From Reykjavik: Glacier Hike, South Coast and Waterfalls Day Trip

Reykjavik , Iceland

From Reykjavik: Glacier Hike, South Coast and Waterfalls Day Trip

Active

(856 reviews)

12h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Come explore the beautiful south coast of the land of Ice and Fire with us!
In this tour, you will discover some of the country's most famous waterfalls such as Seljalandsfoss and the impressive Skógafoss.

Another highlight is Reynisfjara, an endless black sand beach where you will get to see cliffs made of basalt columns making you feel on another planet.

In this tour, you will have the very special opportunity to hike a massive glacier with the proper material and a knowledgeable guide to assist you and keep you safe while giving you all the insights and tips you should know about Iceland and maybe even drinking the purest water in the world straight from the glacier!

Please dress according to the weather. Good hiking boots are required for the glacier hike (minimum size EU 36 / US 5,5 / UK 3,5). Hiking boots are not included in the tour.

Book hassle-free with us! We guarantee all our departures without minimum participation.

Available options

From Reykjavik: Glacier Hike, South Coast and Waterfalls Day Trip

Pickup included

What's included

Pick-up and Drop-off

Small group tour (maximum of 15 travelers)

English-speaking guide

Wifi

Glacier Hike at Sólheimajökull with guide – includes crampons, helmet & ice axe

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Our first stop is Skogafoss Waterfall. It is one of the most iconic waterfalls in the country and was even featured in Game of Thrones. His 60m drop will keep you speechless for sure. Your guide will tell you all about the hidden treasure chest behind the waterfall and with some luck, you will be the first one to find it.

Stop 2

Now it's time for the highlight of the tour. Besides waterfalls, Iceland is also known for glaciers. 11% of the country is covered by ice. Sólheimajökull is an outlet glacier coming down the fourth biggest glacier of Iceland, called Mýrdalsjökull. We put on our safety gear and start our hike on the glacier. The hike is approximately 2,5h long with 1,5h spend on the glacier.

Please note that good hiking boots are mandatory for the glacier hike. We will provide you with all the necessary gear (excluding boots) but full mobility is required in order to have a safe trip on the glacier. All our guides have a lot of experience with glacier hikes and they will make a final decision whether you are able to participate or not when we arrive at the glacier. Please remember that if a guide refuses to let you go on the glacier, the decision is made with your safety in mind.

Stop 3

Now it's time to hit the road again. After a short ride, we stop at Reynisfjara black sand beach. The beach was once rated as one of the 10 most beautiful places in the world and as soon as you put a foot on the beach, you will know why. Basalt columns and the well known Reynisdrangar rock formations await you. Your guide will tell you all the interesting stories and sagas that are connected to this place.

Stop 4

Heading back in the direction of Reykjavik, our last stop will be the ever-popular Seljalandsfoss waterfall. The waterfall lays underneath the well known Eyfjallajokull, the volcano that erupted in 2010. If conditions allow, we take a walk behind the waterfall’s curtain before paying a visit to its nearby cousin Gljúfrabúi, found hidden from view in the mountainside.

What's not included

Food & drinks (we’ll make a food stop – food not included in the price)

Hiking boots or outdoor clothing ((You must bring your own or rent in advance)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

269 reviews

5★

257

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

587 reviews

5★

575

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Not suitable for children younger than 8 years old

About Reykjavik

Reykjavik is the world's northernmost capital city, known for its vibrant cultural scene, stunning natural surroundings, and unique Icelandic charm. It offers a blend of modern amenities and ancient geothermal wonders, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.

Top Attractions

Hallgrímskirkja

This iconic church is a landmark of Reykjavik, known for its distinctive architecture and towering spire. It offers panoramic views of the city from its tower.

Architecture/Religious 1-2 hours Moderate (ISK 1000 for the tower)

Harpa Concert Hall

A stunning modern concert hall with a glass facade that reflects the surrounding landscape. It hosts a variety of performances and events.

Architecture/Entertainment 1-2 hours Free to enter, performance tickets vary

Blue Lagoon

A geothermal spa known for its milky-blue waters rich in minerals. It's a popular spot for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Nature/Relaxation Half a day Expensive (ISK 49,900 and up)

Reykjavik Art Museum

A museum showcasing contemporary Icelandic and international art. It's housed in a striking building with a glass facade.

Museum 1-2 hours Moderate (ISK 1400)

Perlan Museum

A unique museum located in a glass dome that offers a variety of exhibits, including a glacier exhibit and a planetarium.

Museum 2-3 hours Moderate to Expensive (ISK 3,990 and up)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Plokkfiskur

A traditional Icelandic fish stew made with mashed potatoes, white fish, onions, and béchamel sauce.

Main Course Contains fish and dairy

Hákarl

Fermented shark, a traditional Icelandic delicacy known for its strong smell and taste.

Snack Contains fish

Skyr

A thick, creamy Icelandic yogurt-like dairy product, often served with berries or cream.

Dessert Contains dairy

Rúgbrauð

A dense, dark rye bread traditionally baked underground using geothermal heat.

Bread Vegan

Popular Activities

Glacier hiking and ice climbing Whale watching Snowmobiling on a glacier Caving and lava tunnel exploration Visiting geothermal spas like the Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon Enjoying a traditional Icelandic massage or spa treatment Taking a leisurely walk around Tjörnin Lake in Reykjavik Visiting museums and galleries

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the warmest time of the year with long daylight hours, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The city is lively with numerous festivals and events.

8°C to 13°C (46°F to 55°F) 46°F to 55°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Icelandic
Widely spoken: English, Danish, German
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Icelandic Króna (ISK)

Time Zone

GMT+0

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Iceland is a very safe country with low crime rates. However, it's always important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure your safety.

Important Precautions:

• Keep your valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
• Be cautious when using ATMs, and only use ATMs located in secure, well-lit areas
• Research tour operators and rental companies before booking to ensure they are reputable and legitimate

Getting there

By air

Keflavík International Airport • 50 km (31 miles) from Reykjavik

By bus

BSÍ Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is efficient and affordable, with frequent services and easy-to-use ticketing.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Bustravel, Uber (limited availability)

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Reykjavik Hlemmur Vesturbær

Day trips

Golden Circle

230 km (143 miles) from Reykjavik • Full day

A popular day trip route that includes three of Iceland's most famous attractions: Þingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss Waterfall.

South Coast

150-200 km (93-124 miles) from Reykjavik • Full day or overnight

A scenic drive along Iceland's south coast, offering a variety of attractions, including waterfalls, black sand beaches, and glaciers.

Snæfellsnes Peninsula

240 km (149 miles) from Reykjavik • Full day or overnight

A scenic peninsula known as 'Iceland in Miniature' due to its diverse landscapes, including mountains, glaciers, lava fields, and beaches.

Festivals

Reykjavik Arts Festival • Late May to early June Iceland Airwaves • Early November Reykjavik Winter Lights Festival • Late January to early February

Pro tips

Visit the Blue Lagoon or another geothermal spa for a relaxing and rejuvenating experience
Explore Reykjavik's street art and murals, which can be found throughout the city
Take a day trip to the Golden Circle or another nearby attraction for a taste of Iceland's natural wonders
Try traditional Icelandic food, such as lamb soup, fish stew, and fermented shark
Visit a local brewery or distillery and sample Icelandic craft beer or spirits