Discover the most dramatic landscapes of Iceland’s South Coast. Experience the geothermal wonders and waterfalls of the Golden Circle. Visit volcanoes, glaciers, and stunning ice caves in Katla Geopark and Vatnajökull National Park.
Plan your perfect South Iceland road trip with our detailed guide to Iceland’s most spectacular displays.
Table of Contents
South Iceland – 6-Day Itinerary
This active, 6-day, road trip visits Iceland’s spectacular Golden Circle, Katla Geopark and Vatnajökull National Park.
Day 1 Golden Circle
Experience the geothermal wonders and waterfalls of the Golden Circle route.
Day 2 Westman Islands
Spot puffins and climb a volcano on a day trip to the Westman Islands.
Day 3 Katla Geopark
Discover dramatic landscapes in Katla Geopark.
- Walk behind the famous Seljalandsfoss Waterfall.
- Learn about farming and folklore at Rutshellir Caves and Drangurinn.
- Capture rainbows in the mist of Skógafoss Waterfall.
- Discover Iceland’s heritage at the fascinating Skógar Museum.
- Hike to Kvernufoss waterfall, a hidden gem.
Day 4 Katla Ice Caves and Vík Area
- Discover ancient blue ice formations on a tour of the spectacular Katla Ice Caves.
- Enjoy coastal views and crashing waves from the Dyrhólaey promontory.
- Walk the black sands of Reynisfjara Beach and see amazing basalt columns.
- Visit the Vík i Myrdal Church for a bird’s-eye view of the village of Vík.
Day 5 Vatnajökull National Park
Explore volcanic landscapes and glacial lakes in the vast Vatnajökull Region.
- Walk paths through the moss-covered Skaftareldahraun Lava Field.
- Capture stunning photos of the winding Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon.
- Discover the unique sets of hexagonal columns of the Dverghamrar Formations.
- At the Skaftafell Nature Reserve, hike to the stunning Svartifoss Waterfall.
- Take the easy trail to the edge of the spectacular Skaftafell Glacier, a noteworthy stop in Vatnajökull National Park.
Day 6 Glacial Lakes and Höfn
- Enjoy a boat tour on stunning Jökulsárlón Glacial Lake surrounded by amazing, blue icebergs.
- See more huge icebergs at nearby Fjallsárlón Glacial Lake from high above the lake.
- Discover Höfn’s fishing heritage.
- Visit the Viking Village at neighbouring Stokksnes.
- Return to Reykjavík or continue on the Ring Road into Northern Iceland.
South Iceland Attractions Map
Use our South Iceland map to discover all the must-see attractions and hidden gems along this scenic driving route.
Parking
A parking fee applies at many of the stops on this road trip and in most, but not all, cases that is the only “admission” fee payable. The most common payment method is using Parka. We highly recommend downloading the app on your phone before you leave on the road trip to make the payment process really simple. Some parking lots also have a kiosk. You’ll need to know your license plate number. If you don’t pay, your rental car company will be charged and they will bill you plus an administration fee.
Golden Circle
The Golden Circle is Iceland’s most celebrated driving route, with a perfect blend of natural wonders and historical significance. The iconic landmarks on the 300-kilometre loop, from Reykjavík, showcase the raw power and beauty of Iceland’s geological forces.
Walk between two continents at Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Dramatic fissures mark where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. This historic ground, the site of one of the world’s first parliaments, combines cultural significance with stunning geological formations.
The highlight of the circle is Gullfoss Waterfall, where water plunges a total of 32 metres in two dramatic cascades into a narrow canyon. The thundering waterfall creates a spectacular display, often with shimmering rainbows visible in the mist.
Discover Iceland’s Golden Circle with our detailed driving guide.
After an action-packed day exploring the Golden Circle, our second day begins at the often-overlooked Urriðafoss Waterfall.
Urriðafoss Waterfall
Despite its modest 6-metre height, Urriðafoss has the highest waterflow rate of Iceland’s many waterfalls, an impressive 360 cubic metres per second. (Dettifoss, in North Iceland and considered the country’s most powerful waterfall, has a rate of just under 200 m3/s!) Watch the water cascade over rock formations and around small islands, creating a series of rapids stretching across the river’s considerable width.
The river is a vital ecosystem for marine life, particularly abundant salmon and trout populations. Seals occasionally make their way upstream in pursuit of salmon. The waterfall’s future remains uncertain due to proposed plans for hydroelectric development on the river which would change the river’s flow.
Katla UNESCO Global Geopark
Continuing east, we enter the Katla UNESCO Global Geopark, a vast region stretching from Hvolsvöllur to Vatnajökull National Park. The map below highlights key attractions which showcase Katla’s dramatic volcanic and glacial heritage.
This vast, geologically diverse area covers about 9540 square kilometres (about 9% of the country’s land area). Its landscapes include towering glaciers, volcanoes (such as Eyjafjallajökull’s and Katla itself), waterfalls and striking black sand beaches.
The Katla Geopark is named after the Katla volcano, which lies beneath the Mýrdalsjökull ice cap. The park is in the most active volcanic area of Iceland, the Eastern Volcanic Zone, which includes the Westman Islands archipelago. Over 150 recorded volcanic eruptions have occurred here since the 9th century. The geopark focuses on promoting sustainable development and nature tourism.
The town of Hvolsvöllur has the unique distinction of being the only settlement in Iceland not situated by water. The town is a great base for exploring attractions such as the Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls and the hiking paradise of Þórsmörk. The local shop Una showcases arts, crafts and a remarkable 90 metre-long tapestry depicting the Brennu-Njálssaga, one of Iceland’s best known sagas.
Hvolsvöllur’s state-of-the-art, interactive LAVA Centre showcases the forces that have shaped Iceland’s landscape. Its interactive exhibits and simulations make Iceland’s geologic history accessible and engaging for visitors of all ages. Experience the raw energy of volcanic eruptions and tectonic movements along the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, with special attention given to recent events, like the 2021 Fagradalsfjall eruption.
Westman Islands
For those with an extra day, the Westman Islands (Vestmannaeyjar) offer an unforgettable detour. They are just a short ferry ride from the mainland.
This volcanic archipelago combines dramatic landscapes shaped by recent volcanic activity with one of the world’s largest Atlantic puffin colonies. The island of Heimaey is the only inhabited island in the Westmans and an extraordinary destination for nature enthusiasts.
Heimaey’s rugged cliffs host up to 1.1 million breeding pairs of Atlantic puffins, representing approximately 20% of the world’s population. From mid-April to late August, these charismatic seabirds nest along the western coast and the Stórhöfði Peninsula, allowing remarkably close encounters with the beloved birds in their natural habitat.
Rising dramatically above Heimaey’s eastern coast, Eldfell Volcano is proof of nature’s power. For a moderately challenging 30-minute hike, climb to the summit of Eldfell’s volcanic cone, formed during the dramatic 1973 eruption. Enjoy panoramic views of the lava fields that nearly destroyed the island’s only town and the land formed by historic eruptions.
Plan your perfect Westman Islands adventure with our comprehensive visitor’s guide.
Back on the mainland, our next stop is one of Iceland’s most photographed cascades, the magnificent Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, conveniently located just off Iceland’s Ring Road.
Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
This impressive waterfall plunges about 60 metres into a calm pool, creating clouds of mist and, often, beautiful rainbows. This is one of the rare places where you can walk behind a waterfall. It’s a unique perspective and perfect for capturing amazing photos. When the sun shines on the waterfall in the afternoon, the experience is incredible. Be sure to wear waterproof clothing and sturdy shoes, as you will get wet behind the falls. The path itself can be quite wet and slippery. During the winter, the path behind the waterfall is closed due to ice and falling icicles. It typically reopens in late April or May.
The water at Seljalandsfoss originates from the Eyjafjallajökull ice cap which completely covers a stratovolcano. Its last eruption was in 2010 and its ash cloud caused major disruptions to western European air travel.
Follow the moderate to easy path to Gljúfrabúi waterfall, a 30-minute detour from the main waterfall but a magical experience. This hidden 40-metre-tall waterfall tumbles down moss-covered walls into a narrow gorge. The gorge creates an echo chamber for the waterfall’s sound.
About a 20 minute drive east of the waterfalls, the man-made Rutshellir Caves are an interesting historical landmark.
Rutshellir Caves
Man-made caves are found on about 90 farms in South Iceland and rarely elsewhere in the country. Rutshellir Caves are one of Iceland’s oldest and largest cave systems. Cut into Mount Hrútafell, the caves date back to the early 18th century. The main chamber is straight, arched and at least 20 metres long. It was likely used to store hay and may have included a second floor.
Less than a kilometre further east is the solitary rock formation known as Drangurinn surrounded by grazing land.
Drangurinn
The huge rock stands about 35 metres high. Drangurinn has a number of caves and passages within it. Additional structures have been added to it throughout the centuries. In the past, Icelandic farmers used these caves and structures as cowsheds and for hay storage. Since they are no longer used by farmers, many have become nesting sites for migratory birds.
Local folklore suggests Drangurinn was the home of helpful elves. These elves took care of the cows in the cowsheds while they were giving birth to their calves. If the farmer thought a cow was ready to give birth at night, he left a bucket, filled with good hay, by the window. In the morning, mother and calf were found milked and fed. If the farmer stayed to help, the birthing ended in disaster. This is on private land. Access is permitted but please stay on designated paths and respect the farmer’s fences.
Continue east for 2 kilometres and watch for Skógafoss signs.
Skógafoss Waterfall
One of Iceland’s largest and most beautiful waterfalls, Skógafoss is 60 metres high and 25 metres wide. Also fed by the meltwater of Eyjafjallajökull, the water falls over stark black cliffs creating a constant spray and, on sunny days, stunning rainbows. Photographers enjoy this place.
Climb the staircase (+500 steps) to the viewing platform at the top for amazing views of the area, the Skógagil ravine and the coastline beyond.
For backcountry hikers, Skógafoss is the beginning of the popular Fimmvörðuháls Hiking Trail. The well-known, 25-kilometre trek has an elevation gain of approximately 1,000 metres. It’s a challenging hike showcasing Iceland’s varied natural beauty. There are twenty-six waterfalls along the Skógá River with dramatic volcanic landscapes shaped by the 2010 Eyjafjöll eruption and the glaciers of the magnificent Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull ice caps.
Looking for a “one-stop shop” to learn about many aspects of Icelandic history and daily life? Take the time to visit the Skógar Museum, just to the east of Skógafoss.
Skógar Museum
Founded in 1949, Skógar Museum has a large collection of over 18,000 regional artifacts from the Viking Age to the 20th century in three distinct areas.
Visit the outdoor section and walk into reconstructed turf houses, a charming village church, and a traditional schoolhouse to see how people lived in the past. In the main building, find exhibits that focus on fishing, agriculture, and various crafts that were important to Icelandic life. The Transportation Museum displays a large collection of historic vehicles.
The less-developed hiking trail beside the Transportation Museum leads to the hidden gem, Kvernufoss.
Kvernufoss
This 30-metre-tall waterfall is worth the detour. Its water drops over sheer, moss-covered, black cliffs, creating a stunning backdrop for photographers. During our visit, a wedding photographer was working with a couple. I’m sure the photos were magical.
Kvernufoss seems to be overlooked. We noticed that there were definitely fewer visitors than at other popular waterfalls. You can also walk behind this pretty cascade.
If you have nice weather and time, consider visiting the Sólheimajökull Glacier. Travel east on the Ring Road for about 6 kilometres and turn left onto Route 221 which ends at the lagoon parking lot.
Sólheimajökull Glacier
This is an outlet glacier of the large Mýrdalsjökull ice cap. Sólheimajökull is about 8 kilometres long and 2 kilometres wide, with distinctive black ash streaks from past volcanic eruptions of Katla. Its ice is estimated to be between 400 and 600 years old. Unfortunately, Sólheimajökull is melting rapidly. The lagoon, which formed in 2007, is about 70 metres deep and could extend up to 4 kilometres long as the glacier continues to recede.
It’s an easy walk from the paid parking area toward the glacier and the lagoon. Enjoy the beauty of the glacial formations. Please remember; never go on a glacier without proper training or a guide and the necessary equipment for glacier hiking.
Back on the Ring Road, it is less than 2 kilometres to the parking area of the Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck, one of Iceland’s unique and highly popular attractions.
The U.S. Navy DC-3 aircraft crash-landed in 1973 due to a fuel shortage. All crew members survived without injury. The plane rests on the black sand beach of Sólheimasandur about 6 metres from the ocean. This is a popular photography spot. Enjoy a 4 kilometre (45 min to 1 hour) hike across the moon-like terrain, or take a shuttle bus to the crash site, for a small fee. Arriving before the shuttle buses offers the best chance for stunning photos without large crowds.
About 12 kilometres to the east, turn onto Route 218. Drive to the end of the road and the peninsula known for its stunning natural formations and rich bird life.
Dyrhólaey
The Dyrhólaey peninsula was formed by an underwater volcanic eruption about 100,000 years ago. Notice the distinctive layers of volcanic rock in the cliffs. The area is an important bird nesting site with many seabirds nesting in these rugged coastal cliffs. Eider ducks and fulmars are commonly seen. Dyrhólaey is home to puffins from May to September. From the headland, 120 metres above the sea, the panoramic view of the south coast includes the Reynisdrangar sea stacks, the black Mýrdalssandur sands and, on clear days, the Mýrdalsjökull ice cap.
Get stunning views of the stone Dyrhólaey sea arch, black beaches and basalt columns from the edge of the cliff. Formed over millennia by the Atlantic’s powerful wave action, the 120-metre-high arch continues to be carved out of the basalt cliff. The archway is large enough that some boats can pass through it.
On the headland, the Dyrhólaey Lighthouse marks the southernmost point of the mainland. The 13-metre-tall, square, concrete tower has a distinctive red-trimmed, metal lantern house. The current structure, built in 1927, replaced a 1910 lighthouse. Iceland’s first radio beacon was housed in the lighthouse and played an important role during World War II.
On the east side of the peninsula, a number of paved paths lead to beautiful views of the coast with some of the best being from the Reynisfjara viewpoint. Look west for the silhouette of Dyrhólaey arch. Looking east, the black volcanic sand of Reynisfjara beach stretches to the legendary Reynisdrangar sea stacks in the distance.
Return to the Ring Road. Drive 7.5 kilometres east. Turn right onto Route 215 and drive to the black sand beach, one of Iceland’s most famous, natural attractions.
Reynisfjara Beach (The Black Sand Beach)
Reynisfjara is a combination of black sand and smooth pebbles at the base of towering cliffs with basalt columns resembling organ pipes. We were awestruck.
Game of Thrones series devotees will know Reynisfjara Beach as Eastwatch-by-the-Sea shown first in Season 7, Episode 5.
The Hálsanefshellir Cave’s entrance is very close to the parking lot on the Reynisfjara black sand beach. The main cave is shallow with hundreds of hexagonal basalt columns. The well-developed, 6-sided, symmetrical columns formed as a result of slow cooling of hot lava. Erosion by the constant ocean wave action created the cave.
Unusual 2025/26 winter storms have significantly eroded the sand levels, making the basalt columns and the Hálsanefshellir cave frequently inaccessible or dangerous to approach. Note the signs showing high and low tide and the associated warnings. The waves here are known to be deceiving with strong currents and sneaker waves. Be aware of the water’s edge.
We took photos of the stunning basalt columns and luckily, as we were in the area nearing low tide, we walked to the other side of the cliff along the beach to a slightly deeper cave. Many say its natural amphitheatre effect adds to the mystical atmosphere. This second cave is accessible only at, or approaching, low tide.
This spot has the best views of the Reynisdrangar Sea Stacks. These sea stacks, each rising over 60 metres above the water, are what remain of ancient sea cliffs after centuries of ocean erosion. Local folklore suggests the stacks are trolls who were turned to stone while attempting to drag a ship to shore. Given that the largest column, called Langsamur, looks somewhat like a ship, we understand why this tale was told.
Vík
The southernmost village on the Icelandic mainland, Vík is small but vibrant. It balloons in size during the busy summer tourist season. It was our base for exploring the Katla Geopark.
The black sand Víkurfjara Beach is a less-crowded alternative to the famous Reynisfjara beach. The Reynisdrangar Sea Stacks are also visible from here.
The pretty Lutheran Vík i Myrdal Church has a classic white exterior, a red roof and distinctive stained-glass windows. It was designed by Iceland’s state architect and consecrated in 1934. Perched on a hill overlooking the village and ocean, both it and the breathtaking views are popular with photographers (especially at sunrise and sunset).
The small Hafnleysa Maritime Museum displays the remains of the historic Skaftfellingur ship. There are also maritime artifacts and historical footage documenting the ship’s service. Built in 1918, it was a supply ship along the treacherous south coast before road transportation was reliable. Throughout World War II, it carried fish across the Atlantic to England. On one voyage it rescued most of the crew of a German submarine hit by Allied bombers. (The German submariners sat out the rest of the war in a Canadian POW camp.) The Skaftfellingur was retired in the 1960s.
The Lava Show is a unique attraction. Witness lava rock from the 1918 Katla eruption, heated to 1100°C, flowing in a controlled environment. This experience, the first of its kind worldwide, includes an educational video explaining Icelandic volcanism focusing on the local Katla volcano. The Vík location is a sister venue to the larger one in Reyjavik. This is the more intimate of the two venues.
Katla Ice Caves
One of the highlights of our Iceland adventure was exploring the incredible, meltwater-carved Katla ice caves. We highly recommend Troll Expeditions‘ 3-hour guided tour. They provide all necessary equipment and expert guidance to safely navigate on the glacier and through the caves created by glacial meltwater.
We boarded the “super jeep” in Vík, sat back and enjoyed the ride to the outwash plain at the edge of the glacier. The outwash plain, made of black sand from past Katla eruptions, is surrounded by mossy green mountains. It’s an incredible contrast. After a quick walk to the equipment bins for crampons and some instruction, we were ready to head onto and into the Kötlujökull glacier, an outlet glacier of the Mýrdalsjökull ice cap.
The ice cap sits on top of the mighty Katla Volcano. This remarkable geological duo covers nearly 600 square kilometres, with the glacier’s peak soaring to 1,493 metres. The ice over Katla is up to 700 metres thick. Katla is one of Iceland’s most active volcanoes. Given the close proximity of the ice and volcano, the surrounding landscape has changed dramatically through centuries of eruptions. Katla’s last major eruption in 1918 caused enormous glacial floods which extended the coastline near Vík. Katla is closely monitored and early warning systems are in place.
Ice caves are created by the water of a melting glacier. During times of rapid melting, which is most summers now, the cave locations change constantly. No two visits to the Katla Ice Caves are the same.
On the glacier, we walked on paths cut into the glacier by workers until we reached the current cave. There was lots of time to get photos. Like the caves, the path network is constantly adjusted as the glacier melts.
It’s a unique environment of brilliant blue ice mixed with black volcanic ash layers from past eruptions of Katla. The blue colouring indicates the oldest sections of the glacier. Unlike many ice caves that are only accessible in winter, the Katla Ice Caves can be explored year-round.
Back on the Ring Road, about 60 kilometres east of Vík, the landscape changes. A parking area on the right is the perfect place to stop and explore this lava field.
Skaftareldahraun (Eldhraun) Lava Field
Skaftareldahraun is one of the largest lava flows in recorded history covering close to 600 square kilometres. In 1783, massive amount of lava flowed from the Laki vent. The field is smooth pahoehoe lava and includes numerous lava caves.
A period of environmental devastation and human suffering, called Móðuharðindin or the Mist Hardships, followed the Laki eruption. The eruption released massive amounts of lava and, more deadly, toxic fluorine and sulfur gases. The combination of lava and toxic gases caused widespread agricultural destruction, livestock deaths and water contamination which led to severe famine. Twenty to twenty-five percent of Iceland’s population died, primarily from starvation and related diseases. The disaster had long-lasting effects on Icelandic society.
Today a thick sheet of moss and lichens (up to 50 centimetres thick in places) covers the lava field, forming the Stereocaulon lava heath and creating a lunar-like landscape. Endemic to Iceland, the top 5 centimetres of the moss is its only living part. The moss grows at a rate of about a centimetre per year. Its contrasting colours, including bright green after it rains, and its very delicate appearance make it quite unique. It is very sensitive to any disturbance. Signs warned us to remain on the marked walking paths.
About 3 kilometres east, turn left. Continue to the organized Fjaðrárgljúfur parking area another 3 kilometres off the Ring Road. The “F” road to the right is for 4x4s and heads to the viewpoint at the upper end of the canyon, bypassing the walking path.
Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon
The canyon, about two kilometres long with walls up to 100 metres high, was carved by glacial meltwater over thousands of years. A walking path winds along the canyon’s edge for about a kilometre, high above the Fjaðrá River, flowing in the gorge below.
Viewpoints provide great views of exposed volcanic rock, basalt columns and several small waterfalls cascading down the canyon walls. At the final Fjarðarárgljúfur Viewpoint, we enjoyed the stunning panoramic view of the Mögáfoss waterfall, the towering cliffs and the winding river.
This location is a must-visit for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts alike. It has appeared in both the Game of Thrones series and a Justin Bieber music video.
Kirkjubæjarklaustur, on the Ring Road, is less than 5 kilometres east.
Kirkjubæjarklaustur
This small village, of about 150 permanent residents, is a great place to stay while travelling Iceland’s south coast. Depending on your time constraints, several nearby sites are worth a look.
Walk the short trail at the village’s west end to the Systravatn Lake Viewpoint. The pristine lake is surrounded by a rugged landscape with diverse birdlife during all four seasons. From spring and summer’s colourful wildflowers and autumn’s rich mix of reds and yellows to winter’s serene white landscape, this is a beautiful spot.
The Kirkjugólf Natural Monument, just east of the village and surrounded by a farmer’s field, covers an area of about 80 square metres. Looking like a man-made floor, it is the top of a group of basalt columns. Formed naturally as lava cooled, the columns were eroded to ground level by ancient seas when sea levels were much higher. While they are also referred to as the Church Floor, there is no evidence that a church or building has ever stood at the site.
About 12 kilometres east on the north side of the Ring Road, the 30-metre high Foss á Síðu, frequently referred to as Hamrafoss by locals and some GPS apps, falls over moss-covered cliffs into lush green vegetation. The waterfall, part of a historic farmstead since the 9th century, is mentioned in Iceland’s Book of Settlement. It is on private property. All pictures must be taken from the roadside.
The parking area for Dverghamrar is another half kilometre east.
Dverghamrar Formations
The Dverghamrar rock formations are made up of two sets of hexagonal basalt columns. One set rises straight up from the ground like organ pipes. A set of twisted columns sits on top of the straight ones. The two sets were formed in two different environments. Lava flowed into a shallow valley about 2 million years ago. It slowly cooled, from bottom to top, solidifying into straight hexagonal columns. Before all the lava had solidified, water flowed over top. The water caused rapid cooling from above which created the set of twisted rock columns.
The entire area was eroded by glaciation and the ocean so that we can see these unique formations. Follow the path around the formations and climb up to see the different types of jointing.
A kilometre further east, Fossálar Waterfall is a peaceful stop with beautiful views right on the Ring Road. The waterfall features multiple small cascades along the river which flows through part of the lava field created by the 1783 Laki vent eruption.
Vatnajökull Region
The Vatnajökull Region runs from the southwest corner of Vatnajökull National Park east to the sand dunes of the Stokksnes peninsula. The map below shows the must-see locations in this vast wilderness of southeastern Iceland between the National Park’s glaciers and the Atlantic coastline.
Vatnajökull National Park (UNESCO)
The largest national park in Iceland and a UNESCO World Heritage site, Vatnajökull National Park has a number of different geological features. From glaciers and glacial lagoons to volcanoes and black sand beaches, the park has some of Iceland’s most awe-inspiring landscapes.
There are ten central volcanoes, eight of which are hidden beneath glacial ice. The park sits above the Iceland hotspot and on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the American and Eurasian tectonic plates move apart.
Vatnajokull Ice Cap is Iceland’s largest ice cap, covering 8% of the country, and the largest glacier by volume in Europe. Its average thickness is over 400 metres with a maximum thickness of 900 metres. Iceland’s highest peak, Hvannadalshnjúkur at 2,110 metres, is covered by Vatnajokull. About 30 outlet glaciers flow from the ice cap, often with stunning, blue ice caves and glacial lagoons.
The Vatnajökull’s stunning Skaftárstofa Visitor Centre is just off the Ring Road in Kirkjubæjarklaustur. It focuses on the Laki craters (Lakagígar) and the western territory of the park with displays explaining the area’s rich biodiversity and unique geological features. Information is available about hiking trails, glacier excursions, and the wildlife living in this area.
Jökulhlaups are sudden floods of vast amounts of glacial meltwater created by volcanic activity beneath the ice. These floods have created sandur plains, complex river systems and rapidly evolving canyons in the park.
About 66 kilometres east of the visitor centre, see pieces of a bridge destroyed by a jökulhlaup.
The Skeiðará Bridge Monument commemorates the original bridge that once spanned the Skeiðará River. At 880 metres long, it was the longest bridge in Iceland when it was built completing the Ring Road in 1974. The bridge was destroyed by a massive jökulhlaup flood in November 1996. See several pieces of the old bridge and information panels describing the history of the bridge and the flood.
The monument sits on a black, sand, outwash plain called Skeiðarársandur which covers an area of 1300 square kilometres. The black sand is the result of glaciers grinding down the volcanic bedrock. Meltwater takes sand and small boulders, originally carried by the glacier, and deposits them over the outwash plain. The larger rocks are dropped closer to the glacier while the sand is deposited along the outwash plain, often all the way to the ocean. Jökulhlaups add more sand and often redistribute existing boulders and sands on the outwash plain.
In another 2 kilometres, turn left on Route 998 to access Skaftafell, one of Iceland’s most beautiful places.
Skaftafell Nature Reserve
Skaftafell has lush birch forests, colourful meadows, and glaciers. Incredibly biodiverse, it is home to about 250 plant species and 30 different bird species. The network of well-maintained hiking trails includes trails suitable for all abilities. We loved it here.
The modern Skaftafellsstofa Visitor Centre’s engaging exhibits showcase the geology, flora and fauna of the area. Interactive displays and an informative film help explain the powerful natural forces at work. The centre is an essential starting point for the hiking trails, including the popular S2 trail to Svartifoss waterfall. Ask the staff about guided glacier walks and ice climbing adventures.
Svartifoss Waterfall
The Black Falls are named for the black, hexagonal basalt columns (formed over 300,000 years ago) that frame the 20-metre-tall waterfall. It’s popular with photographers and was the inspiration for the design of Reykjavík’s Hallgrímskirkja church.
Hike to the stunning waterfall on the well-maintained Svartifoss (S2) Trail. The trail starts next to the visitor centre. Follow the signs to the viewpoint at the waterfall. It’s about a 140 metre ascent over the 1.8 kilometres to the waterfall. The trail is generally well-compacted soil. We hiked to the waterfall in about 45 minutes.
The full trail is an easy, 5.8-kilometre, loop trail which continues from the waterfall across the bridge and through more, stunning countryside. It winds back to the campground and on to the visitor centre. Many people, including us, took the same route back, not hiking the full loop.
There are lots of excellent photo opportunities all along the trail as it winds through the forested landscape and passes other scenic waterfalls.
Hundafoss is a 24-metre tall cascade, known for its calm surroundings. The trail’s less-travelled side (west) has a better view of Hundafoss. There are excellent spots on both riverbanks to appreciate the lesser-known 10-metre cascade of Magnúsarfoss Waterfall.
Skaftafell Glacier
The Skaftafell outlet glacier appears like a chopped-up, frozen river flowing from the massive Vatnajökull ice cap. It’s a landscape of ice formations, deep crevasses, and striking blue ice. Due to the glacier’s accessibility and relatively stable terrain, Skaftafell is a popular destination for guided glacier walks and ice climbing adventures.
A guide isn’t needed to hike the Skaftafellsjökull (S1) Hiking Trail to the edge of Skaftafellsjökull. The easy, 4.3-kilometre loop trail starts just east of the visitor centre. See glacial features, such as old river beds, tuff cliffs and kettle holes, and the lush greenery of the surrounding landscape. Hikers are encouraged to review the sign at the end of the official trail to understand the potential dangers of hiking further.
We carefully walked down onto the outwash plain and to the edge of the glacial lagoon for a closer look at the floating icebergs. It’s an amazing place.
Visit the glacial lakes Fjallsárlón and Jökulsárlón (50 and 60 kilometres respectively further east on the Ring Road) to get a closer look at more icebergs and the ecosystem of a glacial lagoon.
Fjallsárlón Glacial Lake
Fjallsárlón is one of Iceland’s hidden treasures and smaller than its more famous neighbour, Jökulsárlón. This smaller size allows you to see the entire glacial lake and get a much closer view of the edge of Fjallsjökull glacier, where chunks of the glacial ice calve into the water. These pieces of ice join hundreds of icebergs of all shapes and sizes floating peacefully in the lake which formed roughly 70 years ago.
Boat tours of Fjallsárlón are available but, in our opinion, the best experience is to hike a short distance up to the viewing ridge. The view of the glacier’s tongue and the entire lake full of icebergs is superb and the perfect photo. (It was foggy and pouring rain on our visit so we missed a photo of the glacier’s tongue.) Watch for resident seals playing among the icebergs and, during the summer, skuas nesting around the lakeshore.
Jökulsárlón Glacial Lake
Jökulsárlón is a must-visit for its unique beauty and geological significance. It is one of Iceland’s most visited places. Formed in 1935, Jökulsárlón Glacial Lake has grown to be Iceland’s deepest lake (+284 metres) and covers an impressive area of approximately 18 square kilometres. With glaciers melting at an ever faster rate, the size of the lake has quadrupled since the 1970s. Less than 100 years ago, the Breiðamerkurjökull Glacier (another outlet glacier of Vatnajökull) extended beyond the Ring Road.
The melting glacier is constantly breaking, adding new bits of ancient ice to the lake. The floating blue and milky-white icebergs, many streaked with ancient volcanic ash, come in all shapes and sizes.
Several paths lead to a viewpoint on the ridge over Jökulsárlón just to the north of the buildings. See the icebergs slowly drifting on the lake towards the ocean surrounded by mountains and black sand beaches. It’s a great spot for photos. The lake has been featured in several Hollywood movies and on reality TV.
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Boat Tours offer a fantastic opportunity to get up close to the lake’s stunning icebergs. Two different boat types offer unique perspectives. The Zodiac Tour covers a large area of the lake and gets closer to the icebergs. The zodiacs go as close to the glacier as it is safe to. The amphibious boats (open-air bus-boats) sail among the icebergs.
We recommend booking your Glacier Lagoon tour well in advance. The tours are very popular. We missed out on a zodiac tour by not booking early enough. We did enjoy the amphibious boat tour. Tours operate from May through October depending on the weather. The season has been expanding in recent years so contact Glacier Lagoon to confirm.
After your tour, enjoy a variety of refreshments at the Glacier Lagoon Café.
The lake flows through a narrow gateway emptying into the Atlantic Ocean. Icebergs are carried out to sea or left on the nearby black sand beach, known as Diamond Beach (or Fellsfjara). The beach is like a gallery of glistening ice sculptures, ranging from tiny sparklers to massive blocks. It is particularly dramatic around sunrise and sunset, and even better in the winter.
At high tide, sea water flows back through the gateway into the lake, bringing a constant supply of fish. Seals follow the fish and are often seen lounging on the icebergs. A large number of seals make their home in the fish-filled lake in the winter. Seabirds such as Arctic terns nest in the area.
On the south side of the Ring Road about 10 kilometres east, the unique north wall of Þórbergssetur – Museum & Restaurant stands out. It resembles a set of giant book spines. A cultural centre is on the historic Hali Farm where celebrated author Þórbergur Þórðarson was born in 1888. Explore the museum dedicated to his life and works, which also includes exhibits on Icelandic literary heritage and local history. Enjoy the restaurant which serves authentic Icelandic cuisine.
Twenty-four kilometres east, standing near the peaceful banks of Kolgríma River, the Jón Eiríksson Monument commemorates the 18th-century statesman. He was born in the area in 1728 and was educated in Scandinavia. He was a law professor, worked in government, became the Royal Library’s chief librarian and was awarded the honorary title of counsellor to the Danish king. Eiríksson fought for Icelandic interests in Copenhagen until his death in 1787.
In about 37 kilometres, the Ring Road turns left. Continue straight ahead (south) to the fishing town of Höfn.
Höfn
Located on a peninsula in the municipality of Hornafjörður, Höfn is surrounded on three sides by water. The stunning natural surroundings and Höfn’s rich history make it a great base to explore the area. Panoramic views of mountains, glaciers, and the vast Atlantic Ocean are visible from many spots in town.
In April 1924, a team of US airmen flew west from Seattle attempting the first flight around the world. The Hornafjörður area was chosen as a refueling stop. Many were on hand to watch the airplanes land as they were the first planes to ever land in Iceland. Two planes completed the round-the-world, 42,398-kilometre trip in 175 days.
The Hornafjörður Cultural Centre is committed to preserving local history and culture. It presents exhibitions spanning regional history, maritime heritage, natural history, and art in several locations in Höfn.
The Svavarssafn Art Museum, located in city hall, hosts rotating art exhibitions of Icelandic art throughout the year, emphasizing local artists. The museum was created in honour of Svavar Guðnason, born in Höfn in 1909. Iceland’s first abstract painter, he became one of the most influential leaders of the Icelandic avant-garde during the middle of the 20th century.
Hofn’s Tourist Info Centre is located in a beautifully preserved 1864 warehouse, near the harbour, called Gamlabúð or the Old Shop. Part of the Vatnajökull National Park’s information network, the centre provides information about the area’s geology and glaciers. There are exhibits about Höfn’s history and its fishing industry.
Höfn Harbour is a busy port for Iceland’s thriving fishing industry. If you are visiting in June, don’t miss Lobster festival. Höfn calls itself Iceland’s Lobster Capital.
Ósland is a conservation area south of the harbour. Enjoy stunning views from the walking trails which circle the pond and follow the shoreline. The area is rich in birdlife, particularly the Arctic Tern during nesting season.
On Ósland’s small hill, the Seamen Memorial commemorates over 1,000 German seamen who lost their lives in these waters between 1898 and 1952. It also pays tribute to the brave Icelandic seamen who rescued countless others. Erected in collaboration with the German Navy Museum in Bremerhaven, it honours the sacrifices of seamen and acknowledges the support of Icelandic communities.
The Nature Trail, a scale model of the solar system, begins from the hill and runs along the western shore. Replicas of the sun and the planets are located along the trail mounted on boulders of local rock, together with information about the planet. All the replicas and the distances between them are in the correct proportions to the solar system. It takes less than an hour to walk the 2.8-kilometre-long trail from the Sun, on Ósland’s hill, to Neptune on the northwest side of town.
About 10 kilometres east of Höfn, turn right on to a private road to the Stokksnes peninsula.
Stokksnes
The black sand dunes of the Stokksnes peninsula end abruptly at the steep, 454-metre high cliffs of the Vestrahorn mountain. Called Horn, this area at the base of the mountain was one of Iceland’s first settlement farms. Wildlife, including reindeer, Arctic foxes, and wild horses, are often seen in the area.
There is a modest fee to explore the area which is collected at the Viking Cafe & Guesthouse about 5 kilometres from the Ring Road. Enjoy the mountain views from the café before or after hiking the trails around the area.
During the Second World War, the British army built barracks and a guard station to the east of Horn. In the 1950s, as part of a NATO defence alliance between Iceland and the United States, a radar station was built on the southern tip of the peninsula. The US army operated the station until 1988 when operations were assumed by Iceland until closure in 1992. The tower remains beside the 1946 lighthouse.
Explore wooden Viking longhouses, the dungeon and see traditional artifacts at the Viking Village, a detailed recreation of a Norse settlement. It was built as a film set in 2010 but was never used for the original film production. TV shows The Witcher: Blood Origin and The Witcher have been filmed in the village. A replica Viking Ship (named Drakar) is moored on the small lake near the village.
The Ring Road continues east through the Almannaskarð mountain pass. The road climbed through the pass until a 1.3-kilometre-long tunnel opened in 2005. The former mountain road became a popular hiking trail. It is now only accessible from the eastern end of the tunnel. From the top of the trail, enjoy a panoramic view of the Hornafjörður region as well as Vatnajökull glacier, on a clear day.
Continue east, hugging the coast, for about 90 kilometres to the town of Djúpivogur. Set amid dramatic fjords and mountains, the town dates back to the 16th century when it served as a trading post. Langabúð, the town’s oldest building, houses a café and museum with exhibits of local art and historical artifacts. For a unique photo op, visit the Eggs of Merry Bay art installation at the north end of town, along Inner Gleðivík or Merry Bay.
This is the end of our 6-day South Iceland adventure. From here, depending on time, either head back to Reykjavík or continue eastward along the Ring Road into Northern Iceland.
Explore All of our Iceland Road Trip Guides
Discover our complete series of detailed Iceland Guides to help you plan your perfect 7 to14 day adventure.
Main Article: 7 to 14 Day Iceland Road Trip
Part 1: Reykjavík – Explore the Capital City
Part 2: Golden Circle – Geysers, Waterfalls, and Ancient History
Part 3: Westman Islands – Puffins and Volcanic Wonders
Part 4: South Coast Iceland – Black Beaches, Glaciers and Waterfalls (You’re reading this guide now!)
Part 5: Northern Iceland and the Diamond Circle – Geothermal Wonders and Mighty Waterfalls
Part 6: Akureyri – Capital of the North
Part 7: West Iceland – Mystical Landscapes and Hidden Gems
