Things To Do In Iceland: 8 Exciting Summer Outdoor Activities In Southern Iceland

Southern Iceland’s breathtaking landscapes transform for the summer months, inviting you to trek through lush green valleys, snorkel in clear waters, witness thundering waterfalls and much more.

With so much on offer in the region during this stunning season, we’ve shortlisted our eight favorite outdoor activities when visiting Southern Iceland in the summer…

Visiting Southern Iceland In The Summer

Iceland’s summer officially starts in late May and lasts until early September. This season is marked by an explosion of greenery, blooming wildflowers, and abundant wildlife, making it the ideal time for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers to visit.

Depending on your ideal type of Iceland vacation, the summer might be the best time of year to visit. During the summer months, you can enjoy relatively warmer temperatures and the famous midnight sun where the sun remains visible at the local midnight. Therefore, you’ll have ample time to explore the breathtaking landscapes and embark on bespoke activities throughout the country.

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1. Insider Tour Of The Westman Islands

The Westman Islands, an archipelago of volcanic islands known for their rugged landscapes, volcanic activity, and rich birdlife, are located off the south coast of Iceland. While there are 15 different islands, Heimaey is the largest and the only one inhabited. However, there is still plenty to be enjoyed here during the summer.

Following your ferry ride to Hemiaey and a visit to the Sea Life Trust center where you can admire the fish, bird and mineral exhibitions, we recommend a private rib boat tour of the islands. Keep an eye out for hidden caves, unspoiled beaches and the famous Elephant Rock.

Outdoor adventurers will enjoy the opportunity to hike to the top of Eldfell Volcano, a shield volcano characterized by its broad, gently sloping sides. The volcano is currently dormant but remains an important part of the island’s geological landscape. As you meander along one of the several paths through the lava fields, you might be treated to views of puffins on the seashore, grazing sheep and barren caldera.

Continue your insider tour of the Westman Islands at the Eldheimar Museum where you can learn about the effects of the 1973 volcanic eruption.

From May through August, the islands also make a prime spot for watching Puffins. See these unique birds up close in their natural habitat and look out for other seabirds, such as guillemots and arctic terns.

2. Private Coastal Helicopter Tour

There are few things more thrilling than a private helicopter ride over otherworldly landscapes. As you soar along Iceland’s south coast, witness the region’s icy glacial lagoons, sparkling black sand beach, and cascading waterfalls.

We recommend tailoring your private helicopter excursions based on the activities you want to try and sights you want to see…

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A memorable highlight to include on your summer helicopter tour is the black sand shores of Diamond Beach. As the icebergs from Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon wash up and polish the beach, you’ll witness an illusion of scattered diamonds. The beach is constantly changing as the icebergs reform, melt away and reappear, therefore your experience here is truly unique.

You can also journey to more rugged landscapes of the Fjallabak Nature Reserve. Here, you’ll explore the Hrafntinnusker geothermal area which boasts colorful mountain ranges, hot springs, steam vents, and impressive boiling mud pits.

If you’re interested in admiring glaciers, stop to visit the striking Langjökull Glacier and then take to the skies to witness Glacier Vatnajökull’s grandeur from above.

3. Private Snowmobiling Tour

Snowmobiling in private across the impressive Langjökull Glacier is one of the exciting outdoor activities you can combine with your private helicopter tour.

Langjökull is the second-largest glacier in Iceland, covering around 935 square kilometers and stretching approximately 50 kilometers long. Its vast icy landscape is perfect for a snowmobiling adventure and offers beautiful views of nearby glaciers and volcanic ranges on clear, summer days.

4. Private Zodiac Tour

From Fjallsárlón Glacier Lagoon – a recommended stop on your helicopter tour – you can embark on a private zodiac tour across the sparkling waters towards the Vatnajökull glacier itself.

Vatnajökull is the largest glacier in Europe and covers 8% of Iceland’s landmass. The glacier is almost 1000 meters thick at its deepest point.

During your private boating tour of the Fjallsárlón Glacier Lagoon, you will cruise through a myriad of icebergs as you admire the breathtaking glacial landscapes that surround you, including views of the ice-covered Öræfajökull volcano located on Vatnajökull Glacier’s southern tip.

5. Private Snorkeling Or Diving Excursion In The Silfra Fissure

Over thousands of years, the tectonic forces in Iceland have created one of the most unique diving spots in the world: the Silfra Fissure.

The Silfra Fissure is a rift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, filled with crystal-clear glacial water.
Located within Thingvellir National Park along Iceland’s southern coast, you can visit this spectacular natural wonder with your personal guide and embark on a private snorkeling or diving excursion.

During your private tour, marvel at the vibrant shades of blue as you navigate between the continental plates. Enter a mesmerizing underwater world with visibility up to 120 meters.

While not abundant in terms of species diversity, this unique underwater ecosystem is still fascinating as you can explore interesting geological formations, including underwater caves, crevices, and beautiful rock formations.

6. Black Sand Beaches Tour

One of Iceland’s most striking natural attractions is the black sand beaches located off the southern coast. The sand is black due to volcanic activity; over millennia, volcanic eruptions in Iceland have produced lava flows that eventually break down into fine particles and basalt fragments, giving the sand its distinctive color.

Vik’s black sand beaches are an incredible addition to any summer Iceland vacation. Take a private, scenic drive along the southern coast and marvel at the striking contrast as the blue Atlantic waves crash against jet-black sands.

We recommend visiting Reynisfjara beach. Here, you can explore dramatic basalt columns which were formed from cooling lava that solidified over millions of years. You will also be able to admire the striking Reynisdrangar sea stacks rising from the ocean.

7. Private Fly Fishing With Local Experts

Fishing excursions allow you to connect with nature, enjoy the peacefulness of the outdoors, and experience a sense of relaxation and mindfulness as you find tranquility in the rhythmic flow of water.

Whether you’re an avid fisher or trying it for the first time, we recommend fly fishing in Iceland during the summer. You can embark on a private fly fishing expedition to some of the world’s best fishing spots along the country’s south coast with local expert guides.

We recommend visiting rivers like the Seljalandsá and the Þjórsá as they offer exceptional opportunities to catch Atlantic salmon amidst breathtaking surroundings, including cascading waterfalls and lush green valleys.

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8. Private Golden Circle Tour

The Golden Circle is one of Iceland’s most iconic routes and is a highlight of any summer Iceland tour as the weather is pleasant and the landscapes are at their greenest.

Two unmissable natural highlights along the Golden Circle are Geysir Hot Spring and Gullfoss Waterfall.

The Geysir Hot Spring became active more than 1000 years ago and consists of nearly 3 square kilometers of boiling mud pits, exploding geysers and water spouts. Visit the natural wonder with your expert guide and learn more about the science behind the different features. You’ll also get to witness Strokkur, arguably the country’s most famous hot spring, shooting boiling water up to 130 feet into the air.

The Gullfoss Waterfall is staggering. The Hvítá River cascades 105 feet in two different stages at Gullfoss Waterfall at a speed of 459 cubic feet per second, making it a visual wonder not to be missed. The canyon walls on each side extend up to 230 feet and are believed to have formed from glacial outbursts at the beginning of the last age.

Embark On The Best Summer Activities In Southern Iceland

Discover Southern Iceland’s rugged outdoor landscape during the country’s warmer season, from cascading waterfalls and volcanic landscapes to soothing hot springs and remote highland trails, all curated to match your interests and preferences. Our Blue Parallel Travel Experts are ready to craft a personalized itinerary that showcases the best of Iceland, ensuring a journey that is as unique as it is unforgettable.

Contact one of our Travel Experts to start planning your bespoke adventure in Iceland, where every season brings its own magic and marvels to explore.

Tailor-Made Itineraries To Iceland

Discover the “The Land of Fire and Ice” with our bespoke luxury summer tour to Iceland…

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