South Iceland Drive
Caroll Alvarado
| 19-06-2025
· Travel team
If we’re looking for an unforgettable journey through Iceland, then the south section of the Ring Road is where we should start.
Stretching from Reykjavík to Höfn, this stretch of Route 1 brings us up close to crashing waterfalls, volcanic black beaches, massive glaciers, and even puffins!
But a smooth road trip takes more than a map—it needs clear prices, times, and tips. So, let’s gear up and roll out on the ultimate Icelandic adventure.
Where Exactly Is South Iceland’s Ring Road?
This part of the Ring Road (Route 1) runs along the southern coast of Iceland, covering about 230 miles (370 km). Most of the route is paved and in excellent condition, especially during summer.
- Best Season to Visit: June to August
- Recommended Trip Length: 2–3 full days
- Driving Time (nonstop): About 5–6 hours
Getting There and Around
- From Reykjavík: Rent a car directly at Keflavík International Airport or in the city
- Car Rental Cost: $60–$100/day (2WD), $100–$150/day (4WD)
- Gas Price: ~$8.50 per gallon (gas up in towns like Vík or Kirkjubæjarklaustur)
- Public Transport: Limited coverage—self-drive is highly recommended
Seljalandsfoss – Walk Behind a Waterfall
- Distance from Reykjavík: About 75 miles (120 km), ~1 hour 40 minutes
- Opening Hours: Always open (natural site)
- Entry Fee: Free
- Parking Fee: $5.80
- Why Visit: We can walk behind this 200-foot waterfall and feel its mist up close
- Travel Tip: Wear waterproof gear, especially shoes—trail behind the falls is slippery
Skógafoss – Power and Rainbows
- Distance from Seljalandsfoss: About 19 miles (30 km), ~25 minutes
- Entry & Parking: Free
- Special Feature: A stairway of over 370 steps takes us to the top view
- Nearby Museum: Skógar Museum (entry $14.50)—great for Icelandic history buffs
Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach – Where Lava Meets the Sea
- Location: Near the town of Vík (~112 miles / 180 km from Reykjavík)
- Entry & Parking: Free
- Why Visit: Iconic black sand, basalt columns, and dramatic sea stacks
- Warning: Never turn your back on the waves—they can be dangerously strong
- Best Time to Visit: Morning or sunset for amazing photos and fewer crowds
Skaftafell & Svartifoss – Nature’s Lava Cathedral
- Location: Inside Vatnajökull National Park (~202 miles / 325 km from Reykjavík)
- Visitor Center Hours: Daily 9 AM – 6 PM (summer only)
- Parking Fee: $5.50
- Hiking Trail to Svartifoss: 1.5 km each way (~45 minutes total)
- Why Visit: Stunning waterfall framed by dark lava columns
- Tip: Bring water, wear hiking shoes, and pack a snack for the trail
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon & Diamond Beach
- Distance from Skaftafell: ~38 miles (60 km), ~45 minutes
- Entry: Free to visit
Boat Tours (optional):
- Amphibian Boat: $44
- Zodiac Boat (closer to icebergs): $80
- Nearby Highlight: Diamond Beach—watch icebergs wash ashore on black sand
- Pro Tip: Best lighting is around sunrise or sunset for shimmering ice photos
Where to Stay and Eat Along the Way
Vík:
- Hotel Kría: ~$160/night
- Puffin Hostel: ~$70/night
- Food Tip: Try lamb stew at The Soup Company (~$18–25 USD)
Kirkjubæjarklaustur:
- A small village with basic restaurants, fuel, and guesthouses
Höfn:
- Known for lobster (langoustine); eat at Pakkhús Restaurant (Lobster Pizza: ~$35-$40, Grilled Langoustine Tails: ~$45-$55, Lobster Soup: ~$20-$25)
- Mid-range hotels range from $100–$180/night
Travel Tips for a Smooth South Ring Road Journey
1. Book hotels early: Summer is peak season
2. Check the weather daily
3. Credit cards accepted everywhere: No need to carry much cash
4. Pack layers: Weather can go from sun to rain in minutes
5. Refuel regularly: Gas stations can be 60–80 km apart
6. Respect nature: Stick to paths and don’t touch moss—it can take 100 years to grow back
7. Sheep alert: They cross roads often—drive cautiously, especially near curves
Let’s Hit the Road, Lykkers!
Driving along South Iceland’s Ring Road feels like stepping into a world shaped by nature’s most powerful forces. At every turn, we find something new—thundering waterfalls, ancient lava fields, black beaches stretching into the ocean, and glaciers that sparkle under the sun. These moments remind us how exciting it is to explore the unknown.
So, Lykkers, let’s pack our bags, set the playlist, and head out on the road. Adventure is calling, and the magic of Iceland is waiting for us!
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Video by Just Icelandic