South Coast and Glacier Hike from Reykjavik

Experience the Icelandic Wilderness: A Detailed Look at the South Coast and Glacier Hike from Reykjavik

Exploring Iceland’s natural beauty is one of those bucket-list experiences, and this guided tour offers a fantastic way to do it without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. The tour combines a guided glacier hike on the Sólheimajökull glacier with scenic stops at iconic waterfalls, all wrapped into a full-day adventure. For travelers keen on authentic scenery, expert guidance, and a taste of Icelandic wilderness, this trip hits many of the right notes.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is the inclusion of all necessary gear and safety equipment, ensuring you can focus on soaking in the views rather than worrying about what to pack. The small group size tends to make the experience intimate, allowing for personalized insights from knowledgeable guides. However, the weather can throw a wrench in the plans, so flexibility and patience are essential.

This experience is best suited for those with moderate physical fitness, eager to learn about glaciers, and comfortable in variable weather conditions. If you’re after a manageable, well-organized day that combines adventure with breathtaking scenery, this tour offers excellent value and memorable moments.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Activities: Includes gear, safety equipment, and transport, making it hassle-free.
• Expert Guides: Guides provide detailed insights into glacier formation and Iceland’s natural features.
• Comfortable Transport: Round-trip hotel pickup and a comfortable bus make the journey smooth.
• Scenic Stops: Stops at Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls, with optional behind-the-falls views.
• Duration & Timing: About 10 hours starting at 9:00 am, ideal for a full-day adventure.
• Weather-Dependent: Tour operation depends on weather conditions, especially for the glacier hike.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting with Comfort: The day begins with a pickup from your Reykjavik hotel or designated meeting point at the BSI Bus Terminal. The air-conditioned vehicle whisks you away on a roughly two-hour drive toward the south coast, passing through Iceland’s stunning landscapes. The trip to Eyjafjallajökull glacier region is scenic, giving you a preview of the volcanic and glacial landscape that Iceland is famous for.

The Glacier Hike: Once at Sólheimajökull, you’ll notice the well-organized setup, with guides providing comprehensive safety briefings and equipment tutorials. They teach you how to use crampons properly, which makes walking on the ice feel safe and achievable—even if you’ve never done it before. The guided walk lasts 2 to 2.5 hours, during which you’ll explore ice sculptures, ridges, and deep crevasses that resemble scenes from a National Geographic documentary.

This part of the tour is a real highlight. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendly approach, with reviews noting how much they helped deepen understanding of glacial phenomena. One reviewer called the guide “great and informative,” emphasizing how the guide’s insights made the experience even more meaningful.

Photogenic Views and Unique Ice Formations: The ice field offers a surreal landscape, with shimmering blue ice, towering ridges, and deep fissures. The fact that the glacier is retreating quickly adds a sense of urgency to experience it while it lasts. Some reviews mention how they appreciated the chance to see this natural wonder before it changes or disappears entirely.

Waterfalls on the Return: After the glacier adventure, you’ll stop at two iconic waterfalls—Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss. Skógafoss is known for its impressive width and powerful cascade, which you can photograph from various angles. Seljalandsfoss is famous for its trail that allows visitors to walk behind the falls, offering a distinctive backside view. One reviewer noted that, weather permitting, they could walk behind the waterfall, making it a memorable photo opportunity.

Optional Behind-the-Waterfall Experience: If the weather is good and the conditions safe, walking behind Seljalandsfoss adds a fun, immersive dimension to the visit. Expect to get a little wet, especially if the spray is strong, but it’s well worth it for the unique perspective.

Final Thoughts on the Day: Upon returning to Reykjavik, you’ll feel you’ve truly experienced some of Iceland’s most spectacular scenery, all while avoiding the logistics of driving or public transportation. The entire trip, including transport, the glacier hike, and scenic stops, offers solid value considering the comprehensive experience.

Practical Details and What You Need to Know

Pricing at $186 per person reflects the all-inclusive nature of the tour—gear, safety equipment, transport, and guided expertise are covered. While the price may seem steep, it covers access to a remote glacier, expert guidance, and transportation, saving you time and effort. For many travelers, this convenience is worth the cost.

Timing and Group Size: The tour kicks off at 9:00 am and lasts approximately 10 hours. The group size is capped at 50 travelers, but most reviews suggest it feels more intimate, especially with smaller groups in the early morning.

What to Bring: It’s essential to dress warmly, as Icelandic weather can be unpredictable. Layers, rain gear, and sturdy hiking boots are strongly recommended. Remember, food and drinks aren’t included, so bringing a picnic lunch and snacks is advisable—especially since there’s no designated lunch stop.

Weather & Safety: The operation of the glacier hike depends heavily on weather conditions. In case of snowstorms or unsafe conditions, the trip may be canceled, and a full refund or alternative date will be offered. One reviewer noted that their trip was canceled due to a snowstorm, which is a reminder to plan flexibly.

Age & Physical Fitness: Children under 9 are not permitted, and travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level. Walking on glaciers with crampons is manageable for most, but it’s not suited for those with mobility issues or extreme discomfort with cold and wet conditions.

What Past Travelers Say

A mix of reviews gives a balanced view. Many appreciated the knowledgeable guides and the stunning scenery, calling the guide “great and informative,” which made the glacier walk much more engaging. The scenery at Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss is consistently praised for its wow factor and photographic potential.

However, some travelers experienced cancellations due to weather, which is an unavoidable aspect of Icelandic adventures. One reviewer expressed frustration over a last-minute cancellation without prior notice but acknowledged that safety comes first. Communication about cancellations was sometimes less proactive, so it’s wise to stay flexible.

Value for Money: Many reviews highlight that the tour offers good value, considering it includes all gear, transport, and expert guidance. The chance to walk on a glacier and see iconic waterfalls in one day is a memorable experience worth the price for most.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour For?

This tour offers a fantastic blend of adventure, scenery, and education—perfect for travelers who want to see Iceland’s glaciers and waterfalls without the stress of planning logistics themselves. It’s especially suitable for those with moderate fitness levels who are eager to learn about glaciers and enjoy stunning natural landscapes.

If you appreciate knowledgeable guides and seamless organization, this trip delivers in spades. It’s also a good choice for travelers looking for a full-day nature escape that combines active exploration with iconic sights. The inclusion of all gear and transport makes it accessible for those new to glacier hiking or outdoor adventures.

However, keep in mind that the weather can influence the day’s plans, and some parts of the experience are weather-dependent. Flexibility and patience are your best friends here.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour? Yes, round-trip transport from your Reykjavik hotel or the BSI Bus Terminal is included, making the journey hassle-free.

What should I bring on the tour? Warm clothing, rain gear, and hiking boots are essential. Since food isn’t included, bringing a picnic lunch and snacks is recommended.

How long is the glacier hike? The guided glacier walk lasts about 2 to 2.5 hours, providing plenty of time to explore the ice formations safely with your guide.

Can children join this tour? No, children 9 years and younger are not permitted due to safety and physical fitness requirements.

What happens if the weather is bad? The tour operation depends on weather conditions. If canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is the glacier walk difficult? The walk is manageable for most with moderate physical fitness, thanks to the safety gear and guidance provided. However, walking on ice requires some balance and comfort in cold, wet conditions.

What about photos? You’ll find numerous stunning photo opportunities, especially at waterfalls and on the glacier itself. Wearing appropriate gear and a good camera will help capture the experience.

In short, the South Coast and Glacier Hike from Reykjavik offers a well-organized, immersive experience into Iceland’s dramatic landscapes. It balances adventure with comfort, guided by experts who share their passion and knowledge. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned explorer, this tour provides a memorable glimpse into Iceland’s icy wilderness—and makes for some truly spectacular photos along the way.