Glacier Hike, South Coast Waterfalls & Reynisfjara — Day Trip from Reykjavík
Full-day guided minibus trip from Reykjavík to Sólheimajökull glacier with stops at Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss and the Reynisfjara black-sand beach. Active, social and photo-friendly — ideal for friends who want adventure and epic coastal scenery in one long summer day.
In Collaboration with Glaciers and Waterfalls ehf.. Updated on April 1, 2026.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Glaciers and Waterfalls ehf., inspired by the tour Glacier Hike, South Coast Waterfalls & Black Sand Beach. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Guided glacier hike on Sólheimajökull
- Walk behind Seljalandsfoss
- Classic views & stairs at Skógafoss
- Basalt columns and Reynisdrangar sea stacks at Reynisfjara
Explore all itineraries in Reykjavík.
Itinerary
Day 1
Pick up in Reykjavík; follow the South Coast east to visit Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, enjoy lunch around Skógar, put on crampons for a guided hike on Sólheimajökull, then finish with the black-sand Reynisfjara before returning to Reykjavík.
Meet & pickup — BSÍ Bus Terminal, Reykjavík
Group pickup point; meet the guide and minibus. Staff will check names and confirm baggage. Boarding usually within a 30-minute pickup window.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive 5–10 minutes early to secure group seating together — the bus may pick up other passengers.
- Pack sunglasses, a refillable water bottle and a small daypack you can keep with you on the hike.
- If you're running late, call the operator (provided on your voucher) — drivers will wait within the scheduled pickup window.
Scenic transfer along Route 1 to Seljalandsfoss
Relax on the minibus while the guide provides commentary on the south coast geology and Icelandic folklore en route to the waterfalls. Short comfort stop possible in Hvolsvöllur if needed.
Tips from local experts:
- Sit on the right side of the bus heading east for the best early-morning coastal and mountain views.
- Use this transfer time to nap or charge devices — the tour includes bus Wi‑Fi.
- If you get motion-sick, ask the guide for a front seat or take ginger tablets before the drive.
Seljalandsfoss — walk behind the waterfall
Explore Seljalandsfoss and the path that takes you behind the curtain of water — a must-see Icelandic waterfall with great group-photo opportunities.
- MondayOpen 24 hours
- TuesdayOpen 24 hours
- WednesdayOpen 24 hours
- ThursdayOpen 24 hours
- FridayOpen 24 hours
- SaturdayOpen 24 hours
- SundayOpen 24 hours
Tips from local experts:
- Bring a thin waterproof layer — spray is constant near the path behind the falls (summer still gets you wet).
- Wear non-slip shoes; the path behind the falls can be slippery even in July.
- For the best crowds for photos, head to the viewpoint on the path behind the falls first, then explore nearby viewing platforms.
Short drive to Skógafoss & explore the falls
Arrive at Skógafoss — climb the viewing stairs for a panoramic top view or stay by the base for thunderous spray and possible rainbows.
- MondayOpen 24 hours
- TuesdayOpen 24 hours
- WednesdayOpen 24 hours
- ThursdayOpen 24 hours
- FridayOpen 24 hours
- SaturdayOpen 24 hours
- SundayOpen 24 hours
Tips from local experts:
- If you like hiking, start the short stair climb (≈500 steps) for dramatic top-of-falls views — take breaks and go at your own pace.
- Bring a lightweight waterproof shell; standing at the base will get you misted and perfect for rainbow photos.
- Good group photo spot: the grassy banks to the left of the falls afford a wide-angle perspective for teams of friends.
Lunch break — Skógar / Skógasafn café
Casual lunch at the Skógar Museum café area or nearby eatery — refuel with soups, sandwiches and hot drinks before the glacier section.
- Monday10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Tuesday10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Wednesday10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Thursday10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Friday10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tips from local experts:
- Try a hot soup or meat/fish open sandwich to warm up after waterfall stops — options are filling and quick.
- If you have dietary needs, tell staff in Icelandic or English; most cafés are used to groups and can adapt.
- Use the museum restrooms before heading to the glacier; facilities are cleaner here than at roadside pullouts.
Transfer to Sólheimajökull glacier — gearing up
Short minibus transfer to the Sólheimajökull parking and meeting area. Guides fit harnesses, crampons and helmets and brief you on glacier safety before stepping onto the ice.
Tips from local experts:
- Layering tip: wear warm base/mid layers and waterproof outer layers; guides provide technical gear but not insulated parkas.
- Bring a small waterproof pack for camera, snacks and your phone — you’ll keep it on the glacier (preferably inside a dry bag or zip-lock).
- Wear sturdy hiking boots (not trainers) — guides may refuse participation to guests in soft footwear for safety.
Guided glacier hike on Sólheimajökull
Certified guide leads a 2–3 hour walk across the glacier: cramponed travel, short climbs, crevasse viewpoints and photo stops. Learn about glacial formation and recent changes.
- MondayOpen 24 hours
- TuesdayOpen 24 hours
- WednesdayOpen 24 hours
- ThursdayOpen 24 hours
- FridayOpen 24 hours
- SaturdayOpen 24 hours
- SundayOpen 24 hours
Tips from local experts:
- Follow the guide exactly — safety briefings are for real crevasse hazards and terrain changes.
- Best photo tip: ask your guide for a safe vantage point with layered ice colors; the blue ice contrasts brilliantly with dark volcanic ash.
- Keep electronics warm in an inner pocket — batteries drain faster in cold; bring spare battery or power bank.
Drive to Reynisfjara (Vík) — coastal scenery on Route 1
Transfer toward Vík with the sea appearing on the horizon; brief comfort stop in Vík area if needed before the beach.
Tips from local experts:
- Sit on the left side of the bus for early sea views on the drive to Reynisfjara from Sólheimajökull.
- Pick up a local snack or extra layers in Vík if you missed lunch — some cafés stay open late in summer.
- Listen for guide timings — the beach is tide-sensitive, and guides will time entry to maximize safety and views.
Reynisfjara — black sand beach & basalt columns
Walk the basalt-column cliffs, photograph the Reynisdrangar sea stacks and learn about local legends. Note strong sneaker waves — stay well back from the water.
Tips from local experts:
- Safety first: keep at least 20–30 m from the shoreline — sneaker waves here are unpredictable and powerful.
- Best group photo: stand near the basalt columns for dramatic vertical lines — move quickly, as wind can kick up sand.
- If you want warmer seating or snacks afterward, stop at a café in Vík; Reynisfjara has no food stands on the beach itself.
Return transfer to Reykjavík — evening coast drive
Relax on the minibus back toward Reykjavík as the guide points out highlights from the day. Arrival back to BSÍ expected in the early evening.
Tips from local experts:
- Use the return drive to share photos and swap contact details with new friends from the tour.
- If you need a later drop-off in central Reykjavík, ask the guide in advance — some routes offer flexible final stops.
- Expect to arrive after sunset if traveling late in the year; in July you'll have long daylight for photos even on the way back.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 4 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Friends |
| Transfers | 5 |
| Restaurants | 1 |
| Total Activities | 5 |
| Total Places | 5 |
| Activities Types | Transfer, Attraction, Meal, Experience |
Why this experience
Picture yourself walking behind a thundering waterfall, crampons on your feet crossing an ancient glacier, then standing before basalt sea cliffs as the ocean crashes below. This full-day adventure packs Iceland's most iconic South Coast experiences into one immersive journey. You'll walk behind Seljalandsfoss, climb the stairs at Skógafoss, hike across the ice of Sólheimajökull glacier with a certified guide, and finish on the dramatic black-sand beach of Reynisfjara where towering basalt columns meet the sea. Led by Glaciers and Waterfalls, it's designed for friends who want action, epic photo opportunities, and the thrill of real glacial terrain—all in a single summer day.
Before you go
- Best time: June to September (glacier hiking season; best for stable ice conditions and long daylight)
- Budget: Check the booking widget for current pricing. Includes minibus transfer, glacier equipment (crampons, helmet, harness), guide service, and lunch as specified.
- Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging (2.5-hour guided glacier hike with crampons, uneven terrain, 40+ minute waterfall walks)
- What to bring: Sturdy hiking boots (not trainers), warm layers + waterproof outer shell, non-slip shoes, sunglasses, refillable water bottle, small waterproof daypack, camera/phone in waterproof pouch
- Getting there: Group pickup at BSÍ Bus Terminal in Reykjavík at 08:00. Return to BSÍ around 19:15 after an 11-hour day.
- Accessibility: This itinerary involves glacier hiking and uneven rocky terrain. Not suitable for those with mobility limitations or fear of heights. The glacier section requires fitness to walk 2.5 hours on crampons across sloped ice.
Frequently asked questions
What's included in this itinerary?
This guided day-trip itinerary curated on TheNextGuide includes minibus transfer from Reykjavík, visits to three waterfalls (Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, and Reynisfjara), a 2.5-hour guided hike on Sólheimajökull glacier with equipment and certification, lunch, and expert geology and safety commentary. Check the booking widget for current pricing and specific inclusions with Glaciers and Waterfalls ehf.
Is glacier hiking safe?
Yes, with proper guidance. You'll be roped to a certified guide, equipped with crampons and helmets, and briefed on crevasse hazards before stepping onto the ice. Guides follow strict safety protocols. Follow instructions exactly and dress appropriately for cold conditions.
What if I'm not fit enough for the glacier hike?
The hike covers 2.5 hours of cramponed walking across uneven glacial terrain. You'll be moving slowly with breaks, but it requires moderate fitness. If you have concerns, contact the operator in advance to discuss your ability level.
What's the difference between Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss?
Seljalandsfoss is unique for its walkable path behind the curtain of water. Skógafoss is a massive, single-drop waterfall best viewed from stairs at the top or from the base where spray creates rainbows. Both are essential South Coast stops.
Is this a good trip for solo travelers?
Absolutely. It's designed as a group experience led by Glaciers and Waterfalls, so you'll meet other adventurers. The guide fosters a social, supportive atmosphere. Many solo travelers use day tours like this to make friends.
What if the weather turns bad?
Iceland's weather is unpredictable. If conditions become unsafe for glacier hiking, the guide may shorten the hike, modify the route, or reschedule (operators typically offer reschedule dates). Waterfall and beach stops usually proceed regardless of rain or wind.
Complete your trip in Reykjavik
Looking for complementary adventures or ways to extend your experience? Consider these itineraries:
- Adventure in Landmannalaugar and Hot Springs — Explore Iceland's highlands with colorful mountains and geothermal hot springs
- Family-Friendly 2-Day Reykjavik Easy Pace — Extend with easier, family-suitable South Coast activities
- Reykjavik in 3 Days: Fun, Food and Adventure for Friends — Build a multi-day adventure around glacier and waterfall exploration
Browse all Reykjavik itineraries at TheNextGuide.
Last updated: March 2026
