South Coast Iceland Adventure Review: Small Group, Big Fun
Dreaming of dramatic landscapes, thundering waterfalls, so otherworldly black sand beaches and glaciers you can actually walk on? A tour of Iceland’s South Coast might be just your thing. We checked out the ‘From Reykjavik: Iceland South Coast Small Group Adventure’, and this is what we thought. It is quite an outing; it promises a whole day packed with the sort of breathtaking scenery Iceland’s known for, and getting out to truly see it is an experience you won’t forget.
Why Choose a Small Group South Coast Tour?
Alright, there are tons of South Coast tours from Reykjavik. Thing is, going small can make a difference. So a busload of fifty other people? You bet that is not exactly personal. A smaller group – our was just around 15 – it feels more like traveling with friends, really. You get more attention from your guide, it’s way simpler to ask questions, and you don’t get lost in the shuffle during stops. Moving at our own pace, soaking it all in. That seems very good.
Another plus: supporting smaller, often locally-run companies often puts back more into the Icelandic economy, too it’s almost a better decision, and a point that you may appreciate knowing as you travel the country.
What You’ll See: South Coast Highlights
OK, now to what really matters: What are you going to see? This South Coast adventure jams in a bunch of seriously impressive locations, very quickly showing off the region’s diverse scenery. These places are more or less a bucket-list collection of what Iceland offers:
Seljalandsfoss Waterfall: Walking Behind the Water
Seljalandsfoss might be one of Iceland’s more famous waterfalls, that you can actually walk behind! That is wild. It is that unique perspective. Brace yourself, you may get wet, even fairly soaked from the spray, so pack a rain jacket. Seeing the landscape via a veil of water. This one is pretty magical, really.
Skógafoss Waterfall: Rainbows and Legends
Skógafoss is another stunner, but that is wider and more powerful than Seljalandsfoss. Supposedly, there’s treasure hidden behind it (spoiler: we did not find any!). You’re very able to hike right up to the base, and if the sun’s out, you’re bound to see vibrant rainbows dancing in the mist. If you’re feeling energetic, you could also climb the staircase next to the waterfall, getting killer panoramic views from the top, in a way getting more bang for your buck.
Sólheimajökull Glacier: Walking on Ice
A big highlight for most people would be the glacier walk on Sólheimajökull. Even more cool is the name sounds really Icelandic! Donning crampons (those spiky things for your boots) and getting out on the ice, in some respects, it’s something special. The ice formations, the deep blue colors, and hearing the crunch under your feet, that, is all awesome. Our guide was amazing, teaching us about the glacier’s formation and how the whole, warming globe affects these icy giants. Do not worry; no technical know-how is necessary. That’s quite something.
Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach: Basalt Columns and Ocean Power
Reynisfjara is unlike any beach you’ve probably seen. That stark black sand, powerful waves, and basalt columns make a dramatic landscape. The basalt columns make amazing photos. Also, it is good to be careful, the waves here can be quite dangerous (they’re called “sneaker waves” for a reason!), so don’t get too close to the water’s edge. You won’t be sorry to take a few steps back.
The Guide & Transportation
The guide is likely to make or break a tour, and we got lucky. That friendly local was full of facts about Iceland’s history, geology, and folklore, so much so you wondered if they were even aware of their depth of knowledge. He kept things light with some fun stories and was more than ready to answer any and all of our questions. The small bus was quite comfy, and so even with a bunch of hours on the road, it wasn’t bad at all. Free Wi-Fi is also on board too, so updating Instagram it’s almost too simple as you roll through stunning vistas.
What to Bring: Be Prepared
Iceland’s weather can be pretty iffy, no matter what time of year it is, actually. Layers are really important – think thermal underwear, fleece or wool sweater, and a waterproof jacket and pants. Sturdy hiking boots are recommended (especially for the glacier walk), along with gloves and a hat. Do not forget your camera and extra batteries. All the landscapes that will unfold for you on the south coast, deserve to be documented.
That lunch is not included, so pack snacks or you may grab something at one of the stops, that is good to note. Refillable water bottles can also be a nice touch.
Who is This Tour For?
That South Coast small group adventure it’s a killer fit if you like:
- Folks who enjoy activity outside but not too much hard effort. The glacier walk is accessible for average fitness levels, anyway.
- People who enjoy learning things about geology, history, and Icelandic culture.
- Solo travelers, couples, and small groups who choose a more engaging experience, instead of larger, less intimate tours.
- Anybody with a limited time frame looking to see as much of Iceland’s amazing scenery in a single day as possible.
Is it Worth It? The Final Verdict
For me, yes. The ‘From Reykjavik: Iceland South Coast Small Group Adventure’ gave me the goods on some top-tier sights, that, is well taken care of in a fun, efficient, comfortable way. A more intimate size does create a vastly better experience overall, if you prefer being with a whole lot of people. Okay, it might not be the cheapest tour out there, that is true, that might be a problem, but the overall quality and the experiences? These do justify spending your cash, still. It would be very enjoyable if you enjoy all that, very enjoyable.
Frequently Asked Questions
How physically demanding is the tour?
It isn’t a difficult journey physically but might include fair amounts of walking, a bit of hiking on sometimes uneven surfaces, that would make some people feel weary, in fact, that would require some caution. That glacier hike can be thought of as not difficult, still, there’s no climbing involved and that guides adapt things based on our groups levels.
Are meals included?
Lunch is not generally covered with this tour, but breaks have been accounted for at sites where we might buy your own meals or quick bites. Snacks will never hurt either.
What if the weather is bad?
These trips push onward rain or shine. Okay, Iceland is infamous with its ever changing environment, right. Safety can be thought of as primary however; if environmental factors render going to specific destinations harmful, plans might get changed.