South Iceland Glaciers, Waterfalls and Black Sand Beach Day Tour from Reykjavik

This popular full-day tour offers an accessible way to see some of Iceland’s most iconic natural wonders without the hassle of planning your own trip. For around 10 hours, you’ll journey past lava fields, icebergs, and glacier lakes while exploring impressive waterfalls, black sand beaches, and glaciers. With a well-organized route, experienced guides, and plenty of photo-worthy moments, it’s a great option for those wanting a taste of the South Iceland landscape.

What we love most about this tour is how it balances stunning scenery with informative commentary. The guides, praised for their knowledge and friendliness, truly enhance the experience—making even the long day feel engaging and worthwhile. However, a possible consideration is the pace; with so many stops packed into a single day, you’ll want to be prepared for some active walking and a schedule that’s quite full. This tour suits travelers who love outdoor adventures, waterfalls, and natural beauty, and are okay with a long day on the road.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Experience: Covers major South Iceland highlights, from waterfalls to glaciers and beaches.
• Expert Guides: Guides are praised for their knowledge, humor, and friendliness, adding depth to the trip.
• Value for Money: At $115, it offers a lot of incredible sights for a reasonable price, especially considering transportation and guide expertise.
• Active Day: Expect some walking, especially at the glacier and waterfalls, so sturdy shoes are recommended.
• Flexible Pick-Up: Convenient hotel pickup makes logistics simple, ensuring you start your day stress-free.
• Photo Opportunities: From behind waterfalls to black sand beaches, there’s no shortage of Instagram-worthy views.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Pickup and Starting Point

The tour kicks off from Þórunnartún in Reykjavik, with pickup available from select hotels. This makes it easy to get on board without extra fuss. The bus, described as comfortable and well-managed, takes you southeast into the stunning landscapes of South Iceland. The drive itself is part of the experience, with scenic views unfolding as you leave the city behind.

Seljalandsfoss

Your first stop is the famous Seljalandsfoss waterfall. One of the most photographed waterfalls in Iceland, it’s renowned for the chance to walk behind it—an exhilarating experience, especially if you’re prepared with waterproof clothing (recommended based on reviews). The 20-minute stop here lets you snap photos from unique angles and feel the power of the falling water. Reviewers love the thrill of walking behind this cascade, with many mentioning how soaking wet they got, but calling it well worth the effort.

Skogafoss

Next up is Skogafoss, where you can climb stairs to the top and enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the waterfall’s majestic cascade. On a clear day, you can even spot Eyjafjallajokull volcano from above—adding a volcanic touch to your natural scenery. This stop lasts around 30 minutes, giving enough time to explore and soak in the sights. Reviewers often mention how climbing to the top offers an impressive perspective, and many note that the entire waterfall is truly breathtaking.

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

The tour continues to Reynisfjara, the famous black sand beach. Its basalt columns, roaring waves, and the striking Reynisdrangar sea stacks make it a photographer’s paradise. The guide emphasizes safety, reminding visitors to watch out for the dangerous waves—something many reviewers appreciated, as the ocean here can be unpredictable. A 30-minute walk allows for plenty of photos and exploration of the basalt formations. Reviewers rave about the dramatic scenery, with one noting, “The waves will take you out if you’re not careful,” which is a good heads-up for safety.

Solheimajokull Glacier

The final highlight is Solheimajokull Glacier. Here, you get to walk right up to the edge, and many travelers love being able to touch the glacier—an authentic Arctic experience. The 30-minute stop includes an opportunity to get close to the ice and take some memorable photos. Reviewers mention the active walking involved and recommend sturdy shoes and waterproof gear. The feeling of standing at the edge of a real glacier makes this a memorable way to end the day.

Return to Reykjavik

After a full day of sightseeing, the bus heads back to the city, with drop-offs at the same hotels or designated locations. The total duration is approximately 10 hours, making it a long but rewarding day.

Why This Tour Stands Out

The guides are consistently praised for their enthusiasm and knowledge, with reviews highlighting individuals like Anna, Monica, and Brindis who make the journey lively and educational. They share interesting facts about Iceland’s geology, folklore, and history, enriching your understanding of each site.

The scenery is undeniably some of Iceland’s finest—waterfalls like Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss are truly impressive, with their power and beauty captured perfectly in photos. The black sand beach at Reynisfjara offers a stark contrast to the icy landscapes, providing a diverse range of visuals.

The value for the price of $115 per person is notable, considering the transportation, guided commentary, and access to these iconic sites. Many reviewers mention how the trip exceeded expectations, especially given the variety of sights packed into a single day.

Active elements like walking behind waterfalls and along the glacier edge mean you’ll need good walking shoes. Waterproof outerwear is also recommended, especially at Seljalandsfoss and Reynisfjara, where the spray can be intense.

Practical Tips for the Best Experience

• Dress appropriately: Waterproof clothing and sturdy shoes are essential. Expect to get wet at Seljalandsfoss and possibly at Reynisfjara.
• Bring your camera: With so many photogenic stops, ensure your camera or smartphone is charged.
• Arrive early or be ready for pickup: The tour starts from Þórunnartún, so punctuality helps you maximize your day.
• Prepare for a long day: The trip lasts nearly 10 hours, so bring snacks, water, and a positive attitude.
• Time management: Although the stops are well planned, some reviewers suggest that more time at each site would be ideal—but the schedule is designed for efficiency.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for nature lovers who want a comprehensive snapshot of South Iceland’s stunning landscapes. It suits travelers who don’t mind a busy schedule and active walking, and those eager to learn from guides with local expertise. If you’re after iconic photos, the black sand beaches, waterfalls, and glaciers won’t disappoint. Plus, if you’re visiting Iceland for a short time but want to see a lot, this tour offers a high-value, memorable day out.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, pickup is available from select Reykjavik hotels, making the start of your day seamless.

How long is the tour? The entire experience lasts approximately 10 hours, from pickup in Reykjavik to return.

What is the main focus of the tour? The tour focuses on the waterfalls, glaciers, and black sand beaches of South Iceland, offering diverse scenery and photo opportunities.

Do I need special gear? Waterproof clothing and sturdy shoes are recommended, especially at Seljalandsfoss and Reynisfjara.

Can I walk behind Seljalandsfoss? Yes, you can go behind the waterfall, but waterproof gear is advisable due to spray and potential soaking.

Are the stops free of charge? All the main sites are free to explore; no additional admission fees are required.

Is this tour suitable for everyone? Most travelers can participate, but be prepared for some active walking and potential weather changes.

How many people are in the group? The tour can have up to 65 travelers, so expect a lively but organized atmosphere.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This South Iceland day tour offers a wonderfully efficient way to see some of the country’s most stunning sites in one go. With experienced guides, excellent value, and a mix of waterfalls, glaciers, and dramatic beaches, it’s a solid choice for those eager to experience Iceland’s natural beauty without the hassle of independent travel. Be prepared for active exploration, and you’ll return with unforgettable memories of Iceland’s wild, rugged landscapes.

Whether you’re a first-timer or returning visitor, this tour provides a balanced, engaging, and picturesque taste of South Iceland that’s hard to beat for an affordable price. Just pack your waterproofs, lace up your sturdy shoes, and get ready for a day full of breathtaking scenery.