SOUTH COAST WONDERS

There are many Iceland south coast tours for you to choose from. Depending on the chosen length, activities, and travel style, the precise sights you’ll see will differ. That said, most south coast tours will take you to Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, Reynisfjara and the village of Vík, or as far as Jökulsárlón. Check out the individual tour pages to see the specific itineraries.

Whether you should do a self-drive tour of Iceland depends on your travel style and priorities. Here are some factors to consider:

1. Safety: Iceland's roads are generally well-maintained, but the terrain can vary significantly depending on the season and location. You’ll need to feel comfortable navigating mountain passes, gravel or icy roads, in darkness, and sometimes unexpected weather changes. If you're not used to driving in such conditions, this could add stress to your trip.

2. Comfort and Flexibility: One of the major advantages of a self-drive tour is the comfort and flexibility it offers. You can explore at your own pace, stop for spontaneous photo opportunities, and create your itinerary. For some, this freedom is invaluable.

3. Quality Time with Travel Companions
One of the key benefits of not opting for a self-drive tour is the ability to focus entirely on your travel companions, especially your partner or friends. When you're not behind the wheel, you can fully enjoy the journey without the distraction of navigating or managing the road. On a guided tour, you can relax, take in the stunning Icelandic landscapes, and engage in meaningful conversations without worrying about directions, fuel stops, or traffic conditions.

4. The Stress of Driving: Driving can be stressful, especially in a foreign country with unfamiliar road signs, changing weather conditions, and remote areas where services may be scarce. Navigating long distances, managing fuel stops, and ensuring you're on the right route can feel overwhelming for some, especially if you're the sole driver. In the winter, it’s crucial to check road conditions frequently and ensure your car is equipped for icy roads.

The south coast of Iceland is packed with incredible sights, from volcanic peaks to black-sand beaches. A tour through all of the major sights is one of the most memorable things you can do in the country.

Here’s a taste of what you can see:

• Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss. Two of Iceland’s most impressive waterfalls are a short distance away from each other on the south coast. You can even walk behind the elegant stream of Seljalandsfoss.
• Reynisfjara beach. When people speak of black-sand beaches in Iceland, they mean Reynisfjara. It’s mysterious, wild, and completely unforgettable.
• Skaftafell. A nature reserve that makes up part of the Vatnajökull National Park, here you’ll find some of Iceland’s best scenery.
• Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon. Rightly one of Iceland’s most famous sights, it’s an evocative lake full of floating icebergs.

There’s plenty more to see too!

That’s up to you! Guided tours give you the opportunity to get an insider’s perspective on Iceland, while seeing the top sights and meeting like-minded travellers at the same time.

But they’re not for everyone. If you prefer greater freedom, take a self-drive tour and enjoy the south coast of Iceland at your own pace.

North Iceland and the south coast have their own particular character. The south coast has most of the country’s most famous sights and it benefits from being really accessible from the capital, Reykjavík. Meanwhile, the north tends to be quieter, although it’s just as scenic.

You don’t need to choose between them, though. Join a tour that takes you around the whole of Iceland along the iconic Route 1 ring road.