From Reykjavik: South Coast, Plane Wreck, & Beach ATV Tour

The big draw here is the two-hour ATV ride across Sólheimasandur, a broad black-sand shore where the rusted DC3 plane wreck sits beneath Iceland’s stark southern cliffs. You get a real sense of open space, not just a quick roadside photo stop.

I like the way this trip pairs an active outing with two major waterfalls. I also like that the ATV ride brings you toward Dyrhólaey Peninsula and Mýrdalsjökull Glacier, so the day is about more than one famous wreck. The main catch is the price: at $299 per person, it is a costly day, especially since lunch is not included and most ATVs are shared by two people.

Key points to know before booking

• The ATV ride lasts about two hours: Expect a proper quad-bike outing, not a short amusement-park circuit.
• The DC3 wreck sits on Sólheimasandur: You cross a desert-like black-sand area to reach the 1973 crash site.
• Two people normally share one ATV: Solo riders and odd-numbered groups must pay extra on site for a single-rider ATV.
• The day includes Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss: At Seljalandsfoss, you can walk behind the falling water.
• Warm, waterproof clothing matters: Insulated coveralls, helmets, balaclavas, and optional boots are supplied, but you still need warm layers and waterproof shoes.
• The trip takes 10 hours from Reykjavik: It works best for an active full-day plan, not for a relaxed half-day outing.

Why the black-sand ATV ride is the heart of the day

Sólheimasandur is a striking place. The beach is made of dark volcanic sand, and the open terrain gives the ride a remote, almost otherworldly feel. The ATV route leads across this stark shore toward the famous DC3 aircraft, which crashed there in 1973.

The plane wreck is not a polished museum exhibit. It is a weathered shell sitting out in the open, with the empty fuselage set against black sand and broad southern scenery. That raw setting is the reason the stop feels memorable. You are not simply looking at an old aircraft. You are seeing how quickly a man-made object can become part of Iceland’s wild coastal setting.

The ride itself lasts about two hours, enough time to make the ATV portion feel like the main event. You will be operating a quad bike across uneven outdoor ground, so this suits you if you want some movement and excitement in your South Coast day. It is less suitable if you prefer to remain in the vehicle and collect scenic stops at an easy pace.

You need a valid driver’s license to drive. Two people normally share one ATV, which helps keep the listed price from climbing even higher for couples and friends. If you are alone or your group has an odd number, you must book a single-rider ATV and pay the extra charge on site. That detail is easy to miss, so check your group size before committing.

The DC3 wreck and Sólheimasandur’s stark setting

The aircraft is the most unusual stop on the route. It gives the day a clear purpose beyond the usual waterfall circuit, and reaching it by ATV makes the visit feel more active than arriving by ordinary transport.

The surrounding beach is broad and exposed. You should expect wind, cold, and changing conditions, even when Reykjavik feels comfortable at departure. The tour supplies an insulated coverall, a helmet, and a balaclava face mask. Boots may be available depending on the weather and your footwear, but you should bring warm clothes and waterproof shoes rather than rely on the supplied gear alone.

The beach also opens views toward the southern coast, Dyrhólaey Peninsula, and Mýrdalsjökull Glacier. Dyrhólaey marks the southernmost tip of Iceland, while the glacier sits inland and farther away. These sights are viewed as part of the wider outing, not as separate long walks, so keep your expectations practical. The ATV ride gives you access to a dramatic setting, but this is not a dedicated glacier or bird-watching trip.

One useful point about the day is its balance. The aircraft provides a distinctive human story, while the beach, peninsula, and glacier supply the scale around it. You get a memorable object to focus on and enough open scenery to understand why this coast is so famous.

Skógafoss brings the classic Iceland moment

On the return to Reykjavik, the tour stops at Skógafoss. This is one of Iceland’s best-known waterfalls, and its broad curtain of falling water makes an immediate impression.

You should have time to see the waterfall and take photographs, though the exact amount of free time depends on the day’s timing. One recent account specifically praised the amount of time at both waterfalls, which is encouraging for anyone who dislikes rushed photo stops. Still, a 10-hour itinerary has several major sights, so do not expect a long hike or an open-ended visit.

Skógafoss works well after the ATV ride because it changes the mood. The beach section is open, dark, and exposed. The waterfall offers a more traditional Iceland view, with a powerful wall of water and a clear focal point. It also gives you a chance to stretch your legs after the vehicle portion.

Bring a waterproof outer layer. Even if you stay near the main viewing area, spray can reach you, and Icelandic weather can shift quickly. Your camera or phone should be protected when you get close.

Seljalandsfoss lets you walk behind the water

Seljalandsfoss is the more interactive of the two waterfalls. Its path allows you to walk behind the falling water, provided conditions and access allow it on the day.

This is a special feature, but it is also the wettest part of the waterfall visits. Waterproof shoes are important, and a rain jacket is more useful than a simple warm coat. The supplied coverall is intended for the ATV ride, not necessarily as a substitute for proper rainwear during every stop.

The path behind Seljalandsfoss can be slippery. You should take care with your footing and expect spray on your clothes and camera. The reward is a different view of the waterfall, with the water dropping in front of you rather than only from a standard viewpoint.

Together, Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss make the trip appealing to someone who has only one open day for the South Coast. You get two famous waterfalls without giving up the ATV experience. The tradeoff is that you will not have the time for every nearby attraction or a long independent walk.

A 10-hour day from Reykjavik

The tour starts at BSI Bus Terminal in central Reykjavik. You should arrive at least 15 minutes before departure. The day then runs south along Iceland’s well-known coastal route to the ATV base, followed by the ride and the waterfall stops on the way back.

Ten hours is a full day, but the route covers a lot. The long duration is not wasted if you want a mix of transport, outdoor activity, the plane wreck, glacier views, and waterfalls. It does mean you should plan for a tiring outing, especially in cold or wet conditions.

Transport is part of the value here. You do not need to arrange a separate rental car, find the ATV site, or plan the order of the stops yourself. The guide handles the route and the activity briefing, while you can focus on the views.

The exact starting time depends on availability. Check it before booking, particularly if you have dinner plans or another evening activity in Reykjavik. Icelandic road and weather conditions can affect the rhythm of a long South Coast day, even when the published duration is 10 hours.

The guide can make the ATV portion easier

The tour includes an experienced and qualified guide, and English is the guiding language. The guide’s role matters most during the ATV section, where you need clear instructions on operating the quad bike and following the route.

Henrik has been singled out for being experienced and fun, while Ragnar has been praised for being kind and informative. You cannot assume either person will lead your departure, but those names give you a useful sense of the guide style associated with the experience. A good guide should help the ATV ride feel exciting without becoming careless.

The activity is designed to be thrilling but safe. You still need to follow instructions, wear the helmet and face covering, and understand that outdoor riding depends on weather and ground conditions. Alcohol and drugs are not allowed.

This is not an activity for children under eight, and pregnant women should not book it. The driver’s-license rule also matters: you can ride as a passenger only if paired with someone who is driving, unless you arrange a single-rider ATV.

What $299 buys you, and what it does not

At $299 per person, this is one of the more expensive ways to see the South Coast. The cost includes transportation from Reykjavik, a qualified guide, the two-hour ATV outing, an insulated coverall, a helmet, and a balaclava. It also combines several major sights into one day.

The two-person ATV arrangement helps explain the pricing. Couples or friends sharing a quad bike receive the most straightforward value. Solo riders and odd-numbered groups should budget for the additional single-ATV charge, payable on site. That extra cost can change the value calculation quickly.

Lunch is not included. Bring food or plan around the available stops, since you should not assume a full meal is part of the trip. Extra warm clothing is also not included, so pack properly rather than treating the supplied coverall as your complete Iceland outfit.

I think the price makes the most sense if the ATV ride is high on your list. If you mainly want Skógafoss, Seljalandsfoss, and coastal views, a simpler South Coast sightseeing tour may offer better value. If you specifically want to reach the DC3 wreck by quad bike, the combination saves you from arranging transport and an ATV activity separately.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before departure, and you can reserve now and pay later. Those terms help if your Iceland plans may shift, but they do not reduce the need to check the ATV surcharge, clothing requirements, and starting time before you book.

Who should choose this South Coast outing

I would point this tour toward active couples, friends, and older families who want more than a standard coach day. You should be comfortable spending many hours on the road and operating or sharing an ATV in cold outdoor conditions.

It is also a good fit if the DC3 wreck is a priority. The aircraft is not just an extra photo stop here. The route is built around reaching it across Sólheimasandur, and the ATV ride gives the visit its character.

You may want a different tour if you need a slow pace, a long lunch, or extensive walking at each waterfall. The itinerary has several major elements, so it favors variety over deep time at one site.

The child restriction is clear: children under eight cannot take part. Pregnant women should not book, and anyone driving an ATV must bring a valid driver’s license. You should also be ready to share the quad bike unless you pay for a single rider.

Practical packing advice for the beach and waterfalls

I would pack in layers, with a waterproof outer shell and waterproof shoes. The supplied coverall protects you during the ATV ride, but the waterfalls create a separate need for rain protection.

Bring a valid driver’s license if you plan to drive. Pack lunch or snacks because food is not included. A small bag should hold your phone, camera protection, and extra layers without becoming awkward during transport.

The most important packing mistake to avoid is treating the South Coast as mild because Reykjavik is mild when you leave. Sólheimasandur is exposed, and the beach portion can feel cold even on a bright day.

Should you book the ATV and plane-wreck tour?

Book it if you want a full South Coast day with a real activity at its center. The two-hour ATV ride, the 1973 DC3 wreck, Dyrhólaey views, Mýrdalsjökull Glacier, Skógafoss, and the walk behind Seljalandsfoss make this a varied itinerary with a clear sense of place.

Think twice if $299 already feels high, if you are traveling alone, or if you mainly want waterfalls. The single-rider surcharge, lunch cost, and need for extra clothing can push the total higher.

For the right person, the value is in the combination: you get Iceland’s famous coastal sights and a memorable way to reach one of its strangest landmarks. If that mix sounds better than a quiet sightseeing bus, this is a strong choice.

FAQ

How long is the tour?

The experience lasts about 10 hours.

Where does the tour start?

It starts at BSI Bus Terminal in central Reykjavik. You should arrive at least 15 minutes before departure.

What language is the tour guide?

The live guide speaks English.

How long is the ATV ride?

The ATV portion lasts about two hours.

Do two people share one ATV?

Yes. The standard arrangement is one ATV shared by two people.

Can I ride alone on an ATV?

Yes, but solo riders and groups with an odd number must book a single-rider ATV and pay the extra charge on site.

Do I need a driver’s license?

Yes. A valid driver’s license is required to drive a quad bike.

What clothing and equipment are included?

The tour supplies an insulated coverall, helmet, and balaclava face mask. Boots may be supplied depending on the weather and your footwear.

Should I bring my own warm clothing and shoes?

Yes. Extra warm clothing is not included. You should bring warm clothing and waterproof shoes.

Is lunch included?

No. Lunch is not included.

Can children join the tour?

Children under eight are not permitted to take part.

Can pregnant women join?

No. The activity is not suitable for pregnant women.

Can I walk behind Seljalandsfoss?

The itinerary includes the opportunity to walk behind Seljalandsfoss, depending on conditions and access on the day.

Is cancellation available?

You can cancel up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund.

Can I reserve without paying immediately?

Yes. The reserve-now, pay-later option lets you book without paying at the time of reservation.