Iceland South Coast Tour with Pickup

Our review of the Iceland South Coast Tour with Pickup aims to give travelers a clear picture of what to expect from this highly-rated experience. Known for its breathtaking landscapes, this full-day adventure takes you from Reykjavik into the heart of Iceland’s dramatic southern scenery, with stops at iconic waterfalls, black sand beaches, and a glacier.

Two things that stand out immediately: the knowledgeable guides who bring the area’s geology and culture to life, and the stunning natural sights that are genuinely awe-inspiring. However, a key consideration is that the tour involves a lot of time on the bus—up to 5 or 6 hours—so it’s best suited for those comfortable with long travel days. If you’re looking for an immersive, photo-rich experience with a focus on natural beauty and informative commentary, this tour could be just what you’re after.

It’s worth noting that the tour is offered in both English and Spanish, making it accessible for a diverse group of travelers. Yet, because of the duration and the pace, it’s ideal for those who don’t mind spending substantial time on a bus and want to maximize their exposure to Iceland’s iconic south coast highlights.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary: Includes waterfalls, a glacier, black sand beaches, and a charming village.
• Expert guides: Share insights on geology, history, and culture.
• Value for money: Well-priced considering transportation, guide service, and access to major sights.
• Long travel hours: Expect multiple hours on the bus, so comfort and patience are key.
• Bilingual experience: Perfect for both English and Spanish speakers.
• Limited mobility: Not recommended for those with mobility issues due to the nature of the stops and bus travel.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary and Experience

Pick-up and Introduction

The tour begins promptly at 9:00 am with pickup from a central Reykjavik location. The vehicle is air-conditioned and equipped with WiFi, making the long rides a bit more comfortable and connected. With up to 19 travelers, the group size is intimate enough to foster interaction but still spacious for comfort during the journey.

The guide kicks off by sharing some context about Iceland’s South Coast—its volcanic origins, glaciers, and rugged coastline. The guide’s enthusiasm and knowledge immediately set the tone for a day packed with information and awe-inspiring scenery.

Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

Our first stop is the world-famous Seljalandsfoss. This waterfall is often called one of Iceland’s most beautiful, and for good reason. With a height of about 60 meters, it’s a sight to behold, especially when the sunlight hits the water just right.

What makes Seljalandsfoss particularly memorable is the opportunity to walk behind the curtain of water, offering a perspective not often available at waterfalls. It’s a unique photo op, and many travelers, including those with kids (as one reviewer said, “our kid loved it”), find it both exhilarating and photogenic. The stop is approximately 35 minutes, enough to snap pictures and soak in the atmosphere, but not so long that it drags on.

Gljúfrabúi Waterfall: A Hidden Gem

Next up is the Gljúfrabúi Waterfall, a lesser-known treasure tucked away near Seljalandsfoss. It’s often described as a “hidden” waterfall because it’s partially concealed within a canyon. When conditions permit, you’ll have the chance to see this intriguing feature, which offers a quieter, more intimate experience.

Walking to Gljúfrabúi requires a bit of a stroll and some light scrambling, so don’t expect a fully accessible spot, but those who make the effort are rewarded with a magical scene. Some travelers, like one who said, “waterfall was awesome,” found it the highlight of their day.

Skógafoss Waterfall

The next major stop is Skógafoss, one of Iceland’s largest and most powerful waterfalls. With a width of 25 meters and a drop of 60 meters, it commands attention. The mist often creates rainbows on sunny days, and the roar of the water crashing down is impossible to ignore.

Visitors can walk right up to the base or climb a staircase to view from above. The guide will likely share stories about the area’s history and folklore, enriching the experience. One reviewer praised the guide’s ability to share history and facilitate “extensive hiking,” making this stop both scenic and educational.

Vík í Mýrdal and Local Lunch Break

After the waterfalls, the group heads to the charming village of Vík, where a quick stop at the church offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Here, you’ll get a chance to stretch your legs and possibly pick a spot for lunch, although the tour itself doesn’t include a meal.

The village’s cozy vibe is a contrast to the raw power of the waterfalls, and many travelers enjoy taking photos from the church’s vantage point. As one reviewer noted, “we took a break for lunch,” which is a great moment to relax and prep for the next exciting destination.

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

Next is Reynisfjara, Iceland’s most famous black sand beach. The contrasting basalt columns and powerful Atlantic waves make this a photographer’s paradise. The beach’s rugged beauty can be both captivating and intimidating—those massive waves can be dangerous, so the guide will advise caution.

The hour spent here allows visitors to walk the beach, photograph the Reynisdrangar sea stacks, and experience one of Iceland’s most iconic landscapes. Many travelers express awe at the raw power of the North Atlantic and the unique black sands.

Sólheimajökull Glacier

The tour’s finale is a visit to the Sólheimajökull Glacier, where you’ll get close enough to see the glacier in its entirety. The guide will help you understand how glaciers form and their importance to Iceland’s landscape.

For those interested, there’s an opportunity to place a foot on the ice, which makes the experience all the more memorable. The 45-minute stop is an excellent way to appreciate Iceland’s glacial features, which are constantly shaping the land.

Transportation, Timing, and Value

The use of an air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi makes the bus rides more comfortable, especially since the group spends several hours traveling between sites. The long hours on the bus—up to 5 or 6—are a mixed blessing. On one hand, it means seeing a wide array of sights in one day; on the other, it requires patience and good seating.

The cost of $154.46 per person offers notable value considering the transportation, guide, and access to major attractions. An added bonus is the bilingual guide who seamlessly switches between English and Spanish, ensuring everyone feels included and informed.

The Guide’s Role

From the reviews, it’s clear that the guides make or break this experience. Travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides for their friendly demeanor and ability to share stories, history, and geological insights. For example, one said, “Our guide was excellent, sharing much history of the area,” which underscores how much added richness guides bring to the visual spectacle.

The Long Day

While many find the lengthy bus ride to be manageable and even enjoyable, travelers with mobility issues or those expecting a more leisurely pace might find this challenging. The tour is not recommended for those with mobility problems, as some stops involve walking or uneven terrain.

The Authentic Iceland Experience

What makes this tour particularly appealing is the combination of stunning landscapes, cultural insights, and the opportunity to see some of Iceland’s most iconic sights in one day. It’s a good pick for those who want to maximize their sightseeing without the hassle of self-driving or planning multiple trips. The stops are well-chosen to showcase the diversity of Iceland’s geological features—from waterfalls to glaciers to volcanic beaches.

The reviews reinforce that the experience is both fun and educational. One traveler praised the “ample time to explore,” and another appreciated the “extensive hiking,” showing that active participants find value here. The inclusion of free admission to most sites means you can focus on the experience rather than extra costs.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors who want a rundown of Iceland’s South Coast in one day. It’s suitable for travelers who don’t mind long hours on a bus, enjoy stunning natural scenery, and appreciate knowledgeable guides. However, it’s not suitable for people with mobility challenges or those seeking a more relaxed pace.

The bilingual aspect makes it accessible for both English and Spanish speakers, which broadens its appeal. For families with children or travelers looking for a photo-rich adventure packed with iconic sights, this tour hits the mark.

Final Thoughts

The Iceland South Coast Tour with Pickup offers a practical, value-packed way to experience some of Iceland’s most photogenic and awe-inspiring landscapes. The highlights—waterfalls, black sand beaches, glaciers—are the kind of sights that stay with you long after you leave. The guides’ expertise ensures you’ll learn a lot along the way, adding depth to your visit.

While the long bus rides may not suit everyone, the overall experience provides a well-rounded introduction to Iceland’s natural beauty. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a structured, all-in-one day tour with excellent value and authentic experiences.

In summary, this tour is best for those who:

• Want to see Iceland’s top South Coast sights in a single day
• Appreciate guided commentary and local insights
• Are comfortable with several hours of bus travel
• Seek iconic landscapes, waterfalls, and glaciers
• Value bilingual guides and small group sizes

FAQ

Is there pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from a central Reykjavik location, making it easy to start your day without additional hassle.

How long is the total bus time?
Expect to spend up to 5 or 6 hours on the bus, traveling between the attractions. The itinerary balances sightseeing with travel time.

Are meals included?
No, the tour does not include lunch, but there will be a break in Vík, where you can find options for a quick meal or snack.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, many travelers with kids enjoyed it, but keep in mind the long hours on the bus and some walking involved. The experience seems to be kid-friendly, especially with engaging guides.

What languages are the guides available in?
The tour is offered in both English and Spanish, making it accessible for travelers from different backgrounds.

Is there any special gear I should bring?
Bringing a poncho or waterproof clothing is advised, especially near waterfalls or the glacier. Good walking shoes are recommended for exploring the terrain.

To sum it up, the Iceland South Coast Tour with Pickup delivers a rich taste of Iceland’s natural beauty with expert storytelling, making it a worthwhile choice for those wanting a structured, scenic adventure. Just be prepared for a long day on the road—your camera and sense of adventure will thank you.