Glacier Hike, South Coast Waterfall & Black Sand Beach -Reykjavik Hotel pick up

By Glaciers and WaterfallsBest of

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Experience what it is like to stand on a glacier Experience the magic of Iceland’s South Coast on this unforgettable day trip from Reykjavik.

Duration
11 hours
Difficulty
Moderate
Season
All year
Minimum age
10 years
Getting there
Pickup included
Group size
Up to 18
Book by
2 hours before
Cancellation
Free up to 24 h before

from

24.990 ISK

per people

Check dates & book

Next departures

  • Thu 1 Oct · 08:00
  • Fri 2 Oct · 08:00
  • Sat 3 Oct · 08:00
  • Sun 4 Oct · 08:00

Runs: All year

  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
  • Secure payment, confirmation from the operator
  • No account needed

The Grapevine's take

Black Beach By Horseback

From the small and pleasantly mysterious town of Vík, taking a ride along its famous black shores on a mighty steed doesn’t get much better. The unique and delightful demeanour of the Icelandic horse is so easy to connect with and provides sanctuary to take in the foreboding coastline and bold basalt columns.

On The Reykjavík Grapevine's Best of list. See the whole list.

Prices

People0 - 99 years21.990 ISK

Prices for the next departure, checked Wed 30 Sept. They can change with the date; the booking shows the exact price.

About this tour

Experience what it is like to stand on a glacier
Experience the magic of Iceland’s South Coast on this unforgettable day trip from Reykjavik. Discover dramatic landscapes, powerful natural forces, and some of Iceland’s most iconic sights, including a guided glacier hike on the spectacular Sólheimajökull glacier.

The highlight of the adventure is a guided glacier hike on Sólheimajökull, an ever-changing outlet glacier shaped by Iceland’s volcanic and glacial forces. Equipped with crampons, a harness, helmet, and ice axe, you’ll journey through the dramatic glacial landscape before stepping onto the glacier’s icy surface. Explore centuries-old glacial ice, deep crevasses, striking ice formations, and breathtaking views while your certified guide shares insights into the glacier’s fascinating history and ongoing transformation.

Along the South Coast, you’ll visit the magnificent Seljalandsfoss waterfall, where you can admire the cascading water and, conditions permitting, walk behind the waterfall for a unique perspective.

Continue to the world-famous Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, where powerful Atlantic waves meet volcanic black sand, towering basalt columns, and the iconic Reynisdrangar sea stacks. This dramatic coastline is one of Iceland’s most remarkable natural wonders.

Throughout the journey, enjoy sweeping views of Iceland’s rugged landscapes, including glaciers, mountains, volcanic terrain, and vast coastal scenery that showcase the incredible forces that have shaped this unique island.

By the end of the day, you’ll return to Reykjavik with unforgettable memories from an authentic Icelandic adventure filled with nature, discovery, and breathtaking moments.
Don't miss out on this captivating adventure!

Itinerary
Glacier Hike on SólheimajökullSólheimajökull, an outlet glacier of Mýrdalsjökull, Iceland’s fourth-largest glacier, graces the South Coast with its presence. Located just 158 kilometers (98 miles) from Reykjavík, it offers a unique opportunity to explore glacial features and gain insight into its formation. This icy realm is a living testament to the dynamic forces that shape Iceland’s ever-changing landscape.

The Black Sand Beach Reynisfjara, a stunning black sand beach on the South Coast, showcases the raw power of the Atlantic Ocean. Its colossal waves crash upon the shore, creating an awe-inspiring spectacle. Basalt columns, resembling ancient sentinels, line the beach, while the enigmatic “Reynisdrangar” sea stacks emerge from the ocean’s depths, steeped in local folklore. This beach has earned its place among the world’s most beautiful non-tropical beaches.

Seljalandsfoss waterfallsSeljalandsfoss, another of Iceland’s classic waterfalls, offers a unique twist on the traditional waterfall experience. While not among the country’s largest falls, what sets Seljalandsfoss apart is the rare opportunity to walk behind the cascading water for most of the year. This immersive encounter transports you into a world of mist and magic, revealing a different perspective of nature’s beauty.



What's included

  • Transfer to/from Reykjavik in a Minibus
  • English speaking certified glacier guide
  • Equipment for glacier hike
  • Free WiFi on the Bus

What to bring

  • Warm outdoor clothing
  • Hat and gloves or mittens
  • Rain gear
  • Good hiking boots
  • Backpack
  • Water bottle
  • Camera/Phone

Good to know

  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Not stroller accessible
  • Not suitable for pets
  • No public transportation nearby
  • Infants must not sit on laps
  • Infant seats unavailable
  • Not recommended for people with heart conditions
  • No previous glacier hiking experience is required, but the approach to the glacier includes uphill hiking on uneven mountain terrain.
  • The full glacier experience takes approximately 3.5–4 hours, including preparation, the hike to the glacier, the glacier hike, and the return walk.
  • The total distance is around 6 km (3.7 miles), with an elevation gain of approximately 230 metres (750 feet).
  • The walk to the glacier is part of the adventure, offering beautiful views before you step onto the ice.
  • On the glacier, you’ll explore unique ice formations and crevasses with an experienced glacier guide.
  • Sólheimajökull is a constantly changing natural environment, so routes and distances may vary depending on glacier conditions.
  • The itinerary may be adjusted due to weather, road, or glacier conditions to ensure the safest and best possible experience.
  • We recommend warm, waterproof clothing, a hat, gloves, sturdy hiking boots, and an extra set of dry clothes.

Pickup and meeting point

Pickup is part of this tour: you choose your pickup point when you book.

Cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.

For all bookings of day tours, a minimum of 24 hours' notice prior to your scheduled departure is required in order to receive a full refund. If a cancellation is made with less than 24 hours notice, no refund is given.

For all bookings of multi-day and custom private tours, a minimum of 72 hours' notice prior to your scheduled departure is required in order to receive a full refund. If a cancellation is made with less than 72 hours' notice, no refund is given*

*Note that in the event the client requests a refund for any reason, Tour Desk reserves the right to charge a 3% administration fee to cover costs incurred.

Cancellation and refund requests need to be sent in writing to info@tourdesk.io

Questions

How long is Glacier Hike, South Coast Waterfall & Black Sand Beach?
About 11 hours, not counting pickup.
How much does Glacier Hike, South Coast Waterfall & Black Sand Beach cost?
From 24.990 ISK. People (0 - 99 years): 21.990 ISK. Prices are per person unless the category says otherwise, and can change with the date.
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes. Pickup is part of the tour: you choose your pickup point when you book.
What is the minimum age?
10 years.
When does it run?
All year round. Departures are listed for the next twelve months.
Can I cancel?
Yes. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the tour starts.
How hard is it?
The operator rates it moderate.

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