South Iceland road trip: Skógafoss to Vatnajökull Glacier
This 641.8 km route through South Iceland showcases the region's dramatic landscapes, from active glaciers and volcanic black sand beaches to powerful waterfalls. The journey captures Iceland's diverse terrain in a compact area, featuring glacial hiking, geothermal features, and coastal attractions.
- Mode
- Places
- Start
- South Iceland
- End
- Vatnajökull National Park
- Stops
- 6
- Video author
- travmap
- Updated
Stops on this route
- South Iceland — Volcanic region in southern Iceland featuring active glaciers, waterfalls, and black sand beaches accessible by 4x4 vehicle.
- Thorsmörk — Remote wilderness valley between glaciers in South Iceland, accessible only by 4x4 bus, featuring hiking trails and geothermal hot springs.
- Vatnajökull Glacier — Sixth largest glacier in Iceland visible from Thorsmörk valley, featuring the iconic 'unicorn mountain' peak and surrounding volcanic landscape.
- Skógafoss — Iconic 60-meter waterfall in South Iceland cascading from Skógá River, one of Iceland's most visited and photogenic natural attractions.
- Black Sand Beach — Dramatic volcanic black sand beach in South Iceland formed by lava flows, featuring distinctive basalt rock formations and Vatnajökull Glacier views.
- Vatnajökull National Park
Useful for your trip
- Save money
- Join a group tour with camping accommodation to reduce costs on accommodation, transport, and food. Share groceries and cook together with other travelers to significantly lower expenses.
- Transport
- Upgrade to a 4x4 bus or vehicle for accessing remote wilderness areas like Thorsmörk. Regular buses cannot traverse rocky terrain and river crossings in the interior.
- Food
- Iceland's tap water is excellent quality and safe to drink. You can drink directly from waterfalls and streams, eliminating the need to purchase bottled water.
- Timing
- Visit during summer months to access hiking trails like those in Thorsmörk. Winter conditions make these hikes impossible due to snow and ice.
- Tip
- Thorsmörk wilderness area has amenities including a heated geothermal swimming pond and sauna in the middle of the wilderness for overnight campers.
- Where to stay
- Consider staying in converted barns with camping facilities that offer basic kitchen and bathroom amenities alongside scenic views of glaciers and waterfalls.
Video on this route
How to Visit Iceland on a Budget