South West Iceland

Iceland is filled with the most beautiful coastline I’ve ever seen. I’ve never stopped to think about it, but Ring Road – the most popular and visited road in Iceland – stretches along the Atlantic Ocean. This means as you drive and see volcanoes and waterfalls on one side, you see beautiful crashing waves on the other.

South & West Iceland are easily accessible by driving yourself or joining an overnight tour. Many people opt to stay in Reykjavík and take day tours while others (like us) choose to sleep in different regions to be closer to the sights.

As mentioned in my previous post, Icelandic weather can change on a dime. Because of this (and our fear of storms), we decided to join an organized tour and play it safe. Plus, it was a nice break from having to think at all! We simply sat back, relaxed, and enjoyed the pretty scenery.

Iceland’s south and west areas are not heavily populated but are quite beautiful. Additionally, while heading south, if you’re into chess, be sure to stop in Selfoss and see the Bobby Fischer Center.

Golden Circle Or South Iceland?

While taking Ring Road heading South and West you’ll pass several sites that check off both boxes. We absolutely loved The Lava Tunnel (one of our trip highlights) and Kerid Crater. However, both were part of our Golden Circle leg.

Driving Around South & West Iceland

If you’re self-driving I suggest putting everything into Google Maps before departure and playing around with it there. This will allow each day’s itinerary to emerge organically. Next, email it to yourself so you’re ready to go upon arrival.

One important thing to note – as mentioned in my “Know Before You Go” tips, be sure to include “parking lot” for each waterfall or you may accidentally end up in the wrong place. Lastly, while Wi-Fi is plentiful, you’ll need an internet connection (from your carrier) for Google Maps when driving between stops.

Don’t Go Chasing Waterfalls… Unless You’re In South & West Iceland!

Iceland has many beautiful waterfalls each with its own vibe. If you’re visiting in the winter remember it can (and will) get icy so be careful walking around and stay on the designated paths.

Is Special Footwear Needed?

While special footwear like crampons are not “needed” at the waterfalls they will definitely help with the ice. It makes sense to bring them, not use them, and return them when you get home vs wishing you had them. Check out our packing list for some easy to pack selections. With that said, some waterfalls have a crampons vs. no crampons path so keep your eyes peeled for that too (see, they make it so easy for tourists!).

Waterfalls Are… Wet!

It’s not surprising that waterfalls are wet. However, it is surprising that the spray is so powerful you can get drenched just looking at them! Depending on your sprinkle tolerance (and the weather), you may want to gear up and wear a raincoat or rain pants. We loved Frogg Toggs’ lightweight options which were both easy to pack and heavy on the zippered pockets (my kryptonite). We also wore waterproof boots the whole time.

Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

Seljalandsfoss is one of the first waterfalls you’ll see driving south on Ring Road. With that said it’s an impressive one! This waterfall is part of the Seljalandsá River, which begins under the famous Eyjafjallajökull Volcano. The exciting part about Seljalandsfoss is walking behind it, but womp womp, this option closes when it’s icy and sadly it was icy when we visited. Thus began my lesson on being powerless against Icelandic weather and having to go with the flow.

But Wait! There’s More!

While there, be sure to follow the path past Seljalandsfoss and check out the additional waterfalls (including Gljúfrafoss), little caves, and beautiful rock formations. Your kids will like the caves more than the waterfalls.

Eyjafjallajökull Volcano

The base of Eyjafjallajökull Volcano aka the volcano that shut down Europe in 2010 is the perfect place to stop for a quick picture. Known as E-15 by everyone who can’t say Eyjafjallajökull, it now looms over the street quietly sleeping. Fun fact – you have to stand back to fit all the letters in your picture!

Skógafoss Waterfall

The stunning Skógafoss is famous for its hundreds of steps to conquer for an aerial view. Want to know my opinion? It was nicer (on my thighs and eyes) from the ground. Here I’ll save you the 527 steps…

As you approach the gorgeous waterfall it will draw you in making you want to get as close as you can. This desire is even stronger when there’s a full rainbow arc crowning the waterfall! At this moment I guarantee you’ll be happy wearing waterproof pants. Be sure to look for the pretty house nestled next to the waterfall too.

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

Reynisfjara Beach is super cool because of the black sand, basalt columns, cave, and crazy CRAZY CRAZY! crashing waves. We were completely mesmerized watching the water and had so much fun hopping between rocks, feeling the smooth stones, and playing the floor is (literally) lava. With that said, be mindful of condition warnings and believe them! People often miscalculate the undertow and get violently sucked into the water. Much like Bodhi at the end of Point Break – there’s no coming back.

Vik Church

Vik’s small, beautiful, red and white hilltop church is one of the most photographed sites in Iceland. It’s a quick stop and worth it. It’s not only pretty but offers a beautiful view of the area including the other side of Reynisfjara Beach.

Icelandic Horses

As you drive down the coast you’ll see farms with the famous Icelandic horses along the way. Many people (respectfully) stop to say hello and take pictures. I loved looking at the variety of horse colors in each grouping and seeing how calm they were when tourists bothered them (me). Be sure to look around if you stop, you’ll often see a small little waterfall popping out nearby as well.

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Jökulsárlón is a glacial lake – or lagoon – created by the water running off the Breiðamerkurjökull glacial tongue from the Vatnajökull Glacier. With its huge ice chunks, icebergs, and wildlife it’s an incredible place to stop and sightsee.

There are a few vantage points to enjoy, each with a different view. You can either head down to the lagoon shore or climb up a small hill for an aerial view. Both were spectacular. From above I saw a seal sunning himself on an ice sheet (ignoring the tourist paparazzi). From below I saw seals playfully swimming and the current moving ice chunks all over the place. I loved it here and could have stayed staring at the lagoon for hours. Now that I’m home I’m addicted to the lagoon’s live camera.

Monster Truck Ride To The Base of Vatnajökull Glacier

From Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, we boarded a monster truck and drove thirty minutes to the Vatnajökull glacier’s edge. Part of this ride was paved and part was “fun” off-roading through bumpy dirt and puddles (my kids loved it!).

Vatnajökull Glacier’s Natural Ice Cave

Holy moly was this cool. After a twenty minute walk to the glacier base we arrived at the ice cave’s entrance. We donned our provided micro spikes and helmets and toured with mouths agape. Before us was an incredible, stunning, naturally formed(!) ice cave.

The height varied throughout the cave from high (tall people could stand) to low (kids had to crawl). Our guide shared that the ice cave melts and reforms each year so this ice cave will be different next winter.

Fun fact – you can capture the gorgeous blue color in your picture by shining the light from one phone onto the ice while taking the picture with another.

Vatnajökull Glacier Hike

As we exited the ice cave, our guide gave us a thrill and walked us down the glacier. This was equal parts scary and cool (pun intended).

While I was sad before the trip that my son’s young age prevented us from a proper glacier hike, I can confidently say that this small taste was more than enough for me! Furthermore, from up here we could see down into the ice cave we just exited stunned at how deep we were in the belly of the glacier.

Glacier Water From The Source!

As we returned to the truck, our guide stopped us and encouraged us to bend down and drink directly from the glacier runoff. It was the coldest, clearest, most delicious water we ever tasted and my kids LOVED this super cool out-of-the-box opportunity.

Diamond Beach

Across the street from Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, you’ll find Diamond Beach. If you’re like my little son, you may also be sad to find out the “diamonds” on the beach are in fact ice, not gems (sorry).

Furthermore, the ice is broken off chunks from the glacier – carried through the lagoon by the current – ending up on the black sand shore. Because it’s so cold these giant marooned “diamonds” don’t melt, they just glisten in the sun.

While there I implore you to take a cheesy picture proposing with an iceberg. Also – stop, look, and soak in this incredible occurrence for a moment. It was cool watching big chunks of ice emerge from the crashing waves and get pushed onto the sand.

Skeiðará Bridge Monument

The Skeiðará Bridge was once the longest-spanning bridge in Iceland. When a volcano erupted in 1996, it melted part of Skeiðarárjökull (an outlet glacier from Vatnajökull) causing a massive flood. Within this flood were huge icebergs. The ice chunks were so enormous and the current was so strong that it knocked down the bridge. All that remains is this twisted graffiti tagged metal reminding us – once again – of nature’s power.

Food Breaks

There are minimal restaurants along the road so be sure to stock up on snacks and Skyr (Icelandic yogurt) when you can. You’ll find a few supermarkets and gas stations along the way and a proper rest stop in Vik.

Stop And Smell The Glaciers

Iceland’s scenery is downright gorgeous, especially on the coast. Be sure to look out the window (not at your phone) as you tour. Go slow, pull over, take it all in, and snap lots of pictures. Enjoy the mountains and glaciers from different angles and soak in the size and beauty from every vantage point.

The Mint Chip Mama’s South Iceland And West Iceland Tips Work For Winter In Iceland And Summer In Iceland:

Be sure to check out The Mint Chip Mama‘s entire Family Friendly Iceland Vacation series, my travel gear, and my full itinerary here where you can book everything directly in one place!

Part 1: Iceland – Know Before You Go, Part 2: What To Pack For Iceland, Part 3: Reykjavík, Part 4: South Iceland & West Iceland, Part 5: The Golden Circle

More on The Mint Chip Mama:
Real Mom Life, Family Travel & Everyday Chaos

Thanks for stopping by The Mint Chip Mama – your go-to source for family travel tips, real parenting moments, lifestyle hacks, and everything in between. This is where motherhood gets messy, magical, and served with a scoop of mint chip ice cream. From unforgettable family adventures to food finds, beauty faves, and honest takes on women’s health, I cover it all with humor, heart, and a sprinkle of sass.

Hooked already? Good news—there’s even more amazing content ahead! Find us on a podcast, and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Amazon, TikTok, and YouTube for daily inspiration, mom truths, and parenting laughs.

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Explore detailed family travel guides and itineraries from destinations including: Arizona, Boston, Long Island, Philadelphia, Washington, DC, Iceland and Israel! Whether you’re planning your next adventure or just dreaming, I’ve got tips and recommendations for unforgettable, family-friendly vacations.

Feeling Nostalgic?

Check out these classic family movies from the ‘80s and ‘90s — perfect for cozy nights and sharing the timeless favorites you grew up loving with your kids!

📍Follow @themintchipmama on Instagram for real-life moments, parenting fun, perimenopause talk, beauty tips, food finds, and more.

Every click on one of The Mint Chip Mama’s affiliate links helps support this blog (and my serious taco habit). Accordingly, yes, I earn a small commission – just enough to cover that extra guac. 🌮💸

Family-Friendly Reykjavik

After seventeen years of staring at my friend’s gorgeous Gullfoss waterfall picture, my dream of visiting Iceland finally came true! We packed our warmest clothes and headed over.

Iceland is a beautiful country just five hours away from New York and filled with a landscape like no other.

This beautiful country is where fire and ice meet. With that said, after driving through extensive lava fields and then crawling through huge, gorgeous sky-blue ice caves, I can see why.

Both an easy and super family-friendly country, Iceland is a great adult or family destination. Additionally, the winter and summer months provide two different experiences. Planning your trip is straightforward and given the variety of restaurants and accommodations – plus natural beauty galore – there is something there for everyone.

Know Before You Go And Packing For Iceland

A trip like this needs some weather-related planning, so definitely check out these “Know Before You Go” and packing tips in advance. Several airlines fly into KEF, Iceand’s international airport, so finding a flight that works for you should be easy. We also opted to take Legends Limousine Worldwide roundtrip to JFK getting us there stress-free.

Arriving In Iceland

Iceland is set up to make it extremely easy for tourists to get around. Upon arrival at the easily manageable KEF airport, we walked right over to FlyBus for our airport transfer. Since the Blue Lagoon is close to the airport, it’s suggested that you visit upon your arrival or departure. FlyBus not only offers transfers all over Iceland but also a two-part leg from KEF to Blue Lagoon, then Blue Lagoon to Reykjavik.

In Reykjavik, The Air Is Cold But The Streets Are Warm!

One of the super cool facts we learned about Reykjavik was the streets are heated from below using geothermal heat. This means as the snow falls, it melts away. Because of this, most central paths are clear and the city is easy to explore without any special footwear.

What Should I Wear In Reykjavik?

There was a lot of debate on what to wear in the city. Due to the cold, we started with a base layer, but from there we just wore normal winter city gear. My husband wore jeans, I wore fleece-lined pants, and my kids wore their same New York sweatpants. However, the biggest difference was we wore super warm amazing socks and waterproof boots.

Family-Friendly Reykjavik

The beautiful city of Reykjavik could not have been more family-friendly and enjoyable. It’s easily walkable and filled with many beautiful sights. Our hotel was centrally located and right by the Sun Voyager sculpture. Additionally, the city has a magical feel because of its colorful buildings and continuous tongue-in-cheek vibe. There are endless things to do, and two to three days gives you plenty of time to explore.

Take (Or Make) A Walking Tour

We enjoyed the pay-as-you-wish GuruWalk Walking Tour where we visited many famous Reykjavik sites. We also learned about the history of the city and the Icelandic people’s love of trees (including visiting the 2016 Tree of the Year and the “Oldest Tree in Iceland”). Furthermore, there are many fun statues on or near the waterfront including a piece of the Berlin Wall.

The Icelandic Phallological Museum

Speaking of Reykjavik’s tongue-in-cheek vibe, one of its most popular museums – and I believe the only museum in the world dedicated to this specific… member… is the Icelandic Phallological Museum. Beside hundreds of real-life specimens you’ll find a variety of on-theme items including waffles, door handles, candles, and anything else you can imagine. It’s quite the experience, especially when you find one taller than you!

FlyOver Iceland

Recommended by everyone, FlyOver Iceland was a hit with our family as well. During this completely immersive experience, you’re strapped into a ride making you feel like you’re… flying over Iceland! It whizzes you past more than twenty-five of Iceland’s iconic waterfalls, volcanoes, and more in this 4-D theater. It was a great experience and one loved equally by kids and adults. Additionally, there’s a great café to grab a pre-show snack.

The Lava Show

With science-obsessed kids (and adults), The Lava Show was another favorite of ours. This is the only place in the world where you can see lava up close, and it was so cool! Upon entry you’re immediately transported into the warm world and colors of a volcano from the basal column photo wall to the themed drinks and lighting. We picked The Lava Show’s premium package which included a behind-the-scenes look at the show, a drink, and a souvenir piece of lava. My kids loved seeing the furnace that melts the lava pieces before entering the theater for the show. They also loved touching actual lava from the 1818 Katla volcanic eruption and then bringing it home.

Whale Watching Tour

I absolutely LOVED Elding’s Classic Whale Watching Tour in Faxaflói Bay – on Reykjavik’s shore. This three-hour boat ride offered both indoor and outdoor options to watch whales living right outside of the city. We were lucky to see FIVE whales on our tour! While the hunt for them was super fun, the scenic views of the mountains and water were equally enjoyable. I loved every second of this family-run tour including their philosophy emphasizing research, education, and sustainability ensuring only the best for their beloved animals and bay. Additionally, I was so impressed that at its conclusion they offered us professional pictures, videos, and a report of our animal encounters.

Hallgrímskirkja Church

Up Skólavörðustígur –better known as Rainbow Street – you’ll find Hallgrímskirkja Church. Hallgrímskirkja is the largest church in Iceland and famous for its beautiful exterior as well as its expansive clock tower views. I highly recommend taking the time to ride the elevator up for this incredible aerial storybook view of Reykjavik.

Endless Snack Options In Family-Friendly Reykjavik

There’s no doubt that sampling a new cuisine is one of the most exciting parts of traveling. With kids, you’re always talking about food (and most likely keep snacks with you so your kids (and husband) are happy at all times). With that said, I love visiting supermarkets in foreign countries and stocking up on local foods. We picked up their famous baked goods, licorice-flavored candies, chocolate-covered rice cakes, and delicious volcanic salt (all make perfect inexpensive souvenirs as well!).

Try The Skyr!

In Iceland, they’re known for many types of delicacies including their high protein yogurt called Skyr. We found a buffet of flavors everywhere we went (while laughing at the wide price variations of each location). These were easy to eat on the go, on a bus, on a walk, or waiting for our next tour.

Causal Dining

There are more restaurants in Reykjavik than you can count ranging from simple to fancy. There are also several Food Halls with everything from sushi to traditional Icelandic food. On our first night, we ate at Hlemmur Matholl which pleased everyone since no one had to agree on anything. We each ordered what we wanted and then came together to a common table to eat. Icelandic Food Halls are quite popular and even include Michelin-star restaurants! It’s worth the experience for either lunch or dinner.

Icelandic Dinners Your Family Will Love

On our second night, we treated ourselves to the Wake Up Reykjavik Food & Walking Tour. This super fun tour brought us to four different traditional Icelandic restaurants (plus a dessert stop) to sample a combination of local Icelandic dishes. On this tour, we tried the famous fermented shark and a shot of Brennivín as well as the famous Baejarins Beztu Pylsur hot dogs. I can’t recommend this tour enough, it was great!

Public Art

Reykjavik has loads of sculptures throughout the city. One of the prettiest walks is along the water on the Sculpture and Shore Walk. We loved this during the day but also at night while searching for the Northern Lights. With the mountains in the background and the lights of the city, it was absolutely beautiful. There are also murals everywhere – on buildings, covering buildings, and even on the streets. I loved finding the sculptures and couldn’t wait to see the Unknown Bureaucrat down by the lake outside of city hall.

Shopping

Iceland is expensive so souvenirs are pricy. Honestly, it was fun to just look at everything (without buying). Our evenings were filled with casually strolling through many of the troll, wool, Viking, and catchy phrase embossed stores.

For Our Next Visit

There was so much to see and do in Reykjavik we will have to come back! Our list for next time includes the Perlan Museum and the Reykjavík City Museums including the Árbær Open Air Museum, Aðalstræti, Reykjavík Museum of Photography, Reykjavík Maritime Museum, and Viðey Island.

The Mint Chip Mama’s Family-Friendly Reykjavik Tips Work In The Winter Or Summer

Be sure to check out The Mint Chip Mama‘s entire Family Friendly Iceland Vacation series, my travel gear, and my full itinerary here where you can book everything directly in one place!

Part 1: Iceland – Know Before You Go, Part 2: What To Pack For Iceland, Part 3: Reykjavik, Part 4: South Iceland & West Iceland, Part 5: The Golden Circle

More on The Mint Chip Mama:
Real Mom Life, Family Travel & Everyday Chaos

Thanks for stopping by The Mint Chip Mama – your go-to source for family travel tips, real parenting moments, lifestyle hacks, and everything in between. This is where motherhood gets messy, magical, and served with a scoop of mint chip ice cream. From unforgettable family adventures to food finds, beauty faves, and honest takes on women’s health, I cover it all with humor, heart, and a sprinkle of sass.

Hooked already? Good news—there’s even more amazing content ahead! Find us on a podcast, and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Amazon, TikTok, and YouTube for daily inspiration, mom truths, and parenting laughs.

📩 Don’t miss a thing! Subscribe below for updates and fresh content delivered straight to your inbox.

Looking for the Perfect Gift or Party Idea?

Check out my Amazon Store for unique, practical, and fun gifts for all ages! From backyard essentials to beauty picks, travel gear, kid-approved games, snacks, and must-read books—there’s something for everyone.

Love to Travel? So Do We!

Explore detailed family travel guides and itineraries from destinations including: Arizona, Boston, Long Island, Philadelphia, Washington, DC, Iceland and Israel! Whether you’re planning your next adventure or just dreaming, I’ve got tips and recommendations for unforgettable, family-friendly vacations.

Feeling Nostalgic?

Check out these classic family movies from the ‘80s and ‘90s — perfect for cozy nights and sharing the timeless favorites you grew up loving with your kids!

📍Follow @themintchipmama on Instagram for real-life moments, parenting fun, perimenopause talk, beauty tips, food finds, and more.

Every click on one of The Mint Chip Mama’s affiliate links helps support this blog (and my serious taco habit). Accordingly, yes, I earn a small commission – just enough to cover that extra guac. 🌮💸