South Coast Route
Follow Iceland's legendary South Coast past thundering waterfalls, the black-sand beach of Reynisfjara, glacier tongues and the iceberg-filled Jökulsárlón lagoon — the country's most spectacular self-drive from Reykjavík.
Distance
~380 km each way
Driving Time
5 hrs to Jökulsárlón
Recommended
1 long day or 2 days
Best Season
Year-round · Jun–Sep
Difficulty
Easy · Ring Road (paved)
Family Friendly
Yes — all ages
The Overview
Why the South Coast Is Iceland's Most Dramatic Drive
If the Golden Circle is Iceland's greatest hits, the South Coast is its epic feature film. Running east from Reykjavík along Route 1, the Ring Road, it strings together a relentless sequence of icons: waterfalls you can walk behind, a jet-black volcanic beach, glacier tongues spilling from Europe's largest ice cap, and a lagoon where blue icebergs drift to the sea. Every few kilometres the scenery reinvents itself, and almost all of it is visible from — or a short walk off — a single paved road.
It's a route for everyone. The Ring Road is sealed and open year-round, the stops are free and well-signposted, and you can taste the whole thing in one long day or, far better, spread it over two with a night in Vík or near the glacier lagoon. First-timers get an unforgettable greatest-hits day; returning visitors find endless side roads, glacier walks and hidden canyons. Self-drive or hop on a guided bus — either way the South Coast delivers Iceland at its most cinematic.
What makes each stop unique. Seljalandsfoss lets you walk right behind a 60-metre curtain of water; nearby, the hidden Gljúfrabúi falls thunders inside a mossy canyon. Skógafoss crashes 60 metres wide, often crowned by a double rainbow, with 527 steps to a clifftop view. Reynisfjara stuns with hexagonal basalt columns, sea stacks and roaring Atlantic surf — magnificent but dangerous, with deadly sneaker waves. Dyrhólaey's great sea arch and lighthouse host puffins in summer. Sólheimajökull is a glacier you can actually walk on with a guide, and Jökulsárlón — Iceland's deepest lake — is a surreal drift of icebergs, with Diamond Beach glittering just across the road.
Geology & the living landscape. The South Coast is Iceland in motion. It sits beneath the ice caps Eyjafjallajökull (whose 2010 eruption grounded European air travel) and Mýrdalsjökull, which hides the powerful Katla volcano. Waterfalls like Skógafoss mark ancient coastlines the sea has since retreated from; the black sand is pulverised lava; Jökulsárlón only exists because a glacier is retreating. It's a place where you can literally watch the planet at work.
Weather, roads & how long to spend. This coast catches Atlantic storms first, so weather is wilder and wetter than inland — pack a serious waterproof and check road.is and vedur.is before you go. One day to Vík (about 190 km) is relaxed; reaching Jökulsárlón and back in a day is 760 km of driving and only for the determined. Two days, overnighting in Vík or Höfn, turns a rush into a joy and opens up glacier hikes, canyons and boat tours.
Photography & seasons. The South Coast is a photographer's dream: rainbows at Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, basalt geometry and sea stacks at Reynisfjara, mirror reflections at Jökulsárlón and ice diamonds on black sand. Summer brings puffins, wildflowers and the midnight sun; winter delivers snow-draped falls, blue ice caves beneath Mýrdalsjökull, and superb Northern Lights over Vík's black beaches. Every season rewrites the coast — there is no wrong time to drive it.
Explore the Route
South Coast Map
Every waterfall, beach, glacier and viewpoint along the Ring Road — tap a marker for details.
Along the Route
The Route, Stop by Stop
14 unmissable stops heading east from Reykjavík along the Ring Road.
- 1
WaterfallSeljalandsfoss
45–60 min60-metre South Coast waterfall with a path behind the cascade when conditions allow.
From Reykjavík
125 km · 1h45
Previous leg
Start — 1h45 from Reykjavík
Season
Walk behind it in summer; icy path closes in winter
Walk behind the waterfall only when the path is open and conditions are safe. Expect spray and slippery surfaces; waterproof outerwear helps.
- 2
Gljúfrabúi
20–30 minutesPartly hidden 40-metre waterfall in a narrow gorge beside Seljalandsfoss.
A short walk from Seljalandsfoss. The final approach can be wet and slippery, so use caution and do not enter if water conditions are poor.
- 3
WaterfallSkógafoss
45–60 minBroad 60-metre waterfall by Skógar with viewpoints at the base and above the falls.
From Reykjavík
155 km · 2h
Previous leg
30 km · 25 min from Seljalandsfoss
Season
Double rainbows on sunny days; frozen spray in winter
Allow extra time if you want to climb the staircase to the upper viewpoint. Paths can be icy in winter.
- 4
Kvernufoss
45–60 minutes30-metre waterfall in a narrow gorge near Skógar, with a path behind the cascade in suitable conditions.
A quieter waterfall near Skógar. The walking path can be muddy or icy depending on the season.
- 5
GlacierSólheimajökull
2–4 hrs with tourAccessible outlet glacier of Mýrdalsjökull with a marked visitor approach from Road 221.
From Reykjavík
158 km · 2h10
Previous leg
Signposted off Route 1
Season
Guided glacier walks year-round — book ahead
Use the marked approach for glacier views. Never walk onto a glacier without an appropriate guided glacier activity and safety equipment.
- 6
Sea ArchDyrhólaey
30–45 minProtected 120 m sea cliffs west of Vík, famous for the giant rock arch, puffins and sweeping black-sand coast views.
From Reykjavík
178 km · 2h30
Previous leg
10 km · 15 min from Reynisfjara
Season
Puffins May–Aug; partly closed in nesting season
Excellent coastal views. Stay back from cliff edges in strong wind and respect seasonal access restrictions and wildlife closures.
- 7
Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
30-40 minIceland's most famous black sand beach, featuring basalt columns, sea stacks, and dangerous sneaker waves.
- 8
Vík
45–90 minutesSouthernmost mainland village in Iceland and a key South Coast service centre.
A useful fuel, food and overnight stop. Refuel here before continuing east if your tank is getting low.
- 9
Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon
45–75 minutesWinding river canyon near Kirkjubæjarklaustur with marked rim viewpoints.
Stay on marked paths and respect any temporary closures designed to protect fragile vegetation and trail conditions.
- 10
Skaftafell
1–3 hoursSkaftafell presents a stunning tapestry of natural wonders, visible even from the aerial view showing its verdant slopes meeting the vast glacial outwash plains. From the vibrant green hillsides, dotted with walking trails, to the majestic tongues of the Vatnajökull glacier, the largest in Europe, it's a place of stark contrasts. Visitors are drawn to its diverse hiking opportunities, ranging from easy strolls to challenging climbs, all set against a backdrop of ancient ice and volcanic rock. The area's character is defined by its dramatic geological history and its role as a hub for exploring the surrounding national park, with a well-equipped visitor center and campsites visible in the landscape.
Choose your walk based on daylight and weather. This is one of the best places on the route to slow down rather than treating every stop as a quick photo break.
- 11
Breiðamerkursandur/Diamond Beach
30–45 minutesBlack-sand beach beside Jökulsárlón where pieces of glacier ice often wash ashore.
Keep watching the ocean and stay away from unstable ice near the water. Waves can move large pieces of ice without warning.
- 12
Svartifoss
1.5–2.5 hours including hikeSvartifoss: Iceland's dramatic black basalt waterfall.
Allow enough time for the return walk and check trail conditions before setting out, especially outside summer.
- 13
Fjallsárlón Glacier Lagoon
30–60 minutesGlacier lagoon below Fjallsjökull in Öræfi, west of Jökulsárlón.
A quieter glacier-lagoon stop before Jökulsárlón. Keep to marked visitor areas and never climb onto floating or shoreline ice.
- 14
Glacier LagoonJökulsárlón
1–2 hrsThe image perfectly captures the serene yet dramatic essence of Jökulsárlón, showcasing massive, sculpted icebergs floating gracefully in the deep blue-green waters, framed by a rugged, gravelly shoreline. This dynamic lagoon, constantly fed by the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier, is a breathtaking natural amphitheater where ancient ice, some exhibiting a striking blue hue, slowly melts under the Icelandic sky. Its character is one of tranquil majesty, inviting visitors to witness a unique dance between ice and water, making it an unparalleled destination for photographers, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a truly otherworldly experience. The sheer scale and beauty of the icebergs, as depicted, are truly captivating, with their varying sizes and distinct forms. The dark, reflective water contrasts beautifully with the pale and blue ice.
From Reykjavík
375 km · 5h
Previous leg
Far east — long drive from Vík
Season
Boat tours May–Oct; icebergs & seals year-round
The lagoon is beside Route 1 and can be visited year-round. Never step onto floating ice; boat activities are seasonal and should be booked ahead in busy periods.
Guided Experiences
South Coast Tours
Top-rated day tours from Reykjavík, ready to book.
8 hoursDT 322 Private Superjeep South Coast & Eyjafjallajökull Volcano Sights
Superjeep
From
264,500 ISK
10 hoursSouth Coast Waterfalls, Glacier & Black Sand Beach Tour
BusTravel Iceland
From
15,990 ISK
10 hoursSouth Coast Small Group Tour: Waterfalls, Glacier & Black Sand Beach
BusTravel Iceland
From
17,990 ISK
11 hoursSouth Coast Waterfalls, Black Beach and Glacier Adventure | Small Group Day Tour
Nicetravel
From
17,900 ISK
10 hoursPrivate South Coast tour
EastWest
From
220,000 ISK
11 hoursPrivate Premium South Coast Small Group Tour
Iceland Horizon - Saga Travel - GeoIceland
From
299,900 ISK
More to See
Attractions Along the Route
Waterfalls, canyons and hidden gems worth adding to your South Coast drive.
Paradísarhellir
Small Eyjafjöll cave associated with the local story of Hjalti and Anna.
Efra-Hvolshellar
Protected man-made caves near Hvolsvöllur with an uncertain early history.
Hjörleifshöfði & Gígjagjá (Yoda Cave)
221-metre historic headland on Mýrdalssandur with Gígjagjá, the cave commonly nicknamed Yoda Cave.
Vatnajökull National Park
UNESCO-listed national park protecting Vatnajökull and vast surrounding volcanic, glacial and wilderness landscapes across Iceland.
Blágil
A remote mountain hut and campsite in Skaftárhrepp, a base for exploring Iceland's raw interior.
Jarðhitasvæði við Torfajökul
Vast geothermal landscape of steam, hot springs, and colorful rhyolite around Torfajökull volcano.
Kirkjufjara beach
A black-sand shoreline below Dyrhólaey that should be viewed from safe, permitted viewpoints rather than treated as a beach-walking stop.
Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
Iconic black-sand beach near Vík with basalt columns, sea stacks and dangerous sneaker waves.
Where to Stay
Hotels Along the South Coast
Stay in Vík or near the glacier lagoon — real photos and direct Hotels.com booking.
Hotel34.4 kmAdventure Hótel Geirland
Modern hotel nestled amidst stunning South Iceland landscapes, perfect for nature lovers.
Guesthouse78.5 kmBakland að Lágafelli
Spacious guesthouse room in South Iceland featuring comfortable single beds, wooden floors, and scenic views.
Apartment30.8 kmBlack Beach Suites
Modern suites with stunning mountain views, near Iceland's iconic black sand beaches.
Guesthouse71.5 kmBrú Guesthouse
Experience modern comfort in a secluded wooden cabin, surrounded by the vast, beautiful landscapes of South Iceland.
Hotel59.4 kmCountry Hótel Anna - Moldnúpur
Nestled amidst South Iceland's green hills, Hótel Anna offers a serene retreat with a charming rural feel.
Guesthouse75.0 kmFagrahlíð Guesthouse
Soak Along the Way
Pools & Geothermal Baths
Warm up the Icelandic way after a wild day on the coast.
natural hot springLandmannalaugar Hot Spring
Nestled in the heart of Iceland's rugged Highlands, the Landmannalaugar Hot Spring is a legendary geothermal pool renowned for its striking natural beauty. Surrounded by vibrant rhyolite mountains and situated alongside the Laugahraun lava field, it offers a unique bathing experience and serves as the gateway to the famous Laugavegur hiking trail.
natural hot springLandmannalaugar Hot Springs
Journey to Landmannalaugar, a renowned geothermal area nestled within the Fjallabak Nature Reserve in the southern Icelandic Highlands. Here, you can bathe in a natural hot river, winding through vibrant rhyolite mountains and lush green fields, celebrating its extraordinary natural beauty.
natural hot springSeljavallalaug Swimming Pool
Built in 1923, Seljavallalaug is one of Iceland's oldest swimming pools, hidden in a narrow mountain valley. The walk through the valley to reach it is part of the experience, offering a serene escape to this historic spot, lovingly restored by locals.
natural hot springStrútslaug
Discover Strútslaug, a hidden geothermal gem nestled in Iceland's remote South Highlands, where powerful volcanic forces create steaming hot springs amidst a rugged, green landscape. Experience the raw beauty of nature and the soothing mineral-rich waters near the source of the Hólmsá River, offering an unparalleled off-the-grid bathing experience.
poolVík Swimming Pool
Nestled in the charming village of Vík í Mýrdal, this well-maintained outdoor swimming pool offers a warm respite from your South Coast adventures. Featuring relaxing hot tubs and a steam room, it's an ideal stop to unwind after visiting iconic spots like Reynisfjara beach. Experience local Icelandic life and soothe your muscles in its inviting waters.
poolÞjórsárdalslaug
Nestled in the picturesque and historically rich Þjórsárdalur valley, Þjórsárdalslaug offers a refreshing dip in its inviting outdoor geothermal pool. The bright blue waters, framed by lush green grass and distant rugged mountains, provide a serene escape. With relaxing hot tubs and family-friendly amenities, it's an ideal spot to unwind after exploring South Iceland's wonders.
Camp the Coast
Campsites Along the Route
Well-equipped campgrounds for tents and campervans, most open May–September.
Skógar Campsite
Skógafoss
Camp beside Skógafoss — wake to the roar of the falls.
Vík Camping
Vík í Mýrdal
Central base for Reynisfjara, Dyrhólaey and the village.
Þakgil Campground
Near Vík
A hidden canyon camp reached by a scenic gravel road.
Skaftafell Campsite
Vatnajökull NP
Perfect base for glacier hikes and Svartifoss, en route to Jökulsárlón.
Add an Adventure
Activities on the South Coast
Turn the drive into an adventure — book top-rated experiences with Viator.
Glacier Hiking
Strap on crampons and walk on Sólheimajökull with a certified guide.
Ice Cave Tour
Explore a blue Katla ice cave beneath Mýrdalsjökull, year-round.
Glacier Lagoon Boat
Cruise among the icebergs of Jökulsárlón by zodiac or amphibian boat.
Snowmobiling
Ride across the Mýrdalsjökull ice cap above Vík.
Horse Riding
Ride an Icelandic horse along black-sand beaches and river deltas.
ATV & Buggy
Blast across black sand and river plains near Vík.
Northern Lights
Chase the aurora over Vík's beaches on dark winter nights.
Helicopter Tour
Fly over glaciers, volcanoes and waterfalls for the ultimate view.
Know Before You Go
South Coast Travel Guide
Everything you need for a smooth, safe and unforgettable drive.
Best time to visit+
The South Coast is a year-round route. June–August brings the midnight sun, puffins at Dyrhólaey, wildflowers and the easiest driving — but also the most traffic at the big falls, so start early. September–March swaps daylight for snow-draped waterfalls, blue ice caves beneath Mýrdalsjökull and excellent Northern Lights over Vík. May and September are the sweet spot: long-ish days, thinner crowds and lower prices.
Driving tips+
The whole route follows Route 1 (the Ring Road), fully paved and easy for any 2WD car in summer. Fuel up in Selfoss or Hvolsvöllur and again in Vík — the stretch east to Höfn is long and remote. Drive on the right, obey speed limits, never stop on the road for photos, and beware of high winds on exposed sections near Vík.
Road safety & winter driving+
This coast catches the worst Atlantic weather first. In winter rent a 4x4 with studded tyres, check road.is and vedur.is every morning, and take wind warnings seriously — gusts near Vík have flipped cars and torn off doors. At Reynisfjara, never turn your back on the ocean: sneaker waves are unpredictable and have killed visitors. Watch for ice on waterfall paths.
Fuel & EV charging+
N1, Olís and Orkan stations are in Selfoss, Hvolsvöllur, Vík and Kirkjubæjarklaustur; the gap east to Höfn is over 100 km, so fill up. EV chargers (ON, Ísorka, N1) sit at Hvolsvöllur, Vík, Kirkjubæjarklaustur and Skaftafell — plan longer legs around them and charge while you eat or hike.
Photography & drones+
Chase rainbows at Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss on sunny afternoons; shoot Reynisfjara's basalt columns at low tide; catch mirror reflections and ice diamonds at Jökulsárlón at sunrise or sunset. Drones are banned in Vatnajökull National Park (including Jökulsárlón) and near people and birdlife; always keep line of sight and check local signage.
Weather & what to pack+
Expect rain and strong wind in any season — a genuine waterproof-windproof shell and trousers are essential, plus warm layers, hat, gloves and sturdy waterproof boots. Bring swimwear for pools, and a refillable bottle for Iceland's pure, free tap water. Waterfall spray will soak you at Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss.
With children & accessibility+
The coast is family-friendly, with short walks to most sights and the drama of glaciers and black beaches. Skógafoss, the Reynisfjara car park and Jökulsárlón have level access; the path behind Seljalandsfoss is uneven and slippery. Toilets (small fee) are at the main stops. Keep children well back from the sea at Reynisfjara at all times.
Food stops+
Eat at Gamla Fjósið or Suður-Vík in Vík, the Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss food trucks, Systrakaffi in Kirkjubæjarklaustur, or splash out on langoustine in Höfn. Options thin out east of Vík, so carry snacks and water for the long stretches.
Emergency & offline maps+
The single emergency number is 112 — download the free 112 Iceland app, which can send your GPS location to rescue teams. Mobile coverage is good along Route 1 but patchy on side roads and near glaciers, so download offline Google Maps of the whole coast before you set out.
The South Coast in Pictures
Gallery
Common Questions
South Coast FAQ
How long does the South Coast take?+
To Vík and back is a relaxed full day (about 380 km round trip). Reaching Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon and returning in one day is 760 km and very long — most people take two days, overnighting in Vík or near the lagoon to enjoy glacier hikes and boat tours.
Can you drive the South Coast in winter?+
Yes. The Ring Road stays open year-round and the coast is stunning under snow, but this is Iceland's most weather-exposed drive. Rent a 4x4 with winter tyres, check road.is and vedur.is every morning, allow extra time, and be ready for wind, ice and short daylight.
Do I need a 4x4 for the South Coast?+
No — the entire main route is on the paved Ring Road, fine for a 2WD car in summer. A 4x4 is recommended in winter for grip and confidence, or if you plan side roads like Þakgil or highland tracks to Þórsmörk.
Can I do the South Coast without a car?+
Absolutely. Dozens of guided day tours run daily from Reykjavík covering the waterfalls, Reynisfjara and often a glacier walk; longer tours reach Jökulsárlón. It's one of the most popular organised day trips in Iceland.
Where should I stay on the South Coast?+
Vík í Mýrdal is the classic mid-coast base, well placed for Reynisfjara and Dyrhólaey. For an early start at Jökulsárlón, stay near Skaftafell or Höfn. There's everything from hotels and farm stays to guesthouses and campsites — see our picks below.
Is Reynisfjara beach dangerous?+
Yes — Reynisfjara has powerful, unpredictable 'sneaker waves' that surge far up the beach without warning and have killed visitors. Never turn your back on the sea, keep well back from the waterline, and watch children closely. Check the warning-light system at the car park.
Can I see the Northern Lights on the South Coast?+
Yes, from roughly September to March on dark, clear nights with solar activity. The black beaches around Vík and the open skies near Jökulsárlón are superb, low-light-pollution viewing spots. Many winter tours combine the South Coast with aurora hunting.
Can I camp on the South Coast?+
Yes — there are good campsites at Skógar, Vík, Þakgil and Skaftafell, most open roughly May–September (Skaftafell year-round). Wild camping with a campervan outside marked sites is restricted, so use official campgrounds.
Can I walk on a glacier?+
Yes — Sólheimajökull offers guided glacier walks year-round, with crampons and ice axes provided; no experience needed. Always go with a certified guide — glaciers have hidden crevasses and are never safe to walk on alone.
What are the best photography spots?+
Behind Seljalandsfoss, the clifftop and rainbows at Skógafoss, the basalt columns and sea stacks of Reynisfjara, the arch at Dyrhólaey, and the icebergs of Jökulsárlón with Diamond Beach at sunrise or sunset. Waterfall rainbows peak on sunny afternoons.
How much does the South Coast cost?+
Self-driving is nearly free beyond fuel — the waterfalls and beaches are free to visit. Guided day tours run roughly €65–€180 per person depending on length and extras like a glacier walk or the Jökulsárlón boat tour. Glacier and boat tours are the main paid activities.
Can I combine the South Coast with other trips?+
Yes — it pairs naturally with the Golden Circle (do each on a separate day), continues east into the full Ring Road, or extends inland to the highland valley of Þórsmörk. Many visitors do the Golden Circle one day and the South Coast the next.
Book Your Trip
Everything for Your South Coast Adventure
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