If you find yourself driving from Reykjavik, heading south, there will be plenty of things to see and do. We however advise you to plan ahead so you make the most out of your time and we’ve even got some great suggestions for you to take for consideration while putting together the ultimate Iceland travel plan. Below you’ll find many of the most exciting things to do and see in south Iceland. You’re welcome!

Seljalandsfoss waterfall

Seljalandsfoss waterfall is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in all of Iceland, situated between the town of Hvolsvollur and Skogar. The majestic waterfall spans 60 meters (200 ft.) and falls over the cliffs of the former coastline. It is unique in a way that it is possible to walk behind the waterfall, giving visitors the chance to see it from behind in amazing scenery. This is without a doubt one of the most visited attraction in Iceland so expect company while you’re there. Nevertheless it is a “must see” while in Iceland.

Thorsmork

After your visit at Seljalandsfoss waterfall you simply have to head onwards to Thorsmork nature reserve. Thorsmork, often described as the pearl of the highlands, is a mountain ridge in Iceland that was named after the Norse god Thor and is situated in the south of Iceland between the glaciers Tindfjallajökull and Eyjafjallajökull. It is one of the most popular hiking area in Iceland, for travellers and locals alike. And if you visit there during summer time you will most likely experience better weather conditions compared to other places in Iceland, as the valley is closed in between glaciers, leading to a warmer temperature.

Landmannalaugar

If you want to visit a natural attraction like no other then look no further! Landmannalaugar will most definitely amaze you as it is such a natural phenomenon, a place that is so unique and extraordinary that you will spend the whole time wondering if you’re still on planet earth. Landmannalaugar is the northern end of the Laugarvegur hiking trail and a popular destination for tourists travelling in Iceland. It is a part of the Fjallabak Nature reserve in the highlands of Iceland and is at the edge of Laugarhraun lava fields, which were formed in an eruption around the year of 1477. Four routes lead to Landmannalaugar and one of them is accessible by regular car, though the road is rough so driving there in a small passenger car is not advised.

Dyrholaey

As you’re getting closer to Vik you will notice a pretty steep 120 meter promontory named Dyrholaey along the way, literally meaning “door-hole”. We advise you to drive all the way to the top to enjoy the magnificent view and you will also notice a lighthouse that sits on top of the cliff, like a proud watcher of the sea. Once you’ve taken in all the magnificent scenery its time to head back down and drive to the coast of Dyrholaey where you will come in close encounter with the rocky coast and black beach. The waves get pretty heavy too so make sure not to wonder into the ocean. There are also several outcrops in the sea that can be seen from Dyrholaey, the highest one called Háidrangur (“High column”) which spans 56 meters. This magnificent attraction has been a natural reserve since 1978 and is one of the most beautiful spots in south Iceland.

Skogarfoss waterfall

If you simply just can’t get enough of waterfalls you should definitely go and check out one of the biggest waterfalls in Iceland, Skogarfoss, located on the south coast. It has a width of 25 meters (82 feet) and a drop of 60 m (200 ft).  Due to the amount of spray the waterfall consistently produces, a single or double rainbow is normally visible on sunny days. This is a quite spectacular sight and well worth the visit.

Other attractions

There are numerous attractions and sights to be seen in south Iceland, apart from our suggestions above. If you have plenty of time to spend sightseeing we also recommend the famous golden circle, Kerlingafjoll mountain range, Hrafntinnusker, Lakagigar and Laki, Arnarker, Bruarhlod, Dverghamrar and Eyjafjallajokull.

We could go on and on but let’s start with this and if you run out of things to do you can always come back to Calssic Iceland and get some more recommendations from our staff.

Bon Voyage!