The Ultimate Iceland South Coast Tour and Map: What To See From Selfoss To Vik

You ever feel like some places just don’t look real? Like you’re standing in a dream, half expecting to wake up? That’s Iceland’s South Coast in a nutshell. Towering waterfalls, pitch-black beaches, glaciers that look like frozen time itself—it’s the kind of road trip that gets under your skin (in the best way). With a solid South Coast Iceland map in hand, the stretch from Selfoss to Vik becomes more than a scenic route—it’s a string of small wonders and big wow-moments. This guide covers all the essential Selfoss to Vik sights, perfect if you’re planning an Iceland South Coast tour. Whether you’re dreaming of glaciers or black sand beaches, want to walk behind waterfalls or just sip coffee with a view, we’re packing it all in. And yep, we’ll point out the best attractions in Vik Iceland too.

Tip: If you want some advice on packing for Iceland, you can find it here

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A South Coast Iceland Tour Map from Selfoss to Vik with Sights

The Iceland South Coast map is your ultimate companion for exploring this incredible stretch of the country. Stretching 180 kilometers, the distance Reykjavik to Vik can be easily covered in a day, but you’ll want to take your time to soak in the many attractions along the way. From the waterfalls near Vik Iceland to glaciers and iconic black sand beaches, the Iceland South Coast tour is a treasure trove of wonders. Don’t forget to mark the things to do near Vik Iceland—the perfect endpoint for your journey.

Start Smart: Why Selfoss Makes the Perfect Launch Pad

Let’s get real—Reykjavik is lovely, but once you hit the road, you’ll want a quieter, cozier base. Enter Selfoss. Nestled along the Ölfusá River and just far enough from city chaos, it’s a sweet starting point for the South Coast drive. We stayed just north of Selfoss in a cozy rental with a hot tub and mountain views. Honestly? Hard to beat.

The town itself has everything you need: a few great coffee shops, gas stations, supermarkets, and even a nice burger joint. It’s also a strategic base for checking out Golden Circle sights like Thingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss before kicking off your Selfoss to Vik adventure.

Must-Have Tip: Rent a car. Unless you’re hopping on a guided Iceland South Coast tour, wheels are your golden ticket to seeing it all.

Our VRBO with a view…

Seljalandsfoss: The One You Walk Behind (And Get Soaked At)

You see it from the road first—a sliver of water tumbling down a green cliff. But up close? Seljalandsfoss is wild. It’s not just another waterfall; it’s one you can actually walk behind, which makes it one of the most iconic Selfoss to Vik sights.

It’s misty. It’s loud. It’s unforgettable.

Honestly, this waterfall alone makes the Iceland South Coast map worth downloading.

Seljalandsfoss is a unique waterfall, in that you can walk behind the waterfall. It is quite the experience and an amazing attraction along the South Coast of Iceland as seen on the tour map.

Tips for Seljalandsfoss:

• Seljalandsfoss is “free” to walk up to and check out, however, there is a small fee for parking.
• There are bathrooms available to use
• Clothing: Wear waterproof outerwear (especially if the wind is blowing). We wore waterproof pants, coat and boots so we were fine. But we saw plenty of people (even in jeans) who got quite wet. How uncomfortable!!
• If you go in the winter, crampons are a good idea. The ground can get slippery!
• I used my waterproof phone pouch here, which helped keep my phone dry.
• If you’re up for a coffee or donut, you’re in luck! Refreshments are served here!

Skógafoss: Because One Epic Waterfall Just Isn’t Enough

Just 30 minutes down the road and bam—another showstopper. Skógafoss is bigger, louder, and even more photogenic than its sibling. There’s a staircase to the top (around 500 steps—not kidding), and while your thighs will complain, the view is totally worth it.

While you’re here:

• Check out the little bistro near the parking lot.
• Hotel Skogafoss is right there too if you want to stay overnight.
• It’s free to visit and parking is also free—a win in Iceland!

This is peak Iceland South Coast tour material. It’s touristy, sure. But sometimes, things are popular for a reason.

Take a stroll up to the top of Skogafoss for a new perspective.

Tips for Skogafoss:

• You do not have to pay to park at Skogafoss
• There are bathrooms available near the parking lot
• If you’re hungry, grab a bite to eat at the Bistro Bar
• Need a place to stay? There is a hotel at Skogafoss – Hotel Skogafoss

Solheimajökull Glacier: The Frozen Giant Just Off Route 1

Now let’s talk glaciers. Solheimajökull feels like you’ve stepped onto another planet. Jagged ice formations, crevasses that seem bottomless, and surreal blue textures that don’t even look real—yeah, this place is something else.

It’s about a 20-minute walk from the parking area to the glacier edge. Not too tough, but bring good boots and layers. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can book a glacier hike (and yes, they’re as awesome as they sound).

Heads up:

Some tours leave from here, so check GetYourGuide or similar apps.

Parking was free when we went.

Bathrooms were locked. Plan ahead.

Want more of a glacier experience, check out the excursions below!

Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck: The Spooky Instagram Darling

Okay, confession time: I didn’t love this hike. It’s a flat, boring walk through a black sand desert with very little to see until you arrive. But when you do get there? That crashed U.S. Navy plane is haunting in the coolest way.

Is it worth the 2-mile trek (each way)? That depends. If you’re into eerie landscapes and moody photos, then yes. If you’re short on time, maybe skip it.

Pro Tips:

• Wear layers—it gets windy.
• Bring water.
• Good hiking shoes make a huge difference.

The wreck is clearly marked on every South Coast Iceland map, so you won’t miss it if you want to check it off.

Wear comfy hiking shoes, because it is a two mile jaunt to the plane, but well worth it! I wore Keen hiking boots, which were excellent for all my Icelandic adventures. I was happy to have them on our South Coast day, as our walk to the plane wreck was cold and drizzly.

Reynisfjara: Black Sand, Basalt Columns & Sea Trolls (No, Really)

Reynisfjara Beach isn’t just pretty. It’s intense. The Atlantic waves crash so violently here that signs literally warn you not to turn your back to the water. And they mean it.

The beach is famous for its jet-black sand, lava rock formations, and the Reynisdrangar sea stacks—towering basalt columns said to be trolls turned to stone (because Icelandic folklore is the best).

What to know:

• Free parking, restrooms, and a cozy café nearby.
• Stay far from the water’s edge. Sneaker waves are no joke.
• Great spot for photos and a peaceful wander.

Hands down one of the best attractions in Vik Iceland.

Adjacent to Reynisfjara, Reynisdrangar are towering basalt sea stacks rising dramatically from the ocean. Legend has it that these rocks were once trolls turned to stone. Take a moment to absorb the mystique of this coastal wonder.

Fun Fact: Reynisfjara is one of the most dangerous beaches. The swell of the waves can easily sweep a person up if they get too close and are not paying attention. Photos do not do these waves justice.

Tips for the Black Sand Beach:

• There are bathrooms available to use at this stop.
• Hungry? Reynisfjara has a lovely cafe for you to eat or enjoy a refreshment.
• As noted above, the waves can surprise you. Don’t get too close and be alert.
• If you’re looking for a place to stay near Vik and the Black Sand Beach, there are really great accommodations, some with spectacular views!

Vik: Your Picture-Perfect South Coast Finish Line

Tiny, colorful, and cradled by dramatic hills, Vik is the kind of town that makes you want to stay awhile. The iconic red-roofed church on the hill offers postcard views, and the village has some surprisingly good eats.

Top picks in Vik:

• The Soup Company (yep, it’s all about soups and they’re excellent)
• Icewear store (great gear and cozy clothes)
• Dyrhólaey Arch (just a short drive away)

You can base yourself in Vik if you want to continue east. Highlights like Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon and Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon are further down the coast, and completely worth the extra drive. If you chose to stay near Vik, Iceland, there is great accommodations in the area. There are plenty of attractions in and around Vik, Iceland to keep you busy.

Planning Tips That Make the Journey Smoother

• Use a detailed South Coast Iceland map. Whether paper or digital, it’ll save you guesswork.
• Weather changes fast. Always have waterproof gear.
• Start early. Daylight hours are precious, especially in fall and winter.
• Book stays in Selfoss or Vik. Breaking up the trip makes it so much better.
• Respect nature. Stick to paths, don’t litter, and for the love of puffins, stay safe.

The Final Word (For Now)

From Selfoss to Vik, Iceland’s South Coast isn’t just a checklist of beautiful spots. It’s a full-on experience—the kind you carry with you long after your boots are dry and your camera roll is full. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is about 2.5 hours further east of Vik. Vik would be a great option for your overnight.

Armed with a South Coast Iceland map, you’re not just getting from A to B. You’re exploring volcanoes, waterfalls, glaciers, ghostly plane wrecks, and fishing villages that look like they were plucked from a fairy tale.

And you know what? It’s even better than the pictures.

So go ahead. Chase those waterfalls. Just bring waterproof pants.