Top 5 South Iceland Tours: See Jökulsárlón & More!

Planning a trip to Iceland? You’re likely hearing quite a bit about the south coast, and understandably so! It’s almost as if every corner reveals stunning waterfalls, stark lava fields, and glaciers that, that could be straight out of a fantasy movie. Deciding what to see, though, can sometimes feel very, very overwhelming. To find the ideal trip, you really have to check out tour options. South Iceland has incredible views, which I am sure you already know!

1. South Coast Classic: Waterfalls, Black Sand Beach, and More

This trip basically crams the iconic spots into a single day. Think about starting with Seljalandsfoss, the super famous waterfall you can actually walk behind! Experiencing Seljalandsfoss first hand is really neat! Afterwards, get ready for Skógafoss, which is very majestic. Plus, you will, or might, get to see a rainbow at the base if you’re lucky! These tours often hit the Sólheimajökull glacier for an intro to glacier walking – so bring your camera! Of course, there’s the Reynisfjara black sand beach with basalt columns that are quite cool to see, plus the Dyrhólaey arch close by if birdwatching’s really your thing during the puffin season. I do hear it’s popular during that time.

Why this tour is awesome: This classic really is amazing for ticking off the main sights if you are rather short on time. You get quite a great mix of nature without feeling too rushed, and usually, it’s really affordable. However, this tour can be popular, that sometimes makes things pretty crowded, and depending on weather, seeing everything can be a bit challenging.

2. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon & Diamond Beach

Now, this one brings you to Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, arguably that’s the crown jewel of the South Coast. Seriously, imagine icebergs floating serenely in a lake as they head to the sea! These tours will usually provide plenty of time to photograph the icy scenery. That scenery offers a variety of amazing shots, and those include seals playing, too, if you get so lucky! Visit Glacier Lagoon if you enjoy a great background to an unforgettable selfie! Right next door is Diamond Beach, with icebergs that have washed ashore, glimmering on the black sand like diamonds which could be straight out of a movie scene. So make sure to see this tour; it is almost like a postcard in real life!

Why this tour is awesome: Jökulsárlón truly is bucket-list material. The drive itself is wonderful, passing lava fields that are pretty picturesque and cute Icelandic villages. Still, just keep in mind, this usually is a very long day trip from Reykjavik. That is especially something you really have to think about during the winter months because of limited daylight hours and occasional rough weather that could change your view drastically.

3. Ice Cave Exploration Underneath a Glacier

This option, typically only offered in winter, really allows you to step inside an ice cave that’s formed naturally beneath a glacier. With safety gear in place and a guide, you get to hike right into these stunning formations that almost glow bright blue, where light has seeped through the roof over thousands of years, where it has reflected on the icy, cool blue walls. Icelandic cave tours usually includes travel in modified super jeeps for some of the bumpier roads to the caves that do make it a trip worth taking! Tours might feature either the Mýrdalsjökull or Vatnajökull glaciers depending, of course, on conditions and tour operator.

Why this tour is awesome: Venturing into a natural ice cave honestly is unreal, plus the super jeep excursion itself might be rather fun! Do keep in mind, tours are very weather-dependent. Always make certain you’re booking with a reliable operator. The views might be gorgeous to see. This might depend when light peeks through these naturally icy walls.

4. Glacier Hiking & Ice Climbing Experiences

Looking to add a little adventure? These excursions will outfit you with crampons, an ice ax, and guide you onto a glacier for a pretty fantastic hike, teaching the proper techniques, walking on the ice, and taking pictures of beautiful Icelandic scenery. Take to the hiking trails in Iceland and be blown away by what you see. Some tours do go to Sólheimajökull, easily that is the glacier closest to Reykjavík, yet others travel a bit farther to bigger ice caps that show really what this place is all about. Some companies even offer ice climbing add-ons for a more intense experience, where you get the opportunity to scale a vertical wall with instruction from a professional climber. These outings almost always come equipped with experienced mountaineers familiar with even the most hard-to-navigate glaciers.

Why this tour is awesome: You get an authentic taste of Icelandic glaciers plus quite a workout. Make certain you bring hiking boots with ankle support and multiple layers to keep very comfortable in an often unpredictable climate! Not good to take this trip during bad weather!

5. South Coast Horseback Riding Tour

Consider a relaxing and, you know, fairly different view of the South Coast. Instead of hiking or riding in buses, saddle up an Icelandic horse – a breed, just so you know, known for their gentle nature. A popular pick will let you amble along black sand beaches or through vast green pastures near farms around Vik, that let you take the scenic path and maybe come up close and personal with other furry wildlife. Some farms may even have a view of volcanoes or other geographical oddities unique to Iceland; don’t pass that opportunity up if it presents itself. Find amazing animals in Iceland.

Why this tour is awesome: A ride might be a peaceful option to savor the surroundings and see the landscapes with your loved ones; however, riding knowledge can be quite helpful. Most trips give you riding helmets along with some simple advice. Also be very sure about dressing in warm layers due to constant windy conditions!