6 Best South Coast Day Trips from Reykjavik

The South Coast of Iceland is the most magical and wonder-filled region you will find in this country. It is precisely here that you will find most of the natural monuments and opportunities to get up close and personal with the breathtaking landscapes, waterfalls and glaciers that are one of the main attractions that give this location its charm.

If you visit Iceland, you'll soon discover that the South Coast is a must-see, which is fortunately very easy to access. To get to know this country, it's best to start with what you can see and do in Reykjavík, which is also the best starting point for comprehensive and spectacular excursions that will make your experience that much more complete.

Lack of time is no excuse for not taking a trip to Iceland's South Coast. If you only have a few days in this country, my advice is to dedicate at least one to a day trip and choose a tour of about 10 to 14 hours, which are definitely among the must-do excursions to do from Reykjavik.

These tours have a selection of spectacular and important stops, such as the Eyjafjallajökull volcano, the most impressive volcano in the country. Of course, you can't say you know Iceland without visiting at least one glacier. Vatnajokull is undoubtedly one of the most complete and incredible.

In one of its sections you will find the Jokulsarlon lagoon, where the Diamond Beach offers temporary ice sculptures that are an unforgettable spectacle. Be sure to take as many photos as possible, you'll love reliving these moments. It is, without a doubt, one of the best lagoons you can visit from Reykjavík.

Another essential stop that is included in several of these excursions is the famous black beach, Reynisfjara, formed entirely of basalt and with one of the best views you will enjoy among the landscapes of the south coast of Iceland.

Finally, among the selection of destinations, you can't miss the waterfalls of Iceland, of which there are many and all are worth a visit. But if you have to choose, I suggest the Skógafoss waterfall, which is the highest and has a stunning view that you can enjoy from its highest point, which can be reached by a staircase.

Interesting details

• Price: depending on the length of the tour, and the number of stops, you can find tours starting at 100 euros.
• Duration: between 10 and 14 hours.
• Advantages of this option: You can see a variety of Iceland's iconic landscapes in a single day, leaving you with a very good overall impression. Ideal for travellers with little time available.
• Disadvantages of this option: Stops at each location are short, lasting around half an hour or 45 minutes. A short time to be able to admire so much beauty. Also, not all entrance fees to the attractions may be included.

When a country has so many wonders to offer, you can't afford to waste the opportunity to get to know it better and spend at least two or three days discovering its scenery and magic.

The number of days can vary depending on the number of places you want to visit, and the amount of time you spend in each of them. In the case of some tours, it is possible to include additional activities such as horseback riding, snorkelling or the additional whale watching tour, which is another of **Reykjavik'**s great attractions.

The route of these excursions starts already on the road, which is full of breathtaking scenery. The south coast of Iceland, for example, is full of small villages where you can enjoy the charm of the people and their customs. But there's no denying that it' s the natural attractions that are most striking.

The glaciers and waterfalls are particularly famous, and rightly so. These natural wonders are as imposing as they are beautiful. In the case of the former, one of the favourites on this route is Solheimajokull whose hiking route offers an unforgettable view and you don't need much training to do it. Besides, the guides are very friendly and help you with everything you need.

For waterfalls, I will mention this time the Gljufrabui, which is a place that will definitely make you believe in magic.

But the truth is that you don't have to choose just one. When you take a multi-day tour of Iceland, the biggest advantage is that you can visit a much longer list of stops.

Interesting details

• Price: This type of tour can have a starting price of around 400 euros depending on the details.
• Duration: Depending on the choice, it can be from 3 to 8 days approximately.
• Advantages of this option: You will see a greater number of attractions, with enough time to dedicate to each one. In addition, the groups are usually small, which offers more comfort and intimacy.
• Disadvantages of this option: It is a larger investment of money, although it is well worth it.

If you're short on time, but have plenty of time to get to know something representative of Iceland, I recommend taking one of the tours that allow you to see at least some of the glaciers on Iceland's South Coast.

Some of these tours are quite short, ranging from half an hour to a maximum of three hours. Enough time to get there, walk around and arrange a transfer to Reykjavík airport, if that's what you need.

One of my favourites is the boat trip around the glacier. It takes about 40 minutes and you take a ride on the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. It's unforgettable for photos and you get the chance to see not only the icebergs, but also to get a taste of this ice that is at least a thousand years old.

And if you're lucky and attentive, you're sure to come across the friendly seals. In summer, there's no shortage of birds.

Hiking is another way to get to know the glaciers. At Skaftafell you'll find the perfect opportunity, in a wonderful black and white landscape. The best is the glacier tongue of Vatnajökull, one of the most impressive in Europe.

Finally, don't forget to consider a trip to one of the ice caves near Reykjavík. These unique spaces will make you feel like you're in another world. Any of these tours can be found with a duration of 3 hours.

Interesting details

• Price: This type of excursion can cost between 40 and 150 euros.
• Duration: from 30 minutes to 3 hours, depending on the excursion.
• Advantages of this option: You can plan it if your trip is short, and you will get a nice and representative souvenir of Iceland and its landscapes. It is also quite economical.
• Disadvantages of this option: In some cases, such as hiking tours, you must also consider the travel time to the meeting point of the tour.

Among the incredible excursions you can take to the south coast from Reykjavík, you'll find among the most impressive are those that take you to see the Aurora Borealis.

These magnificent lights are a true spectacle that gives you an unforgettable experience. You can choose between a day trip from Reykjavík to see the Northern Lights or take a little more time, such as a week, and let yourself be enveloped by this magical experience.

You can book this type of tour at any time of the year, but I strongly recommend that you do it in winter, which is the best time to see the Northern Lights in Iceland from Reykjavík.

One of the things you have to take advantage of on these tours are the guides, who are full of interesting knowledge and love to share it. Ask questions about the phenomena and their nature, the amazing scenery and especially the local culture. You will have the opportunity to enjoy it first hand.

Interesting details

• Price: depending on the duration of the excursion, it can start at a cost of 130 euros.
• Duration: You can choose from a 16-hour tour to a week-long tour, it's up to you!
• Advantages of this option: You get to see not only the south coast, but also other interesting places in Iceland.
• Disadvantages of this option: The Aurora Borealis cannot be guaranteed, let alone its intensity. You may find it fainter or stronger depending on the dates you choose.

Another way to see the south coast of Iceland is to take a self-paced tour of the south coast. What does that mean? A real adventure.

In this case, you would be purchasing a package that includes the hire of a vehicle suitable for the trip. You'll receive a set route, with the most iconic stops marked, such as Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls.

If you want to stay overnight along the way, just say the word and the package will include the best accommodation. And you can always start with Reykjavík itself and its exquisite food tours, before heading further afield.

For any questions, you'll have a set itinerary, with plenty of interesting and necessary information on each of the stops, such as the Eyjafjallajökull and Sólheimajökull glaciers. The vehicle comes with a GPS to help you follow the routes and you will have a professional travel agent following up and ready to answer any questions.

This is a great idea, as you can go at your own pace, and the group of people with whom you share the tour is practically your family, except in cases where you have to take a reserved ride in a specific spot.

By the way, another great advantage is that you can add some extra activities to the original package, such as the Icelandic horse rides... It's a great way to go the extra mile, take a few extra days and see as much as you can, taking in the scenery in small sips - the ultimate Icelandic holiday!

Details of interest

• Price: this type of tour can cost you from 400 euros, depending on the number of days, type of accommodation, bookings and extras.
• Duration: It will depend on your time, usually the least recommended is 3 to 5 days.
• Advantages of this option: You will be able to go at your own pace, without rushing. In addition, the company is your family and no one else. The price is also a plus.
• Disadvantages of this option: In some cases you may miss stops or information of interest, despite having everything in the guidebook.
• Type of vehicle: They will always be 4x4 models with everything you need to cover the routes of the trip.

If you're a sports enthusiast, visiting Iceland's south coast is an excellent opportunity to enjoy your favourite disciplines, and perhaps some new ones, surrounded by a landscape of unparalleled natural beauty.

Some choose a snowmobile tour as an adrenaline-filled, speedy experience. One of the most popular routes is to the Mýrdalsjökull glacier, making strategic stops at the Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls.

Another incredibly popular sport on Iceland's south coast is ice climbing, which takes place on the Sólheimajökull glacier. This activity does require a certain level of skill and experience, although expert guides are available.

They will explain the techniques used to manage this challenge, and will ensure your safety at all times. After choosing a wall to start the climb, you will begin to ascend little by little to the top, where the group will take some time to enjoy the scenery and explore the glacier a little more.

And you can't miss out on conquering the icy waters with your paddles aboard a kayak. This unique experience will take you out on the waters between the most imposing glaciers, such as Sólheimajökull itself. It's an adventure you can enjoy even if you have no previous experience, thanks to the guides and stable kayaks, ideal for novices.

Interesting details

• Price: the price will depend on the type of activity, but is around 100 euros, and you can even buy packages of three activities together.
• Duration: this will also depend on the type of activity, ranging from 3 hours to 11 hours, for example in the case of kayaking.
• Advantages of this option: If you are passionate about the sport, you will find new challenges and incredible landscapes to accompany you.
• Disadvantages of this option: In some cases, you must include travel time to the location where the activity takes place, e.g. ice climbing.

This is one of the most attractive areas in Iceland. The scenery is unique, thanks to the towering glaciers and impressive waterfalls. It's an unforgettable sight, and it's all concentrated in one geographical area.

Although it is possible to explore it on your own, I recommend that you choose from the wide variety of excursions that depart from Reykjavik. There you will find options to tailor the experiences to suit your style.

It is true that there are short excursions, of one day or less, but the best thing is to have the possibility of getting to know this land and its wonders, which are many, at your own pace.

I would like to give you some advice regarding the climate, which is quite cold. Be sure to take this into account, especially since the activities are outdoors, so wrap up warm.

On the other hand, most tours have English-speaking guides, but there are always some that offer tour guides in Spanish. Be sure to pay attention to this, in case it is imperative for you.

Finally, to really get the best experience, follow the indications of each of the excursions, especially those that include sports activities and it is your first time with snow sports.

Remember that while some of these experiences are suitable for all levels, others are recommended for people with practice -there's plenty to do on Iceland's south coast! You're sure to find the perfect experience.