Things To See in South Iceland – The Most Scenic Natural Wonders

South Iceland is often the first and last region visitors experience in Iceland—and for good reason. It contains the highest concentration of Instagram-worthy sights, from thunderous waterfalls and emerald moss canyons to black sand beaches and glacial ice fields. No matter the season, this area delivers unforgettable scenery around every corner.

This guide covers all the must-see attractions in South Iceland, along with helpful info to help you plan your drive, pick photo stops, and explore responsibly.

Overview – What Defines South Iceland?

The region generally stretches from Selfoss to Höfn, covering the south coast and nearby interior. Most sights are easily accessible via Route 1 (the Ring Road) or short detours.

📍 Popular base towns:

• Hveragerði
• Vík í Mýrdal
• Kirkjubæjarklaustur
• Höfn

🏔️ South Iceland Highlights:

• Waterfalls: Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, Gljúfrabúi
• Coastal gems: Reynisfjara, Dyrhólaey, Diamond Beach
• Geologic wonders: Fjaðrárgljúfur, Eldhraun, Sólheimajökull
• Glacial lakes: Jökulsárlón, Fjallsárlón

Must-See Natural Attractions in South Iceland

💦 Seljalandsfoss – Walk Behind a Waterfall

This iconic 60-meter-high waterfall drops in front of a mossy cave, making it one of the only waterfalls in Iceland you can walk behind.

• Located right off the Ring Road
• Lit up at night in summer
• Combine with nearby Gljúfrabúi (just a 5-min walk)

🌊 Skógafoss – Power and Rainbows

Just 30 km east of Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss crashes dramatically down a cliff, often producing double rainbows on sunny days.

• Walk to the base or climb stairs to the top
• Legend says Viking treasure is hidden behind it
• Gateway to the Fimmvörðuháls trail

Also check out Kvernufoss waterfall, a hidden gem right next to Skógafoss.

🌈 Gljúfrabúi – Hidden Waterfall

Easily missed, this waterfall is partially obscured inside a rock cleft. You’ll walk through a stream to access the view.

• Waterproof boots recommended
• One of the most photogenic hidden spots

⛰️ Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon

This serpentine canyon is 100 meters deep and 2 km long, carved over thousands of years by glacial meltwater.

• Boardwalks with panoramic views
• May be seasonally closed for preservation
• Near Kirkjubæjarklaustur

🖤 Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

Iceland’s most famous beach features:

• Towering basalt columns
• Reynisdrangar sea stacks
• Violent sneaker waves

⚠️ Stay far from the water’s edge—waves are deadly.

🐦 Dyrhólaey Arch and Lighthouse

This promontory overlooks Reynisfjara and offers:

• Epic views of the coastline
• Puffin sightings (May–August)
• A natural archway in the sea

Best visited at sunset or sunrise for low light and fewer crowds.

🌋 Eldhraun Lava Field

Formed after the massive Laki eruption in 1783, this is one of the world’s largest lava fields.

• Covered in vibrant green moss
• Do not step off paths—moss is extremely delicate
• Eerie, otherworldly atmosphere

❄️ Sólheimajökull Glacier Viewpoint

This glacier outlet is a short drive off Route 1.

• View the glacier from a nearby path
• Optional guided hikes or ice climbing
• Great place to learn about glacial retreat

🧊 Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Massive icebergs float on a deep glacial lake fed by Breiðamerkurjökull Glacier.

• Boat tours available in summer
• Seals often spotted resting on ice
• Great year-round stop

💎 Diamond Beach

Just across the road from Jökulsárlón, this black sand beach is littered with sparkling chunks of glacial ice.

• Best during golden hour for photography
• Always changing with tides and seasons

🌿 Reyniskirkja Church & Vik’s Scenic Viewpoints

Located in Vík, this picturesque red-roofed church overlooks the ocean and is a calm and reflective spot away from crowds.

• Viewpoint above Vík gives panoramic photos
• Good place to stop for a meal and stretch

Route Planning Tips for South Iceland

🚗 How Long to Spend:

• 1 day: Seljalandsfoss → Reynisfjara → Vik
• 2 days: Add Fjaðrárgljúfur, Eldhraun, and overnight in Kirkjubæjarklaustur
• 3+ days: Jökulsárlón, Diamond Beach, Fjallsárlón, Höfn

🧭 Tips:

• Start early to avoid crowds
• Check road.is for conditions
• In winter, expect slow driving and shorter days
• Pack snacks—long gaps between services in the east

Photography Highlights

For content creators and photographers, South Iceland is paradise. Top photo ops include:

📸 Golden Hour at Skógafoss
📸 Northern Lights over Diamond Beach (winter)
📸 Puffins on Dyrhólaey (May–Aug)
📸 Mossy lava in Eldhraun
📸 Sunrise at Jökulsárlón with reflection shots

Here you can find our guide to winter photography in Iceland. 

Travel Tips by Season

☀️ Summer (May–September)

• Long daylight (up to 24 hours)
• Best weather for hiking and glacier tours
• Very busy—book accommodations/tours early

❄️ Winter (November–March)

• Icy roads—4x4 recommended
• Amazing light for photography
• Great for ice cave and Northern Lights tours

This is only a few selected things you can see when traveling the southern coast of Iceland. If you like to learn more here is our top things to do in South Iceland.