South Coast Day Trips from Reykjavik

Iceland's South Coast is the most magical and wonder-filled region you'll find in Iceland. It is here that you will find most of the natural monuments and opportunities to get up close and personal with the breathtaking scenery, waterfalls and glaciers that are one of the main attractions that give this location its charm.

If you visit Iceland, you'll soon discover that the South Coast is a must-see, which is fortunately very easy to access. To get to know this country, it's best to start with what you can see and do in Reykjavík, which is also the best starting point for the complete and spectacular tours that will make your experience that much more complete.

Lack of time is no excuse for not taking a trip to Iceland's South Coast. If you only have a few days in the country, my advice is to set aside at least one day for a getaway and choose a 10-14 hour tour, which are definitely among the must-do excursions from Reykjavik.

These tours have a selection of spectacular and important stops, such as the Eyjafjallajökull volcano, the most impressive volcano in the country. Of course, you can't say you know Iceland without visiting at least one glacier. Vatnajokull is, without a doubt, one of the most complete and incredible.

In one of its sections you will find the Jokulsarlon lagoon, where the Diamond Beach offers temporary ice sculptures that are an unforgettable spectacle. Be sure to take as many photos as possible, you'll love reliving these moments. It is, without a doubt, one of the best lagoons you can visit from Reykjavík.

Another essential stop that is included in several of these tours is the famous black beach, Reynisfjara, formed entirely of basalt and with one of the best views you will enjoy among the landscapes of the south coast of Iceland.

Finally, among the selection of destinations, you can't miss the waterfalls of Iceland, of which there are many and all are worth a visit. But if you have to choose, I suggest the Skógafoss waterfall, which is the highest and has a stunning view that you can enjoy from its highest point, which can be reached by a staircase.

Interesting details

• Price: depending on the length of the tour, and the number of stops, you can find excursions starting at 100 euros.
• Duration: between 10 and 14 hours.
• Advantages of this option: You can see a variety of Iceland's iconic landscapes in a single day, leaving you with a very good overall impression. Ideal for travellers with little time available.
• Disadvantages of this option: Stops at each location are short, lasting around half an hour or 45 minutes. A short time to be able to admire so much beauty. Also, not all entrance fees to the attractions may be included.

When a country has so many wonders to offer, you can't waste the opportunity to get to know it better and spend at least two or three days discovering its landscapes and magic.

The number of days can vary depending on the number of places you want to visit, and the amount of time you spend in each of them. For some tours, it is possible to include additional activities such as horseback riding, snorkelling or an additional whale watching tour, which is another of **Reykjavík'**s great attractions.

The route of these tours starts already on the road, which is full of breathtaking scenery. The south coast of Iceland, for example, is full of small villages where you can enjoy the charm of the people and their customs. But there's no denying that it' s the natural attractions that are most striking.

The glaciers and waterfalls are particularly famous, and rightly so. These natural wonders are as imposing as they are beautiful. In the case of the former, one of the favourites on this route is Solheimajokull whose hiking route offers an unforgettable view and you don't need much training to do it. The guides are also very friendly and will help you with anything you need.

For waterfalls, I will mention this time the Gljufrabui, which is a place that will definitely make you believe in magic.

But the truth is that you don't have to choose just one. When you take a multi-day tour of Iceland, the biggest advantage is that you can visit a much longer list of stops.

Details of interest

• Price: This type of tour can have a starting price of around 400 euros depending on the details.
• Duration: Depending on the choice, it can be from 3 to 8 days approximately.
• Advantages of this option: You will see a greater number of attractions, with enough time to dedicate to each one. In addition, the groups are usually small, which offers more comfort and intimacy.
• Disadvantages of this option: It is a larger investment of money, although it is well worth it.

If you're short of time, but you're eager to see something representative of Iceland, I recommend you take one of the tours that allow you to see at least some of the glaciers on Iceland's South Coast.

Some of these tours have a fairly short duration, from half an hour to a maximum of three hours. Enough time to arrive, walk around and arrange a transfer to Reykjavík airport, if that's what you need to do.

One of my favourites is the boat trip around the glacier. It takes about 40 minutes and you take a ride on the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. It's unforgettable for photos and you get to see not only the icebergs, but also get a taste of this ice that is at least a thousand years old.

And if you're lucky and attentive, you're sure to come across the friendly seals. In summer, there is no shortage of birds.

Hiking is another way to get to know the glaciers. In Skaftafell you'll find the perfect opportunity, in a wonderful black and white landscape. The best is the Vatnajökull glacier tongue, one of the most impressive in Europe.

Finally, don't forget to consider a tour of one of the ice caves near Reykjavík. These unique spaces will make you feel like you're in another world. Any of these tours can be found with a duration of 3 hours.

Details of interest

• Price: These types of tours can be priced between 40 and 150 euros.
• Duration: 30 minutes to 3 hours, depending on the tour.
• Advantages of this option: You can plan it if your trip is short, and you will get a nice and representative souvenir of Iceland and its landscapes. It is also quite economical.
• Disadvantages of this option: In some cases, as with hiking tours, you must also consider the transfer time to the meeting point of the excursion.

Among the incredible tours you can take to the south coast from Reykjavík, you will find among the most impressive are those that take you to see the Aurora Borealis.

These magnificent lights are a true spectacle and an unforgettable experience. You can choose between a day trip to see the Northern Lights from Reykjavík or take a little more time, such as a week, and let yourself be enveloped by this magical experience.

You can book these tours at any time of the year, but I strongly recommend booking in winter, which is the best time to see the Northern Lights in Iceland from Reykjavík.

One of the things you have to take advantage of on these tours are the guides, who are full of interesting knowledge and love to share it. Ask questions about the phenomena and nature, the amazing scenery and especially the local culture. You will have the opportunity to enjoy it first hand.

More details of interest

• Price: depending on the length of the tour, it can start at a cost of 130 euros.
• Duration: You can choose from a 16-hour tour to a week-long tour, it's up to you!
• Advantages of this option: You will get to see not only the south coast, but also other interesting places in Iceland.
• Disadvantages of this option: The Aurora Borealis cannot be guaranteed, let alone its intensity. You may find it fainter or stronger depending on the dates you choose.

Another way to get to know the south coast of Iceland is to take a tour of the south coast at your own pace. What does that mean? A real adventure.

In this case, you would be purchasing a package that includes the hire of a vehicle suitable for the trip. You'll receive a set route, where you'll have the most iconic stops marked, such as Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls.

If you want to stay overnight along the way, just say the word and the package will include the best accommodation. And you can always start with Reykjavík itself and its exquisite food tours, before heading further afield.

For any questions, you'll have a set itinerary, with plenty of interesting and necessary information on each of the stops, such as the Eyjafjallajökull and Sólheimajökull glaciers. The vehicle comes with a GPS to help you follow the routes and you will have a professional travel agent following up and ready to answer any questions.

It's a great idea, as you can go at your own pace, and the group of people you share the tour with is practically your family, except in cases where you have to take a reserved ride in a specific spot.

By the way, another great advantage is that you can add some extra activities to the original package, such as the Icelandic horse rides... It's a great way to go the extra mile, take a few extra days and see as much as you can, taking in the scenery in small sips - the best holiday in Iceland!

Interesting details

• Price: this type of tour can cost you from 400 euros, depending on the number of days, type of accommodation, and bookings and extras.
• Duration: it will depend on your time, generally the least recommended is 3 to 5 days.
• Advantages of this option: You will be able to go at your own pace, without rushing. In addition, the company is your family and no one else. The price is also a plus.
• Disadvantages of this option: In some cases you may miss stops or information of interest, despite having everything in the guidebook.
• Type of vehicle: They will always be 4x4 models with everything you need to cover the routes of the trip.

If you're a sports enthusiast, visiting the south coast of Iceland is an excellent opportunity to enjoy your favourite disciplines, and perhaps some new ones, surrounded by a landscape of unparalleled natural beauty.

Some choose a snowmobile tour as an adrenaline-filled, speedy experience. One of the most popular routes is to the Mýrdalsjökull glacier, making strategic stops at the Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls.

Another incredibly popular sport on Iceland's south coast is ice climbing on the Sólheimajökull glacier. This activity does require a certain level of skill and experience, although expert guides are available.

They will explain the techniques used to manage this challenge, and will ensure your safety at all times. After choosing a wall to start climbing, you will start to climb gradually up to the top, where the group will take some time to enjoy the scenery and explore the glacier a little more.

And you can't miss out on conquering the icy waters with your paddles aboard a kayak. This unique experience will take you out on the waters between the most imposing glaciers, such as Sólheimajökull itself. It's an adventure you can enjoy even without previous experience, thanks to the guides and stable kayaks, ideal for novices.

Interesting details

• Price: the price will depend on the type of activity, but it is around 100 euros, and you can even buy packages of three activities together.
• Duration: this will also depend on the type of activity, ranging from 3 hours to 11 hours, for example in the case of kayaking.
• Advantages of this option: If you are passionate about the sport, you will find new challenges and incredible landscapes to accompany you.
• Disadvantages of this option: In some cases, you must include travel time to the location where the activity takes place, e.g. ice climbing.

This is one of the most attractive areas in Iceland. The scenery is unique, with towering glaciers and impressive waterfalls. It is an unforgettable image, and it is all concentrated in the same geographical space.

Although it is possible to tour it on your own, I recommend that you choose from the wide variety of tours that depart from Reykjavík. There you will find options to tailor the experience to suit your style.

It is true that there are short excursions, one day or less, but the best thing is to have the chance to get to know this land and its wonders, of which there are many, at your own pace.

I would like to give you some advice regarding the climate, which is quite cold. Don't forget to take this into account, especially since the activities are outdoors, so wrap up warm.

On the other hand, most tours have English-speaking guides, but there are always some that offer tour guides in Spanish. Be sure to pay attention to this, in case it is imperative for you.

Finally, to really get the best experience, follow the indications of each tour, especially those that include sports activities and it is your first time with snow sports.

Remember that while some of these experiences are suitable for all levels, others are recommended for people with experience -there's plenty to do on Iceland's south coast! You're sure to find the perfect experience.