Sólheimajökull Glacier Hike & South Coast Waterfalls Day Trip from Reykjavik
- Duration11 hours
- Daily
- Group
- Pickup available
- Fair, honest prices
- Real people, not bots
- Confirm, then pay
- Secure payment
Overview
This small-group day trip from Reykjavik combines a guided glacier hike on Sólheimajökull with the south coast's classic sights: Seljalandsfoss waterfall and the black sand beach of Reynisfjara. A certified guide leads you onto the ice with crampons, harness, helmet and ice axe provided, and a comfortable minibus with Wi-Fi and hotel pickup does the driving. No glacier experience is needed, but the approach includes an uphill walk over uneven ground. The day lasts about eleven hours.
Highlights
- Guided hike on Sólheimajökull glacier with all safety equipment provided
- See ancient ice, crevasses and blue ice formations up close
- Photo stop and walk at Seljalandsfoss waterfall, conditions permitting
- Visit Reynisfjara black sand beach and its basalt columns
- Small group in a comfortable minibus with Wi-Fi and USB charging
- Hotel pickup from central Reykjavik included
Full Description
Sólheimajökull glacier
Sólheimajökull is an outlet glacier, a tongue of ice flowing from the Mýrdalsjökull ice cap on Iceland's south coast, about two hours from Reykjavik. It is one of the most accessible glaciers in the country and has been shrinking for decades, so routes change from season to season. This glacier hike from Reykjavik is a good choice if you want to walk on real ice without a specialist background.
Your certified guide fits you with crampons, a harness, helmet and ice axe, and leads you along a route over the ice among crevasses, ridges and dark bands of volcanic ash. The whole activity takes about three and a half to four hours, including the uphill approach and return. The distance is around six kilometres with an ascent of roughly 230 metres. Routes and timing may be adjusted for safety.
Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
Reynisfjara, near Vík, is one of the most famous beaches in Iceland. Its black volcanic sand meets powerful Atlantic waves, and a cliff of hexagonal basalt columns rises behind it beside a sea cave. Out at sea stand the Reynisdrangar sea stacks, said in folklore to be trolls turned to stone by the sun.
You have time to walk along the beach and take photographs, and lunch is possible nearby at your own cost. Please stay well away from the waves: sneaker waves reach far up the beach without warning, and your guide will remind you of the safe distance.
Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss
On the return journey the tour stops at Seljalandsfoss, a waterfall of about sixty metres. When conditions allow, a path leads behind the falling water, giving a view of the landscape through the curtain of spray. In winter this path can be closed because of ice, so dress for wet and slippery conditions.
Skógafoss, the wide waterfall a short way east, is also seen on the route, and its rainbow on sunny days is a favourite subject for photographers. Both waterfalls are among the best-known sights on the south coast, and this day trip covers them in a single day.
The south coast drive and Eyjafjallajökull
The journey east passes the Hellisheiði geothermal area, Selfoss and Hvolsvöllur, where there is a short break. Beyond it, the Eyjafjallajökull volcano dominates the view. Its eruption in 2010 stopped flights across Europe and it remains one of Iceland's best-known volcanoes.
The route is scenic throughout: farmland, lava fields, glaciers and coast. The guide shares stories about geology and local legends, and the minibus makes photo stops along the way. The trip is long, so bring warm layers and snacks or money for lunch, as food is not included.
Itinerary
- Hotel pickup in ReykjavikPickup from one of the central Reykjavik pickup locations.
- Drive along the south coastScenic drive with a short break in Hvolsvöllur and views of Eyjafjallajökull.
- Sólheimajökull glacier hikeAbout three and a half to four hours including preparation, the walk to the ice and the guided hike.
- Reynisfjara Black Sand BeachAbout an hour to walk the beach, see the basalt columns and have lunch at your own cost.
- Skógafoss and SeljalandsfossPhoto stops at two of the region's best-known waterfalls.
- Return to ReykjavikAbout an hour and a half back; the whole day takes about eleven hours.
What's included
- Transfer to and from Reykjavík by minibus
- Glacier safety equipment: crampons, harness, ice axe and helmet
- Professional glacier guide (English)
- Scenic photo stops along the South Coast
- Wi-Fi and USB charging on board
- Small group
Not included
- Food and drinks
Is this right for you?
Great for
- Travellers without a car — hotel pickup is included
- Travellers who want a proven choice — rated 4.8/5 by past travellers
Think twice if
- You prefer short outings — this takes about 11 hours
- You want a private tour — this one is shared with other travellers
- Walking is difficult for you — expect active parts
Not suitable for
- Children under 10 years
- People with mobility impairments or wheelchair users
- People with heart problems
- Anyone unable to walk uphill on uneven ground for several hours
Meeting point
The tour includes pickup from one of several central Reykjavik pickup locations. We send the pickup point and time window with your confirmation; please be ready ten minutes before, as the minibus only waits briefly.
Important information
- Wear warm, waterproof clothing, a hat, gloves and sturdy hiking boots; bring an extra dry layer
- No glacier experience is needed, but the approach includes an uphill walk on uneven mountain terrain
- The glacier hike takes about three and a half to four hours, around six kilometres with roughly 230 metres of ascent
- Routes and itinerary can change due to weather, road or glacier conditions
- Food and drinks are not included; bring snacks or money for lunch
- Stay away from the waves at Reynisfjara and follow your guide's instructions
Good to know
Frequently Asked Questions
Straight answers to what travellers ask us most, before they book.
How much does the Sólheimajökull glacier hike tour cost?
The price depends on the option and on the number of adults travelling. The booking panel on this page shows the current price for the date you choose.
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes. Pickup from selected central Reykjavik locations is part of the tour, and we send the details with your confirmation.
How long is the tour?
About eleven hours from pickup to return. The glacier hike itself takes around three and a half to four hours.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Children from 10 years can take part if they can walk uphill on uneven ground and follow safety instructions. Younger children cannot join.
What should I wear or bring?
Warm, waterproof clothing, a hat, gloves, sturdy hiking boots, and an extra dry layer. Crampons, harness, ice axe and helmet are provided.
Can I book for today or tomorrow?
Often, if places remain. The booking panel shows the next available dates.
What is the difference between the options?
This page shows a single option: a small-group glacier hike and south coast day trip with Reykjavik pickup.
Do I need glacier experience?
No. The guide teaches you how to walk in crampons and use the ice axe. You do need reasonable fitness.
Is Reynisfjara beach safe?
It can be dangerous because sneaker waves reach high up the beach. Stay well back from the water and follow the guide's advice.
Is a glacier hike worth it in winter?
Yes, the glacier is open in many seasons, and the blue ice is striking in winter, though conditions can change the route and timing.
More in Reykjavik
Getting to & around Reykjavik
Popular across Iceland
-
-
-
-
-
-
