South Iceland Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, hike, eat, stay and how to get around in South Iceland! Our guide provides everything you need to know for an unforgettable trip.


Introduction to South Iceland

South Iceland is a region of stunning natural beauty that’s home to glaciers, waterfalls, hot springs, and black sand beaches. The region is well-known for the Golden Circle - a route that takes you to Þingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall - but there’s so much more to explore. South Iceland’s small towns and villages feature cultural attractions, exciting food and drink scenes, and endless outdoor adventures. If you’re planning a trip to Iceland, then South Iceland is a must-visit destination.

List of Places to Visit in South Iceland

  1. Þingvellir National Park
  2. Geysir geothermal area
  3. Gullfoss waterfall
  4. Skógafoss waterfall
  5. Reynisfjara black sand beach
  6. Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck
  7. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
  8. Vatnajökull Glacier
  9. Seljalandsfoss waterfall
  10. Skaftafell National Park

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

South Iceland preserves Iceland’s history and culture, with museums and historical places across the region. These attractions provide a window into Iceland’s past and present.

  1. Skógar Museum
  2. The Saga Centre in Hvolsvöllur
  3. Lava Centre in Hvolsvöllur
  4. Héraðsskólinn Museum in Laugarvatn
  5. The Settlement Exhibition in Reykjavik

Natural Attractions of South Iceland: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

South Iceland’s natural attractions include glaciers, waterfalls, hot springs, black sand beaches, and more. It’s a playground for outdoor enthusiasts and offers a chance to witness Iceland’s natural beauty.

  1. Glacier Hiking
  2. Snowmobiling on a glacier
  3. Black sand beach tours
  4. Horseback riding on Icelandic horses
  5. Ice caving
  6. Northern Lights hunting
  7. ATV/ Quad biking
  8. Whale watching
  9. River rafting
  10. Scenic flights

Hiking/Biking Routes of South Iceland

South Iceland is home to numerous hiking and biking routes, which can be done year-round. These include the following:

  1. Skaftafell National Park
  2. Landmannalaugar
  3. Laugavegur Trail
  4. Fimmvörðuháls Trail
  5. Reykjadalur hot springs hike
  6. Glymur waterfall hike
  7. Seljavallalaug hot springs dip
  8. Heidmörk nature reserve

Best Things to Do in South Iceland: Activities and Tours

  1. Golden Circle Tour
  2. South Coast Adventure
  3. Glacier lagoon tour
  4. Game of Thrones tour
  5. Highland Adventure
  6. Reykjavik city tour
  7. Snæfellsnes Peninsula tour
  8. Into the Glacier tour
  9. Blue Lagoon tour
  10. ATV/ Quad biking

Week-Long Itinerary for South Iceland

Day 1: Reykjavik City Day 2: Golden Circle Tour Day 3: South Coast Adventure Day 4: Skógafoss Waterfall Hike Day 5: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Tour Day 6: Landmannalaugar Day 7: The Blue Lagoon and Reykjanes Peninsula

Food and Drink Scene of South Iceland

Icelandic cuisine is based on fresh, natural, and wholesome ingredients. South Iceland is a food lover’s paradise, featuring a range of local dishes and beverages.

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Icelandic lamb
  2. Plokkfiskur (Icelandic fish stew)
  3. Skyramisu (skyr dessert)
  4. Rúgbrauð (Icelandic rye bread)
  5. Hangikjöt (smoked lamb)

Local Beverages

  1. Brennivín (Icelandic schnapps)
  2. Viking beer
  3. Svið (Icelandic sheep head)
  4. Appelsín (Icelandic orange soda)
  5. Egg liqueur

Where to Stay in South Iceland: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

South Iceland has a range of accommodation options for all budgets and preferences. You can choose to stay in a cozy guesthouse, a modern hotel, or a charming hostel. Here are some top options:

  1. Hotel Rangá
  2. Hotel Grímsborgir
  3. Hosteling International Skaftafell
  4. Guesthouse Skálafell
  5. Hotel Hekla

What to Buy in South Iceland: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

South Iceland has unique souvenirs and local products that make perfect gifts and keepsakes. Here are some of the top items to look for:

  1. Icelandic wool products
  2. Lava rock jewelry
  3. Blueberry jam
  4. Icelandic chocolate
  5. Viking souvenirs

Local Culture and Customs of South Iceland

South Iceland has a rich cultural heritage that’s reflected in its customs and traditions. Icelanders value nature, family, and community. The country has a strong literary scene and a rich folklore tradition.

Best Time to Visit South Iceland

The best time to visit South Iceland is from May to September. This period provides the best weather for outdoor activities and sightseeing. However, visiting in winter can offer a unique experience, including seeing the Northern Lights and participating in winter sports.

Do’s and Don’ts of South Iceland

Do:

  1. Respect nature and the environment.
  2. Dress warmly and bring waterproof clothing.
  3. Bring a reusable water bottle.
  4. Slow down and take in the scenery.
  5. Follow the rules and regulations of parks and attractions.

Don’t:

  1. Litter.
  2. Disturb wildlife.
  3. Enter restricted areas.
  4. Go off-trail.
  5. Forget your manners.

Safety and Health

Safety in South Iceland

South Iceland is generally a safe place to visit, but visitors should take precautions to ensure their safety. These include:

  1. Always check the weather forecast before heading out.
  2. Be aware of changing weather conditions.
  3. Be cautious while driving, particularly in icy conditions.
  4. Carry a map, water, and extra clothing while hiking or exploring.

Health in South Iceland

South Iceland has a well-developed healthcare system, and visitors can access medical care if needed. The tap water is safe to drink, and there are no major health risks in the region.

Getting to South Iceland: Transportation Options and Logistics

South Iceland is easily accessible from Reykjavik, and visitors can choose from a range of transportation options.

Airports Near South Iceland

  1. Keflavik International Airport
  2. Reykjavik Domestic Airport

Bus Stations Near South Iceland

  1. Reykjavik Bus Terminal (BSÍ)
  2. Hvolsvöllur Bus Station
  3. Vík í Mýrdal Bus Stop

Other Options

  1. Car rental
  2. Taxi service
  3. Private transfers

How to Get Around in South Iceland

Getting around South Iceland requires a vehicle. Visitors can choose to rent a car or join guided tours. Public transportation is limited in the region.

Where to Go Next from South Iceland: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. West Iceland
  2. East Iceland
  3. The Highlands
  4. The Reykjanes Peninsula
  5. The Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Conclusion

South Iceland is a magical place that offers a perfect blend of natural wonders, culture, and adventure. From the Golden Circle to the black sand beaches, and everything in between, South Iceland has something for everyone. Plan your trip carefully, explore the region fully and you will experience one of the most beautiful places on Earth.

Farm building after sunset near Hvolsvöllur Farm building after sunset near Hvolsvöllur Gullfoss in July 2006 Gullfoss in July 2006 Sunset view from the back of the Seljalandsfoss waterfall Sunset view from the back of the Seljalandsfoss waterfall Kerið in July 2006 Kerið in July 2006 Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon Panorama of Jökulsárlón (aka Glacier Lagoon) Panorama of Jökulsárlón (aka Glacier Lagoon)


    Hella
    Hveragerði
    Kirkjubæjarklaustur
    Landmannalaugar
    Selfoss
    Upcountry Árnessýsla
    Vestmannaeyjar
    Vík í Mýrdal