Captivating 10-Hour Private Exploration of Iceland's South Coast from Reykjavik

Explore the beauty and wonders of one of Iceland's most popular tourist destinations on this captivating tour of the South Coast. This 10-hour adventure takes travelers across the South Coast to see majestic waterfalls, a celebrated outlet glacier, and a world-famous black sand beach.

Your exciting day begins when an expert local guide picks you up from a designated location in Reykjavik. Your vehicle for the tour can be a minibus, a van, or a jeep, depending on the number of guests joining the tour. After departing from Iceland's capital, you'll drive up into the mountains and pass by the geothermal power plant Hellisheidi.

As you pass the Hellisheidi power plant, you'll see rugged lava fields with steam and vapor coming from the ground. Your ride continues as you head down the other side of the mountain pass. You'll then reach the coastal plain leading to the town of Hveragerdi, home of the Reykjadalur hot springs and several greenhouses.

You'll also pass by other small towns, namely Selfoss, Hella, and Hvolsvollur, before crossing bridges and glacial rivers. Your first stop for the day is the Seljalandsfoss waterfall, one of the most iconic attractions on the South Coast. Standing 197 feet (60 meters) high, the Seljalandsfoss waterfall drops gracefully from ancient cliffs.

However, Seljalandsfoss' unique feature is the footpath that winds behind the waterfall, allowing you to walk a full circle around it and enjoy a 360-degree view of the cascading water.

Next, you'll head to Gljufrabui, a small waterfall near the Seljalandsfoss waterfall. Sometimes called the "secret waterfall," Gljufrabui is tucked away behind a curtain of towering cliffs, partially concealed from view. You'll also make a quick stop at Irafoss waterfall, a hidden gem on the South Coast that requires a short hike before reaching it.

Your South Coast adventure continues with another captivating waterfall: Skogafoss. Known for its impressive width and powerful cascade, the Skogafoss waterfall plunges 200 feet (60 meters) over ancient sea cliffs. You'll see Skogafoss creating a wide, thunderous water curtain nearly 82 feet (25 meters) across.

Moreover, the Skogafoss waterfall generates a mist that often creates vibrant rainbows on sunny days. You can admire the Skogafoss waterfall from the base and feel the cool spray on your skin. Alternatively, you may climb a staircase that leads to a viewing platform at the top.

Next, you'll head to Solheimajokull, an outlet glacier from the mighty Myrdalsjokull ice cap. The Solheimajokull glacier measures approximately 9.3 miles (15 kilometers) long and covers an area of 17 square miles (44 square kilometers). It is known for its striking ice formations, crevasses, and volcanic ash layers, giving it a unique, streaked appearance.

Interestingly, the black streaks come from volcanic ash that were leftovers from nearby volcanic eruptions, particularly from the Katla volcano.

For your final stop, you'll visit Iceland's famous Reynisfjara black sand beach. Located near the town of Vík, the Reynisfjara is renowned for its inky black sands, dramatic cliffs, and basalt columns. You'll notice these columns rising like sculpted pillars from the beach.

Walking along the beach's black sand, you'll see the fascinating Reynisdrangar rock stacks protruding from the ocean. Folklore claims these rock stacks were the remains of three trolls petrified by sunlight. In addition, you'll also see the stone sea arches of Dyrholaey in the distance.

Optional activities like glacier hiking, ATV tour on the black sand beach, and cave exploration can be booked and added to the adventure.

At the end of the tour, you'll return to the vehicle and prepare for the ride back to Reykjavik as you carry the memories of your unforgettable Icelandic adventure.

Don't miss this chance to see Iceland's captivating South Coast during your vacation in the country by booking this private tour. Check availability now by choosing a date.