Iceland’s Epic South Coast: Top Things to Do and See
The South Coast of Iceland is one of those rare places where nature seems to have overachieved. It’s a wildly scenic, occasionally absurd stretch of land where waterfalls tumble off cliffs like they forgot to stop, beaches are made of volcanic ash as black as a tax auditor’s soul, and glaciers lounge casually beside lava fields like it’s the most normal thing in the world. From Reykjavík to the edge of Vatnajökull, the road winds past sights that feel both prehistoric and slightly theatrical—towering sea stacks, sulking volcanoes, and landscapes so cinematic you’ll half-expect a dragon to appear (and honestly, no one would be surprised).
Expect sudden weather changes, long distances disguised as short ones, and sheep with a death wish. But also: wonder, awe, and a very real chance of saying “wow” out loud more than you’re comfortable with.
Top Rated Activities
The South Coast isn’t just a scenic drive—it’s an adventure playground for every season. From glacier hikes to iceberg kayaking, here are the top activities and where to do them:
Glacier Hikes & Ice Climbing
Available year-round, glacier hikes are most popular at Sólheimajökull, a short drive from Skógafoss, Falljökull in the Skaftafell region and Breiðamerkurjökull near Jökulsárlón. Tours range from beginner-friendly to full-day treks with ice climbing.
South Coast Hiking Tours
Join us for a walk on the glacier, one of Iceland's most popular outdoor activities. Hike into the magnificent ice-world of Vatnajökull, the largest glacier in Europe. Your certified glacier guide will show you stunning scenery and astonishing ice formations.
Come and join us on this once-in-a lifetime-experience, a chance to explore Iceland’s largest glacier.
As glaciers continue melting at an alarming rate – roughly more than 1.2 trillion tons per year around the world, we would like to invite you to this unforgettable tour, where you will experience a rare phenomena of how half of our world used to look like, just 12 thousands years ago.
Like all other glaciers in the world, Vatnajökull glacier continues to melt, which will eventually lose half of its current ice by the year 2100 (which currently covers 9% of Iceland). It is estimated that by 2200, most of the glacier ice in Iceland will be forever lost.
Get a chance to experience a world completely covered with ice.
Join this unforgettable tour to see and experience the world’s rarest natural wonder - Iceland’s majestic glacier.
Glaciers formed during our previous ice ages, when temperatures dropped worldwide. Nowadays only a few countries in the world can enjoy the stunning glaciers - including Iceland.
Sólheimajökull is a beautiful outlet, which is the most accessible glacier from Reykjavík.
It is also known for being the Glacier of Fire & Ice, because of all the ashes covering and mixing up with ice from the previous volcanic eruptions. Underneath the glacier lies an active volcano Katla, which erupted last time in 1918.
It is believed that Katla should erupt within the next few decades, therefore completely melting the ice. However volcanoes are highly monitored in Iceland, making it absolutely safe to travel in the area, hike on a glacier, and explore the wild ice caves.
Join this spectacular tour, and get a chance to hike on a real glacier!
Prepare yourself for an unforgettable and frozen adventure in Skaftafell National Park. This is the perfect opportunity for those who want to experience a long hiking adventure on Falljökull, "The Falling Glacier". We will explore far into the glacier to spot the amazing ice fall and the breathtaking scenery
Set out on a 3-hour guided glacier hike on Breiðamerkurjökull, an outlet glacier of Vatnajökull. The glacier is known for its ice caves. As the ice caves are closed over the summer, this tour will take you on a hunt for moulins and ice canyons on the glacier.
Starting with a Super Jeep ride through the rugged terrain leading up to the edge of Vatnajökull, this outlet glacier offers a unique gateway to Iceland’s frozen wilderness. Designed for explorers of all skill levels, this tour combines captivating glacial landscapes with expert guidance and eco-friendly practices. Traverse shimmering blue ice, explore hidden crevasses, and witness the raw power of Iceland’s glaciers.
With morning and afternoon departures, this compact yet immersive experience offers an unforgettable opportunity to connect with Iceland's natural beauty while prioritizing safety and sustainability. Book your tour now and create memories that will last forever!
Top Rated Ice Cave Tours
There are two main types of natural ice cave experiences. The Katla ice cave, located near Vík under the Mýrdalsjökull glacier, is open all year and features black volcanic ice tunnels with otherworldly textures. Seasonal blue ice caves—the ones that look like frozen sapphires—are found in Breiðamerkurjökull, an outlet of Vatnajökull, and are open from October to late April. These require a 4x4 journey and a professionally guided tour—definitely not a DIY situation.
South Coast Ice Cave Tours
Are you ready to turn into an adventurous "Ice-cave Explorer Troll" 🧌 ?
Come join our Tröll Expeditions team on an extraordinary journey to the majestic Katla Ice Cave.
This unique experience is perfect for those who are seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure away from the crowds and looking forward to being lost in the wild, breathtaking landscapes of Icelandic nature.
Our experienced glacier guides will lead you through the mysterious wilderness in a Super-jeep from Vik, sharing fascinating tales about the area, interesting facts related to the Katla volcano, and geological insights along the way. Safety is always our priority: our guides will provide you with helmets, headlamps, and crampons to ensure a smooth journey.
Witness the awe-inspiring combination of fire and ice as you explore the volcanic glacier outlets of Mýrdalsjökull glacier, a remote location inaccessible to most. With panoramic views, stunning ice formations and tunnels, and the chance to see real Game of Thrones Dragon-Glass, this tour is one of Iceland's best-kept secrets.
Don't miss out on this unforgettable experience at the foot of the powerful Katla Volcano.
Book your once-in-a-lifetime adventure: book the Katla Volcano Ice Cave Tour today!
Join us for an incredible adventure by taking a 4x4 Super jeep up to the Glacier, where you will see the beautiful Crystal Ice Cave also known as Blue Ice Cave.
Are you ready to turn into an adventurous "Ice-cave-Explorer Troll" 🧌 ?
Come join our Tröll Expeditions team on an extraordinary full day journey to the majestic Katla Ice Cave and the most iconic locations along the South Coast of Iceland!
The Katla Ice Cave Day Tour from Reykjavik is a 12-hour excursion available throughout the whole year, perfect for those who are looking forward to exploring a stunning ice-cave, asides from visiting the South Coast most popular sightseeing locations; this is also a great opportunity to take a seat on a super-jeep and experience a fun ride towards the ice cave, by crossing unique moony landscapes through the wild Icelandic nature.
This tour includes the comfort of being picked up from Reykjavik from an experienced driver guide in a minibus, which not only prevents you from the hassle of driving yourself towards the unknown, but also assures you a small group excursion for a more intimate and unforgettable experience.
Our knowledgeable Troll-guides will pick you up from your selected pick up location in Reykjavik capital area, and will share with you interesting stories, while leading you towards the highlight of this full day adventure: the magnificent Katla ice cave, located near the town of Vik. Along the way to Vik, you will stop at the most popular must-see places on the South Coast of Iceland: the fabulous Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, the magnificent Skogafoss waterfall, and the remarkably beautiful Black Sand Beach. Once in Vik, you will meet our professional glacier guides and join them on a super-jeep ride to reach the Katla ice cave. They will make sure you get the most out of this once-in-lifetime ice cave exploration: first, they will take care of your safety by providing you with all the necessary glacier equipment to access the cave; second, they will share with you engaging stories regarding the Katla ice cave formation and its surroundings; last, they will ensure the most genuine and memorable time of your vacation in Iceland!
Your journey will end in the evening: our driver guide will drop you off at your preferred drop off location in Reykjavik capital area.
Don't miss out on the opportunity to turn into a Troll and witness this wonder of our Icelandic Nature: book the Katla Volcano Ice Cave Day Tour with Troll Expeditions now!
Join this adventure tour where you will experience all the fantastic features of a glacier; you will hike up an outlet of Vatnajökull glacier, Europe’s largest glacier, where you’ll have the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to enter a crystal blue ice cave.
Skaftafell is a beautiful nature reserve in south-east Iceland, filled with spectacular natural wonders. You will explore one of these wonders on a glacier outlet of Vatnajökull glacier.
Vatnajökull is not only Europe’s largest glacier, but it is also home of the highest mountain range in Iceland. During the glacier walk, you will explore breathtaking ice formations and moulins while learning how glaciers are formed and constantly change. The most breathtaking feature you will see is undoubtedly the naturally formed ice cave. You will be able to walk inside this dazzling structure to see the fantastic blue ice found within.
Lace up your hiking boots and prepare for an incredible journey up and inside a glacier with a fantastic Ice Cave!
Otherworldly Glacier Kayaking & Boat Tours
In summer, kayak tours and amphibian boat rides run on Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where you can float among icebergs the size of small cottages. For a quieter experience, Fjallsárlón lagoon next door offers a less crowded but equally surreal option for boat tours. Heinabergslón Glacier Lagoon is the perfect option for a off-the-beaten-path kayaking experience.
South Coast Kayaking & Boat Tours
Experience the thrill of kayaking on the pristine waters of Vatnajökull National Park, where breathtaking glacier views and eco-friendly adventure await. Glide across Jökulsárlón Lagoon in our ultra-stable, beginner-friendly SIT-ON-TOP kayaks designed for both safety and fun. Secure your spot now and unlock a unique journey that blends sustainable travel with unforgettable natural beauty.
Ready to embark on a once-in-a-lifetime glacier kayaking adventure?
Book your tour now and create memories that will last forever!
Experience the ultimate adventure as you glide across the waters of Heinaberg Glacier Lagoon, surrounded by awe-inspiring icebergs, towering glaciers, and dramatic mountain panoramas. This is your chance to explore one of Iceland’s most iconic natural wonders in an eco-friendly wa.
We use tandem SIT kayaks for optimum safety, handling, and stability. If you’re traveling solo or if your group size is odd, single kayaks are available. When you book, simply select the number of passengers, and our experienced guide will assign the ideal kayak configuration on the day of the tour.
Ready to embark on a once-in-a-lifetime glacier kayaking adventure?
Book your tour now and create memories that will last forever!
Embark on a full-day combo tour that takes you deep into the wild beauty of Southeast Iceland with two unforgettable glacier experiences. You can either start your day paddling through the surreal iceberg-dotted waters of Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon on a guided kayaking adventure. Then, lace up your hiking boots and set out for an exhilarating glacier hike in the heart of Skaftafell Nature Reserve, where you'll explore the frozen landscape of an outlet glacier from Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest ice cap.
This adventure is split into two separate tours, each led by certified glacier and kayaking guides, with all safety gear and instructions provided. Travel between the two locations is self-drive, giving you time to enjoy the scenery along Iceland’s stunning South Coast.
You’ll select which adventure to begin with.
If you start with kayaking, meet our guides at Troll.is Glacier Lagoon in Jökulsárlón 20 minutes before departure at 10:00 am and make sure to reach Troll.is - Skatafell 20 minutes before departure time set at 2:00 pm
If you start with the glacier hike, head to Troll.is Skaftafell 20 minutes before departure time set at 09:00 AM and make sure to reach Troll.is Glacier Lagoon 20 minutes before depature time set at 1:30 PM
(Exact locations are easily found by searching “Troll.is Glacier Lagoon” or “Troll.is Skaftafell” on Google Maps.)
Experience two epic adventures in one day. Book now and experience two of Iceland’s most breathtaking activities in one epic journey!
Experience an exciting activity in Iceland this summer with a boat tour around the renowned Jökulsárlón, also known as the Glacier Lagoon.
Jökulsárlón, formed by the melting ice from Iceland's largest glacier, Vatnajökull, is a picturesque lake. The Glacier Lagoon is regularly dotted with large icebergs that break off from the majestic glacier.
This beautiful location is particularly suitable for adventurous travelers with rental cars.
Horseback Riding Tours
Available all year, horseback riding tours are offered near Vík, Skógar, and Hvolsvöllur. Icelandic horses are famously friendly and have a special gait, the tölt, which is so smooth it feels like gliding across the countryside on a very warm, slightly hairy hovercraft.
Each activity is led by expert guides, includes all necessary gear, and comes with a near-guarantee of jaw-dropping scenery
South Coast Horseback Riding Tours
Elves are important creatures in Iceland. They get to decide where roads can go, and houses can be built. On this tour we see some places populated by these special creatures, the “hidden people”, but as they are hidden, we will not actually meet them! So, depending on where the horses felt their presence last time, you will ride on one of two paths.
We will either pass the small cleft Alfakví and the old sheep’s house that cannot be removed without serious consequences. Some elves are musical; Skjólklettur is the place of the elves’ church, where singing has been heard. On our way to the elfin hill, Einbui, populated by friendly and sometimes singing elves, we also experience excellent riding trails for trying the special, smooth gait of the Icelandic horse, “tölt”.
Or ride through hummocks meadows and lava fields where they believe to live. If your horse reacts when passing by, then an elf might be close by.
When crossing the small warm river Varmá, look out for Nykur, the Icelandic version of a water spirit.
After returning to our hotel, a light lunch will be served.
On this tour, we will take a journey through meadows, lava fields, and a small river, admiring the volcanic mountains and farmland. Along the way, we will get a glimpse into the evolution of agriculture by visiting various farms. On top of that, we will be able to experience the unique gait of the Icelandic horse, the "tölt," on the lovely riding trails. We invite you to have coffee and home-baked cake to finish the tour.
Snowmobiling Adventures
Year-round thrill rides on Mýrdalsjökull glacier, often departing from the base near Sólheimasandur. After a quick super jeep transfer up the mountain, you’ll gear up, rev the throttle, and zoom across ice fields with views that look like you’ve driven off the edge of Earth. No prior experience needed—just a sense of adventure and a decent grip on the handlebars.
South Coast Snowmobile Tours
Explore Icelandic highlands in the most exciting way possible – first with a monster truck and then with a snowmobile!
Experience the thrill of wilderness snowmobiling on Langjökull, Europe's second-largest glacier, with our powerful Yamaha Vipers. This tour is designed for a more thrilling and adrenaline-filled experience, with double the horsepower of our regular tours. We limit our groups to small sizes for a more personal experience.
Experience the supreme of Iceland on this amazing tour, where you can snowmobile on a glacier and relax in a geothermal hot lagoon. Your adventure begins with a pick-up in Reykjavik, followed by a drive to the glacier. Once there, you will take a snowmobile trip on Iceland's second-largest glacier, covering 400 square kilometers of solid ice with the highlands in the rearview mirror. During the journey, there will be a photo stop. After your snowmobiling adventure, you will be taken to the Secret Lagoon in Flúðir, a natural geothermal spring with minerals and salts that benefit your skin. The lagoon has new facilities with separate showers for men and women. Don't forget to bring your bathing suit.
Join this unforgettable Golden Circle Super jeep Tour with a snowmobile ride on Iceland’s second largest Glacier, Langjökull.
This extremely fun tour is an incredible adventure where you will explore Iceland’s most beautiful places.
Lava & Volcano Shows
Don’t miss interactive exhibitions and indoor lava shows that bring Iceland’s geology to life — especially in the Vík and Katla region.
South Coast Volcano Activities
If you're eager to explore Iceland's volcanoes and learn more about the country's natural wonders, this tour is tailored for you.
Hop aboard a Super Jeep for an unforgettable journey to the stunning Katla Volcano Ice Cave. Then, delve into the captivating LAVA SHOW, renowned worldwide as the sole live lava presentation. Celebrated for its educational and cultural significance, this attraction has earned widespread acclaim and numerous honors, making it a highlight among Iceland's premier destinations.
Join us on an exhilarating and educational experience to the Icelandic Lava Show.
You will experience the heat of molten lava first hand, in the only place in the world where this can be done safely.
Top Rated South Coast Attractions
The South Coast is basically Iceland showing off. It’s a greatest-hits lineup of waterfalls, beaches, glaciers, and scenery so dramatic it looks Photoshopped—even when it’s not. Here are the must-see stops:
Seljalandsfoss
A graceful waterfall you can walk behind (yes, really). Bring a rain jacket unless you enjoy being unexpectedly soaked. Just down the path is Gljúfrabúi, a smaller waterfall hidden inside a mossy canyon—equal parts magical and slippery.
Skógafoss
One of Iceland’s biggest and loudest waterfalls. If you climb the 370 steps to the top, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views and very tired legs. Bonus: legend says there’s Viking treasure behind the falls. Good luck with that.
Sólheimajökull Glacier
Easily accessible from Route 1, this glacier tongue is where many guided hikes and ice adventures begin. It’s your best bet for an up-close look at Iceland’s rapidly retreating ice—ideal for both climate contemplation and dramatic selfies.
Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
Near Vík, this otherworldly beach is famous for its black sand, moody basalt columns, and waves that could probably bench press a car. Stay well back from the water—sneaker waves here are no joke.
Katla Geopark & Ice Cave
Near Vík and beneath the Mýrdalsjökull glacier lies the ever-watchful Katla volcano. Tours take you into the Katla ice cave, an eerie world of black volcanic ice and ash layers, open year-round. Facing it is Hafursey mountain, a landscape so otherworldly it was used as a film location for Star Wars Rogue One.
Dyrhólaey Cliffside
A cliffside promontory with puffins (in summer), sea arches, and views so good they make your camera weep. You can spot both Mýrdalsjökull glacier and the endless black coastline from the top.
Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon
A winding green canyon that looks like it was designed by elves with a flair for drama. Located just off Route 1 near Kirkjubæjarklaustur, and suspiciously photogenic from every angle.
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
A surreal lake filled with floating icebergs that have broken off Vatnajökull glacier. You might see seals lounging on the ice like they own the place. Right across the road is Diamond Beach, where chunks of glacier wash up on black sand like forgotten jewelry.
Minibus Tours & Multi-Day Trips from Reykjavík
If you'd rather leave the driving (and snowstorm navigation during the winter season) to someone else, minibus tours from Reykjavík are a comfy, compact way to explore the South Coast. These small-group tours offer more legroom, fewer mic drops from the guide, and a chance to see Iceland’s hits without having to decode road signs.
Explore the beautiful South Coast of Iceland, and hike on one of Iceland’s last remaining glaciers during this unforgettable 12-hour adventure trip in the South of Iceland.
Are you ready to turn into an adventurous "Ice-cave-Explorer Troll" 🧌 ?
Come join our Tröll Expeditions team on an extraordinary full day journey to the majestic Katla Ice Cave and the most iconic locations along the South Coast of Iceland!
The Katla Ice Cave Day Tour from Reykjavik is a 12-hour excursion available throughout the whole year, perfect for those who are looking forward to exploring a stunning ice-cave, asides from visiting the South Coast most popular sightseeing locations; this is also a great opportunity to take a seat on a super-jeep and experience a fun ride towards the ice cave, by crossing unique moony landscapes through the wild Icelandic nature.
This tour includes the comfort of being picked up from Reykjavik from an experienced driver guide in a minibus, which not only prevents you from the hassle of driving yourself towards the unknown, but also assures you a small group excursion for a more intimate and unforgettable experience.
Our knowledgeable Troll-guides will pick you up from your selected pick up location in Reykjavik capital area, and will share with you interesting stories, while leading you towards the highlight of this full day adventure: the magnificent Katla ice cave, located near the town of Vik. Along the way to Vik, you will stop at the most popular must-see places on the South Coast of Iceland: the fabulous Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, the magnificent Skogafoss waterfall, and the remarkably beautiful Black Sand Beach. Once in Vik, you will meet our professional glacier guides and join them on a super-jeep ride to reach the Katla ice cave. They will make sure you get the most out of this once-in-lifetime ice cave exploration: first, they will take care of your safety by providing you with all the necessary glacier equipment to access the cave; second, they will share with you engaging stories regarding the Katla ice cave formation and its surroundings; last, they will ensure the most genuine and memorable time of your vacation in Iceland!
Your journey will end in the evening: our driver guide will drop you off at your preferred drop off location in Reykjavik capital area.
Don't miss out on the opportunity to turn into a Troll and witness this wonder of our Icelandic Nature: book the Katla Volcano Ice Cave Day Tour with Troll Expeditions now!
Join #TeamTroll to the most popular locations along Iceland's South Coast and experience a rare natural phenomenon: A blue ice cave and hiking on a glacier.
During this unforgettable 2-day tour, we will take you to the hidden gems of the most visited place in Iceland – the South Coast. Get ready to climb on one of Europe’s largest glaciers, catch a boat to gigantic icebergs, and explore the most beautiful places in the South of Iceland. Along the shore, you’ll also get the chance to stop by some majestic waterfalls, the beautiful Black Sand Beach, and learn everything you need to know about Iceland.
Join us for a three-day adventure, with accommodation included, to discover the most renowned destinations on the Golden Circle and the South Coast. During this tour, you will witness the breathtaking Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon and explore Europe's largest glacier. You will go glacier hiking and visit an Ice Cave!
From September to March, if the weather conditions allow, you may even catch a glimpse of the magnificent Northern Lights.
Join us for a 3 days excursion to see the famous Golden Circle and the South Coast. Experience the beauty of our glacier lagoon Jökulsárlón, hike on Europe's largest glacier and powerful waterfalls.
Frequently Asked Questions
Planning a South Coast trip? Here’s what most travelers want to know before they go. From road conditions to seasonal activities, these answers will help you prep like a pro.
Summer offers midnight sun and easier access; winter offers ice caves and Northern Lights.
- Kayaking on glacier lagoons like Heinabergslón or Jökulsárlón — peaceful, surreal, and way less crowded than you’d expect.
- Puffin watching at Dyrhólaey — best between May and August. Bring binoculars.
- Hiking to Reykjadalur (the hot spring river) — a solid 45-60 min hike, but worth every step.
- Camping near Skaftafell or Vík — long daylight hours + epic backdrops.
- Midnight photography — the golden light lasts for hours. Perfect for waterfall and glacier shots.
- Ice cave tours — hands-down the highlight. Breiðamerkurjökull’s Crystal Cave is the one everyone wants.
- Snowmobiling on Mýrdalsjökull — insane views + adrenaline.
- Northern lights hunting — best done with a local guide who knows the skies and the quietest spots.
- Frozen waterfall viewing — Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss turn into icy fortresses.
- Glacier hikes with crampons — surprisingly doable even in winter with the right gear and guide.
If you’re confident driving in Icelandic conditions (especially in winter), self-drive gives you full control. Otherwise, go for a guided minibus tour — they hit all the highlights without the stress. Great option for 1–5 day itineraries.
Reykjavík to Höfn (the full stretch) takes about 6–7 hours one way — without stops. Realistically, to do it justice, plan at least 2–3 days. There’s just too much to rush.
- Selfoss – Try Kaffi Krús for homemade food
- Hvolsvöllur – Valhalla Restaurant has hearty meals
- Vík – The Soup Company or Smidjan Brugghús for craft beer and burgers
- Kirkjubæjarklaustur – Systrakaffi is reliable
- Höfn – Known for langoustine, Pakkhús is the classic pick
The sea? Not recommended unless you're into cold shock therapy. But there are plenty of geothermal spots. Reykjadalur (hot river hike) is a favorite. You’ll also find hidden pools and secret spots if you know where to look
Short answer: yes. Different seasons, different light, different moods. First trip might hit the main attractions — second time around, you dig deeper: hidden canyons, backroads, less-visited glaciers, and photo spots you missed before.
Got More Questions?
Our team of Iceland experts is just a message away. Whether you’re curious about tour details, weather prep, or which adventure suits you best, we’re here to help.
Chat with us or Contact our support team and let’s plan your perfect Iceland experience.
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You can call us just about anytime. Our customer service team works around the clock. You can reach us by phone anytime, except from 10 pm and 6 am on Saturday and Sunday nights, Icelandic time. Contact [email protected] or call us at +354 519 4455 and our dedicated team will help you out.