8 Days & 7 Nights

4.4

Iceland's Scenic South Coast: Drive & Hike

Explore the dramatic south coast of Iceland by car and on foot.
Jokulsarlon glacial lagoon, filled with huge icebergs of turquoise hues.
Walk through the great rifts of the earth's crust at Thingvellir National Park.
The thundering waterfalls of Gulfoss, Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss.
Getting up close to the mighty Vatnajökull, the largest glacier mass in Europe.

Explore Iceland’s dramatic south coast on an action-packed drive and hike tour starting and finishing in the capital city of Reykjavik. Taking in glaciers, thundering waterfalls, lava fields and hot springs, this tour is a great introduction to the ’Land of Fire and Ice’. Iceland’s quiet, scenic roads are a true pleasure to drive, with plenty of time allocated to getting on those walking boots to see Iceland at its best! Enjoy the charismatic café-culture of Reykjavik, before exploring the Golden Circle trio of Gulfoss waterfall, Geysir geothermal area and Thingvellir National Park. Continue to Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls, and then on to the mighty Vatnajokull glacier and Jokulsarlon glacial lagoon, before returning to Reykjavik. Read about journalist Fiona's experiences on the South Coast Drive & Hike tour in her blog posts Iceland: Myths, Magic & Magnificence, and 12 Must Sees in Southern Iceland. This tour was also featured in an article in Scotland's Sunday Mail Too Cool for School.

From £1,695.00

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Itinerary

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Day 1 Arrive Reykjavik

The moment you arrive at Keflavik International Airport, you’re already stepping into the magic of Iceland’s stunning landscapes. The drive to downtown Reykjavik isn’t your typical commute—it’s a scenic journey through craters and lava fields, almost like something out of a sci-fi movie. It’s the perfect introduction to your adventure.

Once you’re in Reykjavik, you’ll find a city that’s both vibrant and charmingly unique. It’s easy to explore on foot, so put on some comfortable shoes and take a stroll through streets lined with outdoor and artisan shops. Feeling hungry? Try one of the city’s excellent seafood restaurants. The Arctic Char is highly recommended—it’s a simple, delicious treat that’s sure to impress.

Overnight Reykjavik

Accommodation

A sample of our typical carefully chosen accommodation in this location. Where you stay will vary depending on availability, but will be a similar standard.

Hotel Skuggi | Hotel

A brand new, modern hotel in the city centre with tastefully decorated rooms. It sits on one of the oldest streets in Reykjavik, Hverfisgata and within walking distance from the main shopping street, Laugavegur.

Hotel Odinvse | 4 Star | Hotel

A stylish 50 room boutique hotel in downtown Reykjavik. They offer newly renovated rooms along with service with a smile. Their restaurant is a popular meeting place in Reykjavik and offers outstanding Icelandic cuisine.

Hotel Reykjavik Centrum | Hotel

Hotel Reykjavik Centrum is a comfortable 4-star hotel located in Reykjavik, equipped with air conditioning in public areas, Wi-Fi, 24-hour security, a restaurant, laundry service, car hire and an in-room safe.

Day 2 Golden Circle—Thingvellir, Gulfoss and Geysir

Begin your day by collecting your car in Reykjavik then journey into the stunning Icelandic countryside, heading straight to Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stroll through the dramatic rifts in the Earth’s crust.

Next, visit the geothermal wonderland of Geysir, where powerful jets of boiling water erupt from the ground every five minutes, creating a mesmerizing spectacle.

Conclude your day at the stunning two-tiered Gullfoss waterfall. Here, cascading water meets sunlight to create dazzling rainbows, offering a picture-perfect end to your adventure.

Thingvellir Loop Walk - 7.7km (4.7 miles) - Ascent/Descent: 24m (80ft)

Total Drive: Approx 180km, 2-3 hours

Overnight Hveragerði

Accommodation

A sample of our typical carefully chosen accommodation in this location. Where you stay will vary depending on availability, but will be a similar standard.

Frost & Fire Hotel | Hotel

A quiet hotel with amazing amenities and comfortable rooms. Access to their geothermal spa is included and their restaurant "Varma" offers "slow food" made with the finest local ingredients.

Greenhouse Hótel

Sustainable hotel with comfortable beds, locally made or recycled furniture, spacious bathroom and beautiful views. The unique decor is inspired by nature.

Day 3 Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss Waterfalls

Today, explore one of Iceland's most breathtaking waterfalls: Skogafoss. At Seljalandsfoss, take the rare opportunity to walk behind the cascading water and feel the raw power of nature up close. Then, head to Skogafoss, where a hike to the top rewards you with a stunning new vantage point of this majestic waterfall.

Next, journey towards Kirkjubæjarklaustur, passing through the striking black sand beaches of Vík along the way. Upon arrival, take a stroll to the unique “Church Floor” – a fascinating geological formation created by basalt columns, showcasing nature’s artistry.

The Reynisfjall Sea Cliffs Hike - 6.8km (4.2 miles) - Ascent/Descent: 297m (974ft)

Walk upstream the Skoga River - 12.3km (7.6 miles) - Ascent/Descent: 443m (1453ft)

Walk around Kirkjubæjarklaustur and the Basalt floor pavement - 5km (3.1 miles) - Ascent/Descent: 142m (465ft)

Total Drive: Approx 205km, 3 hours

Overnight Kirkjubæjarklaustur

Accommodation

A sample of our typical carefully chosen accommodation in this location. Where you stay will vary depending on availability, but will be a similar standard.

Hotel Klaustur | Hotel

Hotel Klaustur is a modern property and conveniently located for exploring the south of Iceland. You can relax on their sundeck or enjoy a swim in their neighbouring geothermal pool.

Hotel Laki

A country hotel in the heart of the wilderness, there are stunning views of glaciers, mountains and moors.

Hotel Laki has a range of entertainment to offer, including a bar, restaurant, plus a stunning swimming pool and waterfall in the nearby village.

The highlight of Hotel Laki is it's Northern Lights friendly service. It offers additional services, such as a Northern Lights wake up call, to maximise your chances of seeing this beautiful sight.

Day 4 Skaftafell National Park

Today, explore Eldhraun, a vast 565 km² (218 mi²) lava field covered in lush green moss, creating a surreal, otherworldly landscape. Next, head to Skaftafell, part of Vatnajökull National Park, located at the edge of the massive Vatnajökull glacier which covers 8% of Iceland. Explore hiking trails for all levels, from a short walk to Svartifoss Waterfall to longer routes with breathtaking views of the Skaftafellsjökull glacier.

Skaftafell: Svartifoss & Sjónarnípa Loop Walk - 7.3 km (4.5 miles) - Ascent/Descent: 251m (823ft)

Total Drive: Approx 205km, 3-4 Hours

Overnight Höfn

Accommodation

A sample of our typical carefully chosen accommodation in this location. Where you stay will vary depending on availability, but will be a similar standard.

Hotel Höfn | Hotel

Hótel Höfn is a charming hotel with friendly atmosphere and a beautiful glacier view of Vatnajökull glacier, the largest glacier in Europe. It is located in Höfn, a fishing village on the south eastern coast of Iceland, famous for its delicious langoustine.

Fosshotel Vatnajokull

Staying at the Fosshotel Vatnajokull, you will experience an icy wonderland with beautiful views of the glacier Vatnajokull.

Entertainments include a restaurant, bar and a variety of activities, such as glacier hiking and ice caves.

This hotel has a relaxing and homely atmosphere. All rooms include a fridge, private bathroom and a TV.

Hali Country Hotel

On a family-run farm between Vatnajökull National Park and the Atlantic Ocean, this simple hotel with an annex is a minute’s walk from local history at the Þórbergssetur museum, and 14 km from Jökulsárlón lagoon.

Modest rooms with ocean or mountain views offer free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs, as well as sitting areas and heated floors. Airy 2-bedroom apartments have kitchens, plus living rooms and sofabeds.

Parking and a breakfast buffet are complimentary. There’s a bright, relaxed restaurant, and a laid-back lobby lounge offering coffee and tea.

Day 5 Jokulsarlon Glacial Lagoon

Head west, and in just a short drive, you’ll arrive at Jokulsarlon glacial lagoon—one of Iceland’s most iconic and photographed destinations. Stroll along the lagoon's shoreline, scattered with glistening shards of ice, and marvel at the massive icebergs drifting serenely in the water. Their colors range from pristine white to mesmerizing shades of blue. Film buffs might recognize this breathtaking location from blockbuster hits like Die Another Day and Tomb Raider. Just nearby, don’t miss Fjallsárlón, a smaller lagoon offering close-up views of the ice and glacier.

Next, make your way to Dyrhólaey, a stunning natural rock arch that offers incredible views. Puffins can be spotted here during their nesting season, typically from May to early August, making it a must-visit for bird enthusiasts.

Jokulsárlón west side - 1.3 km (0.8 miles) - Ascent/Descent: 4m (13ft)

Fjallsárlón - Circle - 2.7 km (1.6 miles) - Ascent/Descent: 68m (223ft)

Total Drive: Approx 135km, 2 Hours

Overnight Vik

Accommodation

A sample of our typical carefully chosen accommodation in this location. Where you stay will vary depending on availability, but will be a similar standard.

Hótel Vík | Hotel

Hotel Vik, features 78 comfortable guest rooms, 46 of which are designed in a contemporary, nature-inspired style by noted Icelandic architect Guðbjörg Magnúsdóttir.

Hotel Katla | Hotel

The Hotel Katla offers spacious rooms in a breathtaking environment, surrounded by mountains, black sands and glaciers.

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Hótel Dyrhólaey

Featuring countryside views, the bright, unassuming rooms with simple furnishings have complimentary Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs. Upgraded rooms provide mountain, ocean or glacier views. Freebies include parking, and breakfast provided in a cozy wood-lined restaurant/bar with vaulted ceilings and water views. There’s also a terrace with valley views.

Day 6 Hveragerdi, Drive to Reykjavik

Continue your journey to Reykjavik, making a stop along the way in Hveragerdi to explore its stunning geothermal wonders. Take a leisurely walk through the area, where you'll discover hot springs, bubbling mud pots, and steaming fumaroles. From there, it’s just a short drive back to Reykjavik, where you’ll return your car in the late afternoon.

Reykjadalur - hot river - 7.4km (4.5 miles) - Ascent/Descent: 224m (734ft)

Reykjadalur Grændalur - 5.4km (3.3 miles) - Ascent/Descent: 320m (1049ft)

Total Drive: Approx 50km, 1 Hours

Overnight Reykjavik

Accommodation

A sample of our typical carefully chosen accommodation in this location. Where you stay will vary depending on availability, but will be a similar standard.

Hotel Skuggi | Hotel

Hotel Odinvse | 4 Star | Hotel

Hotel Reykjavik Centrum | Hotel

Day 7 Free Day in Reykjavik

Take your time exploring Reykjavik today, with countless activities to enjoy at your own pace. Consider embarking on a captivating whale-watching tour from the harbor (not included, bookable in advance), or take a scenic walk through the city and the charming Seltjarnarnes area. For a truly unforgettable experience, treat yourself to a visit to the iconic Blue Lagoon, where you can unwind in its soothing geothermal waters (not included, bookable locally).

Overnight Reykjavik

Accommodation

A sample of our typical carefully chosen accommodation in this location. Where you stay will vary depending on availability, but will be a similar standard.

Hotel Skuggi | Hotel

Hotel Odinvse | 4 Star | Hotel

Reykjavik Residence Hotel | Bed and breakfast

Reykjavik Residence is located in the heart of downtown Reykjavik. The hotel offers a comfortable stay alongside breakfast which is delivered straight to the rooms. All the rooms in the hotel offer a safe, complimentary toiletries, tea and coffee making facilities and en-suite bathrooms.

Day 8 Onward Travel

THIS TRIP'S CARBON SCORE

This trip has a carbon score of 8kg per person per night, meaning it’s one of our best trips! For comparison, a carbon count of 8kg is equivalent to 12 pints of local beer at the bar. Here at Macs, we pride ourselves on being a responsible travel company and continue to adopt, develop and innovate ways to positively impact the environment. Find out more information on how we've carbon counted our trips.

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Other Information

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Is it for me? Accommodation & Meals Navigation What's Included

Included

3 Nights at a 3* Hotel in Reykjavik
4 Nights in countryside hotels and guesthouses
7 Breakfasts
5 Days Group B car hire (from Day 2 to Day 6)
Return transfers betweeen Keflavik Airport and Reykjavik accommodation
Road Map
Detailed pre-departure information pack
Route notes, maps and driving instructions
24/7 support from our local partners and UK office

Excluded

Travel to and from Iceland
Lunches and evening meals
Drinks and snacks
Fuel and oil
Personal equipment
Mountain rescue
Optional activities
Travel Insurance

Extras

Additional nights before, during or after the tour
Glacier Hike
Car Hire Upgrades

When to go Travel & Transfers Info & FAQ

General Information

The distances and ascent/descents are approximations of the recommended routes. Please be prepared by packing all necessary items, (for example, proper rain gear jacket and pants, sun hat, sunscreen). Your information pack has a detailed equipment list which includes standard walking gear such as good walking boots or shoes, warm and waterproof clothes or the cooler months and lightweight clothing for summer, and a day pack.

Equipment

Your information pack has a detailed equipment list which includes standard walking gear such as good walking boots or shoes, lightweight clothes, waterproofs and a day pack.

Car Hire

We include Group B Car Hire from the morning of Day 2 up to the afternoon of Day 6. Group B Car Hire would be based on a Volkswagen Golf or similar and is suitable for 2-3 people with luggage. For parties of 4, we will automatically include an upgrade to a CAT N Car Hire (similar to a Skoda Octavia) and this is already included in the cost. For parties of 5-8 people, we will provide 2x CAT B for 5-6 people, and 2x CAT N for 7-8 people. If you choose, you can also upgrade to a CAT FG Car Hire which is similar to a Suzuki Grand Vitara 4WD. Select this option when making your booking. Car hire includes unlimited mileage, VAT, CDW insurance, 1 additional driver, Pick up and Drop off fees. No insurance in Iceland covers the underside of vehichles and excesses can be expensive. For this reason we suggest you take out an excess reimbursement policy in advance of your arrival, or upgrade your insurance locally. Fuel and oil are not included in the rental of your vehicle.

Travel Insurance

It is a requirement of booking this tour with Macs Adventure that you have suitable travel insurance which covers you for the activity, emergency evacuation and hospital care.