South Iceland: Waterfalls, Reynisfjara Beach & Glacier Day Trip

Summary

Waterfall mist, black sand beaches & glacier air in one wild day

You’ll stand behind thundering waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss, feel icy spray on your skin, crunch black sand at Reynisfjara Beach, and touch ancient glacier ice on this South Coast day trip from Reykjavik. With a small group and local guide leading every step—including hotel pickup—you’ll find yourself laughing with strangers and seeing Iceland’s wild side up close.

What’s the experience like?

It started with our guide, Jón, handing out wool blankets before we’d even left Reykjavik. He grinned and said, “Trust me, you’ll thank me later.” I did—especially after stepping behind Seljalandsfoss. The cold spray hit my face so suddenly I laughed out loud (and maybe swore a bit). The sound of the water was huge—like standing next to a train—and there was this sharp smell of wet moss everywhere. Jón told us about trolls hiding in the cliffs; I’m not sure if he was joking or not.

We made a quick detour to Gljúfrabúi, which is tucked away behind a split in the rocks. You have to squeeze through this narrow gap and your boots get soaked, but it’s worth it. Light filters down in these weird shafts—almost like something out of a storybook. Someone on our small group tour tried to take a selfie and slipped a little; we all ended up laughing together. The drive along the South Coast felt endless but peaceful—just fields, sheep (so many sheep), and then suddenly Skógafoss roaring into view. Jón said it drops 60 meters but honestly it just feels...loud. And cold when you get close.

I didn’t expect to feel so tiny at Reynisfjara Beach. The wind was wild enough to sting your cheeks and the black sand looked almost blue under the clouds. Those basalt columns are stranger up close—slick and geometric—and there’s this constant crash from the waves that makes conversation kind of pointless for a minute or two. We ate sandwiches in the van because nobody wanted to lose their lunch to the wind.

The last stop was Sólheimajökull glacier. You can actually touch the ice—rougher than I thought—and there’s this faint mineral smell in the air. Jón pointed out where crevasses had shifted since last winter; he seemed genuinely proud of his island, which made me look at everything twice. By the time we headed back toward Reykjavik I was tired but wired, replaying all those sounds and colors in my head. I still think about that view from behind Seljalandsfoss sometimes—you know how some moments just stick?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore South Coast waterfalls and beach

• Walk behind Seljalandsfoss waterfall
• Visit hidden Gljúfrabúi waterfall
• See powerful Skógafoss waterfall
• Stop at charming small town
• Walk along Sólheimajökull Glacier
• Explore Reynisfjara black sand beach

Top questions

How long does the South Coast day trip from Reykjavik take?

The tour is a full-day trip departing from Reykjavik with multiple stops along Iceland's South Coast.

Is hotel pickup included for this South Coast tour?

Yes, pickup and drop-off at select hotels or bus stops in Reykjavik are included.

Do you visit both Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls?

Yes, both Seljalandsfoss (where you can walk behind) and Skógafoss are included as stops.

Can you walk on Sólheimajökull glacier during this tour?

You can walk along the edge of Sólheimajökull glacier and touch the ice during your stop.

Is lunch provided on this day trip?

No lunch is provided; travelers usually bring their own food or buy snacks during stops.

How many people are on each small-group tour?

The group size is limited to 16 people per Mercedes Sprinter bus for a more personal experience.

What should I wear for an Iceland South Coast tour in winter?

Bring warm waterproof jackets and sturdy walking shoes due to unpredictable weather conditions.

Are child seats available for families?

Child seats or boosters are available upon request if advised at time of booking.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Reykjavik, transport by climate-controlled Mercedes Sprinter minibus with free WiFi onboard, guidance from an English-speaking local driver-guide throughout all stops—from waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss to Reynisfjara Beach and Sólheimajökull glacier—and plenty of shared laughs before returning in the evening.