South Iceland: Glaciers, Waterfalls & Black Sand Beach Day Trip

Summary

Seljalandsfoss mist Skógafoss stairs glacier touch black beach waves

You’ll walk behind Seljalandsfoss waterfall (yes, bring waterproofs), climb Skógafoss for wild views, feel black sand between your fingers at Reynisfjara Beach, and touch ancient ice at Sólheimajökull Glacier — all with a local guide who keeps things real. It’s not just scenery; it’s a day that sticks with you.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is our guide, Jón, grinning as he handed out rain ponchos in Reykjavik. “Trust me, you’ll want these,” he said. He wasn’t kidding — Seljalandsfoss is louder than it looks in photos, and when you walk behind the falls (which you absolutely can), the water hits your face in cold little bursts. My shoes were soaked but I didn’t care. A couple from Spain tried to take a selfie and just ended up laughing at their fogged-up lens. There was this earthy smell — wet grass, stone, something almost metallic from the spray.

Skógafoss was next. The climb up those stairs is no joke (my legs still remember), but when you reach the top and look down at all that green and white noise below — well, I just stood there for a while. Jón pointed out Eyjafjallajökull in the distance, which I still can’t pronounce right. He told us about the 2010 eruption and how people here just kind of live with volcanoes as neighbors. Someone’s dog barked somewhere down by the riverbank; it felt oddly peaceful after all that crashing water.

I’d seen pictures of Reynisfjara Beach before but nothing really prepares you for how black that sand is or how fast those waves come in — Jón kept reminding us to watch them (“seriously, don’t turn your back”). The basalt columns looked like something out of a sci-fi movie; some kid was pretending to be Spider-Man climbing them and his mom was yelling in Icelandic (I wish I understood what she said). The wind whipped seaweed around my ankles and everything smelled salty and raw.

We ended up at Sólheimajökull Glacier where you can actually walk right up and touch it — cold, rough under your fingers, with these blue streaks running through the ice. It’s quieter there than I expected. Just boots crunching on gravel and some distant gulls. On the drive back to Reykjavik I watched clouds roll over mossy lava fields out the window; honestly, I keep thinking about that silence by the glacier even now.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore South Iceland's natural wonders

• Visit Seljalandsfoss waterfall
• Climb Skógafoss waterfall stairs
• Walk to Sólheimajökull Glacier edge
• Explore Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

Top questions

Can you go behind Seljalandsfoss waterfall?

Yes, there’s a path behind Seljalandsfoss but waterproof clothing is highly recommended.

Is pickup included for this South Iceland day trip?

Yes, roundtrip transportation from selected locations in central Reykjavik is included.

How long does it take to get from Reykjavik to Sólheimajökull Glacier?

The drive is about 2–2.5 hours each way depending on stops along the route.

Is lunch included on this tour?

No lunch is included; travelers should bring their own or buy food during stops.

Are there safety concerns at Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach?

Yes, waves are very dangerous at Reynisfjara Beach so always stay alert near the water.

Can children join this South Iceland tour?

Yes, specialized infant seats are available and it’s suitable for all fitness levels.

Do we need hiking experience for Sólheimajökull Glacier?

No technical hiking experience is needed; you’ll walk to the edge of the glacier but not climb it.

Will we see Eyjafjallajökull volcano?

You can see Eyjafjallajökull from Skógafoss if visibility is good.

What’s included

Your day includes roundtrip transportation from central Reykjavik with WiFi onboard so you can share photos right away, plus a professional local guide who knows every story behind these waterfalls and glaciers — just bring your sense of adventure (and maybe dry socks).