Discover two of Iceland’s most iconic cascades on this private driver-guided tour.
From Vík, you’ll visit the thundering Skógafoss and the magical Seljalandsfoss—plus a hidden waterfall tucked away in a canyon—all at your own pace, with hotel pick-up and drop-off.
Highlights of Our South Coast Waterfalls Day Trip
Private hotel pick-up and drop-off in Vík
Majestic Skógafoss and its Hidden Treasure Legend
Optional visit to Skógar Folk Museum’s turf houses
360° exploration behind Seljalandsfoss
Discovery of the hidden Gljúfrabúi waterfall
Flexible timing—linger, photo breaks, or add-ons
Our South Coast Waterfalls Itinerary
Below is our suggested route. Let us know if you’d like to include a lava-cave detour, a coastal hike, or a café break in Hvolsvöllur.
Departure from Vík
Meet your guide in Vík and head west along the black-sand shore.
In under 20 minutes, you’ll pass Reynisdrangar’s dramatic sea stacks—your first glimpse of the raw volcanic power that shapes these coasts.
Skógafoss Waterfall Encounter
Arrive at Skógafoss, where a 60-meter curtain of water crashes into a misty pool below.
Feel the spray on your face as you stand before this thunderous force, then climb the adjacent staircase for a bird’s-eye perspective of the terrace-like cascade. Your guide will recount the saga of a hidden Viking treasure said to lie behind the waterfall, pointing out where the legend’s ring might be concealed.
Take time to photograph the rainbow arcs that form in the spray and explore moss-covered columns framing the falls, capturing both the immense power and serene beauty of this natural spectacle.
Skógar Folk Museum
Just a short drive from Skógafoss, the Skógar Folk Museum offers a journey into Iceland’s rural past.
Wander among turf-roofed farmhouses, handcrafted tools, and vintage photographs that bring bygone eras to life. Your guide will share anecdotes about family traditions, from peat-cutting to sheep herding, illuminating how locals thrived in this rugged landscape.
Scenic Drive to Seljalandsfoss
Travel beneath the Mýrdalsjökull ice cap and across broad lava plains to Seljalandsfoss.
Along the way, pause at roadside cascades such as Gljúfrabúi—its waters tucked behind a narrow canyon entrance, revealing nature’s penchant for hidden treasures. These brief stops set the tone for the intimate exploration that awaits at your next leading destination.
Seljalandsfoss Waterfall Exploration
Approach Seljalandsfoss, where water plunges over a mossy cliff into a shallow pool below.
Step onto the grassy path and wander behind the cascade for a 360° immersion—feel the soothing roar and watch light refract through the veil of water.
Your guide will point out secret alcoves, where fewer visitors venture, offering vantage points for dramatic backlit shots. Learn how this waterfall formed as retreating glaciers carved the landscape, and experiment with compositions that capture both the whole arc and the filtered sunlight dancing on droplets.
Hidden Gem: Gljúfrabúi Waterfall
A brief walk upstream leads to Gljúfrabúi, a “hidden” waterfall veiled by a towering canyon.
Enter through a narrow crevice and discover the water’s powerful burst echoing off sheer walls.
Your guide will share its local folklore, tales of elves and hidden folk who guard this secluded pool. It’s a moment of quiet magic, contrasting with the grandeur of the central falls and underscoring Iceland’s secret wonders.
Return to Vík
Board your vehicle for the coastal drive back to Vík. You’ll arrive at your hotel refreshed, camera full, and with memories of Iceland’s waterfall wonders etched in your mind forever.
Optional Extras to Enhance Your South Coast Waterfalls Adventure
Gljúfrabúi Canyon Hike: Extend your Seljalandsfoss visit with a scenic hike upstream to the hidden Gljúfrabúi canyon, where you can wade through the stream to witness the waterfall veiled behind a rock face.
Skógar Museum & Watermill: Dive deeper into local heritage at the adjacent folk museum and restored watermill, where you can explore turf-roofed buildings and traditional tools.
Sólheimajökull Glacier Walk – After Skógafoss, take a guided short hike onto the Sólheimajökull glacier tongue to touch ancient ice and learn about its retreating patterns.
Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach – On the way back, pause at the famous basalt-column beach to photograph the roaring Atlantic, dramatic sea stacks, and nesting puffins (in summer).
Dyrhólaey Viewpoint Detour – Swing by this promontory for panoramic cliff-top views of endless black sands, natural arches, and Atlantic seabirds.
Local Farmhouse Café Stop – Cap off your day with a homemade treat—skyr cheesecake or rye-bread ice cream—at a nearby farmhouse café, sampling genuine Icelandic hospitality.