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Highlights
Discover Iceland's breathtaking waterfalls, glaciers, and black sand beaches.
Explore Iceland's famous waterfalls, including Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss.
Visit the stunning Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and its icebergs.
Hike to Svartifoss, surrounded by impressive basalt columns.
Discover the unique landscapes of Reynisfjara black sand beach.
The 7-Day Iceland South Coast Self-Drive Tour offers travelers an unforgettable journey through some of Iceland's most iconic natural wonders. From stunning waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss to the majestic Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, the tour showcases the beauty of Iceland’s southern landscape. Visitors will also have the chance to explore unique black sand beaches such as Reynisfjara and the fascinating Dyrhólaey cliffs, where birdwatching opportunities abound.
Throughout the trip, you'll experience a mix of easy hikes, breathtaking scenery, and optional activities like boat tours in the glacier lagoon or snowmobiling on Langjökull Glacier. The tour offers flexibility with a self-drive format, allowing travelers to set their own pace while uncovering the natural wonders of Iceland's South Coast, including volcanic landscapes, geothermal springs, and the possibility of witnessing the magical Northern Lights in winter months.
The 7-Day Iceland South Coast Self-Drive Tour offers travelers an unforgettable journey through some of Iceland's most iconic natural wonders. From stunning waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss to the majestic Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, the tour showcases the beauty of Iceland’s southern landscape. Visitors will also have the chance to explore unique black sand beaches such as Reynisfjara and the fascinating Dyrhólaey cliffs, where birdwatching opportunities abound.
Throughout the trip, you'll experience a mix of easy hikes, breathtaking scenery, and optional activities like boat tours in the glacier lagoon or snowmobiling on Langjökull Glacier. The tour offers flexibility with a self-drive format, allowing travelers to set their own pace while uncovering the natural wonders of Iceland's South Coast, including volcanic landscapes, geothermal springs, and the possibility of witnessing the magical Northern Lights in winter months.
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7-day Iceland South Coast Adventure Itinerary
Day 1 Welcome to Iceland!
Upon arrival at Keflavik International Airport, pick up your pre-booked rental car and begin your adventure. If time permits, take a scenic drive through the rugged Reykjanes Peninsula on your way to Reykjavik, Iceland’s vibrant capital. Discover stunning natural attractions, including the Reykjanestá bird cliffs, the geothermal Gunnuhver hot spring, the dramatic Brimketill rock pool, and the colorful landscapes of Krýsuvík hot springs. You can also visit the world-famous Blue Lagoon for a relaxing soak before settling in for the night in Reykjavik. Optional activity: The Blue Lagoon / The Sky Lagoon.
Overnight Location: Keflavík
Meals: None
Day 2 Waterfalls & Black Sand Beaches of the South Coast
Today is all about waterfalls! Begin your day with an unforgettable walk behind the cascading Seljalandsfoss, then continue along the rock face to discover Gljúfrabúi, a hidden gem nestled within a gorge. Next, head to Skógar to witness the powerful Skógafoss and consider a visit to Skógasafn, a local folk and transport museum showcasing Icelandic heritage.
Continue your journey along the South Coast, stopping at the dramatic bird cliffs of Dyrhólaey and the striking Reynisfjara black sand beach, famous for its basalt columns. Pass through the charming village of Vík, then drive across the vast, desert-like Mýrdalssandur, the moss-covered lava fields of Eldhraun, and finally reach Kirkjubæjarklaustur, where you’ll spend the night. Optional activity: Sólheimajökull Glacier Discovery / Vík Lava Show.
Overnight Location: Kirkjubæjarklaustur area
Meals: Breakfast
Day 3 Skaftafell, Glacier Lagoons & Diamond Beach
Begin your day with a visit to the Skaftafell Visitor Center in Vatnajökulsþjóðgarður National Park. Take an easy hike to the breathtaking Svartifoss, a stunning waterfall framed by dramatic basalt columns. Continue your journey along the base of the massive Vatnajökull ice cap, passing Hvannadalshnjúkur—Iceland’s highest peak at 2,114 m.
Your next stop is the spectacular Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where floating icebergs create a mesmerizing scene. Stroll along the lagoon’s shore and visit the nearby Diamond Beach, where smaller ice chunks often wash up on the black sand. For a closer view, consider a boat tour among the drifting icebergs. Keep an eye out for seals, frequently spotted in the lagoon and along the coast. After an incredible day, return to the Kirkjubæjarklaustur area for another overnight stay.
Optional activity (summer): Amphibian / Zodiac Boat Tour – Jökulsárlón. Optional activity (winter): Ice Cave Tour.
Overnight Location: Kirkjubæjarklaustur area
Meals: Breakfast
Day 4 Golden Circle Wonders & Geothermal Delights
Depart Kirkjubæjarklaustur in the morning and make your way back along the South Coast toward the Golden Circle area. In the village of Flúðir, relax in the naturally heated waters of the Secret Lagoon, one of Iceland’s oldest geothermal pools. A short drive away, witness the sheer power of Gullfoss, one of Iceland’s most breathtaking waterfalls.
Continue through scenic farmland to the Haukadalur geothermal area, home to Iceland’s famous geysers. While the old Geysir is mostly dormant, Strokkur erupts dramatically every five to seven minutes. Your journey then takes you to the UNESCO-listed Þingvellir National Park, where Iceland’s first parliament was established. Walk through the impressive Almannagjá gorge, a rift between two continental plates, and visit the picturesque Öxaráfoss waterfall before settling in for the night in the Golden Circle area. Optional activity: Snowmobiling on Langjökull from Gullfoss.
Overnight Location: Golden Circle area
Meals: Breakfast
Day 5 Þjórsárdalur Valley & Hidden Gems of Iceland
Follow the Þjórsá River into the scenic Þjórsárdalur Valley, where the stunning Hjálparfoss waterfall cascades into a serene pool. Continue to Stöng, the site of a historic Viking-era farm buried under ash during the Hekla eruption of 1104. Nearby, explore the reconstructed Þjóðveldisbær farm, offering a glimpse into medieval Icelandic life.
A true highlight of the day is Gjáin, a breathtaking gorge that feels like stepping into a fairy tale, with lush greenery, small waterfalls, and volcanic rock formations. In Laugarás, unwind in the brand-new Laugarás Lagoon (opening summer 2025), a geothermal hot spring perfect for relaxation. After a day of exploration, return to the Golden Circle for another overnight stay. Optional activity: Laugarás Lagoon.
Overnight Location: Golden Circle area
Meals: Breakfast
Day 6 Explore Reykjavík
Today, explore Reykjavík, Iceland’s vibrant capital. Begin with a visit to the iconic Hallgrímskirkja Church, whose design echoes the basalt columns of Svartifoss. Wander down Skólavörðustígur, a charming street lined with shops and galleries, leading to Bankastræti, the Parliament, and City Hall, which overlooks the peaceful Lake Tjörnin. Continue towards the Old Harbour, where you can embark on a whale watching tour or enjoy fresh Icelandic cuisine at one of the waterfront restaurants.
For a cultural experience, visit Hafnarhús, home to the Reykjavík Art Museum, or explore Iceland’s history at the National Gallery, National Museum, or Maritime Museum Víkin. If you’re fascinated by the Northern Lights, stop by the Aurora Borealis Exhibition near the harbour. Don’t miss the striking Harpa Concert Hall, a modern architectural masterpiece where you may catch a midday concert or evening performance. Enjoy your final night in Reykjavík, soaking in the city’s unique charm. Optional activity: FlyOver Iceland.
Overnight Location: Reykjavík
Meals: Breakfast
Day 7 Departure Day
Drive back to Keflavik International Airport and return your rental car and depart with unforgettable memories of your Icelandic adventure.
Overnight Location: None
Meals: Breakfast
7-day Iceland South Coast Adventure Price and Dates
Accommodation on 7-day Iceland South Coast Adventure
This tour is based on hotels. All the rooms have a private bathroom and all the necessary services to ensure your best comfort.
Single Rooms and Solo Travellers
Rooms are double occupancy. You can pay a supplement to have a private room in a hotel where possible. Solo travellers may be required to pay a supplement.
What’s Included in the 7-day Iceland South Coast Adventure?
Meals
6 breakfasts are included.
Accommodations
Accommodations for 6 nights are included.
Transportation during the Tour
A rental car is included for the duration of the tour. The standard vehicle provided is a Toyota Yaris or similar (Automatic, 2WD, 5-seats, small 5-door).
Also included
- Excursions mentioned in the itinerary
- Rental car (Toyota Yaris or similar, Automatic 2WD, 5-seats, small 5-door)
- Standard coverage, which is the following:
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- Unlimited mileage, VAT.
- TPL Third Party Liability Included: Cover up to ISK 3.969.000.000 for personal injury & cover up to ISK 457.000.000 for damage to property.
- PAI Personal Accident Insurance Included: Cover up to ISK 298.000.000 for personal injury.
- CDW Collision Damage Waiver Included: Own risk is ISK 242.000 for passenger cars and ISK 399.000 for 4wd jeeps, vans, trucks.
- TP Theft Protection Included. Own risk ISK 242.000 for passenger cars and ISK 399.000 for 4wd jeeps, vans, trucks.
- ASC Keflavík Airport Surcharge Included.
- Additional Driver Two drivers included per car
Not included
- Flights to and from Iceland
- Meals, drinks, or snacks not previously mentioned
- Fuel costs
- Parking fees (where applicable)
- Travel insurance
- Upgrade costs for a different vehicle category
Optional Extras
- Additional nights before or after the tour
- Single occupancy upgrades
- Optional activities or excursions
- Skaftafell Glacier Hike for day 3
- Vehicle upgrades
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- Hyundai i30 (Automatic, 5-seats, 5-door, 2wd, wagon)
- Suzuki Jimny (Manual 4WD, 4-seats, 3-door)
- Kia Sportage (Automatic 4WD SUV, 5-seats, 5-door)
- Other options are available
- How hard is the 7-day Iceland South Coast Adventure?
- Do I need a visa to travel to Iceland?
- Are meals included on the 7-day Iceland South Coast Adventure?
- Do I need insurance?
- How do I get to Keflavík to start this tour?
- Where does the 7-day Iceland South Coast Adventure end?
- Do I need special vaccines to travel to Iceland?
- Are there any travel restrictions for Iceland?
We rate this tour as a 2/5. This tour is generally easy, as it follows well-maintained roads with no extreme terrain. Most activities, such as sightseeing, short hikes, and optional excursions, are suitable for all fitness levels. However, some walks, like the hike to Svartifoss or exploring Gjáin gorge, require moderate effort. Winter conditions may increase the challenge due to icy roads and unpredictable weather.
Check with your local country about visa requirements. You could also try this website, though you should verify with your government.
6 breakfasts are included.
Yes, it is mandatory to have health and medical insurance to join this trip, and your insurance should cover all the activities listed on the tour. Get your travel insurance.
Fly into Keflavík International Airport (KEF), Iceland’s main international gateway. From there, pick up your rental car at the airport and begin your journey.
The tour ends in Keflavík.
Check with your family doctor.
Please check with your local government about travel restrictions before you book your tour. This map from the US Department of State provides an overview of the current status in countries around the globe. The UK‘s Foreign Office and Government of Canada also provide advice on foreign travel. Note that the travel advice may change depending on your nationality.
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