Adventures in South Iceland | Round trips Iceland

Route

You explore Iceland’s south coast, from hot springs and iconic waterfalls to glaciers and black sand beaches. The route largely follows the Ring Road, making the main natural highlights easy to reach.

Pace

Flexible and comfortable. Many highlights are located right along the road and can be discovered at a relaxed pace. Those who wish can add walks or activities, while others can simply enjoy the views.

Highlights

Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls, glacier adventures in Vatnajökull National Park, the black beaches of Vík and the classic Golden Circle.

Accommodation

You stay in carefully selected Caractère boutique hotels along the route, warm and comfortable, no unnecessary luxury after a full day outside.

Profile

For travellers who want to experience Iceland’s nature in their own way.

Day 1: Arrival in Iceland – Hveragerdi

After arriving at Keflavik Airport, collect your hire car and drive on to your hotel. If you arrive early, you can get a taste of Iceland by going for a walk. Walk to a nearby hot spring where you can enjoy a lovely soak.

Day 2: Hveragerdi – Skogafoss – Seljalandsfoss – Reynisfjara Beach – Vik

Follow the ring road and enjoy waterfalls, volcanoes and glaciers along the way. Stop en route to admire the famous Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls. If you’re lucky, you’ll also see the volcanoes Hekla and Eyjafjallajökull. Today you have a choice of various activities. From horse riding to an ATV quad bike ride or a glacier hike: the natural landscape lends itself perfectly to adventurous exploration.

Day 3: Vik – Kirkjubaejarklaustur – Vatnajökull National Park – Hofn

You’ll drive through the vast lava fields to Vatnajökull National Park, named after Europe’s largest glacier. The Skaftafell area within the park is a green oasis surrounded by glaciers. Follow a footpath to Svartifoss, the black waterfalls. If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience, you can take an amphibious boat trip amongst the cascading waterfalls. Or opt for a puffin safari to see these adorable creatures in their natural habitat.

Continue to the nearby black sand beach, Diamond Beach, before ending the day in the village of Hofn.

Day 4: Hofn – Vik – Hvolsvollur

Enjoy the magnificent views as you drive back along the Ring Road. You’ll have the chance to go kayaking by a glacier or hike through a canyon with stunning views. Afterwards, take the zipline back down.

Day 5: Hvolsvollur – Golden Circle – Reykjavik

Today you’ll explore the wonders of the Golden Circle, such as Gullfoss waterfall and the Geysir geothermal area. You can take part in Gullfoss Canyon Rafting, paddling through a stunning gorge. You’ll continue to Thingvellir National Park, the site of the ancient Icelandic Viking parliament. Here, you may opt to go snorkelling in the Silfra fissure, which lies between two continents. You’ll then drive on to the capital, Reykjavik.

Day 6: Return home

If you have time to spare, you can visit the Blue Lagoon today. Afterwards, you’ll drive to the airport for your return flight.

Frequently asked questions about this South Iceland tour

When is the best time to visit South Iceland?

For this specific route, the period from June to August is ideal; the days are endlessly long (midnight sun) and the roads to the waterfalls and glaciers are in excellent condition. However, if you want to spot the Northern Lights, the months of September, October or March are the best choice.

Is a hire car necessary for this trip through Iceland?

Absolutely. A hire car is essential to visit the natural wonders along the south coast at your own pace. Although the Ring Road (Route 1) is fully tarmac-surfaced, a car gives you the freedom to stop at lesser-known viewpoints and explore the Golden Circle without relying on crowded tour buses.

What makes this tour of Iceland unique?

This trip brings together Iceland’s most spectacular contrasts in a compact itinerary. You’ll experience the raw power of the Vatnajökull glacier and active geysers, combined with the serene tranquillity of natural hot springs and the mystical atmosphere of the black volcanic beaches near Vík.