Reykjavik: Glacier Hike w/ Photos, Waterfalls & Black Beach

If you’re planning a trip to Iceland, this tour promises a full day of remarkable sights and adventures—without the hassle of navigating on your own. It’s a carefully curated experience that combines the wild beauty of the south coast with expert guidance and plenty of photo-worthy moments. From glaciers and waterfalls to black sand beaches, this trip packs a punch for anyone eager to see some of Iceland’s most iconic natural wonders.

What we love about this experience? First, the expert guides who make each stop engaging and informative. Second, the stunning scenery—the photo stops are truly spectacular. Third, the value for money—a full-day adventure packed with activities at a reasonable price. One thing to consider? The glacier hike is designed for beginners, but it still requires a good level of comfort on uneven ice surfaces. This tour suits those who want a balanced mix of sightseeing and active adventure, perfect for travelers eager to tick off key sights in one go.

Good To Know

• Comprehensive itinerary covers glaciers, waterfalls, and beaches in one day.
• Small group size ensures personalized attention and safety.
• Expert guides enhance the experience with knowledge, humor, and safety tips.
• Well-organized timing allows ample time at each stop without feeling rushed.
• Value for money considering transportation, gear, and guided experience.
• Suitable for beginners with a moderate, manageable hike on the glacier.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring Iceland’s South Coast: What’s Included and Why It Matters

This full-day tour runs approximately 11 hours, starting early from Reykjavik. For around $189 per person, you gain access to a well-rounded experience that combines transportation, guided hikes, and visits to some of Iceland’s most photographed sites. The small group size—limited to 15 participants—means you get plenty of personalized attention, which makes the experience safer and more intimate.

The trip kicks off with a convenient pickup from one of 17 designated locations around Reykjavik, including hotels and bus stops. Expect a scenic 20-minute drive to the geothermal plant at Hellisheiði, where you get a brief scenic drive through Iceland’s volcanic landscape. The journey continues through the rugged southern region, with frequent stops for photos, stretching, and snacks, helping the long drive feel less arduous.

Throughout the day, your guides—like the highly praised Tomasz and Einar—offer engaging commentary that makes the journey as enjoyable as the destinations. They’re known for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to keep everyone safe, especially during the glacier hike, which many reviewers describe as a “once-in-a-lifetime” experience.

The Highlights: What Makes This Tour Special

Sólheimajökull Glacier Hike

The thrill of walking on a glacier is hard to beat. You’ll be equipped with crampons, a helmet, ice pick, and harness, all provided by the tour, making the experience accessible even for beginners. The guided hike lasts about an hour, during which you’ll explore crevasses, ice formations, and enjoy 360-degree views of the icy landscape. Reviewers like Katarina and Milissa mention how this is an “out-of-this-world” activity, with guides like Einar and Tomasz making safety and fun their priorities.

Why it’s great: You won’t just see the glacier—you’ll actually walk on it, feeling the crunch of ice beneath your feet. Many describe it as a “once-in-a-lifetime” experience, and the photos turn out incredible.

Waterfalls: Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss

These two waterfalls are real showstoppers. Seljalandsfoss, famous for its unique behind-the-waterfall trail, lets you walk behind the cascading water—an experience many reviewers say is surreal (“a breathtaking experience” and “so much fun to see from behind”). Skógafoss, with its thunderous fall and rainbow-filled spray, offers a classic Icelandic scene that feels almost cinematic.

A pro tip: Bring waterproofs if you want to get close behind Seljalandsfoss—some travelers recommend waterproof jackets, especially if you plan to stand beneath the cascade. Both waterfalls allow plenty of time for photos and exploring, with reviews praising the guides for making sure everyone gets the perfect shot without feeling rushed.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

No trip to Iceland would be complete without a visit to Reynisfjara, one of the most Instagrammed spots in the country. The striking black sands are contrasted by dramatic basalt columns and sea stacks rising from the Atlantic. You’ll have about an hour here, giving you time to walk along the beach, snap photos, and enjoy the powerful ocean views.

Reviewer insight: Many mention how impressive and atmospheric the beach is, but also advise caution near the strong waves. A few reviews note that the area can be windy and cold, so dress accordingly.

Additional Stops: Volcanoes and Volcanic Landscapes

The tour also includes views of Eyjafjallajökull volcano and Mýrdalsjökull glacier, providing context for Iceland’s volcanic activity. While these are mainly scenic stops, they add to the sense of being on a volcanic island with a constantly changing landscape.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect at Each Stop

The tour is meticulously planned, with around 20 stops including scenic drives, landmarks, and quick breaks. While the full list sounds long, each stop is intentionally timed—ample enough to enjoy the site but concise enough to keep the day moving smoothly.

First stops: The geothermal plant at Hellisheiði offers a quick look at Iceland’s sustainable energy efforts, while the scenic drive through the southern region introduces travelers to volcanic landscapes and rolling farmlands. Many reviews highlight how the drive itself is a visual treat, with frequent photo opportunities.

Mid-morning: You’ll arrive at Sólheimajökull for your glacier hike. Here, guides make the technical aspects approachable, and the experience is tailored for beginners. Reviewers like Danielle mention that despite some bad weather, the guides made it fun and memorable. The 3-hour visit includes walking, photos, and exploring the ice formations, which many find breathtaking.

Afternoon: After the glacier, the tour continues to Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach. This stop is about an hour long, perfect for walking, snapping photos, and taking in the scenery. Many mention how the basalt columns and pounding waves create a dramatic atmosphere worth experiencing.

Later stops: Skógafoss waterfall is next, with a 45-minute window for photos and exploration. Some guests hike closer to the base or even climb the stairs to the top for panoramic views. Then, Seljalandsfoss offers the chance to walk behind the waterfall—an especially popular moment thanks to its unique perspective.

Return journey: The bus ride back to Reykjavik takes around 1.5 hours, with frequent stops for quick views and rest. Many reviews mention how the guides keep the mood light and informative, making the long drive enjoyable.

The Experience: What Travelers Really Say

Reviewers consistently praise the guides, like Tomasz, Einar, and Otto, for their knowledge, humor, and safety awareness. Many mention how they went above and beyond—taking photos, adjusting the itinerary based on weather, and ensuring everyone felt comfortable. For example, one review highlights how Tomasz kept the tour running smoothly, making sure everyone, even those who found the glacier hike challenging, had a good time.

The glacier hike itself is often described as safe and accessible for beginners, with many travelers surprised at how manageable it is, thanks to excellent equipment and guidance. Some mention bringing a change of socks after getting wet near waterfalls, which can be a lifesaver.

The stops at waterfalls and black beach are often described as awe-inspiring, with some noting that the weather can be unpredictable—so packing waterproofs and warm layers is advised. Several reviews recommend taking plenty of photos and enjoying every moment because the scenery is truly unforgettable.

Transportation, Duration, and Practical Details

The tour uses a comfortable minibus with Wi-Fi, making long drives more pleasant. Pickup is from centrally located stops, and the journey covers around 20 minutes to the geothermal area, followed by scenic drives through Iceland’s volcanic landscapes.

The total outdoor activity time is about 2.5 hours, including the glacier hike and walking around waterfalls. The hike itself is about an hour, covering approximately 4 km with an elevation gain of 150 meters—manageable for most, especially since guides pace it for beginners.

The entire day lasts around 11 hours, giving you plenty of time to soak in the sights without feeling rushed. Food isn’t included, so bringing snacks or a packed lunch is recommended, especially since some stops are brief.

Value for Money

At $189, this tour offers great value considering the comprehensive experience—transport, gear, expert guides, and access to top Icelandic sights. Many reviewers have called it “worth every penny,” especially praising the guides’ knowledge and the quality of the glacier hike. The small group size makes it feel more personal, and the photos taken by guides like Faxi or Otto are an added bonus.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers seeking a mix of adventure and sightseeing with minimal hassle. It’s perfect for those with a moderate fitness level who want a beginner-friendly glacier hike combined with iconic waterfalls and beaches. It suits families (over age 10), solo travelers, and couples alike, especially if you appreciate guided tours with a personal touch.

However, it’s not suitable for people with heart problems, wheelchair users, or those over 209 lbs (95 kg), due to safety and equipment restrictions. If you’re looking for an active day that covers Iceland’s highlights without the stress of planning, this trip delivers.

FAQs

Is the glacier hike suitable for beginners?
Yes, the glacier hike is designed for beginners. Guides ensure safety and comfort, and the terrain is manageable with provided gear and instructions.

How long is the outdoor activity?
Approximately 2.5 hours outdoors, including walking, hiking on the glacier, and exploring waterfalls.

What should I bring?
Waterproof jackets are highly recommended, especially for behind Seljalandsfoss. It’s also wise to bring a change of socks and layers to stay warm and dry.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included. You might want to bring snacks or plan to buy lunch at the stops.

What is the group size?
Limited to a maximum of 15 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 11 hours, starting early in the morning.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

Is the tour accessible for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 10 years old.

What kind of vehicle is used?
A comfortable minibus equipped with Wi-Fi, making the long drives pleasant.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded, value-packed way to explore Iceland’s south coast. It combines the thrill of glacier walking with the visual drama of waterfalls and black sand beaches—all guided by friendly, knowledgeable guides who prioritize safety and fun. It’s particularly suited to travelers who want a beginner-friendly adventure that hits all the iconic sights in one day, with plenty of photo opportunities and engaging commentary.

If you’re looking for an experience that balances outdoor activity with sightseeing and cultural insights, this trip deserves a spot on your Iceland itinerary. Just remember to come prepared for the weather and bring your camera—you’ll want to capture every moment of this stunning landscape.

In sum: this tour delivers a memorable day exploring Iceland’s natural wonders with expert guidance, making it perfect for those eager to see the highlights comfortably and safely.

You can check if your dates are available here: