15 Best Iceland South Coast Tours to take this year

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Searching for the best Iceland south coast tours? That’s great! The southern coast of Iceland is the perfect spot to kick start your adventure in the Land of Fire and Ice. 

Through these handpicked tours, you will embark on a journey of discovery from Reykjavik to Vik and witness some of Iceland’s most awe-inspiring wonders, such as the gorgeous Seljalandsfoss, the dramatic black sand beaches, and glaciers.

For those seeking adventure, explore vast expanses of lava fields for an unforgettable experience! 

We took many of these tours ourselves and they were amazing. The south coast tours in Iceland are open all year round. You will also find seasonal add-ons such as the northern lights tour or combo tickets like entry to the newest Sky Lagoon. Most importantly we also share cost-saving 2, 3, and 4 day south coast Iceland tours in this guide!

15 Absolute Best Iceland South Coast Tours

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1. South Coast Classic: Full-Day Tour from Reykjavik (10.5 hours)

➤ BOOK this Classic South Coast day tour from Reykjavik

♡ RATING: 4.7 Out of 5 stars – with more than 3000 positive reviews

Why choose this tour?

This is one of the BEST and most popular South Coast Iceland tours that showcase the iconic natural landmarks. 

On this guided tour, you will get to see the Seljalandsfoss waterfall, go up close and behind it, check off the Skogafoss, the famous black sand beach at Reynisfjara, and spend quality time in Vik. 

The 10+ hour tour is perfect if you are on a short trip to Iceland, and wish to explore the waterfalls near Reykjavik with ease. You will have ample break stops along the way. 

The lunch stop is in Vik, and you will get the opportunity to shop at the Icewear outlet or use the time to explore on your own. 

The tour includes round-trip transportation from the capital city, and their buses are clean and spacious. 

Tour Highlights

☑ Seljalandsfoss waterfall

☑ Skogafoss waterfall 

☑ Basalt columns at the Reynisfjara black sand beach

☑ Visit the village of Vík

☑ Visit the glacier snout of Sólheimajökull

☑ Affordable tours to book

🛒 Click to book this Classic South Coast day tour from Reykjavik

2. From Reykjavik: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach (14 hours)

➤ BOOK this Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon Diamond Beach day tour

♡ RATING: 4.7 Out of 5 stars – with more than 2000 positive reviews

Why book this tour?

Along with the iconic stops of Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, this day tour from Reykjavik also takes you to experience the giant icebergs in Jokulsarlon Glacial Lagoon. 

Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon is filled with blue glacier ice and icebergs that drift around in an oval-shaped lake. The lagoon was formed by a melting glacier, and its size grew significantly over the years due to climate change. 

Today, you can take boat tours of the lagoon to observe the icebergs up close and take photos. Due to its unique location, the lagoon is also home to a variety of wildlife. 

And to top it off, on this south coast full day tour you will also stop at Diamond Beach. This is a beautiful and unique natural attraction located on the south coast of Iceland in Vatnajökull National Park. 

It is known for its black sand and diamond-like crystal fragments scattered along the shoreline, giving it an otherworldly feel. You will have time to explore the beach and take photos of its majestic beauty. 

From the majestic Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon to the spectacular waterfalls, you’ll want to capture each moment on this trip!

Tour Highlights: 

☑ Visit Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon (and optional boat tour)

☑ Stop at the beautiful waterfalls of Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss

☑ Mountains and glaciers of Skaftafell National Park

☑ Diamond Beach

🛒 Click to book Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach

3. From Reykjavik: South Coast & Glacier Hike (12 hours)

➤ BOOK this South Coast full day tour with a guided hike

♡ RATING: 4.9 Out of 5 stars – with more than 280 positive reviews

Why book this tour?

Explore Iceland’s South Coast and go on a glacier hike with a tour guide! 

On this 12 hour day trip from Reykjavik, you will get to experience some of the largest glaciers of Iceland, and see the waterfalls of Skógafoss and Seljalandson on the same excursion. 

The natural wonders of Seljalandsfoss and Skógarfoss waterfalls are included. Plus a stop at the Reynisfjara black sand beaches. 

The tour then makes its way to Dyrhólaey cliffs and then stops at the Sólheimajökull glacier for a hike. 

The guided hike is the highlight of this South Coast tour and equipment is provided for all participants. 

This tour is also great if you are new to hiking as you will be led by a local expert. Previous travelers have said that the hike is quite accessible for all ages, and even people with knee problems. Just ensure you bring your hiking boots and proper gear to enjoy the trail and the views!

Tour Highlights:

☑ Hike up Sólheimajökull glacier with a local expert 

☑ Check off Seljalandsfoss waterfall

☑ Take a stroll along the black sand beach of Reynisfjara and its basalt caverns

☑ Equipment is provided – helmet, crampons, compass

🛒 Click to view the tour of the South Coast with a guided hike

4. From Reykjavik: South Coast and Black Beach ATV Ride (11 hours)

➤ BOOK this South Coast small group tour and an ATV Ride

♡ RATING: 5 Out of 5 stars – with more than 20 positive reviews

Why book this tour?

Enjoy the best of the south coast of Iceland on this 11 hour day tour. You will get to soak in the views of the waterfalls aka – Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss. 

This is one of the day tours on this list that features a stop at the DC3 plane wreck from 1973. Normally, south Iceland excursions do not cover this, and you have to rent a car and drive there yourself. 

And the BEST part of this day tour is riding a powerful ATV on the black volcanic beach. Yes…guidance is provided and a great experience is guaranteed – all along you will see views of Sólheimasandur and the Eyjafjallajökull glacier. 

Tour Highlights:

☑ South Coast highlights – Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfall

☑ See the DC3 army plane wreck

☑ 2 hour ATV ride (don’t forget your driver’s license)

☑ Black sand beaches

🛒 Click to book this South Coast full day tour with Black Beach ATV Ride

5. Reykjavik: Private Golden Circle and South Coast Tour (12 hours)

➤ BOOK this Golden Circle and South Coast private tour

♡ RATING: 5 Out of 5 stars – with more than 5 positive reviews

Why book this tour?

See the best of southern Iceland highlights on this single day trip! This is a premium and private tour that is perfect for families of four, or friends. 

The cost of this tour is per 4 guests (so you can share/split the costs and enjoy the benefits!)

The excursion usually takes place with a pick-up at Reykjavik accommodation and includes the highlights of the South Coast and Golden Circle tours – both on the same day!

You will explore the beautiful Nesjavallaleid scenic route with your private transportation, and stop at the Thingvellir National Park, which is famous for being the site of the first parliament both in Iceland and the world. 

Then explore the Geysir hot spring area, followed by a quick stop at the Faxi Waterfall. 

Next, the waterfalls of Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss await you. 

But before that, you will stop for lunch at Katla Restaurant, located in the Lava Centre – Hekla volcano. Here you will also see the views of Eyjafjallajokull and stop at Solheimajokull where you can enjoy a lovely walk. 

The tour includes stops at Dyrholaey Cliffs and Reynisfjara, where you can admire black sand beaches, sea stacks, and basalt columns.

This private tour also offers a stop at the Secret Lagoon (during the months of April – September), where you can soak into the warm waters of the spa.

Tour Highlights:

☑ Best of southern Iceland’s highlights in one day

☑ Explore Thingvellir National Park

☑ See the eruption of Geysir

☑ Enjoy the views of 3 iconic waterfalls Gullfoss, Skogafoss, and Seljalandsfoss

☑ Walk on Black Sand Beach

☑ Admire the views from Dyrholaey

☑ Hotel pick and drop off

☑ Complimentary tea and coffee

🛒 Click to book this private tour of Golden Circle and South Coast full day tour

6. South Coast, Glacier Hike, and Northern Lights Winter Tour (16 hours)

➤ BOOK this South Coast, glacier hike and northern lights day tour

♡ RATING: 4.5 Out of 5 stars – with more than 20 positive reviews

Why book this tour?

This 3 activity COMBO tour includes the gems of the south coast (waterfalls and the Black sand beaches), a guided glacier hike in the afternoon and finally finishes the night with northern lights. 

The full-day excursion begins with a pick-up from Reykjavik to Seljalandsfoss waterfall. 

You will have time for a nice stroll, before heading to Sólheimajökull glacier. This is where the guided hike will take place. 

Here is where you will meet the certified glacier guide who will provide equipment, and take you through the breathtaking landscape. 

From here, there are two more stops – one at the famous black sand beach at Reynisfjara to see the basalt columns and cave, the stunning Reynisdrangar cliffs, and the impressive basalt rock stacks that rise above the Atlantic waves. 

And the last one is at the Skogafoss waterfall. 

The tour then breaks for a few hours where you can enjoy dinner and drinks and then join the excursion for the northern lights at around 07:00 pm. 

Because the Aurora Borealis is a natural phenomenon, if you miss it on this tour, you will be given a chance to join the tour at a later date.

Pro tip: Try to book and join the tour at the beginning of your Iceland itinerary, in case the weather is not on your side for the northern lights.

Tour Highlights: 

☑ See Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls

☑ Walk the stunning Reynisfjara black sand beach

☑ Explore Reynisdrangar’s peaks and cliffs

☑ Go on a glacier hike on Solheimajokull glacier

☑ Join the northern lights tour in the evening

🛒 Click to book this South Coast glacier and northern lights combo tour

7. Langjökull: Glacier Snowmobile Trip with Guide (4 hours)

➤ BOOK this Langjokull Glacier snowmobile tour

♡ RATING: 4.4 Out of 5 stars – with more than 20 positive reviews

Why book this tour?

Located on the south coast of Iceland is the Langjökull Glacier! It is home to several ice-filled volcanic craters and is set against breathtaking Icelandic landscapes. 

On this special excursion, you will get to ride a specialized Super Jeep to get to the glacier base camp to kickstart your snowmobile ride (40 to 45 minutes).

You will receive all the protective gear (but don’t forget your driver’s license), and a professional glacier snowmobiling guide who will show you how to safely operate a snowmobile. 

The ride here is for an hour and you will be welcomed to the stunning views of the Eiríksjökull, the dome-shaped Hofsjökull glacier, and the Kerlingafjöll Mountain range.

Note: The 4-hour excursion doesn’t include round-trip transportation from Reykjavik. You will have to drive to the meeting point yourself – Amazing Basecamp Skjól, a 1.5-hour drive from Reykjavík.

Tour Highlights:

☑ Join a Snowmobile Adventure on Langjökull Glacier + a super jeep tour

☑ Soak in the views over the highlands from 2nd largest glacier in Europe

☑ Protective gear and quick training provided

🛒 Click to book this Langjokull Glacier snowmobile tour

8. Sólheimajökull: Guided Glacier Hike (3 hours)

➤ BOOK this Solheimajokull Guided glacier hike

♡ RATING: 4.7 Out of 5 stars – with more than 400 positive reviews

Why book this tour?

Walk on south Iceland’s last remaining glaciers – Sólheimajökull on a guided hike. 

On this 3-hour tour, the operator will provide you with crampons and other protective gear and will guide you through crevasses, shafts, and ridges as you learn about the formation and history of the Sólheimajökull glacier. 

On the Mýrdalsjökull glacier, you will also get to see ice cave tunnels and a glacier lagoon.

Note: The 3 hour excursion doesn’t include round-trip transportation from Reykjavik. You will have to drive to the meeting point yourself. 

Tour Highlights:

☑ Hike across the ice of the Sólheimajökull Glacier

☑ Soak in the views and interiors of ice cave tunnels

☑ Protective gear is provided

🛒 Click to book this Solheimajokull Guided glacier hike

9. Sólheimajökull: Kayaking by the Glacier (1 hour)

➤ BOOK this kayaking experience on the Solheimajokull glacier

♡ RATING: 4.6 Out of 5 stars

Why book this tour?

LOVE water? How about kayaking and taking in the view of icebergs and glaciers? 

Not a day tour, but this one hour kayaking experience kicks off from the Sólheimajökull parking lot. 

You will meet your instructor here who will provide you with a drysuit and quick training on using the kayak. 

These sit-on-top kayaks are extremely easy to steer and require no previous kayaking experience. 

Once in, you will have a unique world of iceberg-filled calm waters, and views of the Sólheimajökull Glacier. 

These views are only possible while on the water – so don’t miss out!

Tour Highlights:

☑ Kayaking excursion with a local expert 

☑ See icebergs and the Sólheimajökull glacier 

☑ Equipment is provided – kayak, paddle, drysuit

🛒 Click to book this kayaking experience on the Solheimajokull glacier

10. South Coast: ATV Quad Bike 2-Hour Safari (2 hours)

➤ BOOK this South Coast ATV Quad bike safari

♡ RATING: 4.9 Out of 5 stars

Why book this tour?

Discover the grandeur and beauty of Iceland’s south coast by embarking on this ATV tour. The tour takes you to the majestic black sand plains of Sólheimasandur where you will ride over the desert-like landscape.

The guide will help you all the way, and provide equipment. 

From the beach, you will see the Dyrhólaey peninsula, which is the southernmost tip of Iceland. 

On this tour, you will also stop at the famous DC3 plane wreck site. 

Note: The 2 hour excursion doesn’t include round-trip transportation from Reykjavik. You will have to drive to Vik to join the guide. 

Tour Highlights:

☑ ATV quad bike adventure

☑ DC3 plane wreck on Sólheimasandur

☑ Black sand beaches

☑ Gear provided – helmet, balaclava face mask, insulated overalls

🛒 Click to book this South Coast ATV Quad bike safari

11. From Vik: Myrdalsjokull glacier and Katla Ice Cave Tour (3 hours)

➤ BOOK this Myrdalsjokull glacier and Katla Ice Cave Tour 

♡ RATING: 4.7 Out of 5 stars 

Why book this tour?

Opt for something a little different when in south Iceland – join this Myrdalsjokull glacier from Vik. 

Mýrdalsjökull glacier is one of the best-known places to take in the views of the glaciers and pristine landscapes including ice caves. 

On this excursion, you will get to ride a Super Jeep and then arrive at the Kötlujökull glacier to enjoy a natural ice cave. 

Inside you will see gorgeous layers of different colored ice and volcanic ash unfold and your guide will be taking you up close and personal as s/he narrates the history of the glacier and the surrounding areas. 

Note: The 3 hour excursion doesn’t include round-trip transportation from Reykjavik. You will have to drive to the meeting point yourself, located in Vik.

Tour Highlights:

☑ Hike across the ice of the Sólheimajökull Glacier

☑ Soak in the views and interiors of ice cave tunnels

☑ Protective gear is provided

🛒 Click to book this Myrdalsjokull glacier and Katla Ice Cave Tour

12. From Reykjavik: South Coast & Sky Lagoon Admission Day Tour (13 hours)

➤ BOOK this South Coast and Sky Lagoon admission combo tour

♡ RATING: 4.7 Out of 5 stars 

Why book this tour?

Discover all the goodness of a Classic South Coast tour PLUS visit the newest geothermal spa on this combo tour. 

So essentially, you will check off Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls and view the mighty Sólheimajökull glacier. 

At the Sólheimajökull glacier, you will learn about the geological insights of the landscape and admire the ice wall and the lagoon. 

From here, you will get exploration time at the Reynisfjara beach as well as stop for lunch (or shopping) at the village of Vik. 

On your way back to Reykjavik, you will have time to relax at the newest thermal spa – Sky Lagoon. Included in the price of the combo ticket is the 7-step ritual program. 

In this experience, you will get to soak in the waters of the Sky Lagoon and enjoy a full cycle to refresh and renew your body, mind, and soul (steam room, shower, scrub, etc.). 

Tour Highlights:

☑ Highlights of south coast Iceland – Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfall

☑ Soak in the views of the black sand Reynisfjara beach

☑ Admire the Sólheimajökull glacier up close

☑ Entry to the Sky Lagoon thermal spa and infinity pool (includes the 7 Step Ritual)

🛒 Click to book this South Coast and Sky Lagoon admission combo tour

13. South Coast Iceland: 2-Day Blue Ice Cave & Jokulsarlon Tour (2 days)

➤ BOOK this 2 day South Coast tour – Blue Ice Cave and Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

♡ RATING: 4.8 Out of 5 stars 

Why book this tour?

This is a 2 day guided tour that takes you around the popular sites on the South Coast of Iceland, and also gives you the opportunity to go on a guided hike, ice cave tour, and beyond. 

Accommodation is provided in a 3 star property in Reykjavik along with breakfast (lunch and dinner are not included). All excursions that require protective gear are provided. 

So, you will check off Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls. Then visit the blue ice cave on day one. Here you will enjoy a guided hike for 1.50 hours. In the evening a Northern Lights experience is included.

On the next day, you will visit the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, an outlet glacier of Europe’s largest glacier, and also stop at Diamond Beach. 

Tour Highlights:

☑ See the Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss Waterfall

☑ Walk through a blue ice cave

☑ Visit the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

☑ Visit the Skaftafell Natural Reserve

☑ Northern Nights (seasonal)

☑ 3 star accommodation with breakfast

🛒 Book this 2 day South Coast tour – Blue Ice Cave & Jokulsarlon

14. From Reykjavik: 3-Day South Coast Winter Tour with Ice Cave (3 days)

➤ BOOK this 3 day South Coast Winter Tour with Ice Cave

♡ RATING: 4.9 Out of 5 stars 

Why book this tour?

Spend 3 days in south Iceland with a guide and check off all the primary sites at an affordable price! Accommodation is included on this excursion in which you will also get to experience an ice caving tour. 

On day one, you will explore the highlights of the Golden Circle route. Stops include Þingvellir National Park, Gullfoss Golden Waterfall, and Haukadalur Geothermal area which is home to Strokkur Geyser. 

You will end the sightseeing day with a stop at the Kerið Volcanic Crater.

The following day, you will visit the Seljalandsfoss waterfall and then the Skógafoss before arriving at the black sand beach of Reynisfjara on the south coast. 

On this night, you will spend time in a remote location in South-East Iceland to get a better chance of spotting the northern lights. 

On the last day, you will get to flex your arms and legs and join an ice-caving expedition into the Vatnajokull National Park and Glacier Lagoon. Stops also include Diamond Beach. All the safety equipment for the ice-caving tour is provided. 

Tour Highlights:

☑ Explore a seasonal ice cave in Vatnajökull National Park

☑ Check the Golden Circle, including Geysir and Kerið

☑ Plus the south coast waterfalls Gullfoss & Seljalandsfoss

☑ Walk on the black lava sand beach of Reynisfjara

☑ Spend 2 nights in Icelandic Countryside and look up for Aurora borealis

☑ Breakfast included

🛒 Click to book this 3 day South Coast Winter Tour with Ice Cave

15. From Reykjavik: 4-Day Blue Ice Cave and Northern Lights Tour

➤ BOOK 4 day Blue Ice Cave and Northern lights tour

♡ RATING: 4.8 Out of 5 stars 

Why book this tour?

See the BEST of the southern and western parts of Iceland in the winter. 

Kickstart your 4 day Icelandic excursion from Reykjavik. Pick up and drop off are included from your accommodation and on day one you will explore the Golden Circle route – and see the famous Geysir, Gullfoss waterfall, and Thingvellir National Park. 

On the second and third days, you will check off various natural landmarks of the South Coast. Sites include the Reynisfjara black sand beach, and the Jökulsárlón, the stunning glacier lagoon in Vatnajökull National Park. 

This is where you will enjoy an ice-caving tour and in the evening, chase the magnificent Northern Lights.

On your final day in Iceland, you will get to experience the western part of the country, and soak in the views of the poster boy of Iceland – the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. On this route, you will also see glacier-carved mountains, black beaches, moss-topped lava fields, craters, and coastal cliffs.

Tour Highlights:

☑ Explore a seasonal ice cave in Vatnajökull National Park

☑ Check the Golden Circle, including Geysir and Kerið

☑ Plus the south coast waterfalls Gullfoss & Seljalandsfoss

☑ Walk on the black lava sand beach of Reynisfjara

☑ Accommodation for 3 nights

☑ Breakfast and a small Icelandic treat

🛒 Click to book 4 day Blue Ice Cave and Northern lights tour

What comprises the Southern coast of Iceland

The South Coast of Iceland is a destination packed with awe-inspiring sites and attractions. 

From the picturesque Seljalandsfoss waterfall to Skógafoss’ thunderous cascades, Vatnajökull National Park’s captivating glaciers, Skaftafell Nature Reserve’s majestic terrain, Reynisfjara black sand beach’s dramatic cliffs, and towering sea stacks – not to mention Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon – this stunning region has something for everyone.

A note about the Golden Circle route: We have to make mention of the Golden Circle route on this list as it is one of the most popular and scenic tours in southern Iceland. 

And it is easy to go on this circular route from Reykjavik and can be done in the morning or afternoon. 

However, keep in mind the south coast tour is different from the Golden Circle route entirely – there are no crossovers and both cover different natural landmarks and sites. 

3 important areas covered on the Golden Circle day tour are Þingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall. Then there are add-ons such as the Kerid crater stop, or entry at the Secret, Sky, or Blue Lagoon. 

• Golden Circle in the morning (with Kerid Crater – over 7000 reviews)
• Golden Circle in the afternoon

Iceland south coast tour map

We hope you enjoyed our top picks for the best south coast Iceland tours, and are ready to embark on your next big adventure!

Read more of our Iceland guides:

• Itineraries: Iceland in 10 days without a car | 5 days in Iceland itinerary
• Iceland guided tours: Choose from horse riding tour, whale watching & beyond
• Akureyri: One day in Akureyri itinerary | Iceland Akureyri whale watching tours

Pin: South Coast Iceland Tours to take this year

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