Question 1

What is on the Iceland South Coast tour?

Accepted Answer

There are many Iceland south coast itineraries for you to choose from. Depending on the chosen length, activities, and travel style, the precise sights you’ll see will differ.

That said, most south coast tours will take you to Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, Reynisfjara and the village of Vík, and as far as Jökulsárlón. Check out the individual tour pages to see the specific itineraries.

Question 2

Should I do a self-drive tour of Iceland?

Accepted Answer

Self-drive tours of Iceland put you behind the wheel of the car. You’ll enjoy the freedom of going at your own pace and stopping wherever takes your fancy. It’ll make your Iceland trip a real adventure.

That said, for solo travellers or people who want to meet like-minded explorers, a group tour can be a great option. You won’t even need to worry about hiring a car and driving.

Question 3

Where to go on the south coast of Iceland?

Accepted Answer

The south coast of Iceland is packed with incredible sights, from volcanic peaks to black-sand beaches. A tour through all of the major sights is one of the most memorable things you can do in the country.

Here’s a taste of what you can see:

The Golden Circle. A short drive from downtown Reykjavík, the Golden Circle is one of the most famous sights in all of Iceland, not just the southern region. Expect jaw-dropping geysers, fascinating history, and powerful waterfalls.

Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss. Two of Iceland’s most impressive waterfalls are a short distance away from each other on the south coast. You can even walk behind the elegant stream of Seljalandsfoss.

Reynisfjara beach. When people speak of black-sand beaches in Iceland, they mean Reynisfjara. It’s mysterious, wild, and completely unforgettable.

Skaftafell. A nature reserve that makes up part of the Vatnajökull National Park, here you’ll find some of Iceland’s best scenery.

Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon. Rightly one of Iceland’s most famous sights, it’s an evocative lake full of floating icebergs.

There’s plenty more to see too!

Question 4

Should I do a guided tour in Iceland?

Accepted Answer

That’s up to you! Guided tours give you the opportunity to get an insider’s perspective on Iceland, while seeing the top sights and meeting like-minded travellers at the same time.

But they’re not for everyone. If you prefer greater freedom, take a self-drive tour and enjoy the south coast of Iceland at your own pace.

Question 5

Is it better to go north or south in Iceland?

Accepted Answer

North Iceland and the south coast have their own particular character. The south coast has most of the country’s most famous sights and it benefits from being really accessible from the capital, Reykjavík. Meanwhile, the north tends to be quieter, although it’s just as scenic.

You don’t need to choose between them, though. Join a tour that takes you around the whole of Iceland along the iconic Route 1 ring road.

Question 6

How long should you spend on the south coast of Iceland?

Accepted Answer

How long you should spend on the south coast of Iceland depends on how long you have in the country. While some people fit the whole region into a single day, others take two or three days or even longer.

Ultimately, the choice is yours! But no matter how long you have, you’ll find something to take your breath away.

Question 7

What is on the Iceland South Coast tour?

Accepted Answer

There are many Iceland south coast itineraries for you to choose from. Depending on the chosen length, activities, and travel style, the precise sights you’ll see will differ.

That said, most south coast tours will take you to Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, Reynisfjara and the village of Vík, and as far as Jökulsárlón. Check out the individual tour pages to see the specific itineraries.

Question 8

What tours are worth doing in Iceland?

Accepted Answer

In Iceland there’s a tour for you no matter who you are and what you like doing. Tours are a great way to visit the most incredible sights across the country, from the Golden Circle to Jökulsárlón and everything in between.

On a tour of Iceland you can also try out experiences you would never have previously considered. Go snorkelling or snowmobiling, visit an ice cave or a lava tunnel, or see the northern lights.

Question 9

Can you do South Coast Iceland in one day?

Accepted Answer

Many visitors to Iceland visit the south coast in a single day. On a south coast and glacier lagoon tour from Reykjavík, you can fit in all of the best sights and return to your hotel in the city.

Expect an action-packed day! But if you’d prefer to take it a little more slowly, you can spread your south coast tour over two or three days.

Question 10

How long does it take to drive from Reykjavík to the south coast of Iceland?

Accepted Answer

The south coast of Iceland stretches from just outside of Reykjavík to as far as the Vatnajökull Nation Park. While some of the closest south coast sights are less than two hours from the city, Jökulsárlón is about five hours’ drive.

Question 11

What time of year is best to drive around Iceland?

Accepted Answer

Late spring and the summer months are the best time to drive around Iceland yourself. This is when the weather tends to be warmer, drier, and less volatile. You’re also much less likely to find snow and ice, and most of the highland roads will be open for exploration (as they’re closed during the winter).

There’s the added benefit of longer hours of light in the summer too. It gives you extra time to explore before it gets dark.

Question 12

Where to go on the south coast of Iceland?

Accepted Answer

The south coast of Iceland is packed with incredible sights, from volcanic peaks to black-sand beaches. A tour through all of the major sights is one of the most memorable things you can do in the country.
Here’s a taste of what you can see:

Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss. Two of Iceland’s most impressive waterfalls are a short distance away from each other on the south coast. You can even walk behind the elegant stream of Seljalandsfoss.

Reynisfjara beach. When people speak of black-sand beaches in Iceland, they mean Reynisfjara. It’s mysterious, wild, and completely unforgettable.

Vík is a picturesque coastal village across the mountain from Reynisfjara. Renowned for its dramatic black-sand beaches, iconic Reynisdrangar sea stacks, and its pivotal position along the country's scenic Ring Road. As the southernmost village in Iceland, Vík serves as an essential stop for travellers, offering both natural beauty and vital amenities.

Skaftafell Nature Reserve. A nature reserve that makes up part of the Vatnajökull National Park, you’ll find some of Iceland’s best scenery here. Get the most out of your visit to Skaftafell by joining a glacier hike tour!

Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon. Rightly one of Iceland’s most famous sights, it’s an evocative lake full of floating icebergs.

There’s plenty more to see, too!

Question 13

Can you travel the south of Iceland without a tour guide?

Accepted Answer

You can travel along the south coast of Iceland without a guide. But you’ll need to hire a car and drive yourself. In winter conditions this can be a challenge for less able and confident drivers. You’ll also miss out on many of the insights that a local guide will share.

That said, travelling the south coast by yourself can be a thrilling trip.

Question 14

How long is the South Coast tour in Iceland?

Accepted Answer

You can choose between south coast and glacier lagoon tours of many different lengths.

For example, some people decide to take a south coast tour from Reykjavík that shows them the region's highlights in a single day. Others prefer to add an overnight stop or two to see the sights more leisurely.

If you have the time to spare, you could even book a longer south coast tour. You’ll get a much deeper feel for the area and see some of the sights that most visitors tend to miss.

Question 15

Which month can you see ice caves in Iceland?

Accepted Answer

As ice caves are a natural phenomenon, they’re very dependent on weather conditions. In the summer, when higher temperatures mean that glaciers retreat, ice caves aren’t always safe to enter. That’s why most ice caves are only available to visit during the winter, typically between mid-November and March.

That said, the man-made ice cave in Langjökull is open to visitors all year round.

Question 16

Which ice cave is best in Iceland?

Accepted Answer

Every ice cave has its particular character, quality, and magic. Perhaps the most impressive ice caves are those you’ll find in Vatnajökull, one of Europe’s largest glaciers. Thanks to their breathtaking forms and ever-changing shape, they promise an unforgettable experience.

That said, the man-made ice cave beneath the Langjökull glacier is an astonishing piece of engineering—and it’s open all year round.

Question 17

Can you visit ice caves in Iceland?

Accepted Answer

There are many ice caves that you can visit in Iceland. But it’s always best to do it with a guide. As ice caves and glaciers more generally are always changing, you can only be sure that you’ll be safe if you’re led by a local expert.

The glaciers of Langjökull and Vatnajökull are where you’ll find most of Iceland’s best ice caves to visit.

Question 18

Can you see ice caves in Iceland without a tour?

Accepted Answer

Venturing into Iceland's ice caves without an expert guide is strongly discouraged. These awe-inspiring formations, nestled within the dynamic landscapes of glaciers, are not only hard to locate amidst the vast open ice and rugged terrain but are also subject to changing conditions that only local experts can accurately assess. It's crucial to understand that glaciers, in their majestic beauty, pose significant risks to those unfamiliar with their intricacies. With a knowledgeable guide, you can safely experience the mesmerising beauty of ice caves while ensuring your safety amid the glacier's ever-shifting environment.

Question 19

How long is an ice cave tour in Iceland?

Accepted Answer

Ice cave tours range in length, from quick visits to longer full-day experiences. The shortest tours last for an action-packed three hours including transport time, in which you can glimpse these icy caverns.

On a longer tour you can combine your ice cave visit with other experiences, such as a glacier walk, waterfalls, or a ride aboard state-of-the-art modified vehicles.

Question 20

Which ice cave tour is best in Iceland?

Accepted Answer

There’s a wide range of ice cave tours available in Iceland, each offering a different kind of experience.

One of the most popular options is to visit the Langjökull Ice Cave, beneath one of the deepest glaciers in Iceland. This is one of the world’s largest man-made ice caves, in an incredible remote location.

Alternatively, you can visit one of the natural ice caves formed when glaciers melt, twist, or change shape. Some of the most spectacular can be found in the Vatnajökull National Park.

Question 21

What do you wear to ice caves in Iceland?

Accepted Answer

As you might expect, Iceland’s ice caves are incredibly cold. They are formed of glacial ice after all!

That means that dressing warmly will be your top priority when taking an ice cave tour. Lots of layers, a warm jacket, and waterproofs are all highly recommended.

The other thing you shouldn’t forget are sturdy shoes. You’ll be walking on rugged, rocky terrain.

Question 22

What is the bluest ice cave in Iceland?

Accepted Answer

Ice caves are blue due to the way that light passes through the compressed ice of the walls. As the ice is very tightly packed, only blue light passes through it.

There are many ice caves in Iceland that claim to be the bluest ice cave in the country. However, you’ll see the blue effect no matter which ice cave you visit!

Question 23

Is an ice cave tour in Iceland worth it?

Accepted Answer

An ice cave tour in Iceland is truly a unique experience. How often do you walk beneath ice sheets or get up close to the mesmerising blue patterns in a wall of ice? On a visit to Iceland, a visit to an ice cave is definitely worth your time and money.

Why not combine your ice cave experience with a complete glacier tour? These landforms are one of Iceland’s most spectacular features.

Question 24

What is the best time of day to do the ice cave tour in Iceland?

Accepted Answer

Tours to the ice caves run throughout the day, and no matter what time of day you visit, they are always a beautiful experience. Choose a time that best suits your schedule.

Question 25

What is the easiest ice cave in Iceland?

Accepted Answer

Many of Iceland’s ice caves can be visited easily.

For example, you can visit the Langjökull Ice Cave onboard a specialised glacier vehicle that takes you right up to the entrance to the tunnel. Similarly, transport is available to take you to the Secret ice cave and the Aurora ice cave too.

If you’re up for more of a challenge, combine a visit to an ice cave with a glacier walk. This way, you’ll get the full experience of Iceland’s icy landscapes.

Question 26

What is the closest ice cave to Reykjavík?

Accepted Answer

The closest natural ice cave to Reykjavík is the Askur ice cave at Myrdalsjökull, about two hours' drive from the city. Langjökull glacier, roughly two hours away, also has an ice cave, but it's man-made.

Iceland's Ultimate South Coast, Ice Cave & Waterfall Adventure

BSÍ Bus Terminal - City center

Need to know

Requirements

Tour itinerary

Meeting at BSÍ Bus terminal

Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

Skógafoss Waterfall

Mýrdalsjökull Glacier

What’s included and what to bring on this tour

Included

Not included

Tour highlights

Are you wondering about something?

Similar tours

South Coast & Glacier Hiking

South Coast - Glacier Snowmobiling Adventure

Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon & Diamond Beach

Askur Ice Cave Adventure

Ice Cave and Glacier Walk

Iceland's Ultimate South Coast, Ice Cave & Waterfall Adventure

BSÍ Bus Terminal - City center

Need to know

Requirements

Tour itinerary

Meeting at BSÍ Bus terminal

Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

Skógafoss Waterfall

Mýrdalsjökull Glacier

What’s included and what to bring on this tour

Included

Not included

Tour highlights

What is on the Iceland South Coast tour?

Should I do a self-drive tour of Iceland?

Where to go on the south coast of Iceland?

Should I do a guided tour in Iceland?

Is it better to go north or south in Iceland?

Similar tours

South Coast & Glacier Hiking

South Coast - Glacier Snowmobiling Adventure

Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon & Diamond Beach

Askur Ice Cave Adventure

Ice Cave and Glacier Walk

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