From Reykjavik: South Coast and Glacier Hiking Private Tour

Discover the South Coast of Iceland on a Private Day Tour from Reykjavik with Iceland Odyssey. For $1,589 per group, you’ll spend around 10 hours exploring iconic sights like the Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls, walking on the Sólheimajökull glacier with a seasoned guide, and marveling at the volcanic landscape at the Reynisfjara black sand beach. Your guide, often a local with a passion for nature and geology, makes the journey both informative and relaxed. The tour offers the flexibility of private transportation and the chance to see Iceland’s dramatic scenery without the crowds, making it a great option for travelers seeking a personalized experience.

Two features stand out. First, the private glacier hike provides an intimate look at Iceland’s glaciers, with a guide sharing insights about glacial formation and volcanic activity. Second, the timed stops at waterfalls and beaches give you ample opportunity for photos and soaking in the views without feeling rushed. A potential drawback? The tour length and specific stops might be tight for those wanting a more leisurely pace, particularly if you’re slow-moving or prefer more time at each site.

This tour is best suited for travelers who love natural scenery, want to experience Iceland’s geological wonders firsthand, and prefer a private, guided adventure that covers a lot in one day. If you’re not keen on hiking on ice or have mobility restrictions, you might want to look elsewhere. Overall, it’s a solid choice for those eager to see Iceland’s highlights with a personal touch.

Key Points

• Private Experience: Enjoy the comfort of a private group and personalized attention.
• Glacier Hike: Walk on Sólheimajökull with an experienced guide, learning about glaciers and volcanic landscapes.
• Waterfalls and Beaches: Marvel at Skogafoss, Seljalandsfoss, and Reynisfjara’s basalt columns.
• Flexible Pickup: Includes convenient Reykjavik pickup for ease of planning.
• Time Management: The full-day itinerary packs in multiple sites, so early departures help maximize your experience.
• Value: Combines iconic sights, adventure, and convenience into a well-rounded day trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the South Coast Private Tour

Exploring Iceland’s South Coast on a private tour offers a mix of stunning natural beauty, adventure, and the luxury of avoiding large tour groups. The journey begins with pickup from your Reykjavik accommodation, often by a comfortable Toyota Proace Verso, which means you can relax and enjoy the scenery right from the start. The vehicle’s Wi-Fi and bottled water keep you refreshed, and the itinerary is flexible enough to accommodate your interests.

The Journey from Reykjavik

The tour starts early, with a drive of about 2.2 hours down Iceland’s scenic route. During this time, your guide, like many previous travelers, is a wealth of knowledge about Iceland’s geology, volcanoes, and landscapes. This ride is a perfect chance to get oriented and ask questions, all while watching the changing scenery roll by.

Sólheimajökull Glacier Walk

The highlight for many is the glacier walk, which lasts around two hours. Your guide, an experienced glacier guide, leads you onto the Sólheimajökull, an outlet glacier from the larger Mýrdalsjökull. The walk is described as “easy,” but sturdy hiking shoes and waterproof clothing are essential. The guide provides a safety briefing and shares insights into how glaciers form and their significance to Iceland’s volcanic activity.

The scenery here is captivating—blue ice, crevasses, and the surrounding volcanic landscape make the experience memorable. Some travelers mention that during the summer, a glacier lagoon forms in front of the ice, adding to the visual drama. The walk offers a real taste of icy wilderness, but it’s accessible enough for most healthy travelers.

Waterfalls: Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss

Next, the tour stops at Skogafoss, one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls. Its impressive 60-meter drop creates a constant spray that often produces rainbows, a perfect moment for photos. A short walk up the stairs takes you to a viewpoint above the falls, giving a different perspective.

Less than an hour later, you arrive at Seljalandsfoss, famous for its walk-behind feature. Walking behind the waterfall gives a unique perspective and is a favorite for many travelers to capture on camera. Be prepared for mist and potentially slippery footing—wear waterproof clothing and sturdy shoes.

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Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach and Dyrhólaey

After the waterfalls, the tour moves to Reynisfjara, well known for its black volcanic sands and basalt columns that resemble organ pipes. The roaring Atlantic waves and the towering sea stacks make this a dramatic site. The proximity of Dyrhólaey adds to the scenic variety, offering panoramic views of the coast and observes puffins during the summer months.

Expect around 45 minutes here, enough to stroll, take photos, and appreciate Iceland’s raw power. Many reviews mention the wind and spray, so protective clothing is advisable, especially if you’re sensitive to cold.

Final Highlights and Return

The last stops are at Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss, giving a final chance to enjoy these waterfalls before heading back to Reykjavik. The return drive is approximately 2.2 hours, but many find the conversation and scenery make the time pass quickly.

The Value of This Tour

At $1,589 for a private group, the cost might seem high at first glance. But consider what you get: a full day of personalized service, all transportation, guided glacier walk, and multiple iconic stops. It’s an efficient way to see several highlights without the hassle of self-driving or joining larger, less flexible groups.

The inclusion of Wi-Fi and snacks adds comfort, and the pick-up service saves you from logistical headaches. While the tour doesn’t include meals, the stops at Vik and other sites allow for flexible dining options—perhaps a packed lunch or quick café visit.

Authenticity and Personal Touch

Many travelers appreciate the personalized nature of this tour. Guides often share local stories, geological insights, and practical tips. The private setting also lets you customize a bit—more photo stops, extra time at a favorite site, or questions about Iceland’s volcanic activity.

Practical Considerations

The tour’s length and tight scheduling mean you should be ready for a packed day. If you’re someone who prefers a slow pace or more time at each stop, this might not be the best fit. Also, since not suitable for pregnant women, mobility-impaired, or those with heart problems, plan accordingly.

The Sum Up

This private South Coast and Glacier Hiking Tour offers a balanced blend of adventure, stunning scenery, and convenience. For travelers eager to see Iceland’s dramatic landscapes without the crowds, it delivers a memorable, personalized experience. The glacier hike, waterfalls, and black sand beaches provide plenty of opportunities for breathtaking photos and meaningful encounters with nature.

It’s especially well-suited for those who enjoy a bit of physical activity, are comfortable with a full schedule, and value the comfort of private transportation. If you’re after a flexible, informative, and visually stunning day trip, this tour is an excellent choice.

For those on a tight schedule or with mobility issues, consider alternatives. But for most adventurous travelers, it’s hard to beat the combination of scenery, guides, and the authenticity this experience offers.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a guided glacier walk on Sólheimajökull, private transportation, pickup from Reykjavik, Wi-Fi, bottled water, and snacks.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but there are stops at Vik and other sites where you can buy food or pack your own.

How long is the drive from Reykjavik?
The drive to the glacier and back is about 2.2 hours each way, giving plenty of time for sightseeing and comfort.

Is the glacier walk difficult?
The walk is described as easy, but sturdy hiking shoes and waterproof clothing are essential. It’s suitable for most healthy adults.

Can I join the tour if I have mobility issues?
No, the tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or certain health conditions like heart problems.

What should I bring?
Warm, waterproof clothing, hiking shoes suitable for ice, snacks, and a camera are recommended.

Is the tour family-friendly?
While most children with good mobility can enjoy it, the glacier walk and outdoor conditions might be challenging for young children and those sensitive to cold.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility in case plans change.

In sum, this tour offers a well-rounded Iceland adventure—highlighting stunning waterfalls, volcanic beaches, and glacier landscapes—all tailored for a private group seeking an authentic, engaging day out.

You can check availability for your dates here: