Iceland’s South Coast – World’s Best Day Tour from Reykjavík

Why is Iceland’s South Coast the Unique Destination in the World?

Iceland’s South Coast is unique because of the rare convergence of geological and climatic factors that are almost exclusive to this small, volcanic island. 

Unlike most other countries, Iceland sits directly atop the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where tectonic plates meet, leading to intense volcanic activity that has sculpted a rugged and varied landscape over millions of years. 

This volcanic power has formed the island’s distinct black sand beaches, lava fields, and geothermal areas, features that are not commonly found in such proximity elsewhere in the world. 

Plus, Iceland’s high latitude and unique weather patterns have allowed vast glaciers to form, even as active volcanoes exist nearby, creating rare natural sights such as glacier-covered volcanoes and crystal ice caves that change form each season. 

Few places on Earth combine such dynamic forces—volcanic, glacial, and oceanic—in such a small, accessible region, giving Iceland a distinctive natural tapestry that countries with less extreme geological conditions simply don’t have.

The South Coast of Iceland plays a central role in showcasing this unique geological drama, as it’s where these powerful natural forces most vividly converge and are easily accessible within a day’s journey from Reykjavík. 

The south part of Iceland is where you can experience Iceland’s famous volcanic landscapes firsthand, with black sand beaches like Reynisfjara, formed from ancient volcanic eruptions, lying close to active volcanoes such as Eyjafjallajökull. 

Just inland, the South Coast is dotted with sprawling glaciers like Sólheimajökull, which creep down from the larger ice caps and offer visitors a close look at the effects of glaciation in a volcanic region.

The South Coast’s abundance of waterfalls, fed by melting glaciers and shaped by volcanic rock, shows how these forces constantly shape the landscape. 

This area’s unique geography makes it a concentrated showcase of Iceland’s natural extremes, with cliffs, mountains, lava fields, and the open Atlantic all within reach, allowing visitors to witness the planet’s raw, geological processes in a way few places on Earth can offer.

The South Coast is essentially Iceland’s open-air exhibit of its dramatic and rare environmental features, making it the quintessential Icelandic experience. Immerse yourself in the wonders of Iceland as you explore volcanoes, ancient glaciers, and iconic black sand beaches, all packed into a single day on the breathtaking South Coast tour from Reykjavík.

What to See on the South Coast of Iceland

Many world renowned natural attractions are found along the Southern Shore of Iceland, including the black sand beach, the glacier lagoons, and the volcanos.

Seljalandsfoss waterfall

Seljalandsfoss waterfall is one of Iceland’s most enchanting natural highlights, and it’s easy to see why it captures the hearts of visitors. 

Cascading gracefully from a height of 60 meters (197 feet), the stunning Seljalandsfoss waterfall flows over a cliff with a hidden surprise—a pathway that leads behind the curtain of water itself. Standing within the rocky enclave behind the falls, you’ll find yourself surrounded by shimmering droplets, with a unique, dreamlike view of the Icelandic landscape through the veil of water. Fed by glacial meltwater from Eyjafjallajokull, Seljalandsfoss is especially breathtaking at sunset, when the light turns golden and casts a magical glow across the mist.

Accessible and just off the Ring Road, it’s a must-see for any traveler seeking to experience the power and beauty of Iceland’s landscapes up close.

Skogafoss waterfall

Skógafoss waterfall is a majestic force of nature that captivates all who visit South Iceland. Like Seljalandsfoss, its water also originates from the Eyjafjallajökull glacier-volcano.

Plunging 60 meters (197 feet) from the cliffs of an ancient coastline, Skógafoss creates a thundering roar and a dramatic display of mist that often reveals rainbows on sunny days. Standing at the base of the falls, you’ll feel the cool spray as the water crashes into the pool below, an experience that’s both humbling and exhilarating. 

For those looking to take in the view from above, a staircase beside the falls offers a panoramic vantage point over the cascading water and the lush, green valley stretching out below. 

Skógafoss is not just a waterfall but a symbol of Iceland’s raw nature—an unmissable stop on any journey along the South Coast.

Eyjafjallajokull volcano-glacier

Eyjafjallajökull is a remarkable volcano glacier that embodies Iceland’s unique landscape of “fire and ice.” 

Located on the South Coast, this glacier-covered volcano gained worldwide attention during its 2010 eruption, which sent vast ash clouds into the atmosphere and disrupted air travel across Europe. 

Beyond its dramatic history, Eyjafjallajökull is an impressive sight, with its ice cap covering a volcanic caldera, creating a dynamic and beautiful landscape. Meltwater from the glacier feeds some of the South Coast’s iconic waterfalls, including Seljalandsfoss, tying Eyjafjallajökull to the surrounding natural wonders. 

For those exploring Iceland’s South Coast, the glacier is a visible reminder of the powerful forces that have shaped, and continue to shape, the island.

Solheimajokull glacier

Sólheimajökull glacier is an awe-inspiring, accessible glacier that provides a rare chance to walk on one of nature’s most fascinating and powerful creations. Stretching out from the larger Mýrdalsjökull ice cap, this glacier is marked by striking blue and white ice, dramatic crevasses, and volcanic ash layers—a reminder of Iceland’s blend of fire and ice. 

Sólheimajökull offers guided tours that allow you to explore its frozen surface, a surreal landscape shaped by centuries of glacial movement.

Dyrhólaey Arch and Cliffs

Dyrhólaey is a breathtaking promontory on Iceland’s South Coast, known for its dramatic black sand beaches, towering sea cliffs, and the iconic rock arch shaped by centuries of waves. This natural arch, large enough for small boats to pass through, offers stunning views of the coastline, Reynisfjara beach, and glacier-capped mountains. 

In summer, Dyrhólaey is a prime spot for puffin watching, with these colorful birds nesting along the cliffs. From the top viewpoint, visitors enjoy sweeping views of the Atlantic and the Reynisdrangar sea stacks, making Dyrhólaey a must-see for anyone exploring Iceland’s southern coast.

Reynisfjara black sand beach

Reynisfjara black sand beach is one of Iceland’s most captivating and surreal landscapes. 

Known for its deep black volcanic sands, the beach is framed by towering basalt columns and the dramatic Reynisdrangar sea stacks, which rise like mystical pillars from the ocean just offshore. The powerful Atlantic waves crash against the shore, creating an atmosphere both beautiful and intense—visitors are advised to keep a safe distance from the unpredictable “sneaker waves.” 

Reynisfjara is also a haven for birdwatchers, as puffins and other seabirds nest in the cliffs during summer. This unique, almost otherworldly beach captures the wild essence of Iceland’s South Coast, making it a favorite for photographers and travelers alike.

Vík í Mýrdal

Vík í Mýrdal is a charming coastal village and the southernmost town in Iceland, nestled between dramatic cliffs and the North Atlantic Ocean. Known for its iconic black sand beaches, particularly Reynisfjara, and the nearby Reynisdrangar sea stacks, Vík offers some of the most striking views on Iceland’s South Coast. The town is small but welcoming, with cozy cafes, local shops, and a beautiful hillside church overlooking the area. 

Vík is a popular stop on the South Coast, often the last stop on a day tour from Reykjavík, and a great base for exploring nearby attractions like Dyrhólaey and the Mýrdalsjökull glacier. Its blend of natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere makes Vík an essential destination for anyone traveling through South Iceland.

Vikurfjara black sand beach

Vikurfjara black sand beach, located near the village of Vík í Mýrdal, is a strikingly beautiful and somewhat lesser-known counterpart to Reynisfjara. 

With its deep black sands, shaped by volcanic activity, Vikurfjara offers an awe-inspiring view of the Reynisdrangar sea stacks rising from the ocean, which appear especially dramatic against the dark sand and moody sky. 

The beach is lined with cliffs that attract nesting seabirds, including puffins in the summer, adding life and color to the stark landscape. While similar to Reynisfjara, Vikurfjara tends to be quieter, offering a more peaceful experience for visitors looking to connect with Iceland’s raw coastal beauty. 

Just like Reynisfjara, visitors are advised to keep a safe distance from the powerful waves, which can be unexpectedly strong.

Katla ice cave

The Katla Ice Cave, located beneath the Katla volcano and Mýrdalsjökull glacier, offers a thrilling and surreal adventure into Iceland’s frozen underworld. Known for its striking blue and black ice, formed from centuries of volcanic ash and glacial activity, the cave provides a mesmerizing blend of fire and ice. 

Guided tours take you through this ever-changing natural wonder, where light filters through the ice, illuminating intricate patterns and textures. 

Easily accessible from the South Coast, the Katla Ice Cave is a must-visit for those seeking a unique and otherworldly experience in Iceland. It’s often a popular add-on to a sightseeing tour of South Iceland.

Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon & Fellsfjara – Diamond Beach

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and the nearby Fellsfjara, popularly known as Diamond Beach, are two of Iceland’s most mesmerizing sights. Located on the edge of Vatnajökull National Park, Jökulsárlón is a vast glacial lagoon where massive icebergs, broken off from the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier, drift through the chilly, blue waters.

The icebergs, in shades of blue, white, and even black from volcanic ash, slowly make their way toward the ocean, creating a constantly changing, dreamlike landscape. Seals often swim among the icebergs, adding to the magic of this extraordinary place.

Just across the Ring Road from Jökulsárlón, the Diamond Beach completes the experience. Here, chunks of glacial ice that have washed ashore glisten on the black sand beach like scattered diamonds, catching the light and creating an otherworldly scene. The contrast between the dark volcanic sand and the sparkling ice formations makes Diamond Beach a photographer’s paradise and a truly unique natural wonder. 

Visiting Jökulsárlón and Diamond Beach offers an unforgettable glimpse into Iceland’s glacial beauty, with views that shift with the weather, light, and season.

Vatnajokull Glacier

Vatnajökull Glacier, Europe’s largest by volume, spans southeastern Iceland, covering roughly 8% of the country’s land. As part of Vatnajökull National Park, this immense ice cap encompasses active volcanoes, hidden ice caves, and sprawling glacier tongues that stretch down into the valleys. Visitors can experience its beauty up close through glacier hiking and crystal ice caving, exploring shimmering blue ice formations and intricate crevasses.

Glacier Hiking tour on Vatnajökull allows adventurers to trek across the glacier’s bright blue ice, guided by experts who share insights into its geology and history. Equipped with crampons and ice axes, hikers navigate crevasses and sculpted ice formations, experiencing the glacier’s raw beauty up close.

Crystal Ice Caving tour offers a surreal journey into winter-formed ice caves with vivid blue walls and unique formations that shift each season. Guided ice caving tours illuminate the ethereal glow and intricate textures within the ice, making it a magical way to explore Vatnajökull glacier’s hidden wonders.

Other Highlights Along Iceland’s Southern Shore

Stjórnarfoss Waterfall, near Kirkjubæjarklaustur on Iceland’s South Coast, is a serene, lesser-known gem. Its two-tiered cascade flows over dark basalt, creating a calm pool surrounded by lush green hills. Easily accessible and less crowded, it’s a perfect scenic stop for those exploring Iceland’s southern shore. The South Iceland small-group tour usually takes you there, with a guide sharing fun facts about the waterfall and surrounding area along the way.

Fjaðrárgljúfur, or “Feather Canyon,” is a stunning 2-km-long, 100-meter-deep canyon near Kirkjubæjarklaustur on Iceland’s South Coast. Carved by glacial meltwater, it offers scenic trails with breathtaking views of the Fjaðrá River and Mögáfoss waterfall, making it an unmissable stop for travelers exploring Iceland in depth.

Skaftafell Nature Reserve, part of Vatnajökull National Park, showcases Iceland’s diverse landscapes on the South Coast, with glaciers, black sand plains, meadows, and waterfalls. Known for Svartifoss waterfall, framed by basalt columns, Skaftafell is also a hub for glacier hikes on Skaftafellsjökull. Its mild climate and well-marked hiking trails make it perfect for hikers, photographers, and nature lovers seeking to experience Iceland’s varied terrain up close.

Driving Distance From Reykjavik to Iceland’s South Coast

To explore Iceland’s stunning Southern Shore from Reykjavík, the journey begins on the famous Ring Road, winding through diverse landscapes that showcase the country’s raw beauty. A classic day tour of the South Coast typically takes you to Vík í Mýrdal before returning, it’s Iceland’s charming southernmost town on the sea, about 222 km from Reykjavík—a drive that takes around 3.5 hours each way.

For those with their hearts set on visiting Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, located further east in South Iceland, a longer drive awaits. It’s about 414 km, one way to the glacier lagoon from the capital, taking less than 6 hours to reach. 

The Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon day tour is Iceland’s most extensive, requiring more time on the road. Though some may find it demanding, this tour is ideal for those with limited time in Iceland but who dream of witnessing the ethereal beauty of the glacier lagoon. However, if you have a few days to spare and want to immerse yourself fully in the South Coast’s wonders, a 3-day South Iceland tour offers a more leisurely, in-depth experience.

Where to Stay along the South Coast of Iceland

Many multi-day tours of South Iceland include accommodations at ideal locations along the itinerary, often near Vík, where many highlight attractions are clustered. 

If you’re planning your own trip along Iceland’s South Coast, consider choosing accommodations that align well with your itinerary. Here’s a list of recommended hotels from the South Iceland visitor information page.

It’s also very popular to add one day touring the Golden Circle Route to your South Coast adventure; additional 3 main attractions are added, Thingvellir National Park, Geyser Geothermal Field, and Gullfoss waterfall. In this case, choosing to stay in Selfoss is not a bad decision. Or you can simply choose a South Coast & Golden Circle tour that includes accommodation.

If you’d like to book a South Iceland private tour, an experienced travel expert will tailor every detail to your preferences, creating an even more memorable experience.

A trip to Iceland’s South Coast reveals stunning landscapes at every turn, from black sand beaches to glaciers and waterfalls, offering an unforgettable glimpse into Iceland’s unique, rugged landscapes. It’s no wonder the South Iceland day tour is considered the world’s best day tour from Reykjavík, packing the country’s most breathtaking sights into a single, incredible journey.