Iceland South Coast: Waterfalls, Glacier Hike & Black Beach Day Trip

Summary

Waterfall mist glacier crunch & wild black sand—south Iceland’s edge

You’ll get soaked by waterfalls, crunch across a real glacier with all gear included (if you pick that option), and wander Reynisfjara’s wild black beach—all with a local guide who actually knows where to find secret spots. Expect tired legs, wet boots, and a head full of Icelandic stories by sunset.

What’s the experience like?

The first waterfall hit me before I even saw it. We’d just left Selfoss behind, the minibus windows fogged from everyone’s breath and wet jackets. Then our guide—Ása, who grew up nearby—pulled over and told us to brace for Seljalandsfoss. The air was sharp and damp; you could smell moss and something metallic in the spray. I tried to walk behind the falls (yes, you really can in summer), but my hood kept blowing off and I ended up laughing with some German guy who was also soaked through. Ása pointed out a hidden path to another fall—honestly, if she hadn’t, I’d have missed it entirely.

We drove past Eyjafjallajökull (I still can’t pronounce it right), and Ása told us about the 2010 eruption while we stared at the volcano’s snowy cap. It felt weirdly peaceful now. Skógafoss came next—the sound is huge, like a freight train. I climbed up all those steps for the view (my legs hated me later). There were rainbows everywhere in the spray; someone said it looked fake, but it didn’t feel that way standing there. The main keyword here is “south coast day trip Iceland”—but honestly, none of this felt like a checklist.

The glacier hike at Sólheimajökull was colder than I expected—crampons biting into blue ice, wind cutting through my gloves. Our glacier guide handed me an axe (“just in case,” he winked) and explained how fast these glaciers are shrinking. That stuck with me more than any photo could. Afterward, we warmed up in the van before hitting Reynisfjara Beach—the black sand almost gritty underfoot, Atlantic waves so loud you had to shout to be heard. Those basalt columns look unreal up close; I tried climbing one but slipped right off (boots full of sand for the rest of the ride).

On the way back toward Reykjavik, everyone was quiet—tired or maybe just letting it all sink in. I kept thinking about that moment on the glacier when everything went silent except for boots crunching on ice. If you’re after a private south coast tour or just want someone else to drive while you stare out at lava fields and sheep, this is probably it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — South Coast Waterfalls and Glacier Visit

• Pass by Reykjadalur hot river
• Pass by Selfoss town
• Pass by cave town near river
• Approach adventure town
• Visit Seljalandsfoss waterfall
• Visit hidden waterfall
• Pass by Eyjafjallajökull volcano
• Visit Skógafoss waterfall
• Explore Sólheimajökull glacier
• Pass by Dyrholaey sea arches
• Visit Reynisfjara black sand beach

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included on this south coast day trip?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included with your booking.

Can I do a glacier hike during this tour?

Yes—if you select the Glacier Hike option when booking between April and October.

What should I bring for the glacier hike?

Bring warm, windproof clothes and sturdy hiking shoes; rental boots are available if needed.

Are there age restrictions for this tour?

The minimum age is 10 years old for all participants.

What happens if weather cancels the glacier hike?

If unsafe due to weather, alternative activities will be offered or you’ll receive a partial refund.

How much walking or hiking is involved?

You’ll need moderate fitness; expect some walking at waterfalls and optional 1.5-hour glacier hike.

Will there be free Wi-Fi on board?

Yes, free Wi-Fi is provided on the minibus throughout the tour.

Are meals included on this tour?

No meals are included; bring snacks or buy food at stops along the route.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Reykjavik, transport by minibus with free Wi-Fi onboard, all safety equipment for an optional guided glacier hike at Sólheimajökull (if selected), plus a professional English-speaking guide who stays with you throughout every stop—even those secret waterfall detours—and all gear rentals if needed.