2-Day Northern Lights and Snaefellsnes Peninsula Adventure from Reykjavik

Exploring Iceland’s Northern Lights and Snaefellsnes Peninsula in Two Days

This 2-day adventure from Reykjavik offers an exciting combination of Iceland’s natural wonders, cultural sights, and the elusive Northern Lights. Guided by knowledgeable local experts, you’ll explore iconic landmarks like Kirkjufell Mountain and Vatnshellir Cave, with a chance (weather permitting) to witness the magical auroras. What really draws travelers in is the opportunity to experience Iceland’s rugged beauty without the hassle of planning every detail, plus overnight accommodation that allows more time to soak in the scenery.

One of the best things about this tour is its carefully curated itinerary, which balances sightseeing, culture, and relaxation. We love that it includes unique stops like the Vatnshellir lava cave and the chance to test your strength with the traditional Icelandic lifting stones at Djupalonssandur. That said, a possible downside is that the Northern Lights are always a gamble—your best chance depends heavily on weather conditions, so it’s not a guarantee.

This tour suits travelers who want a taste of Iceland’s highlights with the convenience of a guided experience. It’s perfect for those who appreciate small group settings, value authentic local insights, and are eager to explore beyond Reykjavik without the stress of self-driving. It’s especially appealing for first-timers and those eager for a mix of outdoor adventure, cultural history, and the thrill of potentially seeing the auroras illuminate the night sky.

Key Points

• Comprehensive 2-day itinerary covers major sights in West Iceland and Snaefellsnes Peninsula.
• Chance to see the Northern Lights if weather conditions cooperate, with expert guidance.
• Varied experiences include caves, waterfalls, volcanic beaches, and iconic mountain views.
• Overnight hotel stay offers a comfortable base and time to enjoy the surroundings.
• Small group format ensures personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
• Value for money considering guided tours, accommodation, and included amenities.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: Scenic Drives and Unique Stops

The tour kicks off with a pickup at Reykjavik downtown around 9:00 am, setting the stage for a day packed with Icelandic scenery. From the bustling capital, you’ll head west along the coast, where the landscape transforms into breathtaking vistas of mountains, ocean, and volcanoes.

Your first stop is Hallgrimskirkja, Iceland’s most famous church with its towering spire, offering iconic views of Reykjavik. While the visit is brief, it’s a great way to start the day with a visual anchor of the city.

Next, you’ll visit the charming fishing village of Arnarstapi. Here, you can enjoy a walk around the harbor and explore the rugged coastline, which features dramatic cliffs and sea stacks. Reviewers have highlighted how much they appreciated this stop, calling it a “fabulous” introduction to Iceland’s coastal charm.

From there, the adventure takes an underground turn with the option to visit Vatnshellir Cave inside Snæfellsjokull National Park. The cave itself, about 8,000 years old, offers a Jules Verne-like experience for those who choose to explore inside—an unforgettable journey through the lava tubes. For those not opting into the caving adventure, guides normally take you walking around the lava fields, offering insights into the volcanic landscape.

The journey continues to Hellnar, where you’ll have time for lunch (own expense). Post-lunch, you’ll visit Djupalonssandur beach, known for its black pebbles, remnants of shipwrecks, and the chance to test your strength with the traditional lifting stones used by old fishermen. This spot offers striking views and a real sense of Iceland’s seafaring history. If the weather is favorable, you might get the chance to hunt for the Northern Lights in the evening—a thrilling prospect for aurora chasers.

Your day wraps up at Kirkjufell Mountain, arguably Iceland’s most photographed peak. Its distinctive shape and scenic surroundings make it a favorite among photographers. Having seen so many iconic sights, you’ll then check into your hotel for an overnight stay, giving you plenty of time to relax and process the day’s impressions.

Day 2: Geothermal Wonders and Waterfalls

The second day begins with a visit to Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot spring. The sight of the steam rising from this geothermal marvel never fails to impress, and it underscores Iceland’s ingenious use of natural heat.

Next, you can choose to relax at Krauma geothermal baths (extra fee), which offers a perfect way to unwind among stunning natural surroundings. If you prefer not to indulge in the baths, the guide will take you exploring nearby areas, which often include scenic walks and cultural insights.

From there, the route takes you to Reykholt, a well-preserved medieval site once home to Snorri Sturluson, a famous Icelandic author. Here, history lovers get a taste of Icelandic literary and cultural roots.

The next highlight is Hraunfossar, the enchanting waterfalls where water flows out of lava fields, creating a series of gentle cascades. Nearby, Barnafoss offers a powerful reminder of nature’s force, with a tragic but fascinating legend attached. Reviewers have appreciated this stop for its stunning scenery and storytelling.

Finally, your journey back to Reykjavik includes a stop at the Gerduberg basalt columns, a striking formation that offers both a natural spectacle and excellent photo opportunities. The tour concludes with a drop-off in Reykjavik around 6:00 pm.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Guided Expertise: The tour is led by knowledgeable guides, like Sindri, who many reviewers mention as personable, informative, and enthusiastic. Their insights turn a sightseeing trip into a more meaningful experience, sharing stories about Iceland’s geology, history, and culture.

Diverse Sights: From lava caves to waterfalls, volcanic beaches, and mountains, the itinerary offers a well-rounded view of Iceland’s natural beauty. The stops are thoughtfully chosen to showcase different landscapes and geological features.

Authentic Experiences: The chance to test your strength with traditional Icelandic lifting stones or explore lava tubes makes the journey memorable. Plus, the option to unwind at Krauma Bath adds a luxurious element to the adventure.

Flexibility and Personalization: Small group sizes (max 18 travelers) mean you’re likely to get personalized attention and the opportunity to ask questions. The guide can tailor some parts of the experience based on weather and group interest.

Value for Money: Including hotel accommodation, breakfast, transportation, and the possibility of seeing the Northern Lights makes this tour quite comprehensive. The price reflects a well-organized, all-in-one Iceland experience.

Weather and Aurora Watching: The Northern Lights are notoriously unpredictable, and as many reviews note, their visibility depends heavily on weather and solar activity. The guide’s efforts to hunt for the auroras if conditions are favorable are a major plus, but travelers should keep expectations flexible.

Practical Details and Tips

Transport and Group Size: Traveling in a cozy minibus with a maximum of 18 people ensures a comfortable and intimate experience, avoiding the crowds often found on larger tours.

Timing: Starting at 9:00 am allows for a full day of sightseeing, and returning around 6:00 pm on day 2 provides ample time to reflect on your Icelandic adventure.

What to Wear: Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable—bring layered clothing, waterproof gear, and sturdy shoes. Even in summer, it’s wise to be prepared for cooler evenings and possible rain.

Additional Costs: Remember that meals, optional cave exploration, and geothermal baths are not included in the standard package. Budget extra if you want to indulge in these experiences.

Booking in Advance: The tour’s popularity means it’s recommended to book well ahead—on average, travelers reserve about 83 days in advance.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure is ideal for travelers seeking a comprehensive mini-escape into Iceland’s west, without the hassle of arranging each stop independently. It’s perfect for first-timers, couples, and small groups who value guided expertise and want a mix of outdoor adventure, cultural insights, and the chance to see the Northern Lights. If you’re looking for a comfortable overnight stay and want to explore Iceland’s iconic sights in a manageable timeframe, this tour ticks all the boxes.

It’s especially suitable if you appreciate flexibility and local knowledge, and don’t mind a bit of rain or cloud cover—since the northern lights depend so much on weather. For those who love a bit of adventure, sightseeing, and cozy hotel nights, this tour offers a fine balance of all.

FAQ

Is pickup offered from Reykjavik?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup in Reykjavik’s downtown area.

What’s included in the price?
You get transportation in a guided minibus, overnight accommodation, breakfast on day two, and the chance to hunt for the Northern Lights if conditions are right.

Can I join the Northern Lights hunt?
Yes, if the weather and aurora forecast are favorable, your guide will take you on a dedicated hunt for the lights during the night.

What optional activities are available?
You can choose to explore Vatnshellir Cave (extra fee) or relax at Krauma geothermal baths for an additional cost.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The minimum age is 8 years old, making it suitable for families with older kids.

How long are the stops at each site?
Most stops range from 30 minutes to 2 hours, providing enough time to explore without rushing.

What if the weather is bad?
While the itinerary remains the same, visibility of the Northern Lights is weather-dependent. The guide will adapt the hunt based on conditions.

How many people are in the group?
Most groups are small, with a maximum of 18 travelers, fostering a more personal experience.

Are meals included?
Breakfast at the hotel on day two is included; other meals are at your own expense.

What’s the best time of year for this tour?
While the tour runs year-round, the Northern Lights are best seen from late autumn to early spring when nights are darker.

To sum it up, this 2-day Northern Lights and Snaefellsnes Peninsula tour offers an excellent balance of Icelandic highlights, cultural experiences, and the thrill of chasing the auroras. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who want to see a variety of landscapes, learn from engaging guides, and enjoy a cozy overnight stay. With a focus on authentic sights and experiences, it’s a memorable way to dive into Iceland’s wild beauty—while keeping logistics simple and manageable.