Iceland South Coast Tour: Are Hella Caves Truly Hidden Gems?

Okay, so you’re possibly thinking of seeing Iceland’s South Coast and the Caves of Hella? You might even be wondering if they’re worth a day of your trip? Well, I recently spent the day there, and I figured I’d tell you what I discovered. I will offer up my take and help you make a somewhat good choice for your adventure.

Why the South Coast Calls to Almost Everyone

You know, it seems like almost everyone who hits Iceland wants to take off to the South Coast. Actually, it’s pretty simple: It’s chock-full of some sights you probably won’t see just anywhere. We are talking, like your seriously photogenic waterfalls (Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, anyone?), black sand beaches that give off a somewhat otherworldly feel, and then these gigantic glaciers kinda looming in the distance. I think the diversity really gets most folks; it’s almost as if every turn reveals another profile-worthy view. It really can be almost too much!

You are, naturally, planning some specific spots to visit when venturing out this way. It could very well be Reynisfjara’s basalt columns and dramatic sea stacks, possibly the Sólheimajökull glacier for some trekking, or maybe even the DC-3 plane wreckage for that perfect eerie photo. Whatever floats your boat! This portion of Iceland, it seems to me, gives a lot to see and do, and almost always seems like something really wild and beautiful is just sitting there waiting for you to wander on over.

Digging into the Hella Caves History

Now, then, Hella Caves is probably where things start to get interesting. Not very far from the little town named Hella, you could be finding yourself face-to-face with some pretty historical artificial caves. Some historians suggest these may date way back to, like, before Iceland was even Iceland as we sort of see it now – possibly even before the Viking settlements. So, yeah, pretty aged.

The caves might be tied to some old Irish monks (Papar) who could have been in Iceland long before the Norsemen. And it seems they are composed of various crosses and other symbols which add some weight to the theory. Over time, the purpose shifted; perhaps they turned into storage, dwellings, or even animal shelters. I’d also like to note that the historical importance definitely provides some level of intrigue that enhances the appeal of the tour.

What You Should Probably Expect on the Tour

If you get around to actually booking one of these tours, what should you reasonably expect? For the South Coast part, count on a fairly full day of seeing iconic sights. You will, almost certainly, be piling into a bus or a Jeep (depending on the tour) early-ish in the morning, and going off towards the south. It’s typical, too, to hit up spots such as Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss. Bring a jacket… or two. Maybe something waterproof.

Around Hella, tours tend to focus on visiting the caves themselves. Don’t imagine them to be huge, lit-up caverns. These ones feel more narrow, something along the lines of intimate, with this deeply rooted old feel. I reckon the tour guides tend to do a fairly bang-up job walking you through the historical viewpoints, plus some possible folklore.

My Take On Visiting South Coast’s Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

Seljalandsfoss is possibly among Iceland’s greatest hits. Truly. This strikingly grand waterfall has this pathway that will let you walk right behind it. Yep, you may get a bit damp. Actually, really wet. But who honestly cares? Getting behind that curtain of water provides this just amazing view, and getting those unique shots? Like, the sort that actually make your friends a bit jealous. On a sunny day, too, you get what seems like near constant rainbows which turns out to be pretty darn magical.

Heads up: Because this waterfall tends to be fairly popular, anticipate that you won’t just have the place to yourself. You’re almost assuredly better off visiting it somewhat early or maybe later in the afternoon for slightly fewer peeps. Put on your sturdy footwear. The path does tend to get sort of slippery, you know? But that experience of peeking out from behind the falls? Oh yeah, well worth a stop. Actually worth getting soaked!

Skógafoss Waterfall: It’s More Than A Photo Op

Not too super far off from Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss is what I’d call this massively powerful waterfall and it’s just jaw-dropping. I can say without hyperbole that Skógafoss will simply slam water down, which seems appropriate seeing that it is one of the biggest waterfalls in Iceland, with a drop of some 60 meters or so and it measures maybe 25 meters in width. You can walk really pretty much right up close, but be aware… you may get sprayed (or drenched, even), too!

If you are truly feeling adventurous (and in decent shape), I would really recommend you go ahead and climb the staircase near the waterfall’s right side. Is it a lot of stairs? Well yes. You’ll more than likely complain as you drag yourself upwards. What’s at the top? Only one really great panoramic viewpoint, and an available trail that leads right above the Skógafoss towards some of Iceland’s really amazing highlands. This gives some hiking opportunities. Seriously take a look at it. The climb up gives some perspective, it really does.

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach: Respect Nature

Next, there’s Reynisfjara: quite likely, no matter where you go, you are likely to see no other beach similar. With its inky black sands, very dramatic basalt columns, and towering sea stacks named Reynisdrangar sticking out from the ocean? The locale provides an ambiance which can only be termed ‘dramatic.’ But honestly, as beautiful and amazing as it could be, there seems to be a real need to watch out. A bit like a hawk. The Atlantic waves here actually have little chill, plus the beach is famous for “sneaker waves,” those big rogue waves which really love sneaking up on folks.

So pay really close attention to any warning signs, for sure, and always always keep a bit of distance away from the surf. I’m saying this a bit bluntly, I know. Admiring nature? Of course. Always. Getting this amazing photo? Absolutely! Turning your back on this roiling ocean? Never. Not even to check that selfie! Heed those warnings! The ocean there has little to almost zero patience, actually. Better to, you know, live so you can post some photos up.

What I Think about the Caves of Hella?

Alright, that whole ‘hidden gem’ question with the Caves of Hella? Here’s what I came up with after seeing the tours: If you are massively keen on Iceland’s super rich past and crave hearing about the possibility that Irish monks may have been there ages before the Vikings arrived, well then you will find the history really quite intriguing. But keep the anticipation realistic. We are not talking crystal-filled halls and spacious chambers here.

They’re more humble-ish, like, you understand, these man-made structures with whispers from former years. They are thought of as, actually, somewhat an addition to what might otherwise tend to be a somewhat standard South Coast visit, which gives some extra layers of local lore.

Who Probably Wouldn’t Enjoy the Tour?

It’s possibly a good idea to know who just may want to sit this one out. Should you actually be after seeing some super-grand landscapes or wanting adrenaline-packed experiences every second, well, this trip could prove only so-so. Also, people sensitive to fairly small spaces might want think about their tolerance for the caves. What is good for certain kinds of tourist turns out to be, probably, completely wrong for another.

Some Practical Tips for Making the Most of the Day

Thinking about getting the most out of it? Of course you are! Layer your stuff, given the very moody Icelandic weather! Carry on wearing sturdy shoes, especially when you wander about volcanic rock spots or possibly exploring the falls! Book stuff well ahead of time, I’m saying especially through the high season. Moreover, actually consider purchasing among those waterproof cases to protect whatever tech gear you take along. Because, more often than not, getting unexpectedly sprinkled happens quickly.

The Pricing: What You should Possibly Plan To Spend

Let’s talk about how much this kinda trip might affect your wallet. Seeing as tour prices will obviously depend on things, like your group sizes and all the extras that they provide, count on a range of somewhere near $150 to $300 for that day outing. This should, I think, generally take care of transport, tour guides, and possibly entry fees towards any of those chosen destinations. Do your homework on this and check about what is covered in advance so no big surprises show themselves!

Some Key Takeaways for You

• The South Coast Is Breathtaking: Absolutely do this; iconic sites are located only a short ride from Reykjavik.
• Caves of Hella Are Historic: Not massively spectacular necessarily, still somewhat cool in order to learn stuff.
• Book Early: Reserve seats especially through peak months.
• Keep Safety a Priority: Give mother nature respect and maintain yourself away from hazardous waves.
• Layer the clothing: I will say again… that Iceland weather changes on a dime!