Reykjavik Combo: South Coast, Glacier Hike & Northern Lights

Planning an Iceland adventure and looking to maximize your day? This Reykjavik Combo Tour promises a whirlwind experience covering iconic waterfalls, a thrilling glacier hike, captivating black sand beaches, and an evening hunt for the Northern Lights. Whether you’re short on time or want a comprehensive taste of Iceland’s natural beauty, this tour packs a punch.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it’s designed for small groups, ensuring a more intimate and flexible experience. Second, the guide’s local knowledge and friendly approach add a genuine touch that makes all the difference. Lastly, the mix of adventure and scenic highlights offers a balanced day that suits adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.

One potential consideration is the long duration—around 16 hours. It’s a full day, and some travelers might find the pace a tad intense, especially if they prefer relaxed sightseeing. Still, for those eager to see as much as possible in one go, it’s hard to beat the value.

If you’re after a full, authentic taste of Iceland’s south coast, combined with a chance to see the elusive Northern Lights, this tour could be your perfect fit. It’s especially suitable for travelers who enjoy active experiences, breathtaking scenery, and small-group atmospheres.

Good To Know

• Small group size ensures personalized attention and a more relaxed atmosphere.
• Comprehensive itinerary includes waterfalls, glacier hikes, black sand beaches, and Northern Lights.
• Expert guides provide insightful commentary and a safe, enjoyable experience.
• Long day but packed with extraordinary sights for those eager for adventure.
• Additional costs include food, drinks, and hiking shoes—these are worth considering for comfort.
• Weather preparedness with waterproof gear and warm layers is important for comfort and safety.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting the Day: Pickup and Drive to Iceland’s South Coast

Your adventure kicks off early from Reykjavík, with a pick-up at designated locations. The small-group setup—usually around 1 guide for every 19 guests—means you’ll get more tailored attention and have a better chance to ask questions. As you leave the city behind, the landscape quickly transforms into a showcase of volcanoes, glaciers, and rugged coastlines.

The drive alone offers stunning views of Iceland’s volcanic terrain, and some guides are known for sharing fascinating facts about the geology and volcanic activity that shaped this landscape. If you’re lucky, on clear days, you might catch glimpses of Eyjafjallajökull, Hekla, or even the Westman Islands volcanoes.

Seljalandsfoss: Famous Waterfall with a Unique Perspective

The first stop is Seljalandsfoss, arguably Iceland’s most famous waterfall. What sets it apart? You can actually walk behind it, following a pathway that leads behind the cascading water. This offers a spectacular photo opportunity and a chance to feel the mist on your face. Reviewers mention that this spot is a “must-see,” especially because of its iconic backdrop.

The time here is flexible enough for photos, but be prepared for some spray, so waterproof gear or a quick-drying towel might come in handy. The short stop allows you to soak in the beauty without feeling rushed.

Sólheimajökull Glacier: The Heart of the Adventure

Next, the tour heads to Sólheimajökull, where the highlight is a guided glacier hike. This is where the real excitement begins. The tour includes all necessary glacier hiking equipment and a certified glacier guide who will explain the glacier’s formation, movements, crevasses, and the story of its ancient ice.

The hike offers a rare opportunity to stand on real ice, with crevasses and ice formations providing both a visual feast and a lesson in glacial geology. Reviewers note that the guide’s knowledge enhances the experience, and hearing the “ancient ice cracking as it moves” adds a thrilling layer to the activity.

Hiking shoes are not included, so bringing sturdy, waterproof footwear with ankle support is essential. For many, the glacier walk is the standout part of the day. It’s physically demanding but manageable for most, and the use of crampons ensures good grip on the icy surface. Be prepared for potentially cold and wet conditions—layering is your best friend.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach & Basalt Columns

After glacier adventures, the tour continues to Reynisfjara, the world-famous black sand beach. The stark black sands, towering basalt columns, and the iconic Reynisdrangar sea stacks create a surreal landscape—truly unlike any other beach you’ve seen.

Many reviews mention how photogenic this spot is, especially when the waves crash against the basalt formations. Caves and cliffs here are perfect for exploring or just soaking in the raw power of the Atlantic Ocean. Be cautious of the unpredictable waves—the local advice to “stay back from the surf” is wise.

Skógafoss: Towering Waterfall & Photographic Gem

The final natural highlight is Skógafoss, a thunderous waterfall with a cascade of 60 meters. The stairs leading to the top provide a panoramic view of the surrounding plains and volcanoes, including Eyjafjallajökull and others on clear days.

From the base, you can often catch rainbows on sunny days, adding a magical touch to your photos. Reviewers appreciate the chance to climb up for a different perspective, saying it’s “worth the 527 steps” for the view. The setting sun creates an ideal backdrop if timing aligns.

Evening: Northern Lights Hunt

Back in Reykjavík, after a long day of sightseeing, the tour shifts gears. You’ll have time to grab dinner before heading out again for the Northern Lights hunt. The guide’s enthusiasm and local expertise significantly increase your chances of spotting those elusive, shimmering green, yellow, white, or even purple hues in the night sky.

While seeing the Northern Lights is never guaranteed—weather, solar activity, and cloud cover play roles—the guide does their best to find clear spots, and some guests have reported spectacular displays. A review from a traveler in September notes that the guide was “friendly and helpful,” which makes the long wait more enjoyable.

The Value and Practicalities

Why This Tour Is Worth It

At $266 per person, this tour offers a lot for your money. You’re covering several top sites with expert guidance and equipment, all in a single day. The inclusion of a glacier hike and Northern Lights experience adds unique, memorable elements that are hard to find elsewhere in such a convenient package.

Transport, Timing, and Group Size

The comfortable transport with WiFi on board makes the long drive more enjoyable. The 16-hour duration is intense but designed to maximize your sightseeing, with strategic stops that balance adventure with rest. The small-group setting means more personalized attention and fewer crowds, which many travelers appreciate.

What to Bring and Wear

Expect to encounter varied weather conditions—wet, cold, and possibly windy—especially on the glacier hike and at the waterfalls. Essential items include sturdy hiking shoes, waterproof clothing, warm layers, and accessories like hats, gloves, and scarves. Don’t forget snacks, water, and a small backpack for your essentials.

Considerations for Participants

The tour is suitable for ages 8 and up, but younger children or those with mobility issues might find the glacier hike challenging. Pregnant women are advised to avoid strenuous activity like glacier walking.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

One reviewer praised the guides’ friendliness and helpfulness, emphasizing how much it enhanced the experience. They also appreciated the spectacular views of volcanoes and glaciers, calling the scenery “breathtaking.”

However, not all feedback is perfect. A traveler from the US expressed disappointment when the Northern Lights and some waterfall time were canceled. This highlights that weather-dependent activities can be unpredictable, so flexibility is key.

Another reviewer loved the glacier walk the most, describing it as “awesome,” but noted that time at the waterfalls can be limited due to the itinerary’s tight schedule. If capturing photos is your priority, be aware that some stops might be brief.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This Reykjavik Combo is an excellent choice for travelers eager to pack as much as possible into one day. It’s perfect for adventure lovers, photographers, and anyone looking for a comprehensive taste of Iceland’s south coast. Its small-group format ensures a more personal experience, which many guests value.

Because of the long hours and physical activity involved—especially the glacier hike—it’s best suited for active, age-appropriate travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures. It’s less suitable for very young children, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues.

If seeing iconic waterfalls, walking on glaciers, and chasing the Northern Lights sound appealing, this tour offers a great balance of adventure, scenery, and cultural insight—all wrapped into one impressive Icelandic day.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, you are picked up from designated locations in Reykjavík and transported comfortably to all the major sites.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 16 hours, including travel, activities, and the Northern Lights hunt.

Do I need special clothing or equipment?
Yes, bring sturdy hiking shoes, waterproof clothing, warm layers, and accessories like hats, gloves, and scarves. Hiking shoes are not included but are essential for the glacier hike.

Can children participate?
The minimum age is 8 years old. Younger children or those with mobility issues might find the glacier hike challenging.

Are the Northern Lights guaranteed?
No, Northern Lights sightings depend on weather and solar activity. The guide will do their best to find clear skies.

What is included in the price?
Pick-up in Reykjavík, glacier hike with equipment and guide, tour highlights, and the Northern Lights tour are included. Food, drinks, and personal gear are extras.

Is the small-group experience better?
Most travelers appreciate the personalized attention, flexibility, and less crowded atmosphere that small groups provide.

What if the weather is bad?
Activities like the Northern Lights are weather-dependent. The tour provider will inform you about cancellations or rescheduling possibilities.

Do I need to bring my own hiking shoes?
Yes, bring sturdy, waterproof hiking shoes with ankle support to safely navigate the glacier.

How physically demanding is the glacier hike?
It’s manageable for most with proper footwear and layers but involves walking on ice and some upward climbing to viewpoints. Prepare accordingly.

This tour beautifully balances adventure and sightseeing, offering a deeply immersive Icelandic experience. While it’s a long day, the variety of highlights and the chance to see glaciers, waterfalls, beaches, and potentially the Northern Lights makes it an excellent value for those wanting to see Iceland’s best in one go.

You can check if your dates are available here: