Our first destination of the day is the magnificent Skógafoss waterfall. This impressive natural wonder stands at a height of 60 meters and cascades from ancient sea cliffs, with the iconic Eyjafjallajökull volcano gracing the backdrop. The sheer magnitude of Skógafoss’s descent makes it a truly awe-inspiring sight.
The picturesque village of Vík is located east of Skógafoss and is renowned for its captivating church and breathtaking views of the Reynisdrangar sea rock formations. Despite its small size, Vík offers a welcoming haven for tired travelers to replenish their energy. It’s also an excellent opportunity to acquire locally crafted souvenirs to commemorate your visit to Iceland.
A brief stroll from the village along a scenic path takes you to the Vík black sand beach, providing you with the closest vantage point to admire the Reynisdrangar Sea-Stacks. According to local folklore, some more spiritually inclined individuals believe these stacks to be the petrified remains of trolls.
Reynisfjara black sand beach is a renowned natural wonder in Iceland, earning a spot on National Geographic’s list of the world’s top 10 non-tropical beaches. This striking shoreline boasts ebony sands crafted by the relentless forces of the sea, resulting from the erosion of black volcanic rocks.
During your visit, you’ll also encounter the peculiar and surreal basalt column wall. It’s a quintessential Icelandic experience to ascend these columns and strike a pose for memorable photographs. The beach’s captivating cave adds to its wonder and serves as a popular location for wedding photoshoots, with good reason.
Exploring this area offers you an alternative perspective of Reynisfjara and Dyrhólaey. However, it’s essential to exercise caution, as the region is known for sneaker waves. Please follow your guide’s safety instructions, as the area can be quite rugged and exposed to strong winds. Be sure to dress warmly to stay comfortable in this unpredictable coastal environment.
Sólheimajökull, an outlet glacier of Mýrdalsjökull icecap, descends 8km from its parent glacier, showcasing climate change effects. Despite its fascinating and eerie beauty, the glacier now requires a 20-minute walk from a nearby parking lot due to its retreat. Over the years, the glacier has melted rapidly, leaving behind unique features like moraines, steep mountains, large rock boulders, and a small glacier lagoon. The ice’s color varies and can even appear distinctly blue after rainfall, highlighting the immense influence of these powerful glaciers on the landscape.
Seljalandsfoss, a famous Instagram spot, boasts a path leading around and behind the waterfall. Fed by Eyjafjallajökull glacier-capped volcano, it’s a top Icelandic attraction. Nearby, find the hidden gem, Gljúfrabúi waterfall. Raincoats and sturdy shoes are essential, especially if you plan to walk behind the waterfall. This marks the end of our tour, and we commence our journey back to the city, where your Icelandic adventure can continue.