South Coast Classic: Full-Day Tour from Reykjavik – All You Need to Know

Are you planning to explore the stunning South Coast of Iceland? Then The South Coast Classic Full-Day Tour from Reykjavik is the perfect option for you. In this guide, we’ll be looking at what this tour has to offer, some of the highlights you won’t want to miss, but also some of the things you need to keep in mind when planning your Icelandic adventure.

Overview of the South Coast Classic tour

The “South Coast Classic’ tour is an incredibly popular full-day tour from Reykjavík, taking you around some of Iceland’s most breathtaking sites. As this tour is mainly a road-trip, you’ll definitely want to make sure you are comfortable, as you’ll be on the bus the majority of the day.

The tour lasts around seven to eight hours, although this can vary depending on the individual tour that you book and how long you decide to spend in each location. You may also find that if the tour is particularly busy, it may take a little longer than anticipated, so you may want to give yourself a bit more time allowance.

What is included in the South Coast Classic tour?

When booking your South Coast Classic tour, it’s important to check exactly what’s included in the cost of your individual ticket. The majority of tours will include all of the following:

• Transport on a comfortable air-conditioned bus
• Pick-up and drop-off in Reykjavík
• A knowledgeable, friendly and experienced guide who will give you all the information and stories you need while on the trip
• Entrance fees to all tourist sites included in your trip
• Most tours include some lunch and refreshments too.

But it is worth checking out exactly what is included in your individual trip before booking – as this does vary from company to company and tour to tour.

What will I get to see on the South Coast Classic tour?

The South Coast Classic tour takes in some truly breathtaking sights, from impressive waterfalls and huge glaciers to black sand beaches, there is so much to take in. We’ve put together a list of some of the sites you can expect to see on your voyage down the south coast of Iceland – although keep in mind that depending on weather conditions, some sites may be inaccessible or missed off your trip – but fear not, as there are plenty of amazing alternatives to be seen!

Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

Perhaps one of the most iconic sites seen on this tour – Seljalandsfoss waterfall is a truly awe-inspiring sight. You can follow a pathway right around the back of this 60m tall cascade and be lucky enough to stand behind and witness its sheer force. It goes without saying that you’ll want to make sure you’re wearing the right footwear if you decide to do this – as it can get slippery and dangerous!

Glacier Lagoon

Also known as Jökulsárlón, this Glacier Lagoon has been used as a location for movies such as Batman Begins and James Bond: Die Another Day, so it’s probably no surprise why it is one of the most popular sites along this stretch of coast. As you drive up, you’ll be able to spot icebergs floating imposingly atop ice blue waters – although there will always be the temptation to take a dip into the chilly lagoon – don’t do it – especially if no one else is jumping in!

Part of a glacial river system, it’s an impressive and ever-evolving sight as large icebergs break away from Breiðamerkurjökull glacier – located right on its doorstep – and make their way across the lagoon. You can also see some stunning reflections when it’s calm weather – so don’t forget your camera!

Skogafoss Waterfall

Formed by torrential glacial floods more than 10 thousand years ago – Skógafoss is an impressive 65 metre tall and 25 metre wide waterfall and part of a 12km long river system called Skoga river. According to local folklore, there is an archaeologist’s dream hidden beneath it in a long-forgotten treasure chest called Gerkjaran. As you meander up the stairs alongside it you can appreciate its sheer power first-hand and maybe even be lucky enough to spot a rainbow or two in its mist.

Kirkjubaejarklaustur

Leaving Skogafoss behind, you’ll soon be able to spot Kirkjubaejarklaustur out of your window in the distance. This stunning area is more commonly referred to as Kirkjubær or Klausturtorp by locals and it takes its name from its historical monastery, which was destroyed by a volcano over 400 years ago. Also at this stop there is another remarkable sight that you’d be mad to miss; Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon with its picturesque views and striking landscape that have been known to inspire photographers from all over the world.

Svínafelsjökull Glacier

Svínafelsjökull Glacier is another incredible site located just west of Kirkjubaejarklaustur along Route 1. Despite being only 2 kilometres square, this glacier stands proud amongst other many notable sites along this stretch of coast. As its name suggests, “Svínafellsjökull’ originates from “swine mountain glacier’ – Svinafellsjökull being derived from two different Icelandic terms: “sviði’ which literally translates as “swine’ and “fells’ meaning “mountain’. You can even see some evidence left behind by early volcanic activity at this stop too!

The black Sand Beach

Reynisfjara black sand beach is one of Iceland’s most popular destination and a great way to finish off your south coast journey. The waves here are normally high and quite unpredictable, so always take great care when venturing too close and always heed warnings given by both locals and tour guides alike. Be sure also to not forget about being mindful with taking pictures here too – there are areas which are prohibited for safety reasons by both locals and national parks authorities alike. But if you can look further out never forget to take in the amazing Reynisdrangar basalt columns rising majestically out of the sea: legend describes them as two trolls dragging a three-mast ship ashore, turning them into stone when they were surprised by daylight. If that wasn’t enough, there’s also a cave directly beside these pillars recently revealed by strong storms which can make for some really good photographic moments too!

What else should I know?

Some other things that it is worth bearing in mind when considering booking onto a South Coast Classic Tour:

• Safety measures:Whenever travelling around Iceland, it is very important to take heed of safety guidelines – your tour guide will have given their utmost attention to making sure that all necessary precautions have been taken before setting off into any terrains that may present potential challenges.
• Local customs: It would definitely be worth taking a few moments to get familiar with a few local customs while travelling around Iceland – such as refraining from getting involved with any kinds of vandalism and – where applicable – abstaining from walking or driving around sensitive ecological areas without prior authorisation.
• Food: Icelandic food is hearty and warming – staples such as salted cod or lamb with potatoes and vegetables are classic favourites here. It would certainly be worth treating yourself –or someone special – to an Icelandic delicacy or two during your stay!

What should I pack for my trip?

• Weather appropriate clothing: You can check out our handy guide on Icelandic weather here which should give you a good idea of what temperatures you should expect on your trip and what clothing to pack accordingly.
• Beach Wear: If you plan on taking dip into any of Iceland’s many spectacular natural bathing spots during your visit – then make sure you come prepared! Remember that all bathing spots – both natural and manmade – in Iceland tend to be quite cold – so opt for something which will keep you warm!
• First aid kit.

  Last but not least – we always suggest taking some form of meds or painkillers just in case they wanted – but feel free to take whatever else you feel like bringing on your trip too! And don’t forget your camera – there’s bound to be lots of photo opportunities along the way!