Snaefellsnes Peninsula and South Iceland – 5 Days

Highlights

• Explore the dramatic Snæfellsnes Peninsula, walking around the charming fishing village of Arnarstapi, descending into the ancient Vatnshellir lava tube cave (optional) — an 8,000-year-old passage that inspired Jules Verne's Journey to the Center of the Earth — and strolling the rugged pebble shore of Djúpalónssandur beach, where the remains of a shipwreck and legendary lifting stones await
• Photograph the iconic Mount Kirkjufell — one of Iceland's most striking and photographed mountains — rising dramatically from the peninsula landscape
• Discover the natural and historic treasures of West Iceland: stand beside Deildartunguhver, Europe's most powerful hot spring, explore the medieval site of Reykholt, and witness the magical waterfalls Hraunfossar — where streams emerge directly from beneath a lava field — and Barnafoss, the legendary Children's Waterfall
• Journey the famous Golden Circle, visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site Þingvellir National Park — birthplace of the world's oldest parliament — the erupting Strokkur geyser in Haukadalur Valley, and the awe-inspiring Gullfoss waterfall plunging into its canyon
• Travel Iceland's legendary South Coast, walking behind the curtain of Seljalandsfoss, marvelling at the towering Skógafoss waterfall fed by the Eyjafjallajökull glacier, and experiencing the raw power of the Atlantic at the dramatic Reynisfjara black sand beach — with its basalt sea stacks and hidden cave
• Enter a breathtaking crystal ice cave inside Vatnajökull — Europe's largest glacier — guided by certified glacier experts through tunnels of vivid blue ice, and visit the world-famous Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where icebergs of all shapes and sizes drift through calm waters alongside curious seals
• Strap on crampons for a guided glacier hike on Vatnajökull's outlet glaciers and explore the stunning Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon — a winding gorge of sculpted rock rising high above a clear glacial river — on the final day back to Reykjavík
• Experience multiple opportunities to witness the magical Northern Lights, with ideal viewing conditions on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, near Vík on the South Coast, and in the remote darkness of the Skaftafell area

Snæfellsnes Peninsula and South Iceland – 5 Days Itinerary

1. 1

   Day 1

   Snæfellsnes Peninsula – Arnarstapi, Kirkjufell, Djúpalónssandur

   You will meet at the designated meeting point in Reykjavík in the morning. From there, we drive westward along the coastline of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.

   Our first stop is the small fishing village of Arnarstapi, where we take a walk around the surrounding area.

   Next, we head underground, where you have the option to enter Vatnshellir Cave (for an additional fee), located within Snæfellsnes National Park. This cave is an approximately 8,000-year-old lava tube. The experience brings you as close as possible to the world described in Jules Verne's A Journey to the Center of the Earth. If you choose not to join the cave tour, the guide will take you on a walk in the area instead.

   We then stop at Hellnar for lunch before continuing to the beautiful Djúpalónssandur beach. Here, we take a short walk along the pebble-covered shore and explore the remains of a shipwreck. You may also come across the historic lifting stones, once used by fishermen to test their strength.

   From Djúpalónssandur, we continue our journey around the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, with our next stop at the famous Mount Kirkjufell, a favourite location for photographers.

   Afterward, we head to our hotel. If conditions are favorable, we may have the chance to see the Northern Lights.

2. 2

   Day 2

   West Iceland – Deildartunguhver, Reykholt, Hraunfossar & Barnafoss

   After breakfast, we set off along Iceland's scenic west coast toward the Vesturland region.

   Our first stop is Deildartunguhver, the most powerful hot spring in Europe. It produces 180 liters per second of water at 100°C and supplies hot water for heating in the surrounding towns.

   We then visit the historic site of Reykholt, where a pool from the medieval period has been preserved.

   Our third stop of the day is at the waterfalls Hraunfossar and Barnafoss. Here, you can observe water streaming out from beneath the lava fields and learn the story behind Barnafoss.

   Afterward, we leave Borgarfjörður and continue toward the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. On the way, we stop at the distinctive Gerðuberg basalt columns before arriving at our accommodation for the night.

3. 3

   Day 3

   The Golden Circle & South Coast – Geysir, Gullfoss, Þingvellir, Skógafoss, Reynisfjara

   Our journey along the south coast begins with the famous Golden Circle. The first stop is Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was here, in the year 930, that Icelanders established their first parliament, making it the oldest continuously operating parliament in the world. Þingvellir is both geologically remarkable and historically significant. It lies at the meeting point of the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates, where the visible rift shows how the land has gradually shifted over time. The area is also home to Lake Þingvallavatn, Iceland's largest natural lake, and is dotted with distinctive birch shrubs typical of the region.

   We then continue to the geothermal area of Haukadalur Valley. Although the famous hot spring Geysir — the source of the word "geyser" — is currently inactive, Strokkur more than makes up for it. This active geyser erupts every 5–8 minutes, shooting water up to 25 meters into the air. You'll have time to explore the area at your own pace, walking among a variety of bubbling springs and geothermal features.

   The final stop on the Golden Circle is Gullfoss, known as the "Golden Waterfall." It is Iceland's most visited waterfall, and it's easy to understand why. The powerful cascade plunges dramatically into a canyon, creating a breathtaking and unforgettable sight. From there, we travel through the fertile farmlands of southern Iceland toward Ring Road No. 1. Along the way, you'll enjoy scenic views, including Mt. Hekla on clear days.

   Next, we visit Seljalandsfoss, a unique waterfall that allows you to walk behind it and experience it from both sides. Another must-see is Skógafoss, fed by water from the Eyjafjallajökull glacier. This striking waterfall drops 60 meters into the tranquil Skogar River. Its beauty can easily hold your attention, but be sure to return to the bus on time — there's still more to discover.

   Our final stop of the day is the black sand beach of Reynisfjara. Here, the power of the Atlantic Ocean is on full display, so it's important to follow your guide's safety instructions. Just offshore, the towering basalt sea stacks known as Reynisdrangar rise from the water, adding a dramatic and mythical atmosphere that reflects Icelandic folklore. Before leaving, be sure to visit the nearby basalt column cave.

   We end the day with an overnight stay at a countryside hotel just outside the small coastal town of Vík, where — if conditions are favorable — you may have the chance to see the Northern Lights.

4. 4

   Day 4

   Ice Caving & Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon – Vatnajökull, Skaftafell

   Starting from our accommodation, we travel eastward through striking lava fields and sandy glacial deserts, where contrasting landscapes create a truly captivating scene. The highlight of the day is a glacier excursion featuring a crystal ice cave in Vatnajökull, along with a visit to the stunning Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon.

   After a detailed safety briefing and getting properly equipped, we enter the crystal ice cave. You'll have around 45 minutes to explore the remarkable blue ice and take photos. Throughout the visit, certified glacier guides will accompany you, ensuring your safety at all times.

   Each winter, new ice caves naturally form, and their condition depends on temperatures staying below freezing to preserve their beauty. The vivid blue color of the ice occurs when air is compressed out, making the ice completely solid and dense.

   This tour allows for some flexibility, as Iceland's weather is highly unpredictable. To provide the best possible experience, your guide will determine the optimal timing for the cave visit, which may be scheduled for day three if conditions are more favorable. Since temperatures inside the glacier are well below freezing, it's important to dress appropriately.

   Following the ice cave experience, we continue to the glacier lagoon, Jökulsárlón. The lagoon, along with the nearby beach scattered with icebergs of various sizes and shapes, creates an almost surreal atmosphere in the soft afternoon light. Seals are sometimes visible in the lagoon as well.

   At the end of this glacier-filled day, we travel to a hotel in the Skaftafell area for an overnight stay. In the evening, we'll also watch for the Northern Lights, as the dark, remote surroundings provide excellent conditions for spotting the aurora.

5. 5

   Day 5

   Glacier Walk & the South Shore – Fjaðrárgljúfur & Return to Reykjavík

   After breakfast, we set out once more toward the glacier. Vatnajökull Glacier is the largest glacier in Europe, with numerous outlet glaciers that are ideal for hiking. Our expert glacier guides will choose the most suitable one for the group. No special fitness level is required, but participants should be able to walk for at least an hour to fully enjoy the experience. After the hike, we return to Reykjavík.

   During the day, we will also have the opportunity to visit the stunning Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon, along with revisiting some of the highlights from day three on our way back to Reykjavík. Additional stops may be included depending on weather and road conditions, as winter travel is always subject to nature's forces. Arrival in Reykjavík is expected between 4:00 PM and 7:00 PM, depending on conditions.

   Please note that the 5-day tour is a combination of two separate tours, with accommodation in Reykjavík in between.

   Ice caves are natural formations that change constantly and are therefore unpredictable. We will visit one ice cave during the tour, selected based on current safety and environmental conditions. The itinerary may also be adjusted accordingly, and in some cases, the glacier hike and ice cave visit may take place together, depending on accessibility at the time.

What's Included

Not Included

• International flights
• Travel insurance
• Pre & post tour accommodation
• Optional experiences
• Any item, product or service not specifically listed under Included

Additional Information

• You will receive an e-ticket for this tour.
• Pick-up is from the designated meeting point in Reykjavík.
• This 5-day tour is a combination of two separate tours, with accommodation in Reykjavík in between.
• The Vatnshellir Cave visit on Day 1 is optional and requires an additional fee. If you choose not to join, the guide will take you on a walk in the surrounding area instead.
• Ice caves are natural formations that change constantly and are unpredictable. One ice cave will be visited during the tour, selected based on current safety and environmental conditions. The itinerary may be adjusted accordingly; in some cases, the glacier hike and ice cave visit may take place together depending on accessibility.
• The guide will determine the optimal timing for the ice cave visit, which may be scheduled for Day 3 if conditions are more favorable.
• Northern Lights sightings may be possible on multiple nights; your guide will assist in finding suitable viewing spots.
• No special fitness level is required for the glacier hike, but participants should be able to walk for at least one hour.
• Additional stops on Day 5 may be included depending on weather and road conditions.
• Arrival back in Reykjavík on Day 5 is expected between 4:00 PM and 7:00 PM, depending on conditions.
• What to bring — clothing: Warm outdoor clothing, waterproof jacket and pants, and headwear and gloves are essential.
• What to bring — footwear: Good hiking boots are required.
• Tour reference code: 348208

Dates & Availability

Frequently Asked Questions