Reykjavík: Epic South Coast Tour – Waterfalls & Black Beach

Planning a trip to Iceland and want to see the best of its dramatic southern landscape? This Reykjavík: Epic South Coast Tour by Holiday Tours promises a full day of awe-inspiring sights, from thundering waterfalls to black-sand beaches, all in a small-group setting. While it’s quite a long day (about 9.5 hours), the effort pays off with unforgettable views and rich stories about the land.

What we love most about this tour? First, it offers small-group intimacy, which makes for more personalized experiences. Second, the guides are praised for their knowledgeable insights, sharing captivating stories and local legends. Lastly, the variety of stops—from waterfalls to glaciers—means you’ll see Iceland’s most iconic sights in one go. The only potential drawback? It’s a long day, so if you prefer a more relaxed pace or have limited mobility, it’s worth considering. But if you’re ready for adventure, this tour suits those who want a comprehensive, well-organized trip that covers the South Coast’s highlights with expert guidance.

Good To Know

• Small group experience enhances interaction and comfort.
• Expert guides like Michal, Adonis, and others make the journey engaging and informative.
• Highlights include Skógafoss, Reynisfjara black beach, and glaciers like Sólheimajökull.
• Flexible itinerary with scenic stops, photo opportunities, and local stories.
• The trip provides great value for the price, combining transportation, guiding, and multiple key sites.
• Suitable for travelers comfortable with long days and outdoor walking.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An in-Depth Look at the South Coast Adventure

This tour is designed for those eager to see Iceland’s natural wonders without the hassle of planning multiple trips, making it ideal for first-timers or anyone wanting a stress-free, all-in-one experience. The price includes pickup and drop-off from Reykjavik, a driver-guide, and WiFi on the bus, so you can stay connected and entertained throughout the day. Food and drinks aren’t included, so packing a snack or two is advisable, especially since some stops are lengthy.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Pickup and Scenic Drive from Reykjavik:
The tour starts with pickup from one of 27 convenient locations around Reykjavik, between 8:30 and 9:00 AM. The journey to the south is about a 25-minute scenic drive, giving you a first glimpse of Iceland’s rugged terrain. We found that the small-group format (usually less than 20 people) makes conversations easier and reduces the feeling of rushing.

Hellisheiði Geothermal Power Plant:
Just a quick 2-minute stop, this is a fascinating peek into Iceland’s renewable energy efforts. The guide often explains how this plant supplies Reykjavik’s power, adding an educational layer to the trip.

Driving Through the Mountain Pass & Waterfalls:
A scenic 50-minute drive takes you through the mountain pass, with views of the ice cap of Mýrdalsjökull glacier and the Westman Islands in the distance. Along the way, you pass the Hellisheiðarvirkjun geothermal plant, setting the stage for Iceland’s innovative energy landscape.

Stop at Hvolsvöllur:
A brief 15-minute break allows for stretching and a quick chat about the upcoming highlights. Some reviews mention a friendly vibe here, and it’s a good spot to grab a bottled drink.

Erupting Volcano Eyjafjallajökull & Hidden Waterfalls:
This 10-minute stop is more than just a photo opportunity. Guides often tell stories about the 2010 eruption and its impact, making the experience more meaningful. A nearby secret waterfall tucked into a canyon adds an element of adventure—something reviewers loved, describing guides like Michal and Adonis as attentive and eager to share stories.

Skógafoss Waterfall:
One of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls, Skógafoss drops 60 meters and is famous for its film appearances, including Game of Thrones. Visitors often find themselves speechless at its raw power. You get about 45 minutes to take photos, enjoy the view, and explore nearby trails. Several reviews highlight the guide’s helpful tips here, ensuring you get the best shot and understanding of its legend—some even speculated about hidden treasures behind it, adding a touch of mythic allure.

Vik and Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach:
Vik is the southernmost village, where you’ll stop for about 15 minutes. It’s a charming fishing village with a striking backdrop. Then, the highlight is Reynisfjara—the black sand beach famed for its basalt columns and intriguing stories. You’ll have 75 minutes, ample time to walk along the beach, snap photos of the Reynisdrangar sea stacks, and listen to guides sharing local sagas.

Mýrdalsjökull & Sólheimajökull Glaciers:
A brief 5-minute drive takes you to Mýrdalsjökull, with a chance to admire the ice cap. Then, a 55-minute stop at Sólheimajökull allows for walking on the glacier, a favorite among reviewers who mention guides like Michal going out of their way to ensure safety and fun. The guides are praised for their care during the glacier hike, which many say is the highlight of their trip.

Seljalandsfoss & Hidden Waterfall Gljúfrabúi:
The last major waterfall, Seljalandsfoss, is about 40 minutes away. What sets it apart? You can walk behind it, an experience that many reviewers described as mesmerizing. Nearby, a lesser-known waterfall called Gljúfrabúi adds a touch of secret magic, as guides often take visitors to this hidden spot. Several travelers appreciated the chance to see the waterfalls from inside and behind, making it more than just a photo stop.

Return Journey:
After a 1.5-hour scenic drive back to Reykjavik, the tour wraps up with a wealth of memories and photos. Some reviews mention spotting the northern lights on the drive home, an extra bonus if the conditions align.

What Sets This Tour Apart

The small-group format really shines, creating a more relaxed and intimate atmosphere where you’re encouraged to ask questions and take your time. Guides like Michal, Adonis, and others consistently receive praise for their enthusiasm, deep knowledge, and personal care. This isn’t a cookie-cutter bus tour; it’s a thoughtfully curated experience aimed at making each stop meaningful.

The itinerary balances popular sights with hidden gems, like the secret waterfall in a canyon, which adds an adventurous twist. The stops at glaciers are especially appreciated, with travelers noting that guides effectively manage safety during glacier hikes, often upgrading the experience to include more active adventures.

Transport & Group Size

The tour uses a comfortable minibus, not a large coach, which enhances the feeling of being part of a small, friendly group. This setup reduces the feeling of rushing and allows for better viewing at each stop. The total duration of 9.5 hours ensures you have plenty of time at each location without feeling overwhelmed.

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Pricing & Value

While the ticket price doesn’t include food, the comprehensive nature of the tour—covering waterfalls, beaches, glaciers, and volcanic landscapes—makes it a very good value. You get guided commentary, scenic drives, and the flexibility to spend time where it counts most. Many reviewers felt they received great value, especially considering the number of sites covered.

Weather & Practicalities

The tour operates in all weather conditions, so dressing in layers and prepared for rain or shine is essential. The guides are praised for their ability to adapt, ensuring everyone’s safety and comfort. Bringing a camera, outdoor clothing, and snacks ensures you enjoy each stop to the fullest.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those wanting a comprehensive South Coast overview. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate storytelling, scenic photography, and active experiences like glacier walking. It’s less suited for those with limited mobility or very young children due to the walking and outdoor nature of some stops.

Final Thoughts

This Reykjavík: Epic South Coast Tour stands out for its expertly guided stops, stunning scenery, and small-group intimacy. It offers a balanced mix of iconic waterfalls, black beaches, glaciers, and secret spots, all packed into a well-organized day. The guides’ enthusiastic storytelling and attention to safety make it a memorable, enriching experience.

While it’s a long day, the variety of stops and the quality of the insights make it worthwhile. If you want to see Iceland’s best natural sights in one go, appreciate local stories, and enjoy comfortable, flexible travel, this tour is a solid choice.

Perfect for avid explorers and photography enthusiasts looking for an authentic, value-packed adventure into Iceland’s wild south coast. Just be prepared for a full day of outdoor fun—and plenty of breathtaking moments.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 9.5 hours, including travel time and stops.

Where does the tour pick up from?
Pickup is available from 27 locations in Reykjavik, with pickup times starting between 8:30 and 9:00 AM.

Is food included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but there are stops where you can buy or bring snacks.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 2 years or wheelchair users due to outdoor walking and glacier activities.

What should I wear?
Bring outdoor clothing, layers, and a camera. Dress for all weather conditions since the tour runs rain or shine.

Can I hike on the glaciers?
Yes, the tour includes a glacier walk at Sólheimajökull, with guides taking care to ensure safety.

How many people are in each group?
The experience is small-group, typically fewer than 20 travelers, which improves comfort and interaction.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, travelers praise guides like Michal and Adonis for their engaging stories and local expertise.

Will I see waterfalls?
Absolutely—Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss are highlights, plus a hidden canyon waterfall.

Is the scenery worth the price?
Definitely. The tour offers a wide range of Iceland’s most iconic sights in one day, making it good value.

In summary, this tour offers a fantastic way to tick off Iceland’s South Coast highlights with the comfort of a small-group, guided experience. It’s best suited for travelers who want to pack a lot into one day, enjoy storytelling, and capture stunning photos of Iceland’s natural beauty.

You can check if your dates are available here: