30 Things to Do on Iceland’s South Coast (Best Explored by Campervan)

Wind that cuts. Rain that forgives nothing. Silence so wide it hums. That’s Iceland’s south coast, raw and untraimed, best lived on wheels. This isn’t another list of tourist traps; it’s a road guide for those who sleep where they park.

You’ll find waterfalls that drown out thought, campsites with glacier views, and backroads the buses skip. Expect dirt under your boots, fog on your windshield, and freedom in ridiculous supply.

Ready to outsmart the weather, not suffer it? Rent a campervan in Iceland, trace this coastline, and see what happens when comfort meets wild.

1. Top Things to Do on Iceland’s South Coast

We know the anticipation is killing you, so without further ado, here are the 30 things to do on Iceland’s south coast.:

1. Walk Behind Seljalandsfoss and Find Gljúfrabúi Hidden Next Door

Walk behind Seljalandsfoss, a 60-meter (197-foot) sheet of cold thunder, then slip into Gljúfrabúi, its quieter sibling half-hidden inside a cliff and standing about 40 meters (131 feet). Both sit just off Route 1, roughly 130 km (81 mi) from Reykjavík, and deserve a spot on any Iceland south coast itinerary. Visit early or late to skip the tour buses. Bring waterproof everything.

2. Climb to the Top of Skógafoss Before the Crowds Arrive

Skógafoss drops about 60 meters (197 feet) and sits directly off Route 1, making it one of the easiest things to do in southern Iceland. A gravel parking lot with paid restrooms is nearby, and food vans operate seasonally. Climb the 527 steps to the viewing platform for wide views of the Skógá River and distant farmland.

3. Sneak into Kvernufoss, the Waterfall Nobody Talks About

Kvernufoss is a 30-meter (98-foot) waterfall hidden in a narrow gorge near Skógafoss, one of the quieter stops on the south coast in Iceland. The trail begins behind the Skógar Museum and takes about 20 minutes each way along the river. You can walk behind the falls in summer for close, misty photos without the crowds.

4. Visit the Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck Via ATV Tour

Going on an ATV tour across Sólheimasandur’s black sands is one of the most exciting stops on any South Iceland itinerary. The route passes shallow rivers and volcanic plains shaped by Katla, leading to the DC-3 plane wreck.

From there, you’ll spot Mýrdalsjökull glacier and Dyrhólaey cliffs. The ride back cuts through windswept lava fields, giving a real sense of the scale and silence that define Iceland’s southern coast.

5. Watch the Sea Smash Dyrhólaey Viewpoint

The Dyrhólaey sea arch rises about 120 meters (394 feet) above the Atlantic and is a must on any south coast Iceland itinerary. A paved road leads to two parking lots. One near the lighthouse and another below for easier access. From the top, you’ll see the black sands of Reynisfjara, the Dyrhólaey sea arch, and nesting puffins in summer.

6. Feel the Fury of Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach is one of the wildest spots on Iceland’s south coast, where sneaker waves hit without warning. The basalt cliffs and sea stacks are stunning, but the current is deadly. Warning lights mark safe zones, and signs tell you how far to stand back. A large parking lot sits just above the beach, with restrooms and clear safety notices at the entrance.

7. Pause in Vík Village for Supplies and Sanity

Vík is the southernmost village in Iceland, about 190 kilometers (118 miles) from Reykjavík, and the main supply stop along the coast. It has fuel stations, grocery stores, cafés, and a few restaurants. The black sand beach sits within walking distance, and the church on the hill offers a clear view over the village, Reynisdrangar sea stacks, and the open Atlantic.

8. Wander Through Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon

Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon stretches about 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) long and drops nearly 100 meters (328 feet) deep, one of the most photogenic things to do in southern Iceland. The canyon was carved by glacial meltwater and lined with bright green moss. A gravel parking lot leads to a fenced walking path with several marked viewpoints overlooking the twisting river below.

9. Explore Kirkjubæjarklaustur and Its Secret Waterfalls

Kirkjubæjarklaustur sits about 255 kilometers (158 miles) from Reykjavík, surrounded by cliffs, rivers, and quiet farmland. The village hides smaller waterfalls like Systrafoss and Foss á Síðu, both within a short walk or drive. It’s a practical stop for fuel, food, and rest before heading back east, with easy access to Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon and nearby basalt formations.

10. Stop at Foss á Síðu for a Quick Photo and Chill

Foss á Síðu stands about 30 meters (98 feet) high, spilling thin and steady over basalt cliffs near Kirkjubæjarklaustur. The old farm below adds to the scene, a reminder of how people once lived beside the falls. Visible directly from the Ring Road, it’s a calm stop for a quick photo and a breather before the road stretches on.

11. Hike Around Skaftafell National Park’s Glacier Trails

Skaftafell in Vatnajökull National Park is one of the most rewarding stops on the south coast in Iceland, known for its glacier views and short hiking trails. Join a 3-hour guided glacier walk on the Skaftafellsjökull outlet glacier for a safe, close look at blue ice formations and crevasses. The visitor center has parking, restrooms, and maps for nearby trails.

13. Stand Before Svínafellsjökull and Hear the Ice Creak

Svínafellsjökull lies near Skaftafell in Vatnajökull National Park, an outlet glacier fed by the vast Vatnajökull ice cap. Its sharp ridges and blue ice have featured in Interstellar, Batman Begins, and Game of Thrones. A gravel road leads to the parking area, followed by a short walk to the glacier’s edge, where you can hear the ice creak and move.

14. Snorkel Between Continents at Silfra Fissure

Snorkeling in Silfra is one of the most surreal stops you can add to your South Iceland itinerary. The fissure lies between the North American and Eurasian plates and stays filled with glacial water filtered through lava rock for decades, offering visibility over 100 meters (328 feet). A guided dry suit tour lets you float through crystal water so clear it feels like flying between continents.

15. Venture Deep into Raufarhólshellir on the Lava Falls Adventure Tour

The Lava Falls Adventure Tour takes you through Raufarhólshellir, one of Iceland’s longest lava tunnels, stretching nearly 1,360 meters (4,460 feet). This 3-4 hour guided tour explores the rough terrain of rocks and boulders, ending at glowing lava formations rarely seen elsewhere. Helmets, headlamps, and hiking boots are essential for navigating this dark volcanic world beneath the surface.

16. Unwind in Geothermal Heat at Laugarvatn Fontana Spa

Laugarvatn Fontana Spa is a geothermal wellness stop often added to a south coast Iceland itinerary, set beside Lake Laugarvatn. Admission includes access to mineral-rich baths, natural steam rooms built over hot springs, and modern changing facilities with lockers and amenities. You can also rent swimsuits and towels on site if you forgot yours. The lake view pools offer a calm break between sightseeing and long driving stretches.

17. Ride Icelandic Horses and Explore the Golden Circle in One Day

This full-day tour starts at the Vellir farm, where you’ll ride Icelandic horses for 1.5 to 2 hours through open meadows and volcanic landscapes. After lunch at Hotel Eldhestar, the trip continues to the Golden Circle, visiting Geysir, Gullfoss, and Thingvellir National Park. It combines scenic riding, natural wonders, and Iceland’s most famous landmarks in one route.

18. Bake Traditional Rye Bread in the Earth at Laugarvatn

At Laugarvatn, you can join a guided walk to the geothermal bakery, a unique stop along the Icelandic south coast. Here, dark rye bread is baked underground using natural heat, taking 24 hours to cook. The short tour ends with a warm tasting session of freshly dug bread, often paired with butter or smoked trout, and is a perfect complement to nearby geothermal bathing.

19. Explore the Restored Caves Where Icelanders Once Lived

These restored caves were once real homes for Icelandic families, not replicas or museum displays. The 25-minute guided tour shares photos and stories of the people who lived here, giving a glimpse into their daily lives. Located between Þingvellir and Laugarvatn, the caves are an easy stop on the Golden Circle, and tours run every half hour during the day.

20. Explore the Dragon Glass Ice Cave Beneath Katla Volcano

The Dragon Glass Ice Cave lies beneath Katla volcano, one of the rarest sights on any Icelandic south coast itinerary. A Super Jeep ride takes you across moss-covered plains and into the glacier, where black volcanic ash and blue ice meet. The tour lasts about three hours, combining rugged driving with time inside this natural ice cave shaped by both fire and ice.

21. Hike Into the Red Volcanic Crater and Blue Lake of Kerið

Kerið Crater is about 55 meters (180 feet) deep and 270 meters (886 feet) across, with bright blue water framed by red volcanic rock. Formed when a cone volcano collapsed into its magma chamber, it’s one of Iceland’s most vivid natural sites. Visitors can walk the rim or descend to the lake’s edge. Admission costs about 5 USD and should be booked in advance.

22. Experience Iceland’s Volcanic Power at the LAVA Centre

The LAVA Centre offers an interactive look into Iceland’s volcanic landscape, surrounded by five active volcanoes. Inside, visitors can explore earthquake simulators, multimedia exhibits, and a 15-minute film showing recent eruptions. The observation deck provides views of nearby glaciers and volcanoes. Plan at least an hour for the visit. Admission is roughly 40 USD and includes access to all exhibits and the viewing platform.

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23. Hike to Reykjadalur and Bathe in Iceland’s Hot River

Reykjadalur, or ‘Steam Valley,’ sits near Hveragerði on the Icelandic south coast, known for its natural hot river that runs through a geothermal valley. The 3-kilometer (1.8-mile) uphill hike takes about 45 minutes each way, ending at steaming pools perfect for a soak. Campervanners can park in Hveragerði, hike up, and relax in the warm flow surrounded by rising mist.

24. Ride with Huskies on an Icelandic Dog Sled or Kart

This dog sled or kart adventure lets you experience the strength and energy of Icelandic huskies across snow or gravel, depending on the season. A musher guide drives the team while explaining the art of dogsledding. Midway, there’s a stop for photos and time to meet the dogs. The full ride lasts about an hour and is suitable for families and small groups.

25. Visit the Beluga Whale Sanctuary and Puffin Rescue Centre

The Beluga Whale Sanctuary in Vestmannaeyjar is one of the most meaningful things to do in southern Iceland, home to Little White and Little Grey. Visitors can see the whales cared for by marine experts through the viewing window, visit the Puffin Rescue Centre, and explore the Native Species Aquarium.

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26. Explore Þórsmörk Valley on a Super Jeep and Hiking Adventure

Thorsmork Valley sits between three glaciers on Iceland’s south coast: Eyjafjallajökull, Mýrdalsjökull, and Tindfjallajökull. Reached only by Super Jeep, the route crosses glacial rivers and rough highland tracks. The day includes short hikes totaling about 8 kilometers (5 miles) through canyons, waterfalls, and mossy slopes. Stops like Gígjökull glacier reveal the wild beauty shaped by Iceland’s volcanic past.

27. Fly the Mega Zipline and Explore the Lava Tunnel in One Epic Day

This combo tour pairs Iceland’s Mega Zipline in Hveragerði with the Lava Tunnel near Þorlákshöfn. Start by soaring over the Svartagljúfur canyon on a high-speed zipline with views of hot springs and rugged mountains. Afterward, explore a lava cave formed thousands of years ago, filled with stalactites, stalagmites, and rich volcanic textures.

28. Climb and Hike the Sólheimajökull Glacier with an Expert Guide

This guided glacier tour on Sólheimajökull combines hiking and beginner ice climbing on one of Iceland’s most accessible outlet glaciers. After a 30-minute walk from the parking lot, guides provide safety gear and teach you how to use crampons and ice axes. You’ll climb vertical ice walls, peer into deep moulins, and stand above the Katla volcano beneath millennia-old blue ice.

29. Drive Through Eldhraun, the Lava Field That Breathes

Eldhraun stretches across 565 square kilometers (218 square miles) of Iceland’s southern highlands, formed by a massive eruption in the late 18th century. The lava field is now blanketed in thick green moss that shifts color with the light, giving it a strange, living appearance. The drive along Route 1 cuts straight through it, offering one of the quietest and most surreal landscapes in Iceland.

30. Kayak Among Icebergs at Sólheimajökull Glacier Lagoon

This guided kayak tour takes you across the calm lagoon beneath Sólheimajökull glacier, surrounded by floating icebergs and steep ice walls. Using stable sit-on-top kayaks, beginners can easily learn the basics before paddling out. The trip lasts about 1.5 hours, offering a quiet perspective on the glacier’s shifting landscape and a chance to photograph one of Iceland’s most dramatic natural settings.

2. 5-Day South Coast Campervan Itinerary

Day 1: Reykjavík - Hveragerði - Hella

• Drive: 100 km (62 mi)
• Campsite: Hella Camping
• Fuel: N1 Hveragerði or Hella
• Groceries: Krónan in Hveragerði

Start the road trip easy on your first day of your South Iceland itinerary. Stop in Hveragerði for the Reykjadalur Hot River hike, a 3 km (1.8 mi) trail leading to natural hot springs where you can bathe in geothermal water. Afterward, visit the LAVA Centre in Hvolsvöllur to understand the volcanic spine you’re driving across. End the day at Hella, a quiet riverside village with good facilities and mountain views.

Day 2: Hella - Seljalandsfoss - Skógafoss - Vík

• Drive: 100 km (62 mi)
• Campsite: Vík Camping
• Fuel: N1 or Orkan Vík
• Groceries: Krónan Vík

This stretch defines your South Iceland itinerary. Walk behind Seljalandsfoss, sneak into Gljúfrabúi, then climb beside Skógafoss and hike to Kvernufoss, the quieter sister waterfall nearby. Visit Seljavallalaug, an old mountain pool hidden in a narrow valley. Arrive in Vík by evening, explore the black sand beach, and grab dinner from local food trucks near the main street.

Day 3: Vík - Reynisfjara - Dyrhólaey - Þórsmörk Super Jeep Tour

• Drive: 80 km (50 mi) plus local tours
• Campsite: Hvolsvöllur or Hella
• Fuel: N1 Hvolsvöllur
• Groceries: Local store Hvolsvöllur

Start the morning of your Iceland south coast itinerary at Reynisfjara and Dyrhólaey Viewpoint, then double back toward Hvolsvöllur for a Super Jeep tour into Þórsmörk Valley. You’ll cross glacial rivers, see Gígjökull, and hike through mossy canyons surrounded by glaciers. Expect 8 km (5 mi) of hiking with short climbs. Return by evening and camp near Hella or Hvolsvöllur.

Day 4: Hvolsvöllur - Kirkjubæjarklaustur - Skaftafell National Park

• Drive: 222 km (138 mi)
• Campsite: Skaftafell Camping
• Fuel: Orkan Kirkjubæjarklaustur
• Groceries: Stock up before leaving Vík

Pass through Eldhraun Lava Field, a green moss labyrinth that covers 565 km² (218 mi²). Stop in Kirkjubæjarklaustur to see Systrafoss and Foss á Síðu, then continue to Skaftafell in Vatnajökull National Park. Hike to Svartifoss, explore short glacier trails, or book a 3-hour Skaftafell Glacier Walk. The campground here is large, scenic, and fully serviced.

Day 5: Skaftafell - Seljalandsfoss - Reykjavík Return

• Drive: 325 km (202 mi)
• Campsite (optional): Hveragerði or Reykjavík Eco Camp
• Fuel: Multiple along Route 1

Start early for a relaxed return. Revisit Seljalandsfoss or stop at Hveragerði again for a geothermal soak at Laugarvatn Fontana Spa or a local bakery stop. This day ties your south coast Iceland itinerary together with time for slow driving, photo stops, and real rest before re-entering Reykjavík.

3. Best Campsites on Iceland’s South Coast

Wild camping is illegal in Iceland unless explicitly permitted by landowners or marked areas. Always stay in official campsites to protect the environment and comply with local regulations. Here’s a quick breakdown of the best campsites along the South Coast, including their pros, cons, and insider vibes:

Campsite	Pros	Cons	Insider Vibe
Skógar	Minimal setup, unbeatable views of Skógafoss waterfall, close to the falls, and scenic surroundings.	Basic facilities, can be busy in peak season.	Peaceful, nature-focused spot ideal for those wanting to camp beside one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls.
Vík	Close to Krónan supermarket, gas stations, and beach access.	Wind can be strong and persistent.	Lively village atmosphere, great base for exploring Reynisfjara and the surrounding cliffs.
Skaftafell	Excellent facilities with hot showers, cooking shelters, and glacier views.	Busy in summer, slightly higher prices.	Comfortable, clean, and nature-immersive camping at the edge of Vatnajökull National Park.
Höfn	Clean facilities, nearby seafood restaurants, and friendly town vibe.	Smaller campsite with limited plots.	Relaxing recharge stop after glacier tours, popular with social travelers.
Selfoss or Hella	Larger supermarkets (Bónus, Krónan), fueling options, and easy access west.	Less scenic, more urban setting.	Efficient and convenient final stop to restock and prepare before returning to Reykjavík.

4. Campervan Travel Essentials

Fast, practical reminders for driving Iceland’s South Coast:

• Fuel and Water - Refill in Hella, Kirkjubæjarklaustur, and Höfn. Distances between stations can be long, so never skip a top-up.
• Power and Heat - Monitor your battery daily and use campsite hookups whenever available.
• Weather and Safety - Check the Vedur.is, SafeTravel.is, and Umferdin.is for wind alerts and road conditions.
• Driving and Parking - Stick to marked roads, avoid soft gravel shoulders, and never drive onto glacier tracks.
• Food - Cook in your van. Most restaurants outside larger towns close early.

5. What to Pack for the Trip

What to Pack for the Trip

Here’s a short, practical checklist for traveling the South Coast by campervan.

Item	Purpose / Tip
Warm layers, gloves, beanie	Iceland’s weather changes fast, even in summer. Stay insulated and dry.
Inverter & USB power banks	Keep your devices charged when parked or off-grid.
Gas canisters & portable stove	For cooking on the go when restaurants are closed or distant.
Quick-dry towels, boots, flashlight	Essential for wet hikes, night setups, and campsite routines.
Coffee setup	Mornings in the van hit different with real coffee and a view.

Note: We rent out sleeping bags, Wi-Fi routers, inverters, and full camping sets if they’re not already included in your rental. Check out our extras.

6. What the Road Teaches You on Iceland’s South Coast

The truth is, Iceland’s south coast isn’t a trip. It’s a test of how much wonder you can handle before it all feels unreal. One hour you’re soaked at Skógafoss, the next you’re parked under a sky that won’t quit changing.

Every bend feels earned, every stop temporary. The wind, the silence, the space. It strips things down to what matters. Comfort fades, awe stays. If you’re ready to trade predictability for something raw, check out our lined-up campervan fleet and chase Iceland’s south coast on your own terms.