South Coast’s greatest hits
- Marvel at the Skógafoss waterfall, famously featured in Game of Thrones, where fantasy meets the power of nature.
- Feel the wind on your face and walk on the Reynisfjara black sand beach, renowned as one of the top 10 most beautiful places on Earth. It captured hearts worldwide. And for a reason!
- Walk behind the iconic Seljalandsfoss waterfall and take in its grandeur from every angle. You might get wet but the smile on your face and the photos will be worth it.
- Learn the enchanting secrets of Gljúfrabúi, a sheltered waterfall that is waiting to be discovered by you.
- Adventure awaits underneath the vast Icelandic sky. After safety instructions, walk on centuries’ old ice, peek into a crevasse, drink glacier water on a Sólheimajökull glacier hike.
Waterfalls, black sand beaches, and vistas — on repeat
Step aboard a comfortable minibus, feel the warm welcome from your driver-guide, and spend the next few hours journeying through Iceland’s South Coast with plenty of stops (and surprises!) in between. Depending on the weather, time of day, and season, your driver guide may change the order in which you will visit the stops. This is the beauty of travelling in a small group — you have the flexibility to avoid the crowds and make unexpected discoveries.
“Well planned to avoid crowds.” 5-star review on Tripadvisor
Reykjavik to Skógafoss Waterfall
Meet Skógafoss, a fantastic 60-meter waterfall where the Skógá River concludes its journey over ancient sea cliffs. The coastline here took a step back, unveiling this breathtaking vertical cascade. The energy and might of the falls weave a constant mist, sometimes painting vibrant rainbows on sunny days. It’s like nature’s own magic show!
Glacier hike on Sólheimajökull
Get ready for the tour’s highlight: a thrilling 2.5-hour hike, with 1.5 hours spent right on the Sólheimajökull, an outlet glacier from the fourth-largest Icelandic glacier, Mýrdalsjökull.
After gearing up for safety (crampons, helmet, ice axe), your highly trained guide will take you on the ice. Ever wanted to peer inside a crevasse or taste glacier water while learning about the history and geology of Iceland’s glaciers? This is your chance. And yes, it’s safe!
“What an experience, we loved it so much. It was like walking on a different planet, and such a stunning landscape…” 5-star review on Tripadvisor
Reynisfjara black sand beach
After a quick ride, we’ll pull over at the enchanting Reynisfjara black sand beach. Imagine this: once your foot touches the black sand, you will know why it was voted among the world’s top 10 most beautiful non-tropical beaches. Being close to basalt columns, a domed cave, the famous black sand, and the iconic Reynisdrangar rock formations will give you plenty of thrills and serve as magnificent drops for your photos.
You should stay clear of the ocean, the waves are extremely dangerous.
Seljalandsfoss waterfall
On the way back to Reykjavik we’ll stop at the must-see Seljalandsfoss waterfall. This beauty sits beneath the famous Eyfjallajokull, the volcano that made headlines in 2010. Get behind-the-waterfall view when you take a walk behind its thundering cascade.
Gljúfrabúi (or Canyon Dweller) waterfall
Close by you will find Gljúfrabúi, whose name is translated from the Icelandic as Canyon Dweller. It is one of the hidden gems of the South Coast, and thus an excellent spot for photographers and those seeking to admire nature in peace. Cameras at the ready…
Return to Reykjavik full of life-long memories, and why not choose another tour with us, such as the Golden Circle & Secret Lagoon Minibus Tour?
Choose the South Coast & Iconic Glacier Hike Full Fay Tour if you
- Want to see a lot in one day
- Are looking for an idyllic escape
- Want to venture into the icy realm of Sólheimajökull glacier
- Always dreamed of walking behind a waterfall
- Are excited about stepping on a black sand beach
- Want to educate yourself about the geology, history, and culture of Iceland
Attention
Who it’s for
- Kids are welcome but must be 10 years or older
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Not stroller accessible
- Not recommended if you have a back problem
- Not recommended if you are pregnant (congratulations, though!)
- Not recommended if you have a heart condition
Clothing
On this tour, it is important to be WELL EQUIPPED! On this tour, shoes are of utmost importance!
Please make sure that you bring sturdy hiking or walking boots with ankle support. You will not be going on the glacier if you are wearing sports shoes, tennis shoes, flip-flops and sandals, high-heels shoes etc.!
Pick up information
Please be ready at your pick-up spot at 8:00am. Pick up takes place between 8:00 and 8:30am. For pick up enquiries outside Reykjavik, email info@holidaytours.is
Weather warning
If the weather conditions are not safe, the glacier hike may be cancelled. We’ll keep you informed about the changes, and what happens next
Group size
This tour and activity will have a maximum of 12 travelers
Safety
- Safety is our top priority for glacier hikes. While the hike is designed for beginners, some routes are icy and steep. If you dislike walking, this might not be for you. We supply safety gear, but mobility is vital for a safe trip.
- Your driver guide, who will accompany you on the hike, will assess your ability on-site. Remember, safety guides their decisions so if it’s a ‘no’ from your guide, this is because they have your safety in mind
Cancellation policy
- You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the departure for a full refund
- If you’re unsure about your fitness for the hike, please contact us at info@holidaytours.is
Requirements
What to bring
- Sturdy hiking or walking boots that support your ankles on the glacier hike. You'll wear crampons sized EU 36 / US 5.5 / UK 3.5 or larger provided by us.
- Waterproof and windproof outer layer
Recommended
- Reusable water bottle
- Camera
- Sunglasses
- We make stops during the tour for food and snacks (and toilet breaks), and you can also bring snacks or a packed lunch
