South Coast Iceland Tour: Waterfalls, Glacier Hike & Black Sands

About this experience

Venture into the serene beauty of South Iceland on a scenic tour exploring hidden waterfalls and the majestic Sólheimajökull glacier. Begin at Urriðafoss, one of the country’s most powerful yet lesser-known waterfalls, surrounded by peaceful landscapes. Discover Kvernufoss, where you can walk behind the cascading water for a unique view. Enjoy an exhilarating glacier hike on Sólheimajökull, navigating icy crevasses and volcanic ash formations. Conclude your adventure with a stroll along the tranquil black sands of Víkurfjara beach, framed by dramatic sea cliffs and iconic sea stacks.

- Explore the powerful Urriðafoss and hidden Kvernufoss waterfalls
- Experience a guided glacier hike on the Sólheimajökull
- Enjoy the quiet beauty of Víkurfjara beach, away from crowds
- Perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers looking for tranquility

What's included

Itinerary

1. Tour stop

   Urriðafoss is a powerful and wide waterfall on the Þjórsá River, Iceland’s longest river. Surrounded by peaceful lowland scenery, this hidden gem offers a raw and unfiltered experience of Icelandic nature without the usual crowds. Though often overlooked in favor of more famous waterfalls on the South Coast, Urriðafoss is one of Iceland’s most voluminous falls. Its thunderous flow and expansive cascade make it a remarkable stop for those seeking something off the beaten path.

2. Tour stop

   Tucked away in a narrow gorge near the popular Skógar area, Kvernufoss is one of Iceland’s hidden gems. Much like its famous neighbor Seljalandsfoss, it offers the rare and magical experience of walking behind the waterfall, with misty views and a thunderous curtain of water above. Despite being just a short walk from the main road, Kvernufoss remains blissfully uncrowded thanks to its discreet setting. Its peaceful surroundings and dramatic beauty make it a perfect stop for those looking to enjoy the South Coast’s natural wonders away from the tourist rush.

3. Tour stop

   Sólheimajökull is a striking outlet glacier that extends from the larger Mýrdalsjökull ice cap in South Iceland. Its rugged surface of crevasses, ice ridges, and ash-streaked formations offers a dramatic and ever-changing landscape shaped by volcanic and glacial forces. Easily accessible and popular for guided glacier hikes, Sólheimajökull provides a rare opportunity to experience the raw power of Iceland’s ice up close. Whether you're trekking across its frozen surface or simply admiring it from the base, the glacier offers an unforgettable glimpse into the island’s wild and icy heart.

4. Tour stop

   Víkurfjara is a striking black sand beach located just beside the village of Vík, offering dramatic coastal views with towering cliffs, basalt columns, and the iconic Reynisdrangar sea stacks rising from the ocean. Often overshadowed by nearby Reynisfjara, this beach provides a quieter, more peaceful alternative without sacrificing the raw beauty of Iceland’s southern shoreline. With its moody atmosphere, thundering waves, and stunning geological formations, Víkurfjara is an ideal stop for those seeking the powerful charm of Iceland’s coastline—without the crowds. It’s a perfect blend of accessibility and seclusion, right at the edge of one of Iceland’s southernmost towns.

Know before you go

• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness