Set out on a captivating journey through Iceland’s enchanting South Coast, where nature’s raw beauty unfolds before your eyes. Witness the thundering majesty of cascading waterfalls, stroll along the iconic black sand beaches, and explore the haunting remnants of a bygone era – the DC-3 plane wreck. This comprehensive tour offers a well-paced and unforgettable experience, immersing you in the untamed landscapes that have captivated travelers for generations. With convenient hotel pickup, guided visits, and seamless transportation, all that’s left is to let yourself be swept away by the region’s awe-inspiring wonders. What lies beyond the horizon, however, may just surprise you.
Key Points
- Comprehensive 12-hour guided tour of Iceland’s stunning South Coast from Reykjavik, including visits to Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, Reynisfjara black sand beach, and the iconic DC-3 plane wreck.
- Scenic journey along the South Coast, showcasing diverse landscapes from verdant pastures to towering mountain peaks, with well-paced exploration of the region’s top attractions.
- Opportunities to walk behind the curtain of Seljalandsfoss waterfall, hike to the top of Skógafoss waterfall, and stroll along the haunting Reynisfjara black sand beach.
- Chance to explore the eerie remnants of the DC-3 plane wreck, a testament to Iceland’s unpredictable elements, set against the stark, volcanic landscape.
- Convenient hotel/guesthouse pickup and drop-off service, as well as complimentary high-speed WiFi on the coach, ensuring a comfortable and seamless experience.
Duration and Pickup Details
The tour lasts a full 12 hours and includes guided visits to the South Coast’s top attractions.
Travelers will be picked up from their Reykjavik hotels and guesthouses at the start of the day.
Guests can look forward to an immersive experience as they board the coach and set off on their adventure.
The journey itself is part of the thrill, with the drive to the South Coast taking around 1.5 hours.
Visitors will have ample time to soak in the breathtaking landscapes and natural wonders that await, ensuring a well-paced and comprehensive exploration of this captivating region.
South Coast Journey
Departing from the capital, the coach takes visitors on a scenic journey along the South Coast, offering captivating vistas of Iceland’s rugged terrain.
Winding through the countryside, the route unfolds a tapestry of diverse landscapes, from verdant pastures to towering mountain peaks. Passengers gaze out the windows, eagerly anticipating the first stop.
At Seljalandsfoss, they marvel at the graceful cascade of water tumbling over the cliff’s edge, creating a mesmerizing display. Next, the thundering Skógafoss waterfall captivates the senses with its sheer power and scale.
Continuing on, the group reaches the iconic Reynisfjara black sand beach, where the crashing waves and dramatic basalt columns create a breathtaking scene. Each stop on this journey offers a unique glimpse into the natural splendor of Iceland’s South Coast.
Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
Visitors’ footsteps trace a path along the cliffs, leading them to Seljalandsfoss waterfall’s captivating cascade.
Its waters plummet 60 meters over the rocky edge, creating a mesmerizing display of power and grace that draws the eye upwards.
Mist swirls around the thundering flow, offering a refreshing respite on the warm summer day.
Walking behind the waterfall’s curtain of water provides a unique vantage point, allowing adventurous souls to peer out at the stunning natural amphitheater.
The sound of the rushing water echoes through the cave-like space, creating an immersive, almost otherworldly experience.
Photographers revel in the opportunity to capture the waterfall’s shifting moods, from the soft, ethereal glow of dawn to the dramatic shadows of dusk.
Skógafoss Waterfall
Continuing the journey down the South Coast, travelers arrive at the majestic Skógafoss waterfall, whose powerful cascade thunders 60 meters down the sheer cliffside, creating a mesmerizing display of raw, untamed beauty.
As they approach the falls, they’ll hear the roar of the water and feel the cool, misty spray on their faces. Standing at the base, they can gaze up in awe at the sheer scale of the cascading torrent, its thunderous rhythm punctuated by the occasional glimpse of a rainbow in the mist.
Adventurous visitors can even hike up the steps to the top of the falls, offering a unique vantage point to appreciate the waterfall’s grandeur.
Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
After marveling at the majestic Skógafoss waterfall, the tour makes its way to the dramatic Reynisfjara black sand beach. Towering basalt columns and imposing sea stacks rise from the ebbing waves, creating a striking geological formation that captivates visitors. The fine, inky sand, sculpted by the relentless ocean, invites guests to wander along the shore, feeling the cool breeze and the occasional splash of briny spray.
| Unique Features | Duration | Activities |
|---|---|---|
| Basalt columns Sea stacks Inky black sand |
1 hour | Strolling along the shore Admiring the dramatic landscape Capturing stunning photos |
DC-3 Plane Wreck
The DC-3 plane wreck lies nestled in the black sands of the Sólheimasandur, a haunting testament to Iceland’s unpredictable elements. Visitors can explore the remnants of this iconic aircraft, tracing its history and the dramatic circumstances that led to its final resting place.
As you approach the wreckage, the sheer scale of the plane becomes apparent, its once-sleek fuselage now weathered and battered by the relentless Icelandic winds.
Three powerful impressions linger:
- The eerie silence that surrounds the wreck, broken only by the occasional gust of wind.
- The stark contrast between the gleaming metal and the stark, volcanic landscape.
- The sense of melancholy that pervades the scene, a reminder of the fragility of human endeavor.
Sólheimajökull Glacier
From the plane wreck, the tour now turns its attention to the captivating Sólheimajökull Glacier, a natural wonder that commands awe and wonder. Visitors can’t help but be drawn to the glacier’s imposing presence, its icy expanse stretching out before them like a frozen sea. Explorers have the chance to venture onto the glacier’s surface, marveling at the intricate patterns of crevasses and seracs that have been carved by the relentless forces of nature. The shimmering blues and greens of the glacier’s ice create a breathtaking display, and the nearby lagoon offers a serene vantage point from which to take in the grandeur of this icy landscape.
| Glacier Type | Ice Coverage | Elevation |
|---|---|---|
| Outlet Glacier | 11 sq km | 1100 m |
| Originating Glacier | Myrdalsjökull | — |
| Retreat Rate | 100 m/yr | — |
Inclusions and Restrictions
The tour package includes a convenient pickup and drop-off service from Reykjavik hotels and guesthouses, ensuring a seamless start and end to the day’s adventures. Visitors can also look forward to guided visits at each captivating destination, with knowledgeable guides on hand to share insights and enrich the experience.
On top of that, complimentary high-speed WiFi on the coach allows travelers to stay connected and share their memories in real-time.
However, there are a few restrictions to note: the tour isn’t suitable for children under 8 years of age, and warm outdoor clothing is highly recommended to make the most of the tour’s natural wonders. This ensures a safe and comfortable journey, allowing participants to fully enjoy the South Coast’s breathtaking landscapes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Yes, guests are welcome to bring their own snacks and beverages to enjoy on the tour. Packing a gourmet picnic lunch or refreshing local drinks can enhance the overall experience and fuel adventurers as they explore the stunning South Coast landscapes.
Is There a Maximum Group Size for the Tour?
The tour provider doesn’t specify a maximum group size, but travellers can expect a personalized experience with a small group size. The intimate setting allows guests to fully enjoy the stunning South Coast scenery and plane wreck.
Can I Book the Tour for a Private Group?
The tour operator offers private group bookings, allowing travelers to tailor the experience to their preferences. They can accommodate groups of various sizes, ensuring an intimate and personalized exploration of Iceland’s stunning South Coast sights.
Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment for the Glacier Hike?
Guests don’t need special equipment for the glacier hike, but they should wear warm, weatherproof layers and sturdy hiking boots. The tour provides crampons to ensure stable footing on the icy glacier surface.
Is There a Discount for Booking the Tour as Part of a Package?
There may be discounts for booking this tour as part of a package deal. Customers should check with the tour operator about any available bundle packages, which could offer savings compared to booking the excursion individually.
Recap
This captivating 12-hour journey along Iceland’s South Coast offers an unforgettable experience. Witness the raw, untamed beauty of cascading waterfalls, black sand beaches, and a haunting plane wreck.
Marvel at the grandeur of Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, stroll along the iconic Reynisfjara, and venture onto the Sólheimajökull glacier.
With convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, guided visits, and complimentary WiFi, this comprehensive tour immerses you in Iceland’s stunning natural wonders.
