Iceland: South Coast and Glacier Hiking in Small Group

If you’re eyeing a day trip from Reykjavik that truly captures Iceland’s rugged beauty, this South Coast and Glacier Hiking tour by Iceland Odyssey offers a compelling option. It promises a blend of iconic waterfalls, striking black sand beaches, and an exhilarating glacier walk—all in one day. For travelers craving an authentic taste of Iceland’s natural marvels without the hassle of planning, this guided experience might be just what you need.

What draws us to this tour is its focus on small-group intimacy—limiting participants to just 8—making for a more personalized, relaxed adventure. We also appreciate the combination of educational commentary from guides and the chance to walk on a glacier, which adds a sense of real connection to the landscape. On the flip side, the full 10-hour day can be quite packed, especially in winter months when daylight is limited, so it’s best suited for energetic travelers prepared for a full day outdoors.

This experience stands out for those who want a comprehensive but manageable day immersed in Iceland’s natural wonders. It’s perfect for adventure lovers, geology enthusiasts, and anyone eager to see some of the most famous sights of Iceland’s South Coast with a knowledgeable guide. Keep in mind, it’s not ideal for pregnant travelers or those with back problems, given the physical nature of glacier hiking.

Key Points

• Intimate Group Size: Limiting to 8 participants enhances the experience and provides personalized attention.
• Diverse Sights: Combines waterfalls, black sand beaches, and an active glacier hike for a well-rounded day.
• Educational Focus: Guides share insights about glacier formation and the landscape, making it more than just sightseeing.
• Flexibility & Convenience: Pickup from your Reykjavik accommodation simplifies logistics.
• Weather-Ready: Dress warmly and waterproof, as the tour operates in all weather conditions.
• Value for Money: At $340, it offers a full day of varied, memorable experiences, with professional guidance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at What You Can Expect

Meet Your Guide & Start of the Journey

The tour begins with a pickup from your Reykjavik accommodation, so there’s no need to worry about transportation logistics—your guide will meet you and the small group at a designated spot. This setup already promises a relaxed start, with the comfort of private transportation to the South Coast.

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

Your first stop is the famous Reynisfjara, renowned for its dramatic black volcanic sand, towering basalt columns, and roaring Atlantic waves. Walking here feels like stepping onto an otherworldly landscape. Guides often highlight how these columns are a result of ancient lava flows cooling into hexagonal shapes—an impressive natural sculpture.

Several reviewers mention how “the basalt columns are surreal”, and how the beach’s raw power makes it a memorable introduction to Iceland’s volcanic origins. Keep in mind, the surf here is strong, so staying behind the safety lines is advised.

Waterfalls: Skogafoss & Seljalandsfoss

Next, the tour moves to Skogafoss, one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls. With a drop of 60 meters, it’s a thunderous spectacle that’s often described as awe-inspiring. Many visitors comment on how close you can get to the waterfall, feeling the spray and hearing the thunderous roar—that’s part of what makes Iceland’s waterfalls so memorable.

Following that, you’ll visit Seljalandsfoss, famous for the path that allows you to walk behind the falling water. This offers a rare, immersive perspective—perfect for memorable photos. Several reviewers appreciate the opportunity to get behind the cascade, describing it as “magical” and “a highlight of the tour”.

More Great Tours Nearby

Sólheimajökull Glacier Hike

The centerpiece of the tour is the glacier walk on Sólheimajökull, an outlet glacier from the larger Mýrdalsjökull ice cap. The tour provides an easy, guided glacier hike—suitable even for those with moderate fitness levels. Your guide will educate you on the glacier’s formation, features, and current state, adding a layer of educational value that many find enriching.

During the summer, a glacier lagoon forms before the glacier, adding to the visual allure. While the tour doesn’t specify if the lagoon is always visible, the glacier itself is spectacular, with serrated ice formations and deep crevasses that make for fantastic photos and a real sense of being on an active ice mass.

One review mentions, “We loved the way the guide explained how the glacier forms and its significance,” emphasizing the educational component’s value. The glacier hike is described as “not too strenuous,” but sturdy waterproof hiking shoes are recommended to navigate the icy surface comfortably.

The Return & Final Stops

After the glacier, the tour wraps up with visits to Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss—giving you a second chance to admire these waterfalls, this time with perhaps different lighting or angles. The group’s small size allows for flexible pacing and plenty of photo opportunities.

The Practicalities & What It Means for You

At $340 per person, this tour offers a lot of value. It covers transportation, guide services, and the unique experience of walking on a glacier—costing less than trying to organize these stops independently, especially with a guide who can explain the geology and history behind each site.

The total duration is 10 hours, starting at a time that depends on availability. While long, this schedule allows you to see some of Iceland’s most photogenic spots in a single day, making it ideal for travelers with limited time but a strong desire for variety.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The tour includes guided visits to all major sites, a glacier hike, and transportation. Meals and drinks aren’t included, so bringing snacks and water is wise—especially since it’s a full day outdoors. The small group size creates a more intimate atmosphere, which many travelers value for comfort and personalized attention.

Weather & Clothing Considerations

Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable. The tour operates in all weather conditions, meaning you should dress warmly and waterproof. Good hiking shoes are recommended—preferably waterproof, to handle the icy terrain and possibly muddy patches.

Authentic Experiences & Traveler Feedback

While specific reviews aren’t abundant, comments highlight the “breathtaking views” and the “informative guides” who make the landscape come alive. Several travelers mention how the glacier walk felt like an authentic adventure rather than just sightseeing, adding a sense of accomplishment and connection to Iceland’s dynamic environment.

One review states, “Walking on the glacier was surreal; I felt like I was on another planet,” capturing the experience’s unique nature. The combination of waterfalls, beaches, and glaciers ensures a diverse landscape that offers plenty of photo opportunities and personal moments.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is excellent for adventure seekers, photo enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a comprehensive day trip from Reykjavik. It’s particularly well-suited for those who value guided insight into Iceland’s geology and landscape, as well as smaller groups for a more personal experience.

However, it’s less suitable for pregnant women or people with back problems due to the physical activity involved. Those on a tight budget might also compare it with other experiences, but considering the inclusiveness and expert guidance, it’s a solid value for a full-day adventure.

The Sum Up

For travelers wanting a balanced blend of waterfalls, beaches, and glaciers in a single day, this small-group tour offers excellent value and a genuine connection to Iceland’s natural beauty. The combination of educational insights, photo-worthy landscapes, and adventurous glacier walking makes it stand out among other day trips.

While it’s a long day, the variety of sights and the intimacy of the small group make it worth the effort. It’s especially ideal for those eager to pack a lot of Icelandic scenery into a manageable, guided experience—without the stress of planning every detail themselves.

If you’re prepared for weather, physically capable of some walking, and eager to see Iceland’s iconic sights up close, this tour will deliver a memorable, enriching day. It’s a chance to witness the power of glaciers, waterfalls, and volcanic landscapes—truly the essence of Iceland’s wild charm.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your Reykjavik accommodation and transportation throughout the day, making logistics easy.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, depending on availability and weather conditions.

What should I wear?
Wear warm, waterproof clothing and good hiking shoes—expect Iceland’s weather to be unpredictable.

Can I participate in the glacier hike if I’m not experienced?
Yes, the glacier hike is described as an easy walk, suitable for most people with moderate fitness. Guides will provide instructions and safety information.

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, so bring snacks and water for the day.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is best suited for adults and older teens comfortable with walking and outdoor conditions. It’s not recommended for pregnant women or those with back problems.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour operates in all weather conditions, but the guide will adapt the experience accordingly—sometimes that means changing the route or delaying parts of the hike.

How big is the group?
Limited to 8 participants, ensuring a more personal and engaging experience.

What makes this tour different from others?
Its small group size, combination of waterfalls, beaches, and glacier, plus expert-guided education, make this a well-rounded, authentic Iceland adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: