South Coast Highlights, Waterfalls, DC-3 Plane Wreck & Reynisfjara

Planning a trip to Iceland and want to experience its most iconic sights without the stress of logistics? This popular full-day tour from Reykjavik takes you into the heart of Iceland’s stunning south coast, packed with waterfalls, a famous plane wreck, dramatic beaches, and glacier views. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 based on 55 reviews, it’s clear many travelers find this experience worthwhile—though, like any tour, it has its quirks.

One of the standout features is the comfort of having all transportation arranged, which means no hassle figuring out how to get to these sites yourself. The guide’s storytelling also seems to add a lot of value, with many reviewers praising their knowledge and humor. But it’s worth noting that some find the minibus a bit cramped, especially if you’re tall, and the weather can impact how much you see and do.

This tour is perfect for those who want a comprehensive, well-organized day of sightseeing that covers Iceland’s most photogenic spots, with the convenience of small groups and Wi-Fi on board. If you’re seeking a hassle-free way to explore the south coast and enjoy some of Iceland’s most famous attractions, this tour is a strong contender—just be prepared for a long day on the road.

Key Points

• All logistics sorted: No need to plan transportation or worry about directions.
• Small group size: Up to 19 travelers, making for a more intimate experience.
• Rich storytelling: Guides share interesting facts and stories you won’t find online.
• Diverse stops: From waterfalls to beaches, glaciers, and a historic plane wreck.
• Comfort and connectivity: Wi-Fi enabled minibus keeps you connected.
• Weather dependency: Your experience may vary depending on Iceland’s weather conditions.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

The Convenience of Hassle-Free Transportation

Starting at 8:00 am, this tour offers pickup from Reykjavik, which means you can leave the transportation logistics to the experts. The Wi-Fi-enabled minibus ensures you can instantly share photos and stay connected, a feature travelers really appreciate. The small group size keeps the experience personal and allows for more tailored stops and conversations.

One reviewer, Himanshu_M, mentioned that the guide Mitch made the long journey truly enjoyable with jokes and knowledge, highlighting how the guide’s personality can add to the trip. However, some notes about the bus itself indicate that for taller guests, the seats can be a bit uncomfortable due to lack of legroom—so if you’re tall, pack some extra patience.

Well-Planned Itinerary with Varied Highlights

The day is packed with stops, each offering a unique landscape and story:

Seljalandsfoss:
A superstar among waterfalls, this one is famous for the chance to walk behind it. Many travelers find this one of the most memorable spots—“You can enjoy it from both sides,” says a reviewer. It’s a great way to get your first taste of Iceland’s waterfalls, with about 40 minutes allocated for this stop, enough for photos and soaking in the view.

Gljúfrabúi Waterfall:
Often overshadowed by its neighbor, Gljúfrabúi is a hidden gem inside a canyon. It’s a smaller but stunning fall, and the nearby stop offers a taste of Iceland’s secret spots. Expect around 15 minutes here—just enough to snap a few photos.

Skogafoss:
Arguably Iceland’s most iconic waterfall, Skogafoss’s powerful cascade and the chance to climb the stairs for a panoramic view make it a must-see. Many reviews highlight how breathtaking it is—”the falls are breathtaking,” one guest noted. The tour allows for around 40 minutes here, giving ample time to marvel at its force and take photos.

DC-3 Plane Wreck:
On the shores of Sólheimasandur lies the haunting remains of a US Navy plane that crashed in 1973. The shuttle to the wreck makes this accessible without a long walk, though some travelers still choose to hike. A highlight for aviation enthusiasts and photographers alike, the wreck’s stark contrast against Iceland’s black sands creates some stunning visuals. One reviewer called it “unbelievable” and appreciated the detailed stories shared by their guide, Mitch, about the wreck’s history.

Reynisfjara Beach:
Known for its black sand, basalt columns, and striking sea stacks, Reynisfjara is often the main photo stop for visitors. Its dramatic landscape, combined with the Reynisdrangar sea stacks and basalt caves, makes it a photographer’s dream. The 40-minute stop allows plenty of time to explore the beach and soak in the atmosphere. Several reviews mention how beautiful and otherworldly the scenery is, with one traveler describing it as “beautiful beyond words.”

Solheimajokull Glacier:
While you won’t be trekking on the glacier itself, you’ll get great views of the glacier tongue and nearby lagoon, perfect for capturing the icy landscape. About 20 minutes here is enough to get a sense of Iceland’s glacial power, and many guests appreciate the opportunity for unique photos.

The Value of Guided Experience

Many reviews highlight the knowledge and friendliness of guides like Mitch and Jojo. They share tips, stories, and fun facts that you wouldn’t uncover on your own, enriching the experience. For instance, the “fascinating stories” about the wreck and the landscapes seem to be a clear highlight.

What’s Not Included & Practicalities

Keep in mind, food and drinks are not included—so packing snacks or planning to buy at stops is advisable. The tour starts promptly at 8:00 am, and most travelers find that the long drive is well worth the experience. The cost of around $200 per person represents good value, considering the amount of ground covered and the included transportation, guide, and stops.

Weather and Timing Considerations

While most reviews praise the experience, some mention that weather can impact visibility and comfort. A few guests noted cold wind or rain, so packing waterproof clothing and layers is wise. One reviewer mentioned that their day was cut short due to weather, which highlights the importance of flexibility and a good attitude. The tour operates on a full refund if canceled due to poor weather, so you’re protected if conditions aren’t ideal.

The Experience for Different Travelers

Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a photography enthusiast, or someone just wanting a scenic, stress-free day out, this tour ticks many boxes. It’s about maximum coverage in one day, with stops carefully selected for their iconic status and visual appeal. It suits travelers who don’t want to worry about driving and prefer an engaging guide to inform their journey.

The Sum Up

This South Coast Highlights tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Iceland’s dramatic landscape, from thundering waterfalls to eerie plane wrecks and volcanic beaches. Its organized approach and knowledgeable guides make it a very appealing option for those who want to spend less time planning and more time enjoying. The small group size and Wi-Fi on board add to the comfort and social aspect, making it an ideal choice for travelers who value both convenience and authenticity.

While the long hours and potential weather hiccups are worth considering, most guests find the experience absolutely worth the price—seeing some of Iceland’s most photogenic sights in a single day is tough to beat. Perfect for first-timers and seasoned travelers alike, this tour delivers both memorable vistas and engaging stories, all wrapped up in a convenient package.

FAQ

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from Reykjavik and round-trip transit via Wi-Fi-enabled minibus, making the logistics seamless.

How many stops are included in the tour?
There are six main stops: Seljalandsfoss, Gljufrabui, Skogafoss, the DC-3 plane wreck, Reynisfjara Beach, and Solheimajokull Glacier.

What should I bring?
Bring waterproof clothing, layers, and sturdy shoes—especially if you want to walk behind waterfalls or explore the beach.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 12 hours, starting at 8:00 am and returning in the evening.

Is the tour suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, but tall individuals might find the minibus seats a bit tight for comfort on such a long day.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring snacks or buy at stops.

What happens if the weather is poor?
If weather conditions are poor, the tour may be canceled for safety reasons. You’ll be offered a different date or a full refund if that occurs.

This tour stands out as a fantastic way to see some of Iceland’s most iconic sights with minimal fuss, an engaging guide, and plenty of photo-worthy moments. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, exploring black sands, or marveling at the icy glaciers, it’s a day packed with natural beauty you won’t forget.