Iceland Travel Guide
South Iceland
Waterfalls · Black Sand Beaches · Glaciers · Volcanoes
Did you know? The Reynisdrangar sea stacks were once trolls dragging a ship to shore. When sunrise arrived, they turned into stone and remain frozen there today.
About South Iceland
Default description 1
Default description 2
Default description 3
Top Experiences in South Iceland
Natural wonders and bookable adventures along the South Coast
Brúarfoss
Brúarfoss is a stunning waterfall located in Golden Circle. This magnificent cascade showcases the raw power and beauty of Iceland's landscape. Fed by glacial meltwater and rainfall, the waterfall is a spectacular sight in all seasons, surrounded by dramatic lava rock formations.
Diamond Beach
Diamond Beach is a unique destination and attraction in South Iceland. Discover the natural beauty and cultural richness that make Iceland such a special place to visit. Whether you're seeking adventure, history or simply stunning scenery, this attraction offers something memorable for every visitor.
Dyrholaey
Dyrholaey is a unique destination and attraction in South Iceland. Discover the natural beauty and cultural richness that make Iceland such a special place to visit. Whether you're seeking adventure, history or simply stunning scenery, this attraction offers something memorable for every visitor.
Private Silfra Snorkeling 6 p. group - Meet on Location - with Underwater Photos
From $899
Book Now
Dyrhólaey Lighthouse
Dyrhólaey Lighthouse is a stunning beach located in South Iceland. This dramatic coastal area features Iceland's distinctive black volcanic sand, shaped by powerful ocean waves. The beach offers dramatic views of the sea and surrounding landscape, and is home to diverse marine wildlife including seals and seabirds.
Efstidalur
Efstidalur is a food and dining destination in Golden Circle. Experience the best of Icelandic cuisine and culinary culture. From traditional Nordic dishes to modern creative cooking, the food scene here reflects Iceland's unique geography and rich cultural heritage.
Eldheimar Museum
Eldheimar Museum is a cultural attraction in South Iceland. This museum offers visitors fascinating insights into Iceland's rich history and heritage. Explore captivating exhibitions and learn about the country's people, traditions and remarkable story from the age of the Vikings to today.
Private Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon 2 Day Tour & Glacier Hike
From $7240
Book Now
Eldhraun Lava Field
Eldhraun Lava Field is a remarkable volcanic wonder in South Iceland. This dramatic landscape was shaped by powerful volcanic forces over thousands of years. Visitors can witness the raw geological power of Iceland's volcanic heritage through dramatic lava fields, craters and unique rock formations.
Fjaðrárgljúfur
Fjaðrárgljúfur is a remarkable natural wonder in South Iceland. This breathtaking natural attraction showcases the diverse and dramatic landscapes that make Iceland one of the world's most unique destinations. From its geological formations to its rich biodiversity, this site offers an unforgettable experience.
Fjallsárlón
Fjallsárlón is a magnificent glacier located in South Iceland. This ancient ice mass is part of Iceland's iconic glacial landscape. Visitors can explore the glacier on guided tours, witnessing the stunning blue ice formations, crevasses and the dramatic interplay of ice and volcanic rock.
Private 2-Day Glacier Lagoon, Ice Cave and Northern Lights
From $7400
Book NowFjaðrárgljúfur
Fjaðrárgljúfur is a remarkable natural wonder in South Iceland. This breathtaking natural attraction showcases the diverse and dramatic landscapes that make Iceland one of the world's most unique destinations. From its geological formations to its rich biodiversity, this site offers an unforgettable experience.
Friðheimar
Friðheimar is a food and dining destination in Golden Circle. Experience the best of Icelandic cuisine and culinary culture. From traditional Nordic dishes to modern creative cooking, the food scene here reflects Iceland's unique geography and rich cultural heritage.
Friðheimar
Friðheimar is a food and dining destination in Golden Circle. Experience the best of Icelandic cuisine and culinary culture. From traditional Nordic dishes to modern creative cooking, the food scene here reflects Iceland's unique geography and rich cultural heritage.
Reykjavik Private Northern Lights Tour with Pro Photographer
From $1652.09
Book Now
Geysir
Geysir is a geothermal attraction in South Iceland. Experience Iceland's powerful geothermal energy up close at this remarkable natural site. The area features hot springs, steam vents and mineral-rich waters that showcase the raw volcanic forces beneath Iceland's surface.
Gjábakkahellir
Gjábakkahellir is a remarkable volcanic wonder in Golden Circle. This dramatic landscape was shaped by powerful volcanic forces over thousands of years. Visitors can witness the raw geological power of Iceland's volcanic heritage through dramatic lava fields, craters and unique rock formations.
Gljúfrabúi
Gljúfrabúi is a stunning waterfall located in South Iceland. This magnificent cascade showcases the raw power and beauty of Iceland's landscape. Fed by glacial meltwater and rainfall, the waterfall is a spectacular sight in all seasons, surrounded by dramatic lava rock formations.
Glacier Adventure at Sólheimajökull Private Tour
From $386.28
Book Now
Gluggafoss (Window Falls)
Gluggafoss (Window Falls) is a picturesque multi-tiered waterfall in the Merkjá river gorge in South Iceland, with a natural cave opening behind the falls.
Gullfoss
Gullfoss is a stunning waterfall located in South Iceland. This magnificent cascade showcases the raw power and beauty of Iceland's landscape. Fed by glacial meltwater and rainfall, the waterfall is a spectacular sight in all seasons, surrounded by dramatic lava rock formations.
Haukadalur
Haukadalur is a geothermal attraction in Golden Circle. Experience Iceland's powerful geothermal energy up close at this remarkable natural site. The area features hot springs, steam vents and mineral-rich waters that showcase the raw volcanic forces beneath Iceland's surface.
Visit the Volcanoes - Half Day Private Tour - up to 9 passengers
From $1200
Book Now
Hofskirkja
Hofskirkja is a historic site in South Iceland. This important landmark offers a fascinating window into Iceland's rich past. With roots stretching back to the Viking Age and beyond, the site preserves stories of the people and events that shaped modern Iceland.
Hveragerði
Hveragerði is a geothermal attraction in Golden Circle. Experience Iceland's powerful geothermal energy up close at this remarkable natural site. The area features hot springs, steam vents and mineral-rich waters that showcase the raw volcanic forces beneath Iceland's surface.
Þingvallavatn
Þingvallavatn is a unique destination and attraction in Golden Circle. Discover the natural beauty and cultural richness that make Iceland such a special place to visit. Whether you're seeking adventure, history or simply stunning scenery, this attraction offers something memorable for every visitor.
Jökulsárlón
Jökulsárlón is a magnificent glacier located in South Iceland. This ancient ice mass is part of Iceland's iconic glacial landscape. Visitors can explore the glacier on guided tours, witnessing the stunning blue ice formations, crevasses and the dramatic interplay of ice and volcanic rock.
Katla Ice Cave
Katla Ice Cave is a magnificent glacier located in South Iceland. This ancient ice mass is part of Iceland's iconic glacial landscape. Visitors can explore the glacier on guided tours, witnessing the stunning blue ice formations, crevasses and the dramatic interplay of ice and volcanic rock.
Kerið Crater
Kerið Crater is a remarkable volcanic wonder in South Iceland. This dramatic landscape was shaped by powerful volcanic forces over thousands of years. Visitors can witness the raw geological power of Iceland's volcanic heritage through dramatic lava fields, craters and unique rock formations.
Kirkjubæjarklaustur
Kirkjubæjarklaustur is a vibrant neighborhood and destination in South Iceland. Explore the unique character and charm of this area, with its mix of culture, architecture and local life. From colorful buildings to local cafes and shops, this part of Iceland offers an authentic glimpse into daily Icelandic life.
Kvernufoss
Kvernufoss is a stunning waterfall located in South Iceland. This magnificent cascade showcases the raw power and beauty of Iceland's landscape. Fed by glacial meltwater and rainfall, the waterfall is a spectacular sight in all seasons, surrounded by dramatic lava rock formations.
Laugarvatn Fontana
Laugarvatn Fontana is a unique destination and attraction in Golden Circle. Discover the natural beauty and cultural richness that make Iceland such a special place to visit. Whether you're seeking adventure, history or simply stunning scenery, this attraction offers something memorable for every visitor.
Lava Centre
Lava Centre is a cultural attraction in South Iceland. This museum offers visitors fascinating insights into Iceland's rich history and heritage. Explore captivating exhibitions and learn about the country's people, traditions and remarkable story from the age of the Vikings to today.
Lava Show Vík
Lava Show Vík is a cultural attraction in South Iceland. This museum offers visitors fascinating insights into Iceland's rich history and heritage. Explore captivating exhibitions and learn about the country's people, traditions and remarkable story from the age of the Vikings to today.
Lómagnúpur
Lómagnúpur is a unique destination and attraction in South Iceland. Discover the natural beauty and cultural richness that make Iceland such a special place to visit. Whether you're seeking adventure, history or simply stunning scenery, this attraction offers something memorable for every visitor.
Lyngdalsheiði
Lyngdalsheiði is a unique destination and attraction in Golden Circle. Discover the natural beauty and cultural richness that make Iceland such a special place to visit. Whether you're seeking adventure, history or simply stunning scenery, this attraction offers something memorable for every visitor.
Mýrdalsjökull
Mýrdalsjökull is a magnificent glacier located in South Iceland. This ancient ice mass is part of Iceland's iconic glacial landscape. Visitors can explore the glacier on guided tours, witnessing the stunning blue ice formations, crevasses and the dramatic interplay of ice and volcanic rock.
Nesjavellir
Nesjavellir is a geothermal attraction in Golden Circle. Experience Iceland's powerful geothermal energy up close at this remarkable natural site. The area features hot springs, steam vents and mineral-rich waters that showcase the raw volcanic forces beneath Iceland's surface.
Öxarárfoss
Öxarárfoss is a unique destination and attraction in Golden Circle. Discover the natural beauty and cultural richness that make Iceland such a special place to visit. Whether you're seeking adventure, history or simply stunning scenery, this attraction offers something memorable for every visitor.
Rauðárárfoss
Rauðárárfoss is a stunning waterfall located in South Iceland. This magnificent cascade showcases the raw power and beauty of Iceland's landscape. Fed by glacial meltwater and rainfall, the waterfall is a spectacular sight in all seasons, surrounded by dramatic lava rock formations.
Rauðárárfoss
Rauðárárfoss is a stunning waterfall located in South Iceland. This magnificent cascade showcases the raw power and beauty of Iceland's landscape. Fed by glacial meltwater and rainfall, the waterfall is a spectacular sight in all seasons, surrounded by dramatic lava rock formations.
Reykjadalur
Reykjadalur is a geothermal attraction in South Iceland. Experience Iceland's powerful geothermal energy up close at this remarkable natural site. The area features hot springs, steam vents and mineral-rich waters that showcase the raw volcanic forces beneath Iceland's surface.
Reynisfjara
Reynisfjara is a unique destination and attraction in South Iceland. Discover the natural beauty and cultural richness that make Iceland such a special place to visit. Whether you're seeking adventure, history or simply stunning scenery, this attraction offers something memorable for every visitor.
Secret Lagoon
Secret Lagoon is a unique destination and attraction in Golden Circle. Discover the natural beauty and cultural richness that make Iceland such a special place to visit. Whether you're seeking adventure, history or simply stunning scenery, this attraction offers something memorable for every visitor.
Seljalandsfoss
Seljalandsfoss is a stunning waterfall located in South Iceland. This magnificent cascade showcases the raw power and beauty of Iceland's landscape. Fed by glacial meltwater and rainfall, the waterfall is a spectacular sight in all seasons, surrounded by dramatic lava rock formations.
Silfra
Silfra is a remarkable volcanic wonder in South Iceland. This dramatic landscape was shaped by powerful volcanic forces over thousands of years. Visitors can witness the raw geological power of Iceland's volcanic heritage through dramatic lava fields, craters and unique rock formations.
Skaftafellsheiði
Skaftafellsheiði is a remarkable natural wonder in South Iceland. This breathtaking natural attraction showcases the diverse and dramatic landscapes that make Iceland one of the world's most unique destinations. From its geological formations to its rich biodiversity, this site offers an unforgettable experience.
Skálholt
Skálholt is a unique destination and attraction in Golden Circle. Discover the natural beauty and cultural richness that make Iceland such a special place to visit. Whether you're seeking adventure, history or simply stunning scenery, this attraction offers something memorable for every visitor.
Skógafoss
Skógafoss is a stunning waterfall located in South Iceland. This magnificent cascade showcases the raw power and beauty of Iceland's landscape. Fed by glacial meltwater and rainfall, the waterfall is a spectacular sight in all seasons, surrounded by dramatic lava rock formations.
Skógar Folk Museum
Skógar Museum is a cultural attraction in South Iceland. This museum offers visitors fascinating insights into Iceland's rich history and heritage. Explore captivating exhibitions and learn about the country's people, traditions and remarkable story from the age of the Vikings to today.
Sólheimajökull
Sólheimajökull is a magnificent glacier located in South Iceland. This ancient ice mass is part of Iceland's iconic glacial landscape. Visitors can explore the glacier on guided tours, witnessing the stunning blue ice formations, crevasses and the dramatic interplay of ice and volcanic rock.
Sólheimasandur
Sólheimasandur is a unique destination and attraction in South Iceland. Discover the natural beauty and cultural richness that make Iceland such a special place to visit. Whether you're seeking adventure, history or simply stunning scenery, this attraction offers something memorable for every visitor.
Strokkur
Strokkur is a geothermal attraction in Golden Circle. Experience Iceland's powerful geothermal energy up close at this remarkable natural site. The area features hot springs, steam vents and mineral-rich waters that showcase the raw volcanic forces beneath Iceland's surface.
Svartifoss
Svartifoss is one of the most iconic waterfalls in Vatnajökull National Park, located in the Skaftafell area of South Iceland. The waterfall is surrounded by striking black basalt columns formed by cooling lava flows thousands of years ago. These unique hexagonal rock formations inspired Icelandic architecture, including Hallgrímskirkja church in Reykjavík. The waterfall can be reached by a scenic hiking trail from the Skaftafell Visitor Centre, passing additional waterfalls and panoramic viewpoints along the way. Although not the tallest waterfall in Iceland, Svartifoss is considered one of the most visually impressive due to its dramatic geological setting.
Þingvallavatn
Þingvallavatn is a unique destination and attraction in Golden Circle. Discover the natural beauty and cultural richness that make Iceland such a special place to visit. Whether you're seeking adventure, history or simply stunning scenery, this attraction offers something memorable for every visitor.
Þingvellir
Þingvellir is a historic site in South Iceland. This important landmark offers a fascinating window into Iceland's rich past. With roots stretching back to the Viking Age and beyond, the site preserves stories of the people and events that shaped modern Iceland.
Úlfljótsvatn
Úlfljótsvatn is a unique destination and attraction in Golden Circle. Discover the natural beauty and cultural richness that make Iceland such a special place to visit. Whether you're seeking adventure, history or simply stunning scenery, this attraction offers something memorable for every visitor.
Vestmannaeyjar (Westman Islands)
冰岛南海岸附近的火山群岛，这里有壮观的悬崖、海雀栖息地，以及 1973 年几乎摧毁了小镇的埃尔德菲尔火山喷发的迷人历史。
Vestrahorn
Vestrahorn is a stunning beach located in South Iceland. This dramatic coastal area features Iceland's distinctive black volcanic sand, shaped by powerful ocean waves. The beach offers dramatic views of the sea and surrounding landscape, and is home to diverse marine wildlife including seals and seabirds.
Vik
Vik is a unique destination and attraction in South Iceland. Discover the natural beauty and cultural richness that make Iceland such a special place to visit. Whether you're seeking adventure, history or simply stunning scenery, this attraction offers something memorable for every visitor.
Hidden Gems
Off the beaten path
Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon
This serpentine canyon is one of Iceland's best-kept secrets — a 2-kilometer-long gorge carved into ancient palagonite rock over 9,000 years by glacial rivers draining from the highlands. The canyon plunges up to 100 meters deep, with sheer moss-covered walls that glow emerald green in summer. A walking trail along the canyon rim offers breathtaking views into the abyss where the Fjaðrá river snakes below. The canyon became famous when Justin Bieber filmed the music video for 'I'll Show You' here in 2015 — tourism surged so violently afterward that the site was temporarily closed in 2019 to prevent environmental damage. Today it's carefully managed with boardwalks and roped paths. Fjaðrárgljúfur is especially stunning in late spring when waterfalls pour over the cliffs and wildflowers bloom along the rim. Local folklore says the canyon was formed when a troll woman tried to flee the sunrise, her footsteps carving the gorge as she ran.
Seljavallalaug Pool
Hidden in a narrow valley beneath towering mountains, Seljavallalaug is one of Iceland's oldest swimming pools — built in 1923 by locals who wanted to teach Icelanders to swim after a tragic shipwreck. The geothermally-heated pool (fed by a natural hot spring) measures 25 meters long and is completely free to use. It's maintained by volunteers and has no lifeguard, so you swim at your own risk. To reach it, you hike 15 minutes along a scenic valley trail from the trailhead on Route 242. The pool often sits empty, giving you the surreal experience of soaking in warm water surrounded by mountains, waterfalls, and absolute silence. The changing rooms are basic — just a small concrete building — but that's part of the charm. After the 2010 Eyjafjallajökull eruption, the pool was buried in volcanic ash and had to be excavated by locals. It's one of the most photogenic spots in Iceland, especially in winter when steam rises into the cold air.
DC-3 Plane Wreck (Sólheimasandur)
In 1973, a US Navy Douglas DC-3 aircraft ran out of fuel and crash-landed on the black sand desert of Sólheimasandur. Miraculously, all crew members survived. The plane was abandoned where it fell — too remote and damaged to salvage — and has sat there rusting for over 50 years, slowly being reclaimed by the elements. The wreck became an icon of post-apocalyptic beauty and has been photographed by millions. It's featured in music videos (Justin Bieber's 'I'll Show You'), fashion shoots, and was even a filming location. The fuselage is largely intact, with its wings torn off and scattered nearby. You can climb inside (carefully) and explore the hollow shell. Reaching the wreck requires a 4-kilometer walk (8 km round trip) across a barren black sand plain — the landowner closed the road to vehicles in 2016 after tourists caused too much damage. The hike takes about 1 hour each way, and there's no shade, so bring water. In winter, the wreck is often dusted with snow, creating an otherworldly atmosphere.
Geology & History
Geology paragraph 1
Geology paragraph 2
Geology paragraph 3
Volcanoes
Active volcanic zone
Glaciers
Massive ice caps
Waterfalls
Powerful cascades
Haunted South Iceland
Explore the ghost stories...
Ghost Story Title
Location
Ghost quote...
Ghost story paragraph 1
Ghost story paragraph 2
Ghost story paragraph 3
Ghost story paragraph 4
Discover more haunted stories...
View All Ghost StoriesFAQ
Question 1?▾
Answer 1
Question 2?▾
Answer 2
Question 3?▾
Answer 3
Question 4?▾
Answer 4
Question 5?▾
Answer 5
Haunted Places in South Iceland
South Iceland contains some of the country's best-known supernatural landmarks — from troll sea stacks to Viking treasure legends and mysterious mountain spirits protecting hidden valleys.
Reynisdrangar Sea Stacks
Legend says these formations were trolls caught dragging a ship to shore — turned to stone the moment sunrise touched them.
Skógafoss
According to saga, the first Viking settler Þrasi hid a treasure chest behind this waterfall. Many have searched — none have found it.
Seljavallalaug Valley
Mountain spirits were believed to protect travelers bathing in the warm geothermal waters of this hidden natural pool.
Dyrhólaey Arch
Traditionally described as a gateway arch used by sea spirits traveling between the ocean and the land beneath the black cliffs.
🌌 See the Northern Lights
Track real-time aurora activity and plan your Northern Lights trip with AuroraVision.
✈️ Book with Trip.com
Complete Travel Services
🚐 Getting Around Iceland
Airport Transfers & Sightseeing Rides
Pre-book a private transfer from Keflavík Airport to Reykjavík, or explore Iceland by private sightseeing ride. Fixed prices, professional local drivers, instant confirmation.
⚔️ Viking Heritage
Saga sites and Viking routes in this region
Þingvellir
Birthplace of Icelandic Democracy
Þingvellir was the meeting place of Alþingi, Iceland's national assembly founded in the year 930. Viking chieftains gathered here each summer to create laws, settle disputes and govern the country without a king.
💡 Did you know?
At Lögberg, the Law Rock, laws were spoken aloud from memory by the Lawspeaker. This system helped create one of the oldest parliamentary traditions in Europe.
Skálholt
Religious Center of Early Iceland
Skálholt became one of the most important religious centers in Iceland after Christianity was adopted around the year 1000 during the Alþingi assembly at Þingvellir.
💡 Did you know?
For centuries Skálholt served as one of Iceland's two episcopal seats.
Keldur
One of Iceland's Oldest Viking Age Farm Sites
Keldur was once home to powerful Viking-age families mentioned in medieval sagas. The site includes underground tunnels believed to have been used as defensive escape routes.
💡 Did you know?
Keldur remains one of the best preserved turf farm complexes in Iceland.
Vestmannaeyjar
The Story Behind the Name Westman Islands
The Westman Islands were named after Irish slaves who escaped after killing their Viking master Hjörleifur. Ingólfur Arnarson later tracked them to the islands during the settlement period.
💡 Did you know?
The word "Westmen" referred to Irish people living west of Norway during the Viking Age.
Laugarvatn
Travel Route of Early Settlers
The Laugarvatn region lay along important inland travel routes used by Viking settlers moving between coastal farms and assembly sites such as Þingvellir.
💡 Did you know?
Many modern hiking routes still follow paths first used by Viking settlers more than 1,000 years ago.