Travelers exploring South Iceland can check off many of the country’s top natural wonders. This is where you’ll find Gullfoss waterfall, Thingvellir National Park, and Geysir geothermal area, all of which lie along the mighty popular Golden Circle driving route. Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, Vatnajökull National Park, the waterfalls of Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, and the black-sand beach of Reynisfjara are a few more reasons that this is the country’s most-visited region. Active travelers will also find near-endless things to do in South Iceland, from ice-climbing, glacier-hiking, and snowmobiling to quad biking and horseback riding.
Summer is typically the most appealing season in South Iceland, as the long daylight hours and relatively mild temperatures afford more opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. That said, the area is full of tourists in the summer months, and the main stops along the Golden Circle—Geysir, Gullfoss, and Thingvellir—are especially crowded. You may want to consider visiting in May or September for still-pleasant conditions and smaller crowds.
While there is a public bus that travels along the entire southern section of the Ring Road, you’ll save time and hassle (and be able to see more sights) if you rent a car to get around. The Ring Road (Route 1) will take you to most of the area’s communities and attractions. If you want to head into the highlands, make sure to get a four-wheel-drive vehicle.
South Iceland is the country’s most-visited region, but there are still a few hidden gems that aren’t swamped by tourists. One lovely, spot is the Kvernufoss waterfall, which is within walking distance of the famed Skógafoss waterfall, nestled in a spectacular, narrow gorge. While it’s smaller than Seljalandsfoss, this waterfall also has a path behind it, and (because it doesn’t attract the same size crowds), it’s far more tranquil.
Local Currency Icelandic Króna (ISK) | Time Zone GMT (UTC 0) | Country Code +354 | Language(s) Icelandic | Attractions 20 | Tours 101 | Reviews 6,230 |
South Iceland is home to several of the country’s top natural attractions, including Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss waterfall, and the Geysir geothermal area, all along the Golden Circle. Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, Vatnajokull National Park, Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls, and the black-sand beach of Reynisfjara are also in South Iceland.
...MoreThe Geysir geothermal area is South Iceland’s top attraction. It’s part of the Golden Circle route along with the crowd-pleasing Gullfoss waterfall and Thingvellir National Park. The Great Geysir, which gave all other geysers their name, is no longer active, but Strokker reliably puffs hot water into the air every few minutes.
...MoreMany travelers do the Golden Circle driving route around South Iceland and call it a day, but it’s well worth spending three to five days exploring all of South Iceland. That gives you time to enjoy more landscapes through activities such as ice climbing, glacier hiking, quad biking, and horseback riding.
...MoreSouth Iceland is an excellent destination for hiking, ice climbing, horseback riding, quad biking, and kayaking. Less energetic options include birdwatching (especially when the puffins visit in summer), visiting museums, attending summertime festivals, and soaking up the beauty of the region’s mountains, waterfalls, beaches, and glaciers on a sightseeing tour.
...MoreThe Golden Circle driving route begins in Reykjavik and continues 190 miles (300 kilometers) through southwest Iceland. The route travels past Iceland’s three most popular natural attractions: Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall. It can be done in one day independently or with a tour.
...MoreThe small village of Vik is located around the center of the South Iceland region and is very close to Dyrholaey and the black-sand beach of Reynisfjara. You’ll find several hotels and guest houses around Vik, as well as a supermarket. Staying in Sellfoss is another good option.
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