Reykjavik South Coast: Glacier Hike, Waterfalls & Black Beach

Summary

South Iceland day trip with glacier hike waterfalls and basalt beach

You’ll walk behind roaring waterfalls near Reykjavik, crunch across blue ice on a guided glacier hike at Sólheimajökull, and wander Reynisfjara’s wild black sand beach—all in one packed day trip along Iceland’s south coast. Expect wet boots, local stories from your guide, and moments that stick with you long after you’re home.

What’s the experience like?

“You’ll probably get wet,” our guide Ása warned, grinning as we shuffled toward Seljalandsfoss. She was right. The air was sharp and cold, but stepping behind that waterfall—feeling the mist hit my cheeks and hearing nothing but water pounding rock—was wild. My gloves got soaked (should’ve packed spares), but honestly, I didn’t care. There was this little side path to Gljúfrabúi too, half-hidden behind a mossy cliff; we all squeezed through and Ása told us the name means “canyon dweller.” I tried to say it out loud—she laughed, so I guess my Icelandic needs work.

The drive along the south coast felt like flipping through a book of strange landscapes: lava fields, sheep in the rain, distant volcanoes under low clouds. When we reached Sólheimajökull for the glacier hike, they handed out crampons and helmets (felt very pro). The ice wasn’t smooth—more like blue glass mixed with ash lines—and you could hear little cracks echoing underfoot. Our glacier guide explained how fast it’s shrinking; kind of sobering. But walking up there, crunching over ancient ice with the wind in your ears—it’s hard not to feel tiny.

Lunch was just sandwiches on the bus (bring your own), but nobody seemed to mind. Reynisfjara beach is where everyone woke up again—the black sand gets everywhere, by the way—and those basalt columns look fake up close. The waves were huge that day; Ása kept reminding us not to turn our backs to them (apparently people do). Someone found a bit of volcanic glass in the sand and passed it around. It felt heavier than I expected.

We ended at Skógafoss, which is taller than it looks in photos. You can walk right up until you’re basically inside the spray—my jacket still smells faintly of river water. Some folks climbed all 527 steps for the view; I made it halfway before my legs gave up (no regrets). On the ride back to Reykjavik, everyone got quiet for a while. It’s funny how tired and happy you can feel after just one long day out here.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — South Coast Waterfalls and Glacier Hike

• Pickup from Reykjavik
• Visit Seljalandsfoss and Gljúfrabúi waterfalls
• Glacier hike on Sólheimajökull
• Walk along Reynisfjara black sand beach
• Explore Skógafoss waterfall
• Return to Reykjavik

Top questions

How long is the day trip from Reykjavik to South Coast?

The full-day tour lasts about 11 hours including all stops and travel time from Reykjavik.

Is lunch included on the South Coast & Glacier Hike tour?

No lunch is provided; you should bring your own packed lunch for this day trip.

Do I need special gear for the glacier hike?

Specialized glacier gear like crampons and helmets are included; sturdy hiking boots are required (available to rent if needed).

What age is allowed on this South Coast tour?

The minimum age is 8 years old with a minimum shoe size of EU 35 for glacier safety gear.

Can you walk behind Seljalandsfoss waterfall?

Yes, there’s a path that lets you walk behind Seljalandsfoss for a unique view—prepare to get wet!

Are hotel pickups included from Reykjavik?

Yes, pickup and drop-off are included from selected points in Reykjavik city.

How difficult is the Sólheimajökull glacier hike?

The glacier hike is rated as easy but expect about 3-4 km walking over uneven terrain.

What should I wear or bring for this tour?

You’ll need warm outdoor clothing, waterproof jacket/pants, gloves, hat, good hiking shoes or boots—and a packed lunch.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup and drop-off from select Reykjavik hotels or stops, all specialized glacier hiking equipment like helmet and crampons with a certified guide leading your group safely across Sólheimajökull ice, plus visits to Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach and both Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls before returning in the evening.