complimentary tea and coffee

🛒 Click to book this private tour of Golden Circle and South Coast full day tour

6. South Coast, Glacier Hike, and Northern Lights Winter Tour (16 hours)

➤ BOOK this South Coast, glacier hike and northern lights day tour

♡ RATING : 4.5 Out of 5 stars – with more than 20 positive reviews

This 3 activity COMBO tour includes the gems of the south coast (waterfalls and the Black sand beaches), a guided glacier hike in the afternoon and finally finishes the night with northern lights. 

The full-day excursion begins with a pick-up from Reykjavik to Seljalandsfoss waterfall. 

You will have time for a nice stroll, before heading to Sólheimajökull glacier. This is where the guided hike will take place. 

Here is where you will meet the certified glacier guide who will provide equipment, and take you through the breathtaking landscape. 

From here, there are two more stops – one at the famous black sand beach at Reynisfjara to see the basalt columns and cave, the stunning Reynisdrangar cliffs, and the impressive basalt rock stacks that rise above the Atlantic waves. 

And the last one is at the Skogafoss waterfall. 

The tour then breaks for a few hours where you can enjoy dinner and drinks and then join the excursion for the northern lights at around 07:00 pm. 

Because the Aurora Borealis is a natural phenomenon, if you miss it on this tour, you will be given a chance to join the tour at a later date.

Pro tip : Try to book and join the tour at the beginning of your Iceland itinerary, in case the weather is not on your side for the northern lights.

☑ See Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls

☑ Walk the stunning Reynisfjara black sand beach

☑ Explore Reynisdrangar’s peaks and cliffs

☑ Go on a glacier hike on Solheimajokull glacier

☑ Join the northern lights tour in the evening

🛒 Click to book this South Coast glacier and northern lights combo tour

7. Langjökull: Glacier Snowmobile Trip with Guide (4 hours)

➤ BOOK this Langjokull Glacier snowmobile tour

♡ RATING : 4.4 Out of 5 stars – with more than 20 positive reviews

Located on the south coast of Iceland is the Langjökull Glacier! It is home to several ice-filled volcanic craters and is set against breathtaking Icelandic landscapes. 

On this special excursion, you will get to ride a specialized Super Jeep to get to the glacier base camp to kickstart your snowmobile ride (40 to 45 minutes).

You will receive all the protective gear (but don’t forget your driver’s license), and a professional glacier snowmobiling guide who will show you how to safely operate a snowmobile. 

The ride here is for an hour and you will be welcomed to the stunning views of the Eiríksjökull, the dome-shaped Hofsjökull glacier, and the Kerlingafjöll Mountain range.

Note : The 4-hour excursion doesn’t include round-trip transportation from Reykjavik. You will have to drive to the meeting point yourself – Amazing Basecamp Skjól, a 1.5-hour drive from Reykjavík.

☑ Join a Snowmobile Adventure on Langjökull Glacier + a super jeep tour

☑ Soak in the views over the highlands from 2nd largest glacier in Europe

☑ Protective gear and quick training provided

🛒 Click to book this Langjokull Glacier snowmobile tour

8. Sólheimajökull: Guided Glacier Hike (3 hours)

➤ BOOK this Solheimajokull Guided glacier hike

♡ RATING : 4.7 Out of 5 stars – with more than 400 positive reviews

Walk on south Iceland’s last remaining glaciers – Sólheimajökull on a guided hike. 

On this 3-hour tour , the operator will provide you with crampons and other protective gear and will guide you through crevasses, shafts, and ridges as you learn about the formation and history of the Sólheimajökull glacier. 

On the Mýrdalsjökull glacier, you will also get to see ice cave tunnels and a glacier lagoon.

Note : The 3 hour excursion doesn’t include round-trip transportation from Reykjavik . You will have to drive to the meeting point yourself. 

☑ Hike across the ice of the Sólheimajökull Glacier

☑ Soak in the views and interiors of ice cave tunnels

☑ Protective gear is provided

🛒 Click to book this Solheimajokull Guided glacier hike

9. Sólheimajökull: Kayaking by the Glacier (1 hour)

➤ BOOK this kayaking experience on the Solheimajokull glacier

♡ RATING : 4.6 Out of 5 stars

LOVE water? How about kayaking and taking in the view of icebergs and glaciers? 

Not a day tour, but this one hour kayaking experience kicks off from the Sólheimajökull parking lot. 

You will meet your instructor here who will provide you with a drysuit and quick training on using the kayak. 

These sit-on-top kayaks are extremely easy to steer and require no previous kayaking experience. 

Once in, you will have a unique world of iceberg-filled calm waters, and views of the Sólheimajökull Glacier. 

These views are only possible while on the water – so don’t miss out!

☑ Kayaking excursion with a local expert 

☑ See icebergs and the Sólheimajökull glacier 

☑ Equipment is provided – kayak, paddle, drysuit

🛒 Click to book this kayaking experience on the Solheimajokull glacier

10. South Coast: ATV Quad Bike 2-Hour Safari (2 hours)

➤ BOOK this South Coast ATV Quad bike safari

♡ RATING : 4.9 Out of 5 stars

Discover the grandeur and beauty of Iceland’s south coast by embarking on this ATV tour. The tour takes you to the majestic black sand plains of Sólheimasandur where you will ride over the desert-like landscape.

The guide will help you all the way, and provide equipment. 

From the beach, you will see the Dyrhólaey peninsula, which is the southernmost tip of Iceland. 

On this tour, you will also stop at the famous DC3 plane wreck site. 

Note : The 2 hour excursion doesn’t include round-trip transportation from Reykjavik. You will have to drive to Vik to join the guide. 

☑ ATV quad bike adventure

☑ DC3 plane wreck on Sólheimasandur

☑ Gear provided – helmet, balaclava face mask, insulated overalls

🛒 Click to book this South Coast ATV Quad bike safari

11. From Vik: Myrdalsjokull glacier and Katla Ice Cave Tour (3 hours)

➤ BOOK this Myrdalsjokull glacier and Katla Ice Cave Tour  

♡ RATING : 4.7 Out of 5 stars 

Opt for something a little different when in south Iceland – join this Myrdalsjokull glacier from Vik. 

Mýrdalsjökull glacier is one of the best-known places to take in the views of the glaciers and pristine landscapes including ice caves. 

On this excursion , you will get to ride a Super Jeep and then arrive at the Kötlujökull glacier to enjoy a natural ice cave. 

Inside you will see gorgeous layers of different colored ice and volcanic ash unfold and your guide will be taking you up close and personal as s/he narrates the history of the glacier and the surrounding areas. 

Note : The 3 hour excursion doesn’t include round-trip transportation from Reykjavik. You will have to drive to the meeting point yourself, located in Vik.

🛒 Click to book this Myrdalsjokull glacier and Katla Ice Cave Tour

12. From Reykjavik: South Coast & Sky Lagoon Admission Day Tour (13 hours)

➤ BOOK this South Coast and Sky Lagoon admission combo tour

Discover all the goodness of a Classic South Coast tour PLUS visit the newest geothermal spa on this combo tour. 

So essentially, you will check off Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls and view the mighty Sólheimajökull glacier. 

At the Sólheimajökull glacier, you will learn about the geological insights of the landscape and admire the ice wall and the lagoon. 

From here, you will get exploration time at the Reynisfjara beach as well as stop for lunch (or shopping) at the village of Vik. 

On your way back to Reykjavik, you will have time to relax at the newest thermal spa – Sky Lagoon. Included in the price of the combo ticket is the 7-step ritual program. 

In this experience, you will get to soak in the waters of the Sky Lagoon and enjoy a full cycle to refresh and renew your body, mind, and soul (steam room, shower, scrub, etc.). 

☑ Highlights of south coast Iceland – Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfall

☑ Soak in the views of the black sand Reynisfjara beach

☑ Admire the Sólheimajökull glacier up close

☑ Entry to the Sky Lagoon thermal spa and infinity pool (includes the 7 Step Ritual)

🛒 Click to book this South Coast and Sky Lagoon admission combo tour

13. South Coast Iceland: 2-Day Blue Ice Cave & Jokulsarlon Tour (2 days)

➤ BOOK this 2 day South Coast tour – Blue Ice Cave and Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

♡ RATING : 4.8 Out of 5 stars 

This is a 2 day guided tour that takes you around the popular sites on the South Coast of Iceland, and also gives you the opportunity to go on a guided hike, ice cave tour, and beyond. 

Accommodation is provided in a 3 star property in Reykjavik along with breakfast (lunch and dinner are not included). All excursions that require protective gear are provided. 

So, you will check off Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls. Then visit the blue ice cave on day one. Here you will enjoy a guided hike for 1.50 hours. In the evening a Northern Lights experience is included.

On the next day, you will visit the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, an outlet glacier of Europe’s largest glacier, and also stop at Diamond Beach. 

☑ See the Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss Waterfall

☑ Walk through a blue ice cave

☑ Visit the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

☑ Visit the Skaftafell Natural Reserve

☑ Northern Nights (seasonal)

☑ 3 star accommodation with breakfast

🛒 Book this 2 day South Coast tour – Blue Ice Cave & Jokulsarlon

14. From Reykjavik: 3-Day South Coast Winter Tour with Ice Cave (3 days)

➤ BOOK this 3 day South Coast Winter Tour with Ice Cave

♡ RATING : 4.9 Out of 5 stars 

Spend 3 days in south Iceland with a guide and check off all the primary sites at an affordable price! Accommodation is included on this excursion in which you will also get to experience an ice caving tour. 

On day one, you will explore the highlights of the Golden Circle route . Stops include Þingvellir National Park, Gullfoss Golden Waterfall, and Haukadalur Geothermal area which is home to Strokkur Geyser. 

You will end the sightseeing day with a stop at the Kerið Volcanic Crater.

The following day, you will visit the Seljalandsfoss waterfall and then the Skógafoss before arriving at the black sand beach of Reynisfjara on the south coast. 

On this night, you will spend time in a remote location in South-East Iceland to get a better chance of spotting the northern lights. 

On the last day, you will get to flex your arms and legs and join an ice-caving expedition into the Vatnajokull National Park and Glacier Lagoon . Stops also include Diamond Beach. All the safety equipment for the ice-caving tour is provided. 

☑ Explore a seasonal ice cave in Vatnajökull National Park

☑ Check the Golden Circle, including Geysir and Kerið

☑ Plus the south coast waterfalls Gullfoss & Seljalandsfoss

☑ Walk on the black lava sand beach of Reynisfjara

☑ Spend 2 nights in Icelandic Countryside and look up for Aurora borealis

☑ Breakfast included

🛒 Click to book this 3 day South Coast Winter Tour with Ice Cave

15. From Reykjavik: 4-Day Blue Ice Cave and Northern Lights Tour

➤ BOOK 4 day Blue Ice Cave and Northern lights tour

See the BEST of the southern and western parts of Iceland in the winter . 

Kickstart your 4 day Icelandic excursion from Reykjavik. Pick up and drop off are included from your accommodation and on day one you will explore the Golden Circle route – and see the famous Geysir, Gullfoss waterfall, and Thingvellir National Park. 

On the second and third days, you will check off various natural landmarks of the South Coast. Sites include the Reynisfjara black sand beach, and the Jökulsárlón, the stunning glacier lagoon in Vatnajökull National Park. 

This is where you will enjoy an ice-caving tour and in the evening, chase the magnificent Northern Lights.

On your final day in Iceland, you will get to experience the western part of the country, and soak in the views of the poster boy of Iceland – the Snæfellsnes Peninsula . On this route, you will also see glacier-carved mountains, black beaches, moss-topped lava fields, craters, and coastal cliffs.

☑ Accommodation for 3 nights

☑ Breakfast and a small Icelandic treat

🛒 Click to book 4 day Blue Ice Cave and Northern lights tour

What comprises the Southern coast of Iceland

The South Coast of Iceland is a destination packed with awe-inspiring sites and attractions. 

From the picturesque Seljalandsfoss waterfall to Skógafoss’ thunderous cascades, Vatnajökull National Park’s captivating glaciers, Skaftafell Nature Reserve’s majestic terrain, Reynisfjara black sand beach’s dramatic cliffs, and towering sea stacks – not to mention Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon – this stunning region has something for everyone.

A note about the Golden Circle route: We have to make mention of the Golden Circle route on this list as it is one of the most popular and scenic tours in southern Iceland . 

And it is easy to go on this circular route from Reykjavik and can be done in the morning or afternoon. 

However, keep in mind the south coast tour is different from the Golden Circle route entirely – there are no crossovers and both cover different natural landmarks and sites. 

3 important areas covered on the Golden Circle day tour are Þingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall. Then there are add-ons such as the Kerid crater stop, or entry at the Secret, Sky, or Blue Lagoon . 

• Golden Circle in the morning (with Kerid Crater – over 7000 reviews)
• Golden Circle in the afternoon

Iceland south coast tour map

We hope you enjoyed our top picks for the best south coast Iceland tours, and are ready to embark on your next big adventure!

Read more of our Iceland guides:

• Itineraries : Iceland in 10 days without a car | 5 days in Iceland itinerary
• Iceland guided tours : Choose from horse riding tour, whale watching & beyond
• Akureyri : One day in Akureyri itinerary | Iceland Akureyri whale watching tours

Pin: South Coast Iceland Tours to take this year

Mayuri is the founder & editor of ToSomePlaceNew. An Indian-Canadian globetrotter, she has traveled to over 100 cities and 35+ countries. Mayuri has a graduate degree in History and is an MBA. She loves traveling the world, capturing historical nuances, and discussing that over a cup of coffee with her husband, Salil. She currently resides in Edmonton, Canada, and plots travel plans to Europe, the Americas, and beyond. 

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• South Coast Tour

Join us on an expedition of discovery through the wild south coast of Iceland to impressive waterfalls, a unique ash dirty glacier and a stunning black sand beach.

Price 19200 ISK per person

Highlights – Seljalandsfoss Waterfall – Skógarfoss Waterfall – Sólheimajökull Glacier – Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach – Vík

Available all year – Duration 9 to 10 hours. – Departures on Wednesdays , Fridays , and Sundays . – Departure time 9:00am – Pickup time between 8:30am to 9:00am.

Included – Free WiFi – Guide – Parking and entrance fees

Note – During our tour we take break for refreshments at café or restaurant – Refreshments are not incl. in tour price. – We might change the order of stops on our tour due to weather and traffic.

We recommend bringing! – Warm clothing (wind/waterproof coat and trousers). – Base layers over wintertime (merino wool or similar). – Good trainers or hiking boots. – Water bottle. – And of course good mood.

Attention! Let us know if car seat for child/children is needed or if there is any disability that we need to know of.

If paid in advance 15% discount is added to your booking by checkout if booked 24-hours before tour start!

Tour description!

From Reykjavik we drive for about 1 hour and 40 minutes to Seljalandsfoss, where we stop for 60 minutes sightseeing and facility stop.

After Seljalandsfoss we drive for about 20 minutes to Skógarfoss, where we stop for 30 minutes sightseeing.

After Seljalandsfoss we drive for about 30 minutes to Reynisfjara, where we stop for 75 minutes for sightseeing, lunch and facility stop.

After Reynisfjara we drive for about 10 minutes to Vík, where we make a short photo stop.

After Vík we drive for about 25 minutes to Sólheimajökull, where we stop for 60 minutes sightseeing.

After Sólheimajökull we got about 2 hours and 15 minutes drive back to Reykjavik with a facility stop if needed on the way back.

On Iceland’s south coast are five beautiful and remarkable destinations that you will visit during this tour. Along the way from Reykjavik to Vik, you will also enjoy stunning views of the Icelandic countryside and the sweeping Skeiðarásandur black-sand-plains of the Vatnajökull National Park.

The south coast is also a very active volcano area where many of our latest eruptions have happened, such as the world famous Eyjafjallajökull which erupted in 2010.

Seljalandsfoss

Seljalandsfoss is one of the best known waterfalls in Iceland. It is a small but beautiful waterfall that cascades down the front of a cliff – and that makes it possible to walk behind the waterfall to view the scenic countryside of Iceland through the water.

The waterfall drops 60 m (197 ft) and is part of the Seljalands River that has its origins in the volcano glacier Eyjafjallajökull.

The Skógafoss waterfall is situated on the Skógá River in the south of Iceland at the cliffs of the former coastline. It is one of Iceland’s most beautiful waterfalls, with a width of 25 meters and a drop of 60 meters.

The water from Skógafoss plummets over the edge of the cliff and falls into a deep pool at its base, creating a huge plume of spray. On a sunny day it is common to the waterfall bathed in a vivid rainbow.

In Iceland there are many myths and legends, and one of these involves Skógafoss. It is believed that many years ago, a settler named Þrasi buried his treasure chest full of gold under the waterfall. Maybe you will be the lucky one to find Þrasi’s treasure chest on this tour!

Sólheimajökull Glacier

The Sólheimajökull glacier is the southwestern glacier tongue or outlet glacier of the Mýrdalsjökull ice-cap. It is about 8km long and 2km wide and is the 4th largest glacier in Iceland.

It is a magnificent glacier that has many cracks and crevasses, and ash layers caused by the regular volcano eruptions in the area. There is a small and beautiful lagoon in front of the glacier.

Sadly, like most Icelandic glaciers, Sólheimajökull is rapidly receding. The glacier has retreated about a kilometer over the last decade and it is possible that it may disappear totally within the next few decades.

The river Jökulsá runs from Sólheimajökull filled with glacial meltwater, which is rich with smelly sulphuric acid from the subglacial areas. For this reason, the river is sometimes called the “stinky river”.

Reynisfjara

Reynisfjara is a magnificent black pebble beach which features an amazing cliff of regular basalt columns resembling a rocky step pyramid, which is called Gardar.

Just offshore are the stunning basalt sea stacks called Reynisdrangar. According to folklore, two trolls attempted to drag a ship to land but were turned to stone as daylight broke, turning them into the Reynisdrangar stacks.

Just to the west of Reynisfjara, the large rock arch of the Dyrhólaey peninsula is visible.

The area has a rich birdlife, including puffins, fulmars and guillemots.

The waves at Reynisfjara are especially strong and unpredictable, and fatal accidents have occurred at this beach, so people are advised to take extra care when visiting the area.

The village of Vík is the southernmost village in Iceland, around 180km southeast of Reykjavík.

Despite having only around 300 inhabitants, Vik is the largest settlement for more than 50kms in each direction and is therefore an important service center for the inhabitants of, and visitors to, the coastal strip between Skógar and the west edge of the Mýrdalssandur glacial outwash plain.

The most iconic landmark in Vik (or at least the most photographed!) is the red-roofed wooden Reyniskirkja church which was built in 1929. Because of its beautiful location, the church is very popular for weddings. Also, because of its high position just out of town and Vik’s close proximity to Katla volcano, the church is the evacuation spot in case of a volcano eruption and the subsequent flood of glacial meltwater.

The South Coast Tour duration is about 9 to 10 hours, including stops at the 5 main sites and even one or two extra stops depending on time available.

With Iceland Everywhere Tours, you are led by an experienced guide who gives you information about each destination. While driving between destinations you will be told about what you see through the window and you will get an insight into our local history, culture and nation.

Iceland Everywhere Tours travels with small groups in comfortable minibuses and our guides work hard to ensure that you receive personal service and an excellent experience.

Some of the destinations on the South Coast Tour are slightly difficult to access (for example, the walk from the parking lot to the base of Sólheimajökull glacier takes around 20 minutes) so this tour might not be suitable for everyone.  If you are in doubt, please contact us and we can discuss your needs and make sure you are able to enjoy as much of the experience as possible.

South Coast Tour - Excellent

We did the South Coast Tour and it was probably the highlight of our time in Iceland. The bus was only half full for the trip which meant we had plenty of space on the bus. We were taken to a couple of extra stops which weren’t on the itinerary which was a nice bonus. I think it was very good value for money. The guide was excellent and had good commentary. The best bits of the tour were probably Skogafoss waterfall or the black sand beach, both were amazing. I enjoyed the whole tour and everything we stopped to look at. Can’t recommend this tour enough. It’s a must do when visiting Iceland. We did a tour with another company the next day and by comparison Iceland Everywhere were much better.

Please do not use periods or commas in the currency converter!

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South Coast Tour | Family Friendly & Small Groups

No booking fee, best price guarantee, free cancellation, secure payments, fully licensed local tour operators, information.

No minimum age

Discover the key highlights along Iceland’s South Coast with our intimate small group tour!

• Seljalandfoss waterfall
• Skógafoss waterfall
• Vík village
• Reynisfjara black sand beach
• Sólheimajökull Glacier
• Small group experience

Embark on an extraordinary adventure with our exclusive small group tour, designed to unveil the breathtaking wonders of Iceland’s South Coast . Join us on a guided minibus expedition that promises an immersive journey through waterfalls, black sand beaches, and glaciers—a must for anyone seeking the quintessence of Icelandic sightseeing.

Your day begins with a morning pick-up in Reykjavik by our friendly and seasoned guide. Our intimate group size ensures a personalized and comfortable experience as we set out for a day of exploration.

Seljalandsfoss waterfall

First on the itinerary is the awe-inspiring Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, standing over sixty meters tall. Marvel at its unique curve that allows you to walk behind the falls, providing a picturesque backdrop for unforgettable photographs.

Continue your adventure to the majestic Skogafoss waterfall, a grand spectacle that dwarfs its counterparts in width and power. Feel the mist as you approach the falls, and, weather permitting, catch a glimpse of the famous Eyjafjallajokull glacier and volcano that made headlines in 2010.

Sólheimajokull Glacier

Journey to Solheimajokull, a captivating glacier tongue originating from the massive ice cap Myrdalsjokull, covering the mighty Katla volcano. A short walk from the parking lot unveils a stunning viewpoint to admire the glacier’s grandeur.

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

Next, we arrive at Reynisfjara black sand beach, celebrated for its eerie beauty and dramatic geology. Witness the photogenic hexagonal basalt columns and, in summer, keep an eye out for puffins perched on the cliffs.

When visiting Reynisfjara you need to be very careful. The waves on this beach can be strong and dangerous. Always follow the safety advice of your guide while visiting the beach.

Vik, the southernmost village of Iceland, is our furthest stop, featuring mesmerizing sea stacks along the beach. Legend has it that these stacks are the frozen figures of trolls turned to stone while playing in the sea.

Dyrhólaey, a captivating promontory along Iceland’s South Coast, is a natural wonder that leaves visitors in awe. Renowned for its dramatic cliffs and stunning views, Dyrhólaey offers a vantage point that encompasses the vast expanse of the North Atlantic Ocean, the black sand beaches below, and the striking Reynisdrangar sea stacks. The iconic rock arch, for which Dyrhólaey is named (translating to “Door Hill Island” in Icelandic), adds a touch of mystique to this picturesque location. Whether you’re captivated by the rich birdlife, including puffins, or simply savoring the panoramic landscapes, Dyrhólaey stands as a testament to Iceland’s raw and untouched beauty.

With a day brimming with these extraordinary sights, you’ll be seamlessly whisked back to Reykjavik in the comfort of our minibus. Don’t miss this exclusive opportunity to experience the South Coast’s wonders with the intimacy and convenience of a small group tour.

• Convenient pickup and drop-off from specified bus stops and hotels
• Expert local driver/guide
• Engaging live commentary during the journey
• Intimate small-group tour experience, exclusively conducted on minibuses with a maximum of 19 passengers
• Free child seat for your child

What to bring

• Dress according to weather
• Waterproof outdoor clothing
• Warm clothes
• Gloves & Headwear
• Hiking boots 
• Camera (optional)

Good to know

• There is no minimum age on this tour.
• It is possible to have a child seat on the tour for free. Please add it to your booking in the booking process. 
• Order or availability of attractions may change due to road or weather conditions.
• This tour includes a pick up from Reykjavik . You can see the designated pick up locations in the drop down menu when booking.
• Pick up is from designated locations in Reykjavík on a drop-down menu at the time of booking. Pick up is not available from Keflavik airport or outside of the greater capital area.
• There is no food included on this tour but there will be stops where you are able to purchase food. 
• All departures require a minimum number of participants in order to operate; 4 adults.
• This tour is perfect for groups, single travelers and families. 
• Solheimajokull glacier is a 15-20 minutes walk from the parking. We recommend waring comfortable shoes. 
• In the rare case that we need to cancel the tour because of extreme weather, road conditions or other factors, we will assist you with rebooking to another date. If that does not work out for you, you will receive a full refund for the tour. 

From ISK 18,900

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Hidden Gems

15 Best Waterfalls in South Iceland to Visit in 2024

L ooking for the best Waterfalls in South Iceland to visit on your next trip? This list details the most beautiful waterfalls found along Iceland’s South Coast, from popular must-visit waterfalls to hidden gems.

There are over 10,000 waterfalls throughout the country of Iceland. Not only are there thousands of waterfalls in Iceland, but the dramatic landscape gives these waterfalls a magical feel. Exploring waterfalls on the south coast is sure to be a highlight of your time in Iceland.

Get Lost in Wanderlust contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase using one of the links below, we may receive a very small compensation at no extra cost to you.

Iceland Travel Resources:

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Book an Iceland Car Rental: Blue Car

Book the Best Tour of South Iceland

15 Best South Iceland Waterfalls

Below are 15 of the best South Iceland Waterfalls to visit on your next trip to Iceland. Many of these are easily accessible, while a few require some hiking to get there.

1. Seljalandsfoss

Location: Þórsmerkurvegur, 861, Iceland

How to Reach: Located directly off Route 1 (the Ring Road).

Hike Duration: None, just a short walk from the car park

Time Needed to Visit: 30 Minutes to 1 Hour

One of the most captivating waterfalls of Iceland’s Southern Coast is the breathtaking Seljalandsfoss. This impressive waterfall drops 60 meters (197 feet), and creates a dramatic sight.

One of the most unique aspects of Seljalandsfoss is that you can actually walk behind the waterfall . This is a super cool experience, although make sure to bring your rain coat because you will get a little wet!

Seljalandsfoss is one of the most popular waterfalls in Iceland due to its stunning natural beauty. It is easily visited by driving from Reykjavik or by taking a tour like this one .

This waterfall can get crowded due to the popularity. To get the best views, I highly recommend getting there early . We arrived at Seljalandsfoss by 7am and it was an amazing experience as it was just us and one other person.

Want to visit the best waterfalls but not planning to rent a car? Click here to for a full day tour of South Iceland

2. Gljúfrabúi Waterfall

Location: Þórsmerkurvegur, 861, Iceland (Located next to Seljalandsfoss)

How to Reach: Located directly off Route 1.

Hike Duration: No hike, requires a walk between the cavern opening

Time Needed to Visit: 30 Minutes

While Gljúfrabúi is located just a short walk from the popular Seljalandsfoss, many people completely miss it. This is because it is a hidden waterfall .

To access Gljúfrabúi, you will actually walk through a small cave opening between the two cliffs. Once inside, you can see the waterfall from above . It is a really unique experience and definitely a must-see spot.

Make sure to bring your raincoat for this one, because you will get wet as the water lightly cascades down around you. At certain times of the year, the entrance can have water and so its best to wear waterproof shoes too.

3. Skógafoss

Location: Skógafoss, 861, Iceland

How to Reach: Located just off of Route 1

Hike Duration: None, just a short walk from the parking area.

Time Needed to Visit: 30 minutes

Skogafoss is one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls . Its is only a two hour drive from Reykjavik, making it easy to reach by car. It is also one of the best Iceland waterfalls to visit in winter as there is no hike required.

Skogafoss is also one of the largest waterfalls in Iceland. It is has an astonishing width of 25 meters (82 feet) and a height of 60 meters (197 feet).

You can view Skogafoss from in front of the magnificent falls. However, next to Skogafoss is a staircase that will take you above the waterfall . While it is a steep climb, it is worth it for the stunning views.

At the top of the staircase is also a famous hiking path that is popularly known as Waterfall Way . By hiking around 1.5 miles, you will pass by several other smaller waterfalls.

Just make sure to turn around after 1.5-2 miles and head back as the hike does not loop around. Instead it becomes the Fimmvörðuháls Trail to Thórsmörk , an intensive 25km hike for experienced hikers.

4. Kvernufoss

Location: 861 Evindarhólar, Iceland

How to Reach: Park at the Skogar Museum, walk towards the river in the back and follow it until you reach the waterfall.

Hike Duration: 1km one way

Time Needed to Visit: 1 hour

Kvernufoss is another hiddem gem waterfall located nearby the famous Skogafoss . Less people know about this waterfall, which gives it a serene and peaceful nature.

The waterfall is in a scenic gorge , surrounded by the lush green Icelandic landscape. It has a height of around 30meters high (98 feet), and is a stunning waterfall to visit.

To reach this this enchanting waterfall , you’ll park at the Skogar Museum and head towards a small river in the back of the museum. You’ll cross a small field with a fence to get to the river. Next, follow the river trail around 1km and you’ll reach Kvernufoss.

5. Svartifoss

Location: 785 Skaftafell, Iceland

How to Reach: Located off Route 1 is the Skatafell Parking and Visitors Center. From there it requires a 1.5km hike.

Hike Duration: 1.5 km one way

Time Needed to Visit: 2 hours

Located in the Skaftafell Nature Reserve of Vatnajökull National Park is the beautiful Svartifoss. It is one of the best sights to see in the national park, and is worth visiting.

Svartifoss is known for its dark, basalt columns and rugged rocks. In fact, the name Svartifoss means “black falls.”

The mystical waterfall even served as an inspiration for the architect that created the famous Hallgrímskirkja in Reykjavik . You’ll notice the sides of Svartifoss match that of Hallgrímskirkja.

This was one of my favorite waterfalls to visit in Iceland’s south coast. The hike there is uphill at first but provides some great view points over the landscape. Once you arrive at Svartifoss it is the perfect place to relax and take in the scenic nature.

Tip: Svartifoss is a 4 hour drive from Reykjavik, nearby the famous Glacier Lagoon . Due to the distance, I highly recommend spending at least one night at Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon .

6. Öxarárfoss

Location: 806 Thingvellir, Iceland

How to Reach: Park at the Thingvellir National Park Visitor Center, then walk the path around 1.7km to the waterfall.

Hike Duration: 1.7km one way

Time Needed to Visit: 1-2 hours

Öxarárfoss is a beautiful waterfall surrounded by dramatic rocks. It is easy to get to and requires a scenic walk on a nicely paved path surrounded by rugged cliffs.

Öxarárfoss is located in Thingvellir National Park , which is a protected natural area known for its geological and historical significance .

Historically speaking, Thingvellir was where the Vikings would hold an Althing, an Icelandic parliament that began in 930 AD. During this event, the Viking Icelanders would pass laws, settle disputes, and share news.

Geologically, Thingvellir National Park is where the North American and European tectonic plates meet.

It is one of the only places in the world where you can see a ridge between two continents. You can even snorkel between the two continents at Silfra .

7. Gullfoss

Location: Gullfoss Nature Reserve, 35, 846, Iceland

How to Reach: Located in the Golden Circle, off from Route 35.

Hike Duration: None, short walk from the parking area.

The gem of the Golden Circle is Gullfoss. This beautiful waterfall is actually a double waterfall that has a height of 32 meters (105 feet). Its located along the Hvítá river and is fed by Langjökull, Iceland´s second largest glacier.

The name Gullfoss stands for Golden Waterfall and the stunning waterfall certainly lives up to its name.

The Golden Circle is one of the most popular driving routes due to its close proximity to Reykjavik, and so Gullfoss can get rather crowded . To see it without the crowds, you’ll want to get there early in the morning or in the evening.

Gullfoss is one of the must visit attractions in the Golden Circle, and if you don’t want to drive there are plenty of Golden Circle tours like this one that visit it.

8. Faxi Waterfall

Location: Biskupstungnabraut, 806, Iceland

How to Reach: Located in the Golden Circle, off Route 35.

Hike Duration: None, a short walk from the parking area.

Faxi Waterfall is another waterfall found in the Golden Circle . It is also known as Faxafoss or Vatnsleysufoss in Icelandic. While not very tall, it has an impressive width and is fed by the Tungufljót River.

As it is on the Golden Circle Route, it is easy to combine visiting Faxi Waterfall with other highlights such as Secret Lagoon, Geysir, and more.

Often overlooked for Gullfoss, Faxi Waterfall is worth visiting when driving the Golden Circle. It was less crowded and is a scenic waterfall to check out.

9. Gjáin Waterfall

Location: Stangarvegur, 804, Iceland

How to Reach: Take Route 1 to Skeiða- og Hrunamannavegur (Route 30), Next, turn right onto Route 32, then left on to Háifoss (Road 332) for 500m, then left onto Stöng (Road 327) for 3km until you reach a small parking area.

Hike Duration: None, just a short walk.

Gjáin Waterfall is one of the best off the beaten path waterfalls in Iceland . While this incredible place is a little more difficult to get to, it is so worth visiting .

The waterfall is actually a series of small waterfalls in a valley, surrounded by lush greenery. There will likely be very few other tourists which makes it an enchanting place to visit.

For Game of Thrones fans, you may recognize Gjáin Waterfall as one of the filming sites with Aria and the Hound (season 4, episode 5).

Located about 10-15 minutes drive down the road from Gjáin Waterfall are the ruins of a Viking Settlement Longhouse , which is a unique thing to check out.

To get to you will need a 4×4 SUV because the last mile is on an F-road . In Iceland, it is illegal to drive regular cars on an F-road. The road itself isn’t too difficult (no river crossings) but it is uneven and has some sharp gravel so drive slowly on the last mile or so.

Tip: I highly recommend renting a 4×4 SUV with Blue Car . Blue Car is one of the highest rated car rental companies in Iceland. It is also a local Icelandic owned car company.

Click Here to Book a Rental Car with Blue Car

10. Fossálar Waterfall

Location: Fossálar Waterfall, 881, Iceland (along the Ring Road)

How to Reach: Located right off the Ring Road, there is a small parking pull off area on the other side of the road where you can park.

Hike Duration: None

Time Needed to Visit: 10 minutes

Fossálar Waterfall is a small, series of waterfalls located directly on the side of the Ring Road. It is a picturesque place to stop for some beautiful photos of the Icelandic landscape.

This waterfall is located right along Route 1 (the Ring Road) about 14km east of Kirkjubæjarklaustur, Iceland. Since it is located pretty far out, you’ll likely be the only person there. Just remember to pull off the road (don’t stop in the road for pictures).

11. Foss á Síðu

Location: Þjóðvegur, 881, Iceland (along the Ring Road)

How to Reach: Located right off the Ring Road

Time Needed to Visit: 5 minutes

Foss á Síðu is a stunningly beautiful roadside waterfall in Iceland. The waterfall itself is in private property so it isn’t possible to hike up to it, however it is an incredible waterfall to see from the side of the road .

You’ll see this waterfall from the Ring Road, about 12km east of Kirkjubæjarklaustur , Iceland. If you want to take a photo make sure to pull off to the side of the road. Its a beautiful waterfall and a nice spot for a quick photo.

12. Grófarlækjarfoss

Location: Grófarlækjarfoss, 785 Hof, Iceland

How to Reach: Located next to Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon, just a short walk from the parking area

Hike Duration: 5 minute walk

Time Needed to Visit: 20 minutes

This hidden gem waterfall is located directly next to the Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon . Its an easy one to visit and there were no other people around when we went. You can get closer to the waterfall through a short walk, and it is extremely peaceful and serene.

If you go in the summer, there are beautiful purple Lupine flowers that are in full bloom, creating gorgeous scenery .

13. Systrafoss

Location: Systrafoss, 881 Kirkjubæjarklaustur, Iceland

How to Reach: You can see it from the parking area or follow the path for about 10-15 minutes for a closer view

Hike Duration: 10-15 minute walk

An iconic waterfall of Kirkjubaejarklaustur , Systrafoss is a small cascading waterfall. Its a pretty waterfall to see in the distance from the village, and there are picnic tables there in case you want to have some lunch with a view.

To see the waterfall closer up, there is a short trail that you can walk down. One of the walking trails will take you to the Sytravatn Lake , and it is about a 15 minute walk to get there.

Systrafoss is worth stopping at while driving through Iceland’s southern coast. The town of Kirkjubaejarklaustur is a good spot to fill up on gas and grab some lunch before heading further east, as there isn’t much else for miles after.

14. Rauðárfoss

Location: Rauðárfoss, 881 Kirkjubæjarklaustur, Iceland

How to Reach: From the parking area, follow the path for about 10 mintues and you’ll arrive at the waterfall.

Hike Duration: 10 minute walk

Time Needed to Visit: 45 minutes

Rauðárfoss is a small hidden gem waterfall that many people overlook, and so its likely that you’ll have the falls completely to yourself when visiting.

Rauðárfoss is located nearby Kirkjubæjarklaustur, Iceland . To get to the waterfall, you will have a short 10 minute walk from the parking area. As there aren’t many other people around, it is a very serene and relaxing area.

Nearby the waterfall you can continue to hike around on the short trail to Systrastapi Rock. Systrastapi Rock is a uniquely shaped rock that is very picturesque . You can go up it, but be very careful as we thought the trail up there was a bit uneven.

15. Stjórnarfoss

Location: Stjórnarfoss, 881 Kirkjubæjarklaustur, Iceland

How to Reach: There is a parking and camping area just across the street, and then it is a short walk to the falls.

Last but certainly not least is another one of my personal favorites, Stjórnarfoss. Stjórnarfoss is located near the town of Kirkjubæjarklaustur, Iceland.

Not only is Stjórnarfoss beautiful , but it is a very relaxing place to visit. The waterfall cascades into a crystal-clear pool of water, and is surrounded by greenery. We visited in June and it was filled with beautiful blooming purple lupine flowers .

Stjórnarfoss is the perfect place to have a picnic while enjoying the stunning Icelandic landscapes. There is also a camping area just down the street which is perfect for those driving camper vans or tent camping.

Map of the Waterfalls in South Iceland

There are quite literally thousands of waterfalls in Iceland. This map shows the locations of the best 15 waterfalls in south Iceland that are mentioned above.

Tips for Visiting Waterfalls in South Iceland

Wear a rain jacket to avoid getting wet

Waterproof shoes can be helpful

Be careful walking around as it can be slippery near some waterfalls

Visit popular waterfalls like Skogafoss early in the morning or in the evening to avoid crowds.

Always check weather and road conditions via Road.is or Vedur.is .

Driving is the easiest way to visit several waterfalls, one of the best rental car companies in Iceland is Blue Car .

If you prefer not to drive, there are guided tours like this one that will take you around South Iceland to some of the best waterfalls.

FAQ: Waterfalls South Iceland

Skogafoss is the large waterfall on the coast of south Iceland. This waterfall is one of the largest in Iceland, and has an impressive width of 25 meters (82 feet) and a height of 60 meters (197 feet). Skogafoss is a beautiful waterfall that is easy to access from the Ring Road, making it worth visiting.

Seljalandsfoss is the most picturesque waterfall in all of Iceland. It is incredibly beautiful with its cascading water dropping 60 meters (197 feet). Seljalandsfoss is absolutely worth visiting and is an easy waterfall to access in Iceland.

You can’t walk behind the waterfall at Skogafoss, but you can climb the stairs next to it for a spectacular view over the top of the waterfall. If you want to go behind a waterfall, visit the nearby Seljalandsfoss. At Seljalandsfoss you can take the pathway behind the waterfall for stunning views.

The Wrap Up: Waterfalls South Iceland

The waterfalls in South Iceland are absolutely worth visiting. You are sure to fall in love with the natural beauty of South Iceland’s waterfalls, from the stunningly beautiful Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss to the hidden gem waterfalls such as Gljúfrabúi.

Many of the waterfalls along the southern coast are easy to visit and accessible, making it possible for people of all ages and fitness levels to admire the stunning waterfalls in Iceland.

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