Why visit Iceland’s south coast?
Iceland is known for some of the most thrilling landscapes on the planet. And whether its black-sand beaches or white mountain peaks, you’ll find much of what makes the country famous along the stunning south coast.
Discover the Wonders of the South Coast
Iceland's epic south coast is a mesmerising blend of stark contrasts – from the obsidian hues of black-sand beaches to the pristine white majesty of snow-capped mountain peaks. This region is a vivid testament to nature's grandeur and is undeniably among the best places to witness Iceland’s ethereal beauty.
The crown jewel of the south coast is the breathtaking Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon. Here, time seems to stand still as you observe icebergs, once part of ancient glaciers, gracefully drift across the serene waters. The lagoon also serves as a portal to the mighty Vatnajökull, Europe's largest glacier, offering a chance to grasp the immense scale of Iceland's icy wonders.
Yet, the lagoon is just one of the myriad marvels of the south coast. Waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss not only captivate with their sheer power but also offer unique vantage points – one can walk behind Seljalandsfoss and feel the refreshing mist while Skógafoss invites you to ascend its steps for a panoramic view of the verdant valley below. Meanwhile, Reynisfjara beach draws visitors with its iconic basalt columns, haunting sea stacks, and tales of Icelandic folklore.
Embarking on a south coast tour from Reykjavík provides an enriching experience and is a must-do for anyone visiting Iceland. Whether it's a concise day trip or an immersive week-long journey, you'll be ushered through nature's art gallery, with each site more awe-inspiring than the last.
These tours are not just about seeing the sights but also about forging connections with fellow wanderers. Travel comfortably, knowing we've got all your logistics covered, from pickups in the heart of Reykjavík to ensuring your return after a fulfilling expedition.
Create your Perfect South Coast Adventure
Alternatively, build your own Iceland south coast itinerary with us. We can cater for private and custom trips, so you can plan your own best south coast tour in Iceland. Just get in touch to find out more.
There’s so much to see in south Iceland—and so many ways to see it. Add boat trips, quad bike adventures, or kayaking expeditions to your trip, or journey across glaciers on foot or on a snowmobile. Whatever your preferred way to travel, there’s an option here for you.
Explore our south coast and glacier lagoon tours to start planning your adventure.
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FAQ:
There are many Iceland south coast itineraries for you to choose from. Depending on the chosen length, activities, and travel style, the precise sights you’ll see will differ.
That said, most south coast tours will take you to Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, Reynisfjara and the village of Vík, and as far as Jökulsárlón. Check out the individual tour pages to see the specific itineraries.
Self-drive tours of Iceland put you behind the wheel of the car. You’ll enjoy the freedom of going at your own pace and stopping wherever takes your fancy. It’ll make your Iceland trip a real adventure.
That said, for solo travellers or people who want to meet like-minded explorers, a group tour can be a great option. You won’t even need to worry about hiring a car and driving.
The south coast of Iceland is packed with incredible sights, from volcanic peaks to black-sand beaches. A tour through all of the major sights is one of the most memorable things you can do in the country.
Here’s a taste of what you can see:
- The Golden Circle. A short drive from downtown Reykjavík, the Golden Circle is one of the most famous sights in all of Iceland, not just the southern region. Expect jaw-dropping geysers, fascinating history, and powerful waterfalls.
- Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss. Two of Iceland’s most impressive waterfalls are a short distance away from each other on the south coast. You can even walk behind the elegant stream of Seljalandsfoss.
- Reynisfjara beach. When people speak of black-sand beaches in Iceland, they mean Reynisfjara. It’s mysterious, wild, and completely unforgettable.
- Skaftafell. A nature reserve that makes up part of the Vatnajökull National Park, here you’ll find some of Iceland’s best scenery.
- Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon. Rightly one of Iceland’s most famous sights, it’s an evocative lake full of floating icebergs.
There’s plenty more to see too!
That’s up to you! Guided tours give you the opportunity to get an insider’s perspective on Iceland, while seeing the top sights and meeting like-minded travellers at the same time.
But they’re not for everyone. If you prefer greater freedom, take a self-drive tour and enjoy the south coast of Iceland at your own pace.
North Iceland and the south coast have their own particular character. The south coast has most of the country’s most famous sights and it benefits from being really accessible from the capital, Reykjavík. Meanwhile, the north tends to be quieter, although it’s just as scenic.
You don’t need to choose between them, though. Join a tour that takes you around the whole of Iceland along the iconic Route 1 ring road.
How long you should spend on the south coast of Iceland depends on how long you have in the country. While some people fit the whole region into a single day, others take two or three days or even longer.
Ultimately, the choice is yours! But no matter how long you have, you’ll find something to take your breath away.
There are many Iceland south coast itineraries for you to choose from. Depending on the chosen length, activities, and travel style, the precise sights you’ll see will differ.
That said, most south coast tours will take you to Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, Reynisfjara and the village of Vík, and as far as Jökulsárlón. Check out the individual tour pages to see the specific itineraries.
In Iceland there’s a tour for you no matter who you are and what you like doing. Tours are a great way to visit the most incredible sights across the country, from the Golden Circle to Jökulsárlón and everything in between.
On a tour of Iceland you can also try out experiences you would never have previously considered. Go snorkelling or snowmobiling, visit an ice cave or a lava tunnel, or see the northern lights.
Many visitors to Iceland visit the south coast in a single day. On a south coast and glacier lagoon tour from Reykjavík, you can fit in all of the best sights and return to your hotel in the city.
Expect an action-packed day! But if you’d prefer to take it a little more slowly, you can spread your south coast tour over two or three days.
The south coast of Iceland stretches from just outside of Reykjavík to as far as the Vatnajökull Nation Park. While some of the closest south coast sights are less than two hours from the city, Jökulsárlón is about five hours’ drive.
Late spring and the summer months are the best time to drive around Iceland yourself. This is when the weather tends to be warmer, drier, and less volatile. You’re also much less likely to find snow and ice, and most of the highland roads will be open for exploration (as they’re closed during the winter).
There’s the added benefit of longer hours of light in the summer too. It gives you extra time to explore before it gets dark.
The south coast of Iceland is packed with incredible sights, from volcanic peaks to black-sand beaches. A tour through all of the major sights is one of the most memorable things you can do in the country.
Here’s a taste of what you can see:
Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss. Two of Iceland’s most impressive waterfalls are a short distance away from each other on the south coast. You can even walk behind the elegant stream of Seljalandsfoss.
Reynisfjara beach. When people speak of black-sand beaches in Iceland, they mean Reynisfjara. It’s mysterious, wild, and completely unforgettable.
Vík is a picturesque coastal village across the mountain from Reynisfjara. Renowned for its dramatic black-sand beaches, iconic Reynisdrangar sea stacks, and its pivotal position along the country's scenic Ring Road. As the southernmost village in Iceland, Vík serves as an essential stop for travellers, offering both natural beauty and vital amenities.
Skaftafell Nature Reserve. A nature reserve that makes up part of the Vatnajökull National Park, you’ll find some of Iceland’s best scenery here. Get the most out of your visit to Skaftafell by joining a glacier hike tour!
Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon. Rightly one of Iceland’s most famous sights, it’s an evocative lake full of floating icebergs.
There’s plenty more to see, too!
You can travel along the south coast of Iceland without a guide. But you’ll need to hire a car and drive yourself. In winter conditions this can be a challenge for less able and confident drivers. You’ll also miss out on many of the insights that a local guide will share.
That said, travelling the south coast by yourself can be a thrilling trip.
You can choose between south coast and glacier lagoon tours of many different lengths.
For example, some people decide to take a south coast tour from Reykjavík that shows them the region's highlights in a single day. Others prefer to add an overnight stop or two to see the sights more leisurely.
If you have the time to spare, you could even book a longer south coast tour. You’ll get a much deeper feel for the area and see some of the sights that most visitors tend to miss.