Reykjavik Combo: South Coast, Glacier Hike & Northern Lights

Planning to explore Iceland in a single day? This Reykjavik Combo promises a whirlwind journey through some of the country’s most iconic sights, from thundering waterfalls to ice-capped glaciers and the elusive Northern Lights. With a small group experience and a knowledgeable guide, it’s designed to give you a taste of Iceland’s natural beauty without feeling rushed.

What we particularly like about this tour is the balance it strikes between adventure and comfort—the stops are thoughtfully curated to maximize your experience. However, a few guests have mentioned that some parts of the day, like the waterfall visit, can feel a little rushed if you’re eager to spend lots of time photographing. Still, if you’re an active traveler who loves a packed itinerary, this could be just the ticket. It’s best suited for those who want a comprehensive Iceland experience in one day, especially travelers keen on glaciers and the Northern Lights.

Key Points

• Includes glacier hike with certified guides and proper equipment for safety and expert insights.
• Small-group setting with just 1 guide for every 19 travelers, enhancing personalized attention.
• Highlights include Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, Reynisfjara black sand beach, and glacier views.
• Northern Lights tour offered after the day’s adventures, ideal for late-night nature photography.
• Duration of 16 hours makes it a full, immersive day, but requires stamina and good planning.
• Value for money comes from combining multiple iconic experiences at a reasonable price while emphasizing safety and expert guidance.

An In-Depth Look at the Reykjavik Combo Tour

Starting Point and Transportation

The adventure kicks off with a pick-up in Reykjavik, often from authorized locations around the city. The transport is modern and equipped with free WiFi, making the journey more comfortable. Traveling along Iceland’s southern coast, you’ll be surrounded by constantly changing scenery—think volcanic landscapes, dramatic cliffs, and rolling fields. The small-group format means you’ll be in a cozy vehicle, allowing for better interaction with your guide and a more intimate experience.

Seljalandsfoss Waterfall: Behind the Curtain

First stop is Seljalandsfoss, an iconic waterfall famous for the pathway that allows you to walk behind it. According to reviews, this spot offers some of the best photo opportunities, especially with the sunlight filtering through the cascade on clear days. One reviewer noted, “Our guide was great—really friendly and helpful,” and many appreciated how the guide explained the waterfall’s formation and history, making it more than just a quick photo stop.

Keep in mind that the walk behind the fall can be a bit slippery, so sturdy shoes are a must. The time spent here is usually enough for photos and a quick exploration, though some may wish for more time to capture the perfect shot.

Glacier Hike on Sólheimajökull

Next up is the glacier walk on Sólheimajökull, a highlight of the tour. This part is the real adventure, where you’ll don glacier equipment—including crampons—and learn from a certified glacier guide about the glacier’s formation, crevasses, and movement. The experience is both educational and exhilarating; you can hear the ice cracking beneath your feet and feel the sheer scale of this frozen world.

Travelers have raved about this segment, with one reviewer stating, “The glacier walk was truly awesome—the guide knew so much and made us feel safe while exploring the icy landscape.” The process of attaching crampons to your shoes means you’ll need to have footwear EU size 35 to 50; bring sturdy hiking shoes with ankle support for this reason.

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach & Basalt Columns

The tour then heads to Reynisfjara, famous for its black sand, towering basalt columns, and sea stacks known as Reynisdrangar. This place feels almost otherworldly, especially if the Atlantic waves are crashing against the coast. The basalt formations are perfect for photography and provide a stark contrast to the lush greenery inland.

Some visitors mention that, due to the tight schedule, they have limited time here—about 15-20 minutes—so early arrivals or those with photography gear should plan accordingly. Still, the breathtaking scenery makes this stop worth every second.

Skógafoss Waterfall and Potential Volcanic Views

The final major stop is Skógafoss, a massive waterfall with a staircase of 527 steps leading to a viewpoint above the falls. From here, you’ll see not only the cascade’s power but also, on clear days, distant volcanoes like Eyjafjallajökull and Hekla. The waterfall often produces rainbows, which add to the magic of the scene.

A review highlighted that the time at Skógafoss is somewhat limited, which can be frustrating for photographers eager to capture long exposures or wide-angle shots. Still, the view from the top provides a new perspective on the waterfall’s magnitude.

Optional: Northern Lights Chase

After returning to Reykjavík around 7 PM, the evening is dedicated to hunting the Northern Lights. The guide will take you to the countryside, away from city lights, in hopes of seeing the aurora. While the Northern Lights can’t be guaranteed—due to weather and solar activity—the guides do their best to maximize your chances.

One traveler shared, “The guides were very knowledgeable and genuinely wanted us to see the Lights. We didn’t see them that night, but the effort was appreciated.” The late-night tour allows for a relaxed atmosphere and a chance to photograph this natural wonder if conditions align.

What’s Included and What to Bring

This tour’s price of $266 offers excellent value considering the variety of experiences. It covers pick-up in Reykjavik, glacier hiking gear, and a knowledgeable guide. The Northern Lights tour is included, but food, drinks, and personal hiking shoes are not included.

To make the most of the glacier hike, bring sturdy hiking shoes, warm layers, waterproof jacket and pants, and accessories like gloves, headwear, and scarves. Plus, packing snacks, water, and a small backpack will keep you energized through the long day.

Not Suitable For

This experience isn’t designed for children under 8, pregnant women, or travelers with mobility issues, as the glacier walk and some walking involve physical activity and uneven terrain.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

Multiple reviews mention how knowledgeable and friendly the guides are, which significantly enhances the experience. One traveler appreciated, “Our guide was really helpful and made the trip memorable,” highlighting the importance of good leadership in such a packed day.

However, some shared frustrations about the limited time at certain stops, especially at Skógafoss and Reynisfjara. The need to coordinate transportation for different groups sometimes affects how long you spend at each stop—so if photography or extended exploration is your priority, plan accordingly.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This Reykjavik Combo is well-suited for adventure seekers and nature lovers eager to see Iceland’s best in a single day. It’s a fantastic choice if you’re short on time but want a broad overview of the south coast’s highlights, particularly the glaciers and waterfalls. The inclusion of a small-group setting ensures you get more personalized attention, which can make all the difference when navigating tricky terrains and weather conditions.

But keep in mind, it’s a long, intensive day—so stamina and flexible expectations are key. If your main goal is to chase the Northern Lights, be aware that weather and solar activity play a big role, and the success isn’t guaranteed.

This tour combines adventure, stunning scenery, and expert guidance at a reasonable price, making it a popular pick for first-time visitors eager for a well-rounded Iceland experience.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 16 hours, starting early in the morning and returning around 7 PM, offering a full day of exploration.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes pick-up in Reykjavik, glacier hike on Sólheimajökull, a certified glacier guide, hiking equipment, the Northern Lights tour, and free WiFi on the bus.

Do I need my own hiking shoes?
No, but you do need sturdy hiking shoes with good ankle support to attach crampons safely during the glacier hike. The tour does not provide shoes, so bring your own if you prefer.

Can children participate?
Only travelers aged 8 and above can join. The tour involves physical activity and some uneven terrain, so it’s best suited for active kids.

Is the Northern Lights guaranteed?
Not quite. The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, and sightings depend on weather and solar activity. Guides will do their best to find clear skies.

What should I bring?
Pack warm layers, waterproof clothing, gloves, headwear, snacks, water, and a small backpack. Don’t forget your camera!

What if I have mobility issues?
This tour isn’t recommended for travelers with mobility impairments due to the physical demands of glacier hiking and walking at stops.

To sum it up, the Reykjavik Combo offers a balanced, adventure-filled day through Iceland’s most photogenic and iconic sites, with the added thrill of glacier walking and a hopeful Northern Lights chase. Perfect for those wanting to experience Iceland’s natural wonders in a manageable, organized way—so long as you’re prepared for a long day and some weather unpredictability. If you value expert guidance, stunning scenery, and the chance to tick multiple experiences off your bucket list, this tour could be a highlight of your trip.