Private Tour: South Coast of Iceland by SUV or Van from Reykjavik

Exploring Iceland’s South Coast in Style: An In-Depth Review of the Private SUV Tour from Reykjavik

If you’re eyeing a comprehensive and personalized way to explore Iceland’s south coast, this private tour by SUV ticks all the boxes. It promises a relaxed, flexible itinerary that covers iconic sights like waterfalls, glaciers, and volcanic beaches, all with the added comfort and intimacy of a private guide. With a highly-rated experience and glowing reviews, it’s clear that many travelers find this journey both enriching and hassle-free.

What we love about this tour is how it combines comfort with deep, authentic insights into Icelandic nature and geology. Plus, the fact that it’s fully private means your group can tailor the experience to your interests—whether that’s focusing on waterfalls, photography, or simply soaking in the scenery. A potential downside? The price point of $750 per person might seem steep for some, especially considering meals and additional activities are extra. But for those seeking a curated, stress-free exploration, this tour often proves to be a fantastic value.

This experience is best suited for travelers who want to see Iceland’s highlights without the crowds and prefer a more personalized approach. It’s ideal for couples, small groups, or families who value comfort, flexibility, and a knowledgeable guide to enrich their adventure.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: The private tour allows custom adjustments based on your interests and pace.
• Expert Guidance: Guides like Sigfus “Siggy” and Jon are praised for their knowledge and friendly approach.
• Stunning Scenery: Expect waterfalls, glaciers, volcanoes, and black-sand beaches—all breathtaking and photo-worthy.
• Comfort & Convenience: Pickup and drop-off at your Reykjavik hotel, WiFi on board, and a luxury vehicle ensure a smooth day.
• Flexible Itinerary: Stops and timing are adaptable, ensuring you see what matters most to you.
• Cost & Value: At $750 per person, the tour offers exclusive access and personalized service, which many find worth the price.

An In-Depth Look at the South Coast Private Tour

The Comfort of Private Transportation and Personal Guides

One of the biggest draws of this tour is the use of a full-size SUV or luxury vehicle, specifically a Land Rover Defender 2020 or similar. This isn’t just about style; it provides plenty of space for luggage, comfort during long drives, and windows that are perfect for wildlife spotting or snapping photos. Coupled with hotel pickup and drop-off in Reykjavik, the logistics are simple and stress-free—no need to worry about navigating Iceland’s sometimes tricky roads.

Guides like Sigfus “Siggy” and Jon have garnered praise for their friendliness and expertise. According to reviews, Siggy was not only a driver but a storyteller, sharing fascinating insights about Iceland’s life, geology, and history. Jon, in particular, was noted for his timely and well-paced tour, making sure guests experienced all the highlights without feeling rushed. Such guides elevate the experience from just sightseeing to gaining a deeper understanding of the land.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

The tour’s route is thoughtfully designed to showcase Iceland’s geological marvels and natural beauty. Starting with Urridafoss Waterfall, a lesser-known but stunning cascade, the journey quickly immerses you into Iceland’s rugged landscape. You might appreciate the brief stop here, which makes for a perfect photo opportunity without feeling like a major detour.

Next up is Skógafoss, perhaps Iceland’s most iconic waterfall. Its thunderous descent and the myth that a treasure resides behind it make it a must-see. Reviewers like Heide_M appreciated how Siggy customized the stops for their group, ensuring everyone had enough time to enjoy and photograph the falls without feeling hurried.

The visit to Solheimajokull Glacier offers a chance to see how glaciers shape the landscape. The guide’s commentary on how this glacier was formed and is retreating adds an educational layer. Many guests find that walking near the glacier’s ice formations is a memorable highlight, with some mentioning how the scenery made them feel like they’d stepped onto another planet.

The Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach is often the highlight for visitors. Its striking basalt columns, roaring Atlantic waves, and sea stacks make it one of Iceland’s most dramatic sights. Traveling here in a private tour allows for more time to explore and photograph the unique landscape. Reviewers like Oksana_O loved how the guide timed the day perfectly, avoiding crowds and giving ample opportunity to take in the views.

On the way back, a brief stop in Vik lets you soak up Icelandic village life and enjoy some quick photos before heading to Seljalandsfoss. Here, the waterfall’s claim to fame is that you can walk behind it, which many find to be an exhilarating experience.

The Value of Flexibility and Authentic Experiences

Unlike group tours, this private experience can be tailored based on your interests. Whether you want more time at a specific site or to skip a less appealing stop, the guide can accommodate. This flexibility was praised by reviewers like Sheila_M, who appreciated how the guide made sure their group wasn’t waiting around for long and that they could focus on what mattered most to them.

Practical Details and Tips

• Duration: Around 8 to 10 hours, giving ample time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.
• Cost: $750 per person; the price reflects the private, tailor-made service, luxury transport, and expert guidance.
• Inclusions: The tour includes WiFi in the vehicle, hotel pickup and drop-off, and a private guide—these are the amenities that enhance comfort and convenience.
• Exclusions: Food and drinks are not included, so bringing a packed lunch or planning to dine en route is recommended. The guide can suggest good spots if asked.
• Weather & Clothing: Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable, so packing warm clothing, gloves, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes is advised. The tour operates in all weather conditions, so don’t let rain or wind dampen your plans.

Authentic Experiences and Insider Tips

Many reviewers mentioned that their guides shared stories and insights that aren’t found in typical guidebooks. For example, Siggy’s tales about Icelandic life, volcanic eruptions, and geothermal energy brought a richer understanding of the land. You’ll also benefit from the guide’s knowledge about the best times to visit certain sights to avoid crowds or capture the perfect light.

The tour’s flexibility means you can prioritize certain sights—perhaps a quick photo at Urridafoss, more time at Skógafoss, or extra exploration of the black sand beaches. This customization ensures you get the most out of your day, especially if Iceland’s weather or your energy levels fluctuate.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private tour suits travelers who want to see Iceland’s highlights in comfort and style without rushing. It’s perfect for those who value expert local guides, personalized routes, and stress-free logistics. Small groups, families, or couples will appreciate the intimacy and tailored experience. It’s also a good fit for travelers with specific interests, like photography or geology, thanks to the flexible itinerary.

Final Thoughts

This private South Coast tour delivers on its promise of showcasing Iceland’s most stunning landscapes with the comfort of a private vehicle and knowledgeable guides. The carefully curated stops, combined with the flexibility of the itinerary, mean you’ll experience Iceland’s wild beauty at your own pace. While the price might seem high, many reviews suggest that the personalized service, expert storytelling, and breathtaking scenery justify the cost.

If you’re after a blend of comfort, authenticity, and a touch of adventure—this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s especially suited for those who want to avoid crowds, have a tailor-made experience, and come away with memorable photos and stories. With a 5-star rating and glowing reviews from past travelers, it’s clear that this private journey leaves many feeling delighted and inspired.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Reykjavik, making it very convenient for travelers staying in the city.

What is the vehicle used for the tour?
A full-size SUV, specifically a Land Rover Defender 2020 or similar, providing comfort and plenty of space.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, guides are generally flexible and happy to adjust stops based on your interests or weather conditions.

How long does the tour last?
Expect about 8 to 10 hours from pickup to drop-off, offering plenty of time to explore without feeling rushed.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but the guide can recommend good local spots or you can bring a packed lunch.

Is this tour suitable in bad weather?
Yes, it operates in all weather conditions, so dress appropriately for rain, wind, or cold.

What should I bring?
Warm clothing, gloves, a hat, comfortable walking shoes, and your camera for photos.

Is the tour good for families?
Yes, many reviews note that it’s suitable for families and groups, especially since it’s private and flexible.

What makes this tour stand out compared to others?
Its private, customizable nature combined with the expertise of guides like Siggy and Jon, and the stunning scenery you get to experience at your own pace.

In essence, this tour offers a thoughtfully curated slice of Iceland’s south coast in a way that prioritizes comfort, flexibility, and authentic storytelling. It’s a memorable, hassle-free way to see some of Iceland’s most iconic landscapes, perfect for those who want a more personal touch to their adventure.