Does your Iceland itinerary include visiting the stunning southeast of our country? This breathtaking region is a true highlight of any trip to the Land of Fire and Ice. With towering glaciers, rugged mountains, and hidden canyons that defy imagination, it truly is a land of extremes. It’s home to some of the most spectacular landscapes in Iceland, making it a dream destination for adventure seekers.
At Ice Guardians, we’re privileged to call southeast Iceland home. And it’s also where we run our Iceland adventure activities — or to be more exact, the jaw-dropping landscapes of Vatnajökull National Park and the surrounding areas.
We have previously written a sample Iceland south coast itinerary, complete with recommendations for the best places to visit. This blog is the perfect companion piece, providing even more inspiration for your trip to Iceland!
So, let’s get started! And if you have any questions for us, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Vatnajökull National Park and Skaftafell – A Natural Wonder You Can’t Skip
As adventure specialists based in the Vatnajökull region, we simply can’t leave this off the list, even if it appears on our south coast of Iceland sample itinerary too! Vatnajökull National Park, home to Europe’s largest glacier by volume, is a paradise for explorers. Skaftafell, a stunning nature reserve within the park, offers some of the best hiking trails in Iceland.
One of the easier hikes is the route to Svartifoss, a 20-metre waterfall framed by striking basalt columns. It’s 1.5 km one way, which takes around 45 minutes, and includes three other waterfalls: Þjófafoss (Thieves’ Fall), Hundafoss (Dogs’ Fall), and Magnúsarfoss (The Falls of Magnús).
For those looking for something more exhilarating, our Iceland glacier tours and Vatnajökull ice cave tours provide an unforgettable experience in the heart of the national park, with the chance to explore some awe-inspiring otherworldly landscapes.
Skaftafell is also an ideal base for discovering the rest of the region, with easy access to glaciers, mountains, and nearby attractions. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, this area is truly unmissable. Be sure to read our picks for the best things to do in Skaftafell to find out even more!
Vestrahorn Mountain – A Photographer’s Dream
Few places in Iceland capture the imagination quite like Vestrahorn. With its sharp, jagged peaks rising dramatically over the black sand beach at Stokksnes, this mountain is a dream location for photographers and nature lovers alike.
The contrast of dark volcanic sand against the icy blue Atlantic waves creates a surreal landscape. If conditions are right, you might even see Vestrahorn’s reflection in the shallow tidal pools, making for a captivating photo opportunity.
For history enthusiasts, the nearby Viking Village is a fun and quirky stop. It’s an old film set that was never used, at least not for the intended movie. It was later put to good use in the Netflix series The Witcher. If you’re visiting in winter, keep an eye on the sky at night — this is one of the best spots in the region to see the Northern Lights.
Everything here is on private land, so you will need to pay an entrance fee to gain access via the beach, but it is absolutely money well spent. Vestrahorn was also one of our picks for the best things to do in Iceland’s East Fjords. Read our other recommendations if you plan to continue your journey further east!
Múlagljúfur Canyon – A Hidden Gem Worth the Hike
Múlagljúfur Canyon remains one of southeast Iceland’s best-kept secrets. While it’s less known than other landmarks — including the more famous canyon of Fjaðrárgljúfur, also in southern Iceland — those who make the effort to visit are rewarded with one of the most breathtaking viewpoints in the country.
This canyon, carved by glacial meltwater, boasts steep cliffs, lush greenery, and cascading waterfalls, all set against the backdrop of Vatnajökull’s icy peaks. The moderate hike to the canyon’s edge takes around an hour, leading to amazing views over Hangandifoss, one of Iceland’s lesser-known but tallest waterfalls.
If you’re looking for a place that feels untouched and far from the crowds, Múlagljúfur is the perfect choice. But please note that we generally don’t recommend this in spring, autumn, and wet conditions as the trail can get muddy, slippery, and easily damaged. The track leading to the trailhead can also be tricky to negotiate. Save it for cold or dry conditions! Just be sure to check road and weather information before setting off. The Iceland Traffic Centre and Icelandic Met Office are your essential resources for that.
Looking for more canyon experiences during your visit? We think you’ll love our blog What are the Canyons You Must See in Iceland? and, of course, our own Iceland canyoning adventures.
Heinabergslón Glacier Lagoon – A Quiet Alternative to Jökulsárlón
Jökulsárlón might be the most famous glacier lagoon in Iceland, but Heinabergslón offers a quieter, more intimate experience. Located just off the beaten path, this lagoon is surrounded by rugged mountains and is often overlooked by tourists. Unlike the busier lagoons, there’s a chance you could have this place to yourself, or almost, making it a fantastic alternative for those looking to escape the crowds.
The surrounding area is also ideal for short hikes with fantastic views of Heinabergsjökull, an outlet glacier of Vatnajökull. If you’re seeking an adventure that combines glacial landscapes with peaceful isolation, this is a must-visit.
Are you looking to make hiking a central part of your trip? Be sure to read our Complete Guide to Hiking in Iceland for more adventure inspiration!
Vatnajökull Outlet Glaciers – Explore Iceland’s Ever-Changing Ice
Vatnajökull is not just one massive ice sheet — it has dozens of outlet glaciers, each with its own unique character. While you could spend weeks exploring them all, three stand out as must-sees:
- Svinafellsjökull – Known for its striking blue ice formations and dramatic ridges, this glacier is one of the most beautiful in Iceland. It has also been featured in movies and TV shows, including Interstellar and Game of Thrones.
- Skaftafellsjökull – Easily accessible from Skaftafell, this glacier is perfect for a short walk or a guided hike. The contrast between the deep blue ice and the surrounding volcanic rock is breathtaking.
- Breiðamerkurjökull – This massive glacier feeds into Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, creating the icebergs that float out to sea. Join our exciting Vatnajökull Glacier Walk if you want to set foot on this ancient ice giant.
Each of these glaciers provides an incredible, up-close look at Iceland’s famous ice formations. We recommend completing the easy walks around the front of each to see the different scenery each provides, especially Svinafellsjökull!
Book Your Iceland Adventure Activities with Us!
We hope you’ve enjoyed our picks for 5 must-sees in southeast Iceland. Which ones will you add to your itinerary? And as your trip planning continues, don’t forget to book your Iceland adventure activities well in advance! Our adrenaline-pumping excursions tend to sell out, so secure your preferred experience early to avoid missing out.
If you have any pre-booking questions, please just contact us for the answers you need.
