South Coast Half Day Tour and Sólheimajökull Glacier Walk

Glacier walking is a popular activity in the cold parts of the world. Iceland, with its numerous glaciers, is the perfect location for such hikes, due to its comparatively mild winters. Walking on glaciers may be dangerous for inexperienced folk. With a guide, however, treacherous spots in the ice can be avoided and it will be akin to a straightforward and jolly trek on a mountain. Sólheimajökull is the most popular glacier walking spot in Iceland. It is an outlet glacier and flows away from the Mýrdalsjökull ice-cap due to the heat from the Katla Volcano. Its relatively flat slopes make it the perfect hiking spot for first-timers.
Hekla is notorious for its eruptions and was one of the most active volcanoes of the region. With over 20 eruptions since 894, it was dubbed “Gateway to Hell” by the Europeans. Shaped like an overturned boat, this colossal mountain range presents a picture of serenity but is extremely deceiving.

First up on the itinerary is the Sólheimajökull Glacier. With special crampons over your shoes, you will be able to walk quickly over the icy surface. You can see several fissures and cracks in the ice, as the certified guide expertly leads you on. Within just 20 minutes, you will realize that you have ascended several hundred feet. Your vantage point, although not very high, will give you excellent views of the surroundings. Next up is the Skógarfoss waterfall. On climbing precisely 527 steps, you can see the splendid waterfall from above. You can watch the water cascade down and flow towards the Atlantic Ocean visible a few kilometers away. You will then visit another waterfall, Seljalandsfoss. A hidden pathway leads into the waterfall, and you can view the entire scenery through a wall of water.
Finally, you will make your way through some of the most fertile farming regions and go past several small villages. The peaceful countryside is a scene of harmony and serenity, except for the presence of the massive mountain and volcano, Hekla. Your bus driver and guide will give you a brief history of the Vikings that once lived in this region. You will see fields of volcanic ash, also known as lava fields. On sunny days, you will also be able to see the Westman Islands across the Atlantic Ocean.