Reykjavik: Glacier Hike W/ Photos, Waterfalls & Black Beach

Exploring the natural wonders of Iceland starts with a guided glacier hike from Reykjavík. Equipped with essential safety gear, visitors can marvel at the stunning Sólheimajökull glacier. The tour also showcases the breathtaking Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, as well as the dramatic Reynisfjara black-sand beach. With a small group size, this adventure offers personalized attention and unforgettable experiences. The views of the Eyjafjallajökull volcano and Mýrdalsjökull glacier make this tour a must-do for anyone seeking to enjoy Iceland’s stunning landscapes.

Key Points

• Explore the stunning south coast of Iceland with a guided glacier hike, visits to Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, and a stroll along the black-sand Reynisfjara beach.
• Convenient pickup from 17 locations in Reykjavík, including hotels and bus stops, ensuring a seamless start to the adventure.
• Experienced guides provide all necessary safety gear for the glacier hike, making it suitable for beginners and experts alike.
• Capture breathtaking views and photo opportunities at the waterfalls and the unique basalt columns and sea stacks of Reynisfjara.
• Small-group experience with a maximum of 15 participants, offering a personalized and highly-rated tour with excellent value for money.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Reykjavík Pickup and Meeting Point

Where does the tour depart from in Reykjavík?

The tour offers pickup from 17 convenient locations across the city, including popular hotels and bus stops. This makes it easy for travelers to join the excursion from wherever they’re staying.

The pickup process is streamlined, with participants ready by 8 AM as the bus may take up to 30 minutes to arrive.

Once everyone is aboard, the journey to Iceland’s stunning south coast begins.

This flexible pickup system ensures a hassle-free start to the day’s adventure exploring glaciers, waterfalls, and black sand beaches.

Sólheimajökull Glacier Hike

After the convenient pickups across Reykjavík, the tour heads to the stunning Sólheimajökull glacier for the guided hike.

The expert guides provide all the necessary safety gear, including crampons, harnesses, and helmets. The hike covers approximately 4 km, with an elevation gain of 150 meters, making it suitable for beginners.

The experience is rated as easy to moderate, allowing guests to explore the glacier’s breathtaking features without extensive mountaineering experience.

• All safety equipment provided

• Guided hike suitable for beginners

• Moderate difficulty, 4 km distance

• Stunning views of the glacier

Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

Following the guided glacier hike, the tour makes its way to the stunning Seljalandsfoss waterfall.

This 60-meter-tall waterfall is one of the most famous attractions in Iceland. Visitors can walk behind the curtain of water for a unique perspective. The path around the waterfall provides excellent photo opportunities, showcasing the power and beauty of this natural wonder.

The sound of the cascading water creates a serene and captivating atmosphere. After exploring Seljalandsfoss, the tour continues to the equally impressive Skógafoss waterfall, another highlight of Iceland’s stunning southern coast.

Skógafoss Waterfall

The tour then takes visitors to the impressive Skógafoss waterfall, another highlight along Iceland’s stunning southern coast. This towering cascade drops 200 feet (60 meters) and is surrounded by lush greenery and dramatic cliffs.

Guests can:

• Stand at the base and feel the power of the crashing water

• Climb the 527 steps to the top for panoramic views

• Look for rainbows formed by the waterfall’s mist

• Explore the surrounding area, which was the site of many historical events.

Skógafoss is a must-see natural wonder that leaves a lasting impression on all who witness its beauty.

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Reynisfjara Black-Sand Beach

Reynisfjara Black-Sand Beach is a captivating natural wonder along Iceland’s southern coast.

This iconic beach is known for its dramatic basalt columns, towering cliffs, and striking jet-black sands. Visitors can stroll along the shore, marvel at the powerful waves crashing against the rocks, and snap photos of the stunning scenery.

The beach is surrounded by impressive rock formations, including the Reynisdrangar sea stacks. While swimming isn’t recommended due to the dangerous conditions, Reynisfjara offers a mesmerizing experience for those seeking to enjoy Iceland’s natural beauty.

Caution is advised as the area can be slippery.

Views of Eyjafjallajökull Volcano and Mýrdalsjökull

As visitors travel along the scenic southern coast of Iceland, they’re treated to breathtaking views of the Eyjafjallajökull volcano and the Mýrdalsjökull glacier.

This powerful display of nature’s grandeur is a highlight of the tour:

• The Eyjafjallajökull volcano, which famously erupted in 2010, stands tall and majestic, its snow-capped peak a testament to Iceland’s volcanic origins.

• The Mýrdalsjökull glacier, one of the largest in Iceland, stretches out before the viewer, its icy blue hues and vast expanse captivating the senses.

• These natural wonders provide a dramatic backdrop to the tour, adding to the sense of adventure and exploration.

• Visitors can snap photos and take in the awe-inspiring scenery, creating lasting memories of their journey through Iceland’s stunning landscapes.

Safety Equipment and Hiking Difficulty

For those embarking on the glacier hike, safety is the top priority.

All necessary equipment like crampons, harnesses, ice picks, and helmets are provided to ensure a secure and stable footing on the ice.

The guided hike covers approximately 4 km of the Sólheimajökull glacier, with an elevation gain of 150 meters.

Though the overall experience is rated easy to moderate, the terrain can be challenging at times.

While the glacier hike is rated easy to moderate, the terrain can pose challenges at times, requiring caution and care.

With the expert guidance and supervision of the tour leaders, even beginners can conquer the glacier with confidence, making this an accessible adventure for most.

Group Size and Customer Ratings

The Reykjavik Glacier Hike tour is a small-group experience, limited to just 15 participants. This ensures a personalized adventure with a live English-speaking guide.

Customers have praised the tour, with an overall rating of 4.9/5 based on 598 reviews:

• The guide received a 4.9/5 rating for their expertise and service.

• The transportation was also highly rated at 4.9/5.

• Reviewers found the tour offered excellent value for money, with a 4.8/5 rating in this category.

With such positive feedback, it’s no wonder this tour is likely to sell out quickly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is This Tour Suitable for People With Physical Disabilities?

The tour is not suitable for individuals with physical disabilities. It specifies that it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or those over 209 lbs. Participants need to be able to hike on the glacier, which may be challenging for those with limited mobility.

Can I Bring My Own Equipment for the Glacier Hike?

Participants can’t bring their own equipment for the glacier hike. All necessary safety gear, like crampons, harness, and helmet, is provided. This ensures everyone’s safety and follows the tour’s safety protocols.

Are There Any Discounts Available for This Tour?

Unfortunately, the tour company doesn’t offer any discounts for this glacier hike. However, they do provide a "reserve now & pay later" option and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is It Possible to Customize the Itinerary?

Unfortunately, this tour doesn’t offer the ability to customize the itinerary. It’s a pre-set day trip that covers the highlights of Iceland’s south coast. However, you can contact the tour operator to inquire about any special requests.

How Do I Get to the Pickup Locations in Reykjavik?

The tour provides pickup from 17 locations in Reykjavik, including popular hotels and bus stops. Participants should be ready at 8 AM for pickup, as the bus may take up to 30 minutes to arrive.

The Sum Up

This guided tour of Iceland’s natural wonders is an unforgettable experience. You’ll hike on the stunning Sólheimajökull glacier, witness the majestic Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, and marvel at the dramatic Reynisfjara black-sand beach. With essential safety gear and a small group, you’ll enjoy personalized attention while enjoying Iceland’s breathtaking landscapes, rated highly for quality and value.

You can check availability for your dates here: