Reykjavik: South Coast Private Guided Day Tour

Reykjavik: South Coast Private Guided Day Tour
Location: Southern Region, Iceland
Price: $1,214 per group (up to 7 people)
Duration: 9 hours
Rating: 4.8/5 (based on 5 reviews)
Provider: GlacierHeli & Tourismiceland

A quick glance at this tour?: You’ll spend about nine hours exploring some of Iceland’s most iconic spots, including Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls, the black sands of Reynisfjara Beach, the Sólheimajökull Glacier, and the charming village of Vik. For a private group, this offers a chance for personalized attention and flexible pacing—plus, the onboard Wi-Fi means you can share those jaw-dropping views in real time.

What we love: First, the expert guides (notably DJ and Rafal, according to glowing reviews) who bring each site to life with insider knowledge. Second, the variety of stunning landscapes, from crashing waterfalls to volcanic beaches, that make every photo an Instagram-worthy moment.

One possible consideration? The tour’s full-day schedule means a long day in the car for some travelers, so comfort and patience are key. Also, since food is not included, packing snacks or planning to buy lunch in Vik adds an extra step.

Who is this best for? If you’re eager to see the most photogenic spots of Iceland’s south coast with a knowledgeable guide and prefer a private, intimate experience, then this tour could be a great fit. It’s especially appealing if you’re traveling with a small group or family wanting flexible, personalized attention.

Key Points

• Private & Personalized: Tailored for small groups up to 7, with flexible pacing and direct guide interaction.
• Diverse Landscapes: From waterfalls and glaciers to volcanic beaches, each stop offers a unique natural spectacle.
• Expert Guides: Guides like DJ and Rafal are praised for their knowledge and enthusiasm, making the experience more engaging.
• Comfort & Connectivity: Private transportation with onboard Wi-Fi helps keep the group comfortable and connected.
• Long but Rewarding Day: Ideal for travelers who want an immersive, full-day experience without rushing.
• Food and Drinks: Not included in the price, so plan ahead if you want a proper lunch or snacks.

You can check availability for your dates here:

In-Depth Review: Exploring Iceland’s South Coast in Comfort and Style

Starting Point: Reykjavik and Early Departure

The tour kicks off with hotel pickup and drop-off, which is a huge plus. No need to worry about navigating or finding your way to a meeting point—your guide takes care of the logistics. You’ll head out in a private vehicle that comfortably seats up to seven people, giving the group a cozy, intimate vibe.

As you leave Reykjavik behind, the scenery begins to change immediately. We loved the way the landscape unfolds from urban to wild, with panoramic views that set the tone for the day. Since Wi-Fi is available on board, you can upload your first photos en route or just enjoy the scenery with some music or a chat.

Seljalandsfoss: A Waterfall You Can Walk Behind

Your first major stop is Seljalandsfoss, a waterfall that plummets 66 meters, offering a spectacular curtain of water. One of the highlights? You can actually walk behind it—an experience that’s both refreshing and a little adventurous. As one reviewer points out, “We loved the way you could see the waterfall from different angles,” and the ability to walk around makes it a favorite for many.

Expect about 45 minutes here, enough time to take photos, explore, and perhaps get a little mist on your camera. The setting is picturesque, with the water sometimes creating rainbows if the sun is out—a real treat.

Skogafoss: Power and Rainbows

Next up is Skogafoss, one of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls, with a 60-meter drop and a constant roar. The guide will probably point out the rainbows that often form in the spray—an iconic shot. Many reviews mention how impressive the power of Skogafoss is, with one visitor calling it “incredible.” You’ll have about 45 minutes here to climb the adjacent staircase for a different perspective or just marvel from below.

More Great Tours Nearby

Sólheimajökull Glacier: Close-Up with Ice

Your next stop is the Sólheimajökull Glacier. Here, you’ll get a chance to see the glacier’s surface up close. Although the tour doesn’t specify ice climbing or hiking, the time allocated allows for great photos of the crystalline ice and surrounding volcanic landscape. Several guests appreciated the opportunity to capture pictures of this stunning natural feature—perfect for sharing with friends or just savoring the moment.

Reynisfjara Beach: Black Sand & Basalt Columns

One of the most famous sights in Iceland, Reynisfjara Beach, features black sands, dazzling basalt columns, and Reynisdrangar sea stacks. As you stroll along the black volcanic sands, you’ll notice the waves of the North Atlantic pounding the shore, creating a dramatic scene. The guide will share insights into how this beach formed and why these basalt formations are so unique.

This stop is about 45 minutes long, providing ample time for photos, a quick walk, or a visit to the local gift shops. The reviews highlight how mesmerizing the black sand and sea stacks are—truly a bucket-list spot.

Vik: Village Charm and Lunch Break

In Vik, you’ll have around an hour to stretch your legs, purchase lunch, or explore the beach further. The small size of the village (pop. 320) makes it a cozy stop. One traveler mentioned how walking on the beach and seeing the basalt sea stacks up close was a highlight, and having time to grab a meal means you can avoid the crowds and eat at your own pace.

Dyrhólaey & Wrap-Up: Coastal Views & Return

The tour may include a 30-minute stop at Dyrhólaey, a promontory offering sweeping views of the coastline and puffin nesting sites (if in season). The final stretch takes you back towards Reykjavik, with memories of waterfalls, glaciers, and volcanic sands lingering.

Throughout, the private nature of the tour allows your guide to adapt the pace or spend a little extra time at sites you love, which many reviews praise. The knowledgeable guides like DJ and Rafal receive high marks for their storytelling and answering questions, turning what could be just a sightseeing trip into a rich, engaging experience.

Overall Value & Experience

At $1,214 for up to 7 people, this tour costs about $173 per person. While that’s not cheap, you’re paying for personalized attention, comfort, and the ability to see a diverse range of sights in one day without the hassle of self-driving or organizing multiple stops. The onboard Wi-Fi is a thoughtful touch, especially for sharing your pictures or staying connected.

Many previous travelers have raved about the guides’ expertise and the breathtaking scenery—one reviewer said, “Rafal was absolutely an amazing + informative guide,” emphasizing how the guide made the long day special. Others appreciated the timing and site selection, feeling the experience was well-paced and comprehensive.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re after a personalized, flexible, and comfortable way to explore the highlights of Iceland’s south coast, this private tour checks many boxes. It’s especially suitable if you love photography, want to learn from knowledgeable guides, and prefer a small group setting over large bus tours. The stops are carefully chosen to showcase Iceland’s iconic landscapes, and the private format means you get more attention and tailored insights.

While the price may seem steep, the value of convenience, comfort, and expert guidance often outweighs the cost for many travelers. It’s perfect for those keen to maximize their time and experience the natural beauty with fewer crowds and more personal interaction. Just remember to bring snacks or plan a meal in Vik since food isn’t included.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is this a full-day tour? Yes, it lasts about 9 hours, including pickup, stops, and return to Reykjavik.
• Can I customize the stops? As a private tour, the guides are flexible and can tailor the experience to your interests within the scheduled sites.
• Is food included? No, meals are not included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to buy lunch in Vik.
• What’s the group size? It’s a private group, with a maximum of 7 people.
• Is Wi-Fi available on the vehicle? Yes, Wi-Fi is provided, making it easy to share photos or stay connected.
• How experienced are the guides? Reviews praise guides like DJ and Rafal for their knowledge and friendliness, making the day more engaging.
• What if I want to cancel? You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if plans change.
• Is this tour suitable for children? While not explicitly stated, the moderate pace and scenic stops generally suit families, but consider the long day and walking involved.

In essence, this tour offers a thoughtfully curated way to see Iceland’s south coast at your own pace with a knowledgeable guide. It’s a fantastic mix of natural wonders and cultural insights, making it perfect for travelers seeking a more intimate, flexible experience—especially if photography and storytelling matter to you.

You can check availability for your dates here: