This south coast Iceland itinerary offers epic waterfalls and glaciers, adventurous treks and beautiful photo spots.
Iceland is one of the most amazing destinations in the world for road trips. If you’re planning a trip and wondering where to start, let me make it easy for you: head straight for the south coast. This stretch of road is pure magic! Think towering waterfalls, black sandy beaches, glaciers and characterful villages.
In this guide, I’ll lay out a an easy to follow south coast Iceland itinerary with recommendations for places to stop, practical tips for getting around, plus a few things I wish I’d known the first time around!
Whether you’ve got a long weekend or a week, this Iceland southern coast itinerary can be adapted easily. I’ve written it as a three day itinerary, with the start and finish in Reykjavík.
Getting Around the South Coast of Iceland
Before we dive into the route, it’s time to talk transport. Driving is without a doubt the best way to explore Iceland. Public transport isn’t effective enough for linking the beauty spots, and day tours will add up fast! With your own car or campervan you can stop for waterfalls, glaciers, viewpoints and food whenever you fancy.
For standard vehicles, I’d recommend car rental in Iceland. You’ll get kitted out with an appropriate vehicle, with extras like winter tyres for the icy months.
If you’re considering a bigger adventure, where you get to wake up to incredible scenery each morning, Campervan Reykjavik is very reliable.
Always check the road conditions before you set off each day. As you’ll be aware, the country’s weather is as dramatic as its scenery, and changes fast October to April.
Day 1: Reykjavík to Vík
Ready to chase some waterfalls? This first day is one of the highlights of the whole south coast Iceland itinerary.
Seljalandsfoss
Your first big stop comes about two hours from Reykjavík. Seljalandsfoss is famous because you can walk behind the cascading water. Bring a waterproof jacket and sturdy shoes as it’s a slippery spot! It can get pretty busy, so if you can time your visit for early morning or later evening in the summer, you’ll hopefully avoid the big tour buses.
Gljúfrabúi
Close by is this hidden gem that many people miss. You’ll wade slightly into a narrow canyon and then spot the magical, almost secret waterfall inside the rock walls. It’s beautiful!
Skógafoss
Next up is Skógafoss, one of the most powerful waterfalls on the south coast of Iceland. On sunny days, rainbows dance in the mist, and there’s a staircase to the top if you want a different view (and a leg workout)!
Kvernufoss
Just five minutes from Skógafoss but far quieter, Kvernufoss is another waterfall you can walk behind.
Dyrhólaey Viewpoint
Before reaching Vík, I’d recommend stopping off at Dyrhólaey to see the dramatic cliffs, crashing waves, and a massive rock archway. It’s a great spot for wildlife in the summer too, with puffins nesting in the region.
Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
To round off an incredible first day of your road trip, head to this black sand beach near Vík. Basalt columns line the cliffs, and the Reynisdrangar sea stacks loom offshore. Then head to Vík for the night.
Day 2: Vík to Skaftafell or Jökulsárlón
Today you’ll head further into glacier territory, taking in some wonderfully wild views along the way. As well as waterfalls, it’s what Iceland’s south coast is famous for.
Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon
This moss-covered canyon winds dramatically through the landscape and is well worth the short walk to viewpoints above the river. It’s one of the prettiest places along the Iceland south coast.
Eldhraun Lava Field
Ready for some otherworldly views? You might think you’ve departed our planet when you reach this area of spongy, green-covered lava from a massive 18th-century eruption.
Skaftafell Nature Reserve
Part of Vatnajökull National Park, Skaftafell is brilliant for hiking. There are lots of trails here, and you don’t have to be super fit to enjoy them. Some are slow and gentle walks, although there are some adventurous glacier treks if you’re feeling more energetic!
Fjallsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Often overshadowed by its famous neighbour, this smaller lagoon is quieter and gives stunning glacier views. You’ll reach it just before…
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Photos of this spot are probably one of the reasons you planned this trip in the first place. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is one of the most incredible sights you’ll see in Iceland, where Icebergs float serenely across the lagoon before drifting out to sea. It’s magical.
Diamond Beach
Across the road you’ll see chunks of crystal-clear ice sitting on the striking black sand. It’s another place that feels unlike anywhere else in the world. Take lots of photos!! After this, stay near Jökulsárlón or in Skaftafell.
Day 3: Return to Reykjavík with Hidden Stops
Day three is a little more relaxed in terms of stops. You could either visit some of the places you missed, or visit a few extra sights. This flexibility is what makes a self-drive Iceland southern coast itinerary so special.
Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck
This is a bizarre landmark. There’s a flat but lengthy walk leads to the eerie remains of a crashed US Navy plane on a black-sand desert. It’s a bit of a trek to reach it but can make for some cool photos if you’re interested.
Skógar Waterfall Trail
If you didn’t climb above Skógafoss on the first day of your road trip, you can do it now instead. It’s an amazing route, with lots of small waterfalls along the river canyon.
Seljavallalaug Hot Springs
One of Iceland’s oldest swimming pools, Seljavallalaug is tucked into a mountain valley. It’s a bit of a detour from the main route, so see if your timings allow it.
Hvolsvöllur or Selfoss Lunch Stop
If you’re looking for somewhere to stop for food on the way back to Reykjavík, these towns have some good options.
Practical Tips for Your South Coast Road Trip
When to Go
- Summer (June–August): Long daylight hours, easier driving, busiest season.
- Shoulder months (May and September): Fewer crowds, still manageable roads.
- Winter: Stunning snow scenes and possible northern lights, but short daylight hours. Winter trips to Iceland need a lot more planning and you’ll need to monitor road conditions hourly! There’s an extra special magic to the landscapes though, with that blanket of white.
What to Pack
- Waterproof jacket and trousers
- Sturdy hiking boots
- Hat and gloves, even in summer
- Swimwear (for hot springs)
- Camera
Driving Distances
You might think the distances look quite manageable, but you’ll be stopping all the time! A three-hour drive can easily take four or five when you want to take photos along the way!
Is This the Best South Coast Iceland Itinerary?
I think this is the perfect route for first-time visitors. You’ll get to see some of the most iconic landscapes on the south coast of Iceland. If you can spread it out over four or five days, you’ll get to enjoy a slower pace with more stops.
If you’re looking for more information, don’t miss my other Iceland guides.