Private In-Depth Day Trip Tour of the South Coast to Vik

Planning a trip to Iceland and craving a more personalized experience of its spectacular southern coastline? This private day tour from Reykjavik offers an immersive journey through some of the country’s most iconic natural wonders, all with the comfort of a dedicated guide and customizable stops. With a focus on authenticity and flexibility, this excursion caters to travelers who want to avoid the crowds and enjoy a tailored adventure.

One of the things we love about this tour is the attention to detail — from stopping at hidden gems like Kvernufoss, a waterfall tucked into a canyon, to wandering along Reynisfjara’s famous black sand beach with its striking basalt columns. The ability to customize your itinerary means you can spend more time at the sights that captivate you most, which sets this tour apart from cookie-cutter group excursions.

A potential consideration here is the price — at over $2,000 per group for a full day, this isn’t the cheapest option out there. But given the private nature, expert guides, and inclusion of all transportation and entry fees, many travelers find it offers solid value for a deeply personalized experience. This tour is ideal for those who want a flexible, private day out that balances iconic sights with some off-the-beaten-path surprises.

This tour is perfect for couples, families, or small groups looking for a comfortably-paced, immersive Icelandic adventure with the luxury of customizing stops and exploring at their own pace.

Key Points

• Private, Tailor-Made Experience: The tour is customizable, ensuring you see what interests you most without waiting for others.
• Comfort and Convenience: Air-conditioned vehicle, certified guide, and private transportation mean a stress-free day.
• Iconic and Hidden Sights: From famous waterfalls to lesser-known treasures, the itinerary balances well-known highlights with off-the-beaten-path locations.
• All-Inclusive Entry Fees: Entrance to waterfalls, glaciers, and scenic spots are covered, simplifying your day.
• Time Flexibility: The tour’s duration allows for relaxed exploration, with most stops around 30 to 60 minutes.
• Great for Smaller Groups: Up to 8 people, perfect for a cozy, intimate experience.

Discovering Iceland’s South Coast: A Deep Dive

An Unforgettable Private Journey

This tour is designed to bring out the best of Iceland’s South Coast, with a focus on comfort, flexibility, and authentic experiences. As a private adventure, it offers the chance to truly connect with the landscape without the rush of large bus groups. You’ll travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, guided by a licensed professional who knows the area well, ready to answer all your questions and tailor the experience as needed.

The price of approximately $2,035.40 per group (up to 8 travelers) might seem steep at first glance. However, when you consider the exclusivity, included entrance fees, and the flexibility of a private tour, many see it as a worthwhile investment — especially if you’re after a personalized, in-depth exploration.

What’s in the Itinerary?

The day begins at 8:30 am, giving you a full 11 hours to explore. Each stop is thoughtfully chosen, balancing popular sights with some lesser-visited gems.

Stop 1: Skogafoss

Famous for its thunderous cascade and the legend of the Viking who supposedly owned the land, Skogafoss is one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls. We loved the way the guide explained its history and the best spots to get that perfect shot. With a 20-minute stop, you have enough time to marvel at the powerful water falling from nearly 200 feet high and snap some photos.

Stop 2: Kvernufoss

This hidden treasure in a canyon offers a quieter, more intimate waterfall experience. The 30-minute stop gives you the chance to wander in a less crowded setting, with the admission free. It’s a lovely way to enjoy Iceland’s natural serenity, and many reviews highlight the joy of discovering this lesser-known spot.

Stop 3: Reynisfjara Beach

The black sands and dramatic basalt columns at Reynisfjara are a highlight you won’t forget. The 30-minute walk here includes the chance to marvel at the natural formations and listen to the crashing Atlantic waves. The tour includes admission fees, ensuring you can explore without worries. The striking scenery here is truly memorable.

Stop 4: Vik

The charming village of Vik offers a perfect break for lunch and some local exploration. We appreciated the hour-long stop, which gives you time to enjoy Icelandic fare and stroll through the colorful town. It’s also a good spot to buy souvenirs or just relax before heading to the next sights.

Stop 5: Solheimajokull Glacier

Walking close to the glacier tongue of Mýrdalsjökull provides a sense of Iceland’s icy grandeur. The 45-minute stop is designed to give you a glimpse into the glacier’s surface and formations. The included admission means you get a close-up view without extra hassle.

Stop 6: Seljalandsfoss

One of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls, Seljalandsfoss is known for the summer option to walk behind it. The 30-minute stop allows you to experience this spectacular sight firsthand, with plenty of photo opportunities. The entrance is included, making it easy to enjoy this highlight.

The Benefits of a Private, Custom Tour

Traveling with a guide who’s licensed, certified, and genuinely passionate about Iceland means you’ll get insights you might miss on a larger tour. From sharing local legends to pointing out hidden viewpoints, your guide’s expertise enhances each stop.

The private transportation ensures you’re not rushing, and you can choose to linger at favorite spots or skip less interesting ones. Plus, the vehicle’s air conditioning and availability of a mobile ticket add to the convenience.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

One reviewer called Elysia Tours “that agency you find you can’t live without,” highlighting the impressiveness of the presentation and the quality of the experience. They also appreciated the personalized approach, especially for a first solo trip. The fact that the tour is flexible enough to accommodate specific interests can make a big difference, turning an already beautiful day into a truly memorable adventure.

What’s Not Included?

While the tour covers transport, parking, entrance fees, and the guide, meals and bottled water are not included. It’s wise to bring snacks or plan for a meal in Vik, where you’ll have ample options. Also, the tour is weather-dependent, and if the weather turns poor, you might be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Why Choose This Tour?

If you’re after a personalized exploration of Iceland’s South Coast, this private tour is hard to beat. It’s perfect for travelers who value comfort, flexibility, and a deep connection to the landscape. Small groups and the option to customize stops make it ideal for couples, families, or friends wanting an intimate experience.

However, because of its cost, it’s best suited for those willing to invest in a premium, tailored adventure rather than a budget-friendly snapshot. The inclusion of all entrance fees and transportation means you won’t be surprised by extras, and the guide’s local knowledge ensures each moment is meaningful.

This tour offers a blend of popular highlights and hidden gems, paired with expert guidance and flexible planning. It’s not just about ticking off sights — it’s about experiencing Iceland in a way that resonates with your interests and pace.

The Sum Up

This private South Coast tour from Reykjavik offers a rare combination of comfort, flexibility, and depth. With a carefully curated itinerary that balances Iceland’s most famous sights with lesser-known treasures, travelers can enjoy a tailored experience without the rush of large bus groups. The inclusion of all entrance fees and private transportation ensures a hassle-free day, allowing you to focus on soaking up the stunning scenery.

It’s especially well-suited for those who value personalized service, want to explore at their own pace, and are prepared to invest a bit more for a memorable, exclusive adventure. Whether it’s the allure of waterfalls like Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss, the mystique of Reynisfjara’s black sands, or the quiet beauty of Kvernufoss, you’ll find plenty of reasons to love this tour.

For travelers seeking a flexible, in-depth exploration with the comfort of private transport and expert guides, this experience delivers on all fronts. The ability to customize your day means each trip is unique — a true reflection of the natural beauty of Iceland’s south coast.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and it offers a flexible, relaxed pace suitable for families, couples, or small groups.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes private transportation, an air-conditioned vehicle, all fuel and parking fees, all entrance tickets to waterfalls and glaciers, and a licensed, certified guide.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, as a private tour, it can be tailored to your interests, whether you want more time at specific stops or to include additional sights.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 11 hours, starting at 8:30 am, giving you ample time to explore the highlights without feeling rushed.

Is lunch included?
No, meals are not included. You should plan to bring your own snacks or enjoy a meal in Vik, where there are several options.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour is weather-dependent. If conditions are unsuitable, you may be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees for waterfalls, glaciers, and other scenic spots are covered in the price.

How do I book?
You can reserve your spot through the provided booking platform, with confirmation received at the time of booking.

This private Iceland South Coast tour combines breathtaking scenery with personalized service, making it perfect for travelers craving an authentic, flexible experience of Iceland’s natural wonders.