11-09-2024
Sólheimasandur and its iconic plane wreck offer a unique glimpse into Iceland's raw, untamed beauty. Whether you're captivated by the haunting allure of the abandoned aircraft or the otherworldly black sand landscape, a visit to this incredible site promises an unforgettable experience.
Let’s learn more about the spectacular Sólheimasandur black sand beach and the famous plane wreck that lies on its shores in our complete travel guide, including where exactly Sólheimasandur is, how to get there, top travel tips, what to bring and important safety information. Here we go!
Sólheimasandur is a vast expanse of black sand on Iceland's South Coast, formed by glacial floods and volcanic activity. This otherworldly landscape stretches between the Atlantic Ocean and the majestic Mýrdalsjökull glacier, with the most famous feature of Sólheimasandur being the haunting wreckage of a US Navy DC-3 plane, which can be found lying upon the black sand.
The black sand that characterises Sólheimasandur originates from the Katla volcano, one of Iceland’s most powerful volcanoes, which lies beneath the Mýrdalsjökull glacier. Over centuries, Katla's eruptions have deposited layers of volcanic ash, basalt rock and lava, which have been ground down by glacial activity and flooding to create the striking black sand beach we see today.
Glacial floods, caused by subglacial volcanic eruptions, have played a crucial role in shaping the landscape. These powerful floods carry massive amounts of sediment and debris from beneath the ice cap, depositing it across the coastal plain. The resulting terrain is often compared to lunar or Martian landscapes, offering visitors a truly otherworldly experience.
Striking black sand contrasting with the white foam of the Atlantic waves and the eerie plane wreck creates a visually striking environment at Sólheimasandur that has captured the imagination of artists, photographers, filmmakers and travelers alike.
On November 21, 1973, a US Navy Douglas Super DC-3 aircraft was caught in a severe storm while flying from Höfn to Keflavík to deliver crucial supplies. The plane encountered mechanical difficulties and icy conditions, forcing the crew to make an emergency landing on Sólheimasandur's black sand beach.
The exact cause of the crash remains somewhat unclear, with various accounts attributing it to fuel exhaustion, mechanical failure, thruster error or a combination of factors. The most widely accepted theory suggests that the pilot accidentally switched to the wrong fuel tank, leading to fuel starvation during the storm.
Miraculously, all crew members survived the crash landing. After the incident, the US military salvaged usable parts from the wreckage, but left the fuselage on the beach. Over the decades, the abandoned plane has been weathered by the harsh Icelandic elements, gradually transforming into the eerie plane skeleton that now lies upon the beach with no wings, only half a tail and almost the entire interior stripped for parts.
As Sólheimasandur is a glacial outwash plain, the floodwater could someday wash the plane wreckage away. However, the iconic plane on Sólheimasandur has remained in place at the crash site for over 50 years so far, becoming a famous relic that draws thousands of visitors each year.
Sólheimasandur is located approximately 164 kilometers (101 miles) southeast of Reykjavík, making it an ideal day trip destination from the capital. To reach the plane wreck site, follow Route 1 (the main Ring Road in Iceland) towards the town of Vik. Just before you reach Vik, Reynisfjara Beach and Dyrholaey Beach, you’ll come to the black sand desert that is Sólheimasandur.
If you’re approaching Sólheimasandur from the coastal village of Vik to the south, you’ll need to drive for around 20 minutes in a westerly direction.
The parking lot for the Sólheimasandur plane wreck is situated between Skogafoss waterfall and the village of Vík. Look for a small gravel parking area on the south side of the Ring Road, across from a glacier view point.
When you reach Sólheimasandur black sand beach, you’ll need to walk across the sand to see the DC-3 plane wreck, or take a shuttle bus to the site (more on this later). The GPS coordinates for the plane wreck are 63°27'32.9"N 19°21'53.3"W. It's crucial to note that driving on the beach yourself is strictly prohibited.
Hiking from the parking lot to the plane wreck at Sólheimasandur is an approximately 3.5 kilometer (2.2 mile) trip each way. On average, it takes about 45-60 minutes to reach the wreck site, depending on your walking pace and the weather conditions.
The trail is relatively flat, following a straight path across the black sand desert. While the hike is not technically challenging, the exposed nature of the landscape means that weather can significantly impact the experience. Strong winds, rain or fog can make the journey more difficult and disorienting.
The best time to visit Sólheimasandur is during the Icelandic summer (May to August) when daylight hours are longer and weather conditions are generally milder. However, the site can be visited year-round, with each season offering a unique perspective on the landscape.
Just make sure to be prepared, well-equipped and only attempt the journey if weather conditions and forecasts are favorable. Tourists have unfortunately died at Sólheimasandur due to extreme exposure to the elements.
Weather conditions can change dramatically and rapidly, and snow, ice and fog can cover the landscape, making it impossible to see in which direction you're heading. This is why it’s imperative to follow any warning signs and prepare adequately.
Safety should be your top priority when visiting Sólheimasandur; it's advisable to inform someone of your plans and expected return time before you set out. In case of emergency, Iceland's emergency number is 112. Be aware that cell phone reception can be spotty in the area, so it's wise to have a backup plan for communication. Take a look at Safe Travel Iceland for more safety tips and information.
As with all of Iceland's natural wonders, approach Sólheimasandur with respect, preparation and a sense of adventure, and you'll be rewarded with memories to last a lifetime.
When preparing for your visit to Sólheimasandur, it's essential to dress appropriately and bring the right gear. Here’s a list of the things you’ll need to have a safe and enjoyable trip to Sólheimasandur:
Both the black sand beach and plane wreck at Sólheimasandur create amazing opportunities for stunning photographs of the surrounding, otherworldly landscape. To capture the best shots, here are some top photography tips:
Remember to respect the site and other visitors. Avoid climbing on or entering the plane wreck, as this can be dangerous.
Sólheimasandur's location on Iceland's South Coast makes it an excellent base for exploring other iconic attractions, including:
You might like to combine a trip to Sólheimasandur with some or all of these attractions for an epic full day of South Coast exploration.
While many visitors opt for renting a car in Iceland and taking a self-guided hike to the plane wreck, there are several guided tour and shuttle options available, too:
Each option has its pros and cons. Self-guided visits offer more flexibility and a sense of adventure, while guided tours and shuttles provide convenience and additional information about Sólheimasandur and the plane wreck site. Why not explore the options to see which one’s right for you?
Facilities at Sólheimasandur are limited, reflecting the remote and unspoiled nature of the area. There are no restrooms, shops or visitor centers at the plane wreck or the parking area. The nearest facilities are in the village of Vík. Here are some top local tips for visitors to Sólheimasandur:
What about accommodation and food for your visit to Sólheimasandur? Well, there are several options a short car ride away. Here’s a selection to explore:
The nearest town with a range of accommodation options is Vik, offering everything from campsites to hotels. Alternatively, the area around Skogar (near Skogafoss waterfall) also has several guesthouses and hotels. Some hotel options to consider are:
While there are no dining options at Sólheimasandur itself, the towns of Vik and Skogar offer several restaurants and cafes, including:
Renting a car is the most flexible way to explore the South Coast, including Sólheimasandur. Many tour operators also offer day trips from Reykjavik that include a visit to the plane wreck site along with other South Coast attractions, such as this 4x4 Iceland South Coast Private Excursion and this South Coast & DC-3 Plane Wreck Black Beach ATV Adventure.
When planning your visit, consider the time of year and daylight hours. In summer, the extended daylight allows for late evening visits, while winter visits require careful timing due to limited daylight.
Ready to visit Iceland for yourself? Take a look through our selection of rental cars in Iceland to find the ideal car for your own journey around the island, perfect for discovering icy glaciers, fiery volcanoes, cascading waterfalls, steaming geothermal pools and otherworldly black sand beaches from one end of Iceland to the other. We look forward to welcoming you to Iceland very soon!