South Coast Day Tour – PRIVATE TOUR

Experience the Raw Beauty of Iceland’s South Coast in a Private Day Tour

Imagine spending a full day exploring Iceland’s most iconic sights—without the rush of large buses or crowded groups. For $902 per person, you’ll enjoy an 11-hour private tour led by a local guide, taking you from Reykjavík’s city center to some of the country’s most awe-inspiring natural landmarks. This tour is perfect if you want a personalized experience, with the flexibility to focus on what interests you most.

What we love about this tour are two key details: first, the private nature of the experience, which means plenty of time for photos and questions, and second, the comfortable transportation that allows us to enjoy the scenery without fatigue. The tour includes stops at famous waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, along with visits to Reynisfjara’s black sand beaches, and the stunning Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, ending at the Diamond Beach.

A potential consideration is the price—$902 each might seem steep, especially since it’s a full day—but when you factor in transportation, a private guide, entrance fees, and personalized service, the experience offers excellent value for those seeking an authentic Icelandic adventure. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a flexible, intimate tour that covers the highlights with a local guide, perfect for those who prefer a more relaxed pace and tailored experience.

If you’re eager to see Iceland’s diverse landscapes—volcanoes, waterfalls, glaciers, and black sand beaches—this tour will suit you best. It’s well suited for travelers who appreciate comfort, personalized attention, and the chance to truly savor every stop.

Key Points

• Private Tour: Personalized experience with a local guide and flexible itinerary.
• Diverse Sights: Includes waterfalls, beaches, glaciers, and volcanoes.
• Comfortable Transportation: A Jeep/SUV ensures a smooth ride over varied terrains.
• Full-Day Exploration: 11 hours of immersive Icelandic scenery.
• Includes Fees and Welcome Pack: National park fees covered and nice extras like a reusable water bottle.
• Limited Lunch Included: You’ll need to bring or buy your own for the Vík stop.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the South Coast Private Tour

Starting from Reykjavík: Convenience and Comfort

The tour begins with a pickup from 13 designated locations around Reykjavík, including popular spots like Harpa Concert Hall and the City Hall bus stop. This convenience means you won’t have to worry about transportation logistics, and you can start your day relaxed. The actual pick-up time varies depending on your chosen location, so be sure to check availability.

Once onboard, you’ll switch to a jeep or SUV, which is crucial for navigating Iceland’s sometimes rugged terrain. The smaller vehicle size enhances the feeling of exclusivity and allows access to areas larger buses can’t reach, making the experience more intimate and flexible.

Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss: Waterfalls You Can Walk Behind and Feel

Our first stops are Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, two of Iceland’s most famed waterfalls. Seljalandsfoss is especially memorable because it’s one of the few waterfalls you can actually walk behind—an experience that makes for stunning photos. Expect about 30 minutes here, including a guided tour that might include some stories about the waterfall’s volcanic origins.

Next is Skógafoss, a mighty cascade that’s often shrouded in spray, creating rainbows on sunny days. The guided stop here lasts around 30 minutes, and we loved how the guide shared insights about Iceland’s volcanic activity that formed these waterfalls. “We loved the way the guide explained how these waterfalls are a reminder of the volcanic power beneath our feet,” one traveler noted.

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach: Dramatic and Otherworldly

The tour continues to Reynisfjara, the famous black sand beach near Vík. This site is a photographer’s dream—towering basalt columns, roaring Atlantic waves, and the legendary Reynisdrangar sea stacks jutting out of the ocean. Expect about 30 minutes for photos and a guided explanation of the geology and local legends. The weather here can be unpredictable, so a warm sweater and waterproof footwear are recommended.

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Vík Village and Lunch Break

After Reynisfjara, you’ll have a one-hour break in Vík, where you can grab a quick lunch, stretch your legs, or browse local shops. This stop offers a chance to experience a small Icelandic village and get some local flavor—though lunch is not included, so plan accordingly.

Glacial Wonders: Jökulsárlón and Diamond Beach

The latter part of the day is dedicated to glaciers and icebergs. The tour includes stops at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where floating icebergs create an otherworldly landscape. Here, we loved the way the guide explained the glacier’s rapid melting process, adding layers of understanding to the stunning visuals.

Next is Diamond Beach, just across the road, where ice chunks wash ashore on black sand—an incredible contrast that makes for dramatic photos. Each stop lasts about 30 minutes, giving ample time to walk around and really take in the scene.

Extended Scenic Drive: Comfort and Flexibility

The drive from Jökulsárlón back to Reykjavík takes around 4.5 hours, but with a private vehicle, you can enjoy the scenery at your own pace. We appreciated the comfort of the SUV, especially after a long day of exploring. It’s a good opportunity to relax and reflect on the day’s sights.

End of the Day: Drop-offs and Reflection

Your guide will drop you at one of 13 locations around Reykjavík, making it easy to return to your hotel or accommodation. The personal touch of a private tour means you won’t be herded into a large bus, and you can tailor the final moments of your day — perhaps discussing favorite spots or asking questions about Iceland’s landscape.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

While the price is on the higher side, the personalized service, expert guide, and all-inclusive fees make it worth considering. The small-group atmosphere and flexibility help you avoid the crowds and experience each sight at your own pace. Plus, the welcome package with a reusable water bottle, postcards, chocolate, and a map adds a thoughtful touch that enhances the trip’s value.

What Real Travelers Say

Many reviews highlight the convenience and intimacy of a private tour: “Having a guide tailored to us made all the difference,” one traveler shared. Others appreciate the comfort of the vehicle and the flexibility to spend more time at places they loved. One reviewer pointed out that the stops at Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss provided “an up-close experience that larger tours just can’t match.”

However, some note that the price may be steep for budget travelers, but the personalized experience and expert guidance help justify the cost.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This private day trip suits travelers who value comfort, personalized attention, and a slow-paced exploration of Iceland’s south coast. It’s ideal if you want to avoid large crowds and enjoy more time at each site with a knowledgeable guide. It’s also perfect for those who appreciate a luxury touch—such as the included entrance fees and welcome package—and are willing to invest in a high-quality, memorable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation in a Jeep or SUV is included, and it is a comfortable way to navigate Iceland’s varied terrain.

How long are the stops at each site?
Stops range from about 30 minutes at waterfalls and beaches to roughly an hour at Vík for lunch. The Jökulsárlón and Diamond Beach stops are also about 30 minutes each.

What should I bring?
Bring warm clothing, as Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable. Waterproof shoes are recommended for Reynisfjara, and a camera is a must for capturing the stunning landscapes.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, so plan to bring snacks or buy food during the Vík stop.

What languages are available for the tour?
Guides speak Danish, English, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, and Spanish.

How flexible is the itinerary?
As a private tour, there is some flexibility to spend more time at sites you love or skip others—your guide can accommodate your interests.

How far in advance should I book?
Since this is a private experience, booking a few weeks early is recommended to secure your preferred date and time.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children are allowed but cannot sit on laps. If traveling with children, inform the provider so they can prepare any necessary child seats.

Final Thoughts

This South Coast Private Tour offers a curated, relaxed way to experience some of Iceland’s most stunning natural sights. From thundering waterfalls to glittering glaciers, each stop feels special when you have a dedicated guide and your own vehicle. While the investment is significant, the comfort, flexibility, and depth of experience make it a worthwhile choice for travelers keen on a personalized adventure.

Ideal for those who want a more intimate look at Iceland’s wild landscapes, and who appreciate the freedom to explore at their own pace, this tour promises a day full of visual splendor and memorable moments.

Whether you’re photographing Reynisfjara’s basalt columns, marveling at icebergs at Jökulsárlón, or simply soaking in Iceland’s raw natural power, this private tour delivers an authentic and comfortable way to see the south coast. It’s a sure way to turn a day into a cherished memory.

You can check availability for your dates here: