Reykjavik: Sólheimajökull Glacier Hike & South Coast Waterfalls

Walk on glacial ice, then stand behind a waterfall: all in one day from Reykjavik

You hike on Sólheimajökull Glacier with full safety equipment and a certified guide, walk behind Seljalandsfoss waterfall, and explore Reynisfjara's black sand beach and sea stacks: all in one day trip from Reykjavik with transport, gear, and small-group pacing included.

Step-by-step itinerary

Stops and time at each

1. Seljalandsfoss30m · entry included
2. Reynisfjara Beach1h
3. Sólheimajökull Glacier4h

Glacier hike and South Coast sights

• Travel from Reykjavik to Sólheimajökull Glacier
• Put on crampons and safety gear
• Hike on Sólheimajökull Glacier
• Explore ice formations and crevasses
• Travel to Seljalandsfoss waterfall
• Walk behind Seljalandsfoss waterfall (if allowed)
• Travel to Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
• Visit Reynisfjara beach and basalt columns
• Return to Reykjavik

The experience

So you're standing on actual glacier ice with crampons strapped to your boots, and your guide is pointing out crevasses that go down further than you want to think about. That's Sólheimajökull: an outlet glacier that's always shifting, shaped by Iceland's volcanic forces underneath. You get equipped with crampons, harness, helmet, and ice axe before you step onto the ice itself, and then you're exploring formations and deep cracks in the glacier while the guide explains how this whole thing is constantly changing. It's not a casual walk. There's real terrain to navigate, but that's exactly why you're doing it with someone who knows the ice.

The day starts early from Reykjavik and moves through three major stops along the South Coast. First is Seljalandsfoss, one of Iceland's most recognizable waterfalls, and if conditions allow, you actually walk behind the curtain of falling water. The cliff face is dramatic, the spray is cold, and it's the kind of moment that feels both small and enormous at the same time. After that comes Reynisfjara, where black volcanic sand meets the Atlantic, and you've got basalt columns and the Reynisdrangar sea stacks rising from the water. The waves are powerful there. The whole beach has this raw, almost unsettling energy to it.

The glacier hike is the centerpiece, and it takes real focus. You're roped in with your group, moving across ice that's been there for centuries but is also melting year by year. Your certified guide walks you through the glacial landscape before you step onto the ice, so you understand what you're looking at. The vehicle is air-conditioned and has WiFi on board, which matters on a long drive. You're not stuck in silence for hours. Groups stay small enough that the guide can actually see everyone and adjust the pace. Return to Reykjavik in the evening with all the gear handled for you.

What’s included

Air-conditioned transport from Reykjavik with WiFi on board, guided glacier hike on Sólheimajökull with all safety equipment (crampons, harness, helmet, ice axe), visits to Seljalandsfoss waterfall and Reynisfjara black sand beach, certified guide throughout the day, and return transport to Reykjavik in the evening.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDeparts at 08:00

AgesAdult (10 and older) · Under 10: can't be included in the booking

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup included.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated today

Good to know

Moderate physical levelNot for heart conditions

Operated by Glaciers and Waterfalls

Is this one for you?Book this if you want to experience Iceland's South Coast highlights and glacier ice in a single day without arranging your own transport, equipment, or safety briefing: the guided format and included gear are what make it possible to do all three in one trip.

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Top questions

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24h before the start.

What's the minimum fitness level needed?

You need at least moderate physical fitness. The tour isn't recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health. Minimum age is 10 years.

Is the walk behind Seljalandsfoss guaranteed?

It's "conditions permitting": weather and water flow can affect whether it's safe to walk behind the waterfall on any given day.

What equipment is provided?

All glacier hike equipment is included: crampons, harness, helmet, and ice axe. You don't need to bring or rent these separately.

Do I need previous glacier hiking experience?

No. The guide provides instruction and safety briefing before you step onto the ice. The certified guide handles all technical aspects.

What should I wear?

Dress in warm, waterproof layers. You'll be exposed to wind, spray, and cold temperatures. Waterproof jacket and pants are essential, plus insulated gloves and sturdy boots.