Iceland: South Coast and Northern Lights Tour

Travelers looking for a blend of Iceland’s iconic landscapes and a chance to see the Aurora Borealis often find this tour appealing. It offers a full-day journey through some of the south coast’s most breathtaking sights, from powerful waterfalls to volcanic beaches, topped off with an evening Northern Lights chase. With modern amenities like Wi-Fi, USB charging, and informative audio guides, this experience promises both comfort and insight—making it a solid choice for those wanting an overview of Iceland’s natural wonders in one day.

What really draws us to this tour is the careful balance it strikes: it covers the major highlights while offering a chance to witness Iceland’s elusive northern lights. However, a potential downside is that the Northern Lights part can be weather-dependent, and if conditions aren’t perfect, that segment might be canceled or less spectacular than expected. Still, the tour’s success rate for aurora sightings is high thanks to the operator’s experienced staff who analyze weather patterns daily.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive taste of Iceland’s south coast without the hassle of driving themselves. It’s particularly good for those on a tight schedule, first-time visitors eager to see key sites, or anyone excited to combine daytime sightseeing with the thrill of a Northern Lights hunt in the evening.

Key Points

• Comfortable Transportation: Modern bus equipped with Wi-Fi, USB chargers, and multilingual audio guides.
• Diverse Highlights: Waterfalls, black sand beaches, basalt columns, and a charming village.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable staff who enhance the experience with insights and storytelling.
• Weather-Dependent Aurora: The Northern Lights viewing isn’t guaranteed but is often successful thanks to careful planning.
• Value for Money: At around $167, the full-day experience covers major sights with amenities, making it a good deal.
• Authentic Experiences: Visitors love the stories, the secret waterfalls, and the chance to walk behind waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Setting Out from Reykjavík

The adventure begins early in the morning from the centrally located Reykjavík Terminal. Expect to be picked up from your hotel if you’ve booked the optional hotel transfer—just be ready at least 15 minutes before departure. The bus itself is well-designed for long days: comfy, modern, and loaded with tech features like Wi-Fi, USB chargers, and audio guides in ten languages including Spanish, Chinese, Dutch, and more. This means you can stay connected and entertained, or simply listen to interesting facts about Iceland while enjoying the scenery.

Scenic Drive Through Lava Fields and Volcanoes

As the bus departs Reykjavik, you’re treated to views of volcanic landscapes, lava fields, and distant snow-capped mountains. The guide shares insights about the volcanic activity surrounding Hengill mountain, Hekla, and Eyjafjalljökull, adding context to the striking scenery. The possibility of spotting Westman Islands just off the coast adds to the excitement, especially on clear days.

Waterfalls and Hidden Gems

The first major stop is Seljalandsfoss, a 60-meter waterfall famous for the footpath that lets you walk behind the cascading water. Reviewers mention how special it is to stand behind the veil of water, with Amy describing it as “fantastic.” Be prepared to get a little wet from the spray! The path behind the falls provides a unique perspective and makes for memorable photos.

Next up is Skógafoss, another mighty waterfall with a powerful drop and one of Iceland’s most scenic views. Climbing the steps to a viewing platform is recommended for a panoramic shot of the cascades and surrounding landscape. Louise notes how the views from Skógafoss are “beautiful,” and it’s easy to see why it’s such a popular photo spot.

Black Sand Beach and Basalt Formations

Traveling further down the coast, the tour visits the Reynisfjara black sand beach, renowned for its dramatic basalt columns, sea stacks, and caves. The pounding Atlantic waves make it a wild, beautiful place, though it’s often quite windy, as Sarah describes. The combination of jagged rocks and black sands creates a stark, unforgettable landscape. The guide points out the basalt formations and explains their volcanic origins, enriching the experience.

Exploring Vík

The tour makes a stop in Vík, Iceland’s southernmost village with only about 291 inhabitants. Despite its tiny size, it’s a strategic and scenic spot—hosting the famous Reynisdrangar sea stacks and offering views of the nearby glaciers. Reviewers like Sarah appreciate the time spent here, giving a glimpse into Icelandic rural life and providing photo opportunities.

Return to Reykjavík and Northern Lights Chase

After a day packed with spectacular sights, the bus heads back to the city for a rest. But the adventure isn’t over. Later in the evening, the same team reassembles for the Northern Lights hunt. Here’s where the experience gets especially magical, though weather conditions play a big role. The guides analyze weather patterns daily and only operate the evening trip when conditions are promising, which contributes to a high success rate as many reviewers confirm.

Guides are trained to help you photograph the Aurora Borealis—think tips on camera settings and best spots for capturing the lights. Participants are advised to dress warmly, and the tour offers ultra-warm “Aurora Jackets” for rent to make the experience comfortable. Reviewers like Amy and Sarah highlight how seeing the Aurora can be a once-in-a-lifetime moment, even if it requires patience and luck.

Additional Comfort and Practicalities

The bus is more than just a transport vehicle: it acts as a mobile information center. The in-bus audio guide, available in ten languages, provides context about each stop, while free Wi-Fi and USB charging keep everyone connected and powered up. For those worried about bathroom needs, the tour notes that stops with pay-to-use toilets are available, which is handy for long days.

What We Love About This Tour

The most praised aspect is the quality of the guides. Amy’s review highlights the guide’s enthusiasm and clear instructions, which helps avoid confusion during stops. Sarah appreciated the extra “secret waterfall” the guide showed her in a cave, adding a personal touch to the experience. Louise found the guides engaging and informative, making the scenery even more captivating.

The scenery itself is hard to beat—powerful waterfalls, black sands, basalt formations, and charming villages. The opportunity to walk behind Seljalandsfoss and climb Skógafoss’s steps offers a tactile connection to Iceland’s natural forces. Plus, the Black Sand Beach, with its crashing Atlantic waves and towering sea stacks, leaves a lasting impression on visitors.

Considerations and Limitations

While the experience is generally highly rated, some reviews mention issues like the tour running longer than scheduled due to late arrivals at stops, which cuts into your free time or meal plans. Also, the Northern Lights viewing is weather-dependent, and while the operator tries to maximize chances, it remains unpredictable. A few reviewers expressed frustration when their aurora hunt was canceled or less successful due to poor conditions.

The duration—about 13 hours including the Northern Lights segment—is quite long, especially if you’re not used to full-day tours. Some travelers note that the long drive and packed schedule can be tiring, but most agree that the stunning sights and potential aurora sightings make it worthwhile.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re after a comprehensive day trip that hits all the major south coast sights, this tour delivers. It’s ideal for first-timers wanting an overview of Iceland’s natural beauty without the hassle of managing their own transportation. The added bonus of a Northern Lights hunt in the evening appeals to those hoping for a once-in-a-lifetime celestial display, provided clear skies.

It also suits travelers who appreciate technological comforts like Wi-Fi and USB chargers on transport, and who want expert guides to enrich their experience with stories and insights. Keep in mind that the weather can influence the Northern Lights portion, so flexibility is key.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This tour offers a well-rounded look at Iceland’s south coast, paired with the chance to witness the Northern Lights—arguably the country’s most famous natural phenomenon. For $167, you get a full-day of sightseeing, comfortable transportation, and expert guidance, making it an excellent value considering the sights covered.

The major highlights are authentic and immersive, with many reviewers praising their guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge. The waterfalls, black sand beaches, and basalt columns are genuinely breathtaking and give you plenty of photo opportunities. The Northern Lights segment, while weather-dependent, is carefully managed by experienced staff, increasing your chances of success.

If you’re prepared for a long day and want a mix of Iceland’s iconic landscapes with the excitement of aurora hunting, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially suitable for those eager to see the country’s natural wonders without the stress of planning every detail themselves.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, if you select the option, the tour provides hotel pickup from most hotels, hostels, and guesthouses in Reykjavik. Be ready 30 minutes early and look for the green Smartbus.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly and waterproof, as Icelandic weather changes quickly. Good outdoor shoes, a waterproof jacket and pants, headwear, and gloves are recommended. You can also rent ultra-warm “Aurora Jackets” for the Northern Lights.

What time does the tour start?
Start times vary depending on the season and weather conditions but generally begin early in the morning. Check available times when booking.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. It’s flexible for changing plans or weather issues.

Will I see the Northern Lights?
While sightings are weather-dependent, the operator has a high success rate because they only run the evening Northern Lights tour when conditions are favorable.

Are food and drinks included?
No, meals are not included. It’s advisable to bring snacks or plan to buy food during stops, especially since the day can be long and tiring.

In short, this Iceland: South Coast and Northern Lights Tour offers a comprehensive, comfortable way to see some of the country’s most stunning natural features and chase the elusive Aurora Borealis. It combines sightseeing, storytelling, and the thrill of a celestial show—all in one memorable package. Perfect for first-time visitors or those short on time, it’s a solid choice that balances value with authentic Icelandic experiences.