Thrilling 10.5-Hour South Coast Private Tour with Glacier Hiking from Reykjavik
Description
Summary
Description
Experience the beauty of one of Iceland's most stunning glaciers before visiting the many wonders of the country's South Coast on this thrilling private tour from Reykjavik. This 10.5-hour adventure takes travelers on a glacier hike to Solheimajokull before exploring a black sand beach, iconic waterfalls, and other fascinating geological features.
The action begins at Reykjavik, where a friendly local guide picks you up from your accommodation. You may also arrange a pick-up from the Keflavik Airport, the port, or a nearby town. You'll then ride a comfortable vehicle that will safely take you to your first stop: the Solheimajokull glacier.
Solheimajokull, an outlet glacier of the larger Myrdalsjokull ice cap, is one of Iceland's most accessible glaciers, about 98 miles (158 kilometers) from Reykjavik. The Solheimajokull glacier is known for its dramatic features, including deep crevasses and shimmering ice ridges.
Before hiking, the guide will give you the necessary equipment, including crampons and other safety gear, to help you walk on the icy terrain.
As you begin the hike, you'll explore icy ridges and look into crevasses while appreciating the vibrant hues of the Solheimajokull's surface. As you inspect the surface, you'll notice the ash streaks caused by eruptions from nearby Katla volcano. During the hike, the guide will share stories about the Solheimajokull glacier's history and other interesting facts about the area.
Next, you'll head to Vik and visit the iconic Vikurkirkja church, known for its striking white paint and red roof. From there, you'll make a quick stop at Iceland's largest souvenir shop before heading to the captivating Reynisfjara black sand beach.
Reynisfjara's stunning shore is famous for its dramatic landscape, which includes striking black basalt columns, towering sea stacks, and crashing waves. As the jet-black sand touches your feet, you'll see the Reynisdrangar sea stacks, which rise dramatically from the ocean just off the coast. According to Icelandic folklore, these rocks are the remains of trolls who tried to drag a ship ashore but turned to stone when caught by the rising sun.
Your next stop is the beautiful Dyrholaey peninsula. The name Dyrholaey translates to "Door Hill Island," a reference to the massive archway in the rock formation that was once large enough for ships to pass through. You'll still see this arch standing, offering a panoramic view of the surrounding coastline.
After the Dyrholaey peninsula, you'll visit the Skogafoss waterfall. Located on the Skoga River, the Skogafoss waterfall boasts a height of 197 feet (60 meters) and a width of 82 feet (25 meters). Watching the waterfall, you'll see the mist rising from the base of the falls, creating frequent rainbows on sunny days.
You can get close to the waterfall's base to feel the cool spray of water on your skin and hear the deafening roar as the water crashes down. A staircase also leads to a viewpoint at the top, offering sweeping views of the surrounding landscape.
Your final stop is the Seljalandsfoss, one of Iceland's most photogenic waterfalls. The Seljalandsfoss waterfall plunges 60 meters (197 feet) over a steep cliff into a shallow pool below. However, what makes Seljalandsfoss truly unique is the footpath that allows you to walk behind the waterfall.
From behind the waterfall, you can catch glimpses of the surrounding landscape, with the mountains and plains stretching out in the distance.
To end the tour, you'll return to your comfortable vehicle for the ride back to Reykjavik as you carry the unforgettable memories of your Icelandic adventure.
Don't miss this chance to see the wonders of Iceland's South Coast by booking this private tour. Check availability now by choosing a date.
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