5 Tage
South Coast 5 day
What you'll do
If you have 5 days in Iceland you have to go see the south coast. It's the most spectacular area of Iceland. You will se the majestic waterfalls, black beaches, green canyons and vast glaciers of Vatnajökull.
Tours
There's 5 tours included in this itinerary, Katla Ice Cave, Kayaking with Icebergs, Glaceir hike, Horseback Riding and Whale Watching. You won't be able to do all of the, so pick your favourites. Remember to book in advance as they do sell out. Use code "ASASTEINARS" for 10% discount.
Local Pools
When driving around Iceland a great trick is to use the local pools. Almost every little town has one and they are like a mini spa. Always with hot tubs and always outside. Entry is $5-10 so it's very affordable to hop in for a quick dip in the jacuzzi. I use them all the time when travelling.
Campsites
There's plenty of campsites to choose from in Iceland. Here I have recommended my favourite ones. You don't need to reserve in advance and can just show up. I would also recommend to not buy the camping card as most of the campsites I recommend here are not included.
Supermarkets
You will pass a supermarket almost every day along the circle. The only section with less services is between Vik and Höfn. If you stock up for 2 days at the time you will be all fine on food.
Good luck and enjoy your trip in Iceland!
Day 1
Cafe
Reykjadalur Café
Cozy cafe with delicious food
This cafe is the perfect spot to re-fuel before or after your hike to Reykjadalur Hot Springs. Delicious coffee, cozy atmosphere, fireplace, cakes, beer and wine, and a small gift shop.
This is also a great place to hangout for those unable to make the long, uphill hike to the spring.
Wanderung
Reykjadalur Hot Spring Thermal River
A river hot spring
Reykjadalur is a hot river about 1h outside of Reykjavik. It's perfect for a hike and a swim. The hike takes about 1h one way and goes up a scenic valley. When you get to the swim spot, feel the water before you get in as it's warmer the higher you go. Find your ideal temperature and enjoy! There's a cafe at the start of the trial if you are hungry or need a bathroom. After the hike, check out Ingolfskali Viking restaurant, it's close by and have really nice Viking food!
The hike to the spring is mostly uphill along a gravel path but in the winter, the path is covered in snow and can be difficult to follow.
Once at the spring, there are no private changing facilities. Instead there are dividing walls that provide some privacy from those hiking and soaking. Be prepared to get naked with the wind blowing at your back!
Pay for parking at the cafe via EasyPark app or at the kiosk next to the cafe doors. NOTE: when using the kiosk, pay for parking just before you leave.
For those physically unable to do the hike, the cafe is a great, cozy hangout with coffee, snacks, and a fireplace.
Besichtigung
Geysir
Iceland's most known geothermal area
Geysir geothermal area needs no explanation. This is perhaps one of the most famous landmarks of Iceland. Although the official Geysir hasn't erupted since 2016, just a few feet away is Strokkur which erupts every 4 - 10 minutes. It sprays water up to 50m high, spraying those downwind with warm water. You can also go for a walk around the area as it has many bubbling pools and lots of steam coming from the ground. Don't miss the view point up on the hill, it's just a short walk away.
This is another must-see stop on guided Golden Circle tours so be prepared for crowds.
Parking is free at Geysir Centre.
The paths in the area are mostly flat and gravel and the walk to the actively erupting geyser is just 5 minutes.
Geysir Centre is a great midday stop, full of gifts and food.
Wasserfall
Gullfoss Falls
The Golden Waterfall
The most famous waterfall of Iceland and part of the Golden Circle. This is a huge one with lots of water and spray. Because of tourism there's now big built up parking lots and restaurants around it. So it's not the best nature experience but in the end a very impressive waterfall.
There are two parking lots and two view points...
The upper/main parking lot is a further drive and takes you to the Panorama Restaurant Cafe & Shop. From here the upper viewing platform is an easy 5 minute walk and you'll get a great view of the surrounding landscape. The lower view requires a decent number of stairs and a 5 - 10 minute walk along a fairly narrow gravel path. Depending on the season, it may also be possible for you to get closer to the falls but this will require some light scrambling over rocky steps.
The lower/bus parking lot comes first along the drive and has quick and easy access to the lower viewing area. Climb the steps to the upper viewing platforms, restaurant, toilets, and gift shop.
Parking in both lots is free.
Crampons/microspikes are recommended in winter as the paths can become quite icy.
You may also view Gullfoss from the east but the paths require extra caution and good hiking shoes.
Hotel
Hotel Geysir
Hotel Geysir
Perfectly located for the Golden Circle travelers, modern yet warm decor, airport & sightseeing transportation upon request, and a delicious restaurant on site. I always recommend travelers to stay here on their Golden Circle day.