Reykjavík in 1 Day for Friends - Guided glacier hike on Sólheimajökull
In Collaboration with Glaciers and Waterfalls ehf.. Updated on February 4, 2026.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 |
