South Coast Small-Group Tour from Reykjavik

Reykjavik , Iceland

South Coast Small-Group Tour from Reykjavik

Active

(96 reviews)

10h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Tour the justly popular south coast of Iceland and discover the country's wild and diverse nature at its very best. Explore glaciers, steep cliffs, roaring waterfalls, and black sand beaches. Get insight into the region from your local driver-guide on a minibus day tour from Reykjavik.

Begin the journey east from Reykjavik along the southern coast, and make the first stops at Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls.

Then, head toward the black sand beach of Reynisfjara, located on Iceland’s southernmost point. Admire the enormous basalt columns, and if the tide conditions are right, explore the sea caves.

Next is Vik, the remote seafront village home to basalt sea stacks. Legend has it that the stacks are made of frozen trolls who were turned to stone while playing in the sea.

After making the last stop of the day at Solheimajokull glacier, return to Reykjavik and get dropped off at your original departure point.

Available options

South Coast Small-Group Tour from Reykjavik

Pickup included

What's included

Tour exclusively on a minibus

Pickup and drop-off from designated bus stops & hotels

Live commentary on board

Professional local driver-guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Admire this wonderful waterfall. The scale of it is incredibly impressive, especially considering the amount of spray rising as the water smashes against the rocks below. You can walk as close to the waterfall as you dare.

At Dyrhólaey, you'll witness breathtaking panoramic views of Iceland's black sand beaches and dramatic coastline framed by an iconic rock arch, while during summer, you can observe adorable nesting puffins.

Stop 3

This stretch of coastline is renowned for its beauty, eeriness, and dramatic geology. Another very photogenic place with many hexagonal basalt columns. In summer, you may spot puffins up on the cliffs.

Stop for a meal in Iceland’s southernmost village, Vík í Mýrdal, where you can enjoy delicious lamb soup or the famous black dough pizza (no included in price)

Stop 5

This fascinating glacier tongue stretches from the greater ice cap Myrdalsjokull, which covers the volcano Katla, the eruptions of which are even bigger than Eyjafjallajokull's. It is about 15 min walk from the parking lot to a good viewpoint to admire the glacier.

Stop 6

This falls, which is over sixty metres tall, tumbles from a cliff that curves inwards; this means when there is no ice on the ground you can walk behind it, allowing for some excellent photographs.

What's not included

Food and drinks

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.7

36 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

60 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Solid, warm waterproof shoes as well as warm rain- and wind-proof outdoor clothing is recommended. For the best comfort we recommend having mittens and hat even in the summer season

The tour operator reserves the right to delay, alter, or cancel the tour due to weather or any other unsafe conditions for the safety of the clients. If canceled due to unsafe conditions, you will be given the option of an alternative date or a full refund

A maximum of 17 passengers (no big buses!)

Please note: due to the driving restrictions in Reykjavík, we cannot guarantee a hotel pickup from all hotels. In case your hotel is located in the restricted area, we will ask you to meet us at a designated bus stop, which is never more than few minutes walking distance.

Please notify us in case you want us to provide a child seat / in case you are travelling with service animal.

Important notes

• Please be ready outside your pickup location by 8:30 am. Pick up between 8:30 a.m. - 9:00 am depending on the pickup list order and traffic. Please have your phone on and ready to receive a phone call during the pickup time if needed.
• Please make sure you board on a minibus with Gateway to Iceland and not with any other company
• Duration is approximately 10-11 hours
• Warm outdoor waterproof clothing and solid shoes recommended; Mittens and hat are advisable also in summer time
• Food and drinks are not included in the price of the tour, however, there are refreshment stops on the tour, therefore you do not need to bring your own food, you can purchase it at the restaurant/café
• Gateway to Iceland reserves the right to delay, alter or cancel any tour due to weather or any other unsafe conditions for the safety of our clients or if minimum number of travelers is not reached
• It is required by the Icelandic law to have child seats/boosters; As some families already travel with their own, it is kindly asked of you to notify the tour by email/phone in case you would like the tour to provide you one for the tour

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