Reykjavik: South Coast Waterfalls & Glacier Hike Day Trip

Summary

Skógafoss mist glacier crunch and black sand under wild sky

You’ll feel Iceland’s wild side on this small-group day trip from Reykjavik: stand in Skógafoss’s spray, hike across Sólheimajökull glacier with a local guide, taste pure meltwater, walk Reynisfjara’s black sands, and duck behind Seljalandsfoss’s curtain—all with pickup included.

What’s the experience like?

Boots thudding onto wet grass, I tried to keep up as our guide—Ása, all freckles and windburn—waved us closer to Skógafoss. The sound was huge, like it filled up my chest. She shouted something about a treasure hidden behind the falls (I didn’t catch every word over the roar), but honestly, I was too distracted by the cold spray on my face and how the light kept shifting through it. There were a few locals in rain jackets, laughing at their own soaked shoes. It felt like nobody could really stay dry here.

Back in the van, socks slightly damp, we drove past sheep that looked like clouds with legs. The landscape kept changing—lava fields, then suddenly ice. At Sólheimajökull glacier, Ása handed out crampons and helmets (she checked mine twice; maybe I looked nervous). Stepping onto the ice felt weirdly crunchy and alive. She showed us how to use the axe for balance—I slipped once but she just grinned and said everyone does that. We tasted water straight from a melt stream; it was so clear it barely tasted like anything at all. I still think about that moment sometimes.

Reynisfjara beach was next—black sand sticking to everything, basalt columns rising up like something out of a storybook (or maybe just Game of Thrones). A couple from Germany tried to pronounce “Reynisdrangar” and Ása laughed so hard she nearly dropped her thermos. The wind there is no joke; my hair was everywhere and I gave up trying to fix it after two minutes.

Last stop: Seljalandsfoss. You can walk right behind the waterfall if you don’t mind getting soaked (I did both). The air smelled like moss and cold stone, which sounds odd but you’ll know what I mean if you go. On the way back toward Reykjavik, everyone got quiet for a while—maybe tired or just letting it all sink in. That silence felt good.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Glacier hike and south coast waterfalls

• Visit Skogafoss Waterfall
• Put on gear for glacier hike
• Hike on Sólheimajökull Glacier
• Stop at Reynisfjara black sand beach
• Walk behind Seljalandsfoss waterfall
• Visit Gljúfrabúi waterfall nearby

Top questions

How long is the South Coast & Glacier Hike day trip from Reykjavik?

The tour is a full-day trip departing from Reykjavik and includes several stops along Iceland’s south coast before returning in the evening.

Is hotel pickup included for this tour?

Yes, pickup and drop-off in Reykjavik are included in your booking.

Do I need special equipment for the glacier hike?

Crampons, helmet, and ice axe are provided for the glacier hike—but you must bring your own sturdy hiking boots (minimum EU 36 / US 5.5 / UK 3.5).

Is lunch provided on this day trip?

No lunch is included; you should bring your own snacks or buy food during stops along the route.

Can children join this glacier hike tour?

This tour is not suitable for children under 8 years old due to safety requirements on the glacier hike.

How difficult is the glacier hike at Sólheimajökull?

The glacier hike requires moderate fitness and full mobility; guides will assess each participant’s suitability upon arrival.

Are there public transportation options nearby?

Yes, public transportation options are available near pickup points in Reykjavik.

What waterfalls do we visit on this South Coast day trip?

You’ll see Skógafoss waterfall first and Seljalandsfoss waterfall later in the day; Gljúfrabúi may also be visited if conditions allow.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup and drop-off in Reykjavik, transport by minibus with WiFi onboard, an English-speaking local guide throughout, plus all necessary safety gear for your Sólheimajökull glacier hike (crampons, helmet & ice axe—but bring your own hiking boots). Entry fees are covered; meals are not included so pack snacks or plan to buy food along the way before heading back into town together at sunset.