This south coast Iceland itinerary affords epic waterfalls and glaciers, adventurous treks and exquisite picture spots.
Iceland is likely one of the most superb locations on the planet for street journeys. When you’re planning a visit and questioning the place to start out, let me make it straightforward for you: head straight for the south coast. This stretch of street is pure magic! Assume towering waterfalls, black sandy seashores, glaciers and characterful villages.
On this information, I’ll lay out a a simple to observe south coast Iceland itinerary with suggestions for locations to cease, sensible suggestions for getting round, plus just a few issues I want I’d identified the primary time round!
Whether or not you’ve obtained a protracted weekend or per week, this Iceland southern coast itinerary will be tailored simply. I’ve written it as a 3 day itinerary, with the beginning and end in Reykjavík.
Getting Across the South Coast of Iceland
Earlier than we dive into the route, it’s time to speak transport. Driving is certainly the easiest way to discover Iceland. Public transport isn’t efficient sufficient for linking the sweetness spots, and day excursions will add up quick! With your individual automotive or campervan you may cease for waterfalls, glaciers, viewpoints and meals everytime you fancy.
For traditional autos, I’d advocate car rental in Iceland. You’ll get kitted out with an applicable automobile, with extras like winter tyres for the icy months.
When you’re contemplating an even bigger journey, the place you get to get up to unbelievable surroundings every morning, Campervan Reykjavik is very reliable.
All the time verify the road conditions earlier than you set off every day. As you’ll remember, the nation’s climate is as dramatic as its surroundings, and modifications quick October to April.
Day 1: Reykjavík to Vík
Able to chase some waterfalls? This primary day is likely one of the highlights of the entire south coast Iceland itinerary.
Seljalandsfoss
Your first huge cease comes about two hours from Reykjavík. Seljalandsfoss is legendary as a result of you may stroll behind the cascading water. Convey a water-resistant jacket and durable sneakers because it’s a slippery spot! It could possibly get fairly busy, so in case you can time your go to for early morning or later night in the summertime, you’ll hopefully keep away from the massive tour buses.
Gljúfrabúi
Shut by is that this hidden gem that many individuals miss. You’ll wade barely right into a slim canyon after which spot the magical, nearly secret waterfall contained in the rock partitions. It’s stunning!
Skógafoss
Subsequent up is Skógafoss, some of the highly effective waterfalls on the south coast of Iceland. On sunny days, rainbows dance within the mist, and there’s a staircase to the highest if you’d like a special view (and a leg exercise)!
Kvernufoss
Simply 5 minutes from Skógafoss however far quieter, Kvernufoss is one other waterfall you may stroll behind.
Dyrhólaey Viewpoint
Earlier than reaching Vík, I’d advocate stopping off at Dyrhólaey to see the dramatic cliffs, crashing waves, and a large rock archway. It’s an awesome spot for wildlife in the summertime too, with puffins nesting within the area.
Reynisfjara Black Sand Seashore
To spherical off an unbelievable first day of your street journey, head to this black sand seashore close to Vík. Basalt columns line the cliffs, and the Reynisdrangar sea stacks loom offshore. Then head to Vík for the night time.
Day 2: Vík to Skaftafell or Jökulsárlón
Right now you’ll head additional into glacier territory, taking in some splendidly wild views alongside the way in which. In addition to waterfalls, it’s what Iceland’s south coast is legendary for.
Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon
This moss-covered canyon winds dramatically via the panorama and is nicely well worth the quick stroll to viewpoints above the river. It’s one of many prettiest locations alongside the Iceland south coast.
Eldhraun Lava Discipline
Prepared for some otherworldly views? You may assume you’ve departed our planet if you attain this space of spongy, green-covered lava from a large 18th-century eruption.
Skaftafell Nature Reserve
A part of Vatnajökull Nationwide Park, Skaftafell is sensible for climbing. There are many trails right here, and also you don’t must be tremendous match to get pleasure from them. Some are sluggish and mild walks, though there are some adventurous glacier treks in case you’re feeling extra energetic!
Fjallsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Typically overshadowed by its well-known neighbour, this smaller lagoon is quieter and offers beautiful glacier views. You’ll attain it simply earlier than…
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Pictures of this spot are most likely one of many causes you deliberate this journey within the first place. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is likely one of the most unbelievable sights you’ll see in Iceland, the place Icebergs float serenely throughout the lagoon earlier than drifting out to sea. It’s magical.
Diamond Seashore
Throughout the street you’ll see chunks of crystal-clear ice sitting on the placing black sand. It’s one other place that feels not like anyplace else on the planet. Take a number of pictures!! After this, keep close to Jökulsárlón or in Skaftafell.
Day 3: Return to Reykjavík with Hidden Stops
Day three is a bit more relaxed by way of stops. You possibly can both go to among the locations you missed, or go to just a few further sights. This flexibility is what makes a self-drive Iceland southern coast itinerary so particular.
Sólheimasandur Airplane Wreck
It is a weird landmark. There’s a flat however prolonged stroll results in the eerie stays of a crashed US Navy aircraft on a black-sand desert. It’s a little bit of a trek to achieve it however could make for some cool pictures in case you’re .
Skógar Waterfall Path
When you didn’t climb above Skógafoss on the primary day of your street journey, you are able to do it now as a substitute. It’s a tremendous route, with a number of small waterfalls alongside the river canyon.
Seljavallalaug Scorching Springs
One in all Iceland’s oldest swimming swimming pools, Seljavallalaug is tucked right into a mountain valley. It’s a little bit of a detour from the primary route, so see in case your timings permit it.
Hvolsvöllur or Selfoss Lunch Cease
When you’re in search of someplace to cease for meals on the way in which again to Reykjavík, these cities have some good choices.
Sensible Suggestions for Your South Coast Highway Journey
When to Go
- Summer time (June–August): Lengthy daylight, simpler driving, busiest season.
- Shoulder months (Could and September): Fewer crowds, nonetheless manageable roads.
- Winter: Gorgeous snow scenes and attainable northern lights, however quick daylight. Winter journeys to Iceland want much more planning and also you’ll want to observe street situations hourly! There’s an additional particular magic to the landscapes although, with that blanket of white.
What to Pack
- Waterproof jacket and trousers
- Sturdy climbing boots
- Hat and gloves, even in summer time
- Swimwear (for warm springs)
- Digicam
Driving Distances
You may assume the distances look fairly manageable, however you’ll be stopping on a regular basis! A 3-hour drive can simply take 4 or 5 if you wish to take pictures alongside the way in which!
Is This the Finest South Coast Iceland Itinerary?
I feel that is the right route for first-time guests. You’ll get to see among the most iconic landscapes on the south coast of Iceland. When you can unfold it out over 4 or 5 days, you’ll get to get pleasure from a slower tempo with extra stops.
When you’re in search of extra data, don’t miss my different Iceland guides.
