Small-Group 4-Day Snaefellsnes, Golden Circle, & South Coast Tour with Ice Caving & Northern Lights
Description
Summary
Description
Explore the captivating landscapes of Iceland on this 4-day small-group tour, featuring unforgettable journeys through the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, Golden Circle, and South Coast, plus an ice-caving expedition and northern lights hunting. If the idea of an all-encompassing Icelandic adventure thrills you, secure your spot on this well-organized tour today.
Your journey starts from Reykjavik, where your experienced English-speaking guide awaits you. Over the next four days, you'll travel in a cozy minibus that will take you around some of Iceland's most iconic locations.
Each night, you'll stay in a room with a private bathroom in a comfortable 3-star hotel. Breakfast is provided to fuel each day's escapades.
Day one immerses you in the beauty and culture of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. Enjoy close encounters with the seals at Ytri Tunga beach and marvel at the elegant architecture of Budakirkja, the Black Church of Budir.
Wander through Arnarstapi fishing village, take in stunning views of Londrangar and its surrounding basalt cliffs, and visit the pebbled shore of Djupalonssandur beach. Cap the day off with a visit to the iconic Kirkjufell mountain and Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall.
Day two takes you to the Golden Circle's iconic geysers, majestic waterfalls, and historically significant sites. Your itinerary includes stops at the Geysir geothermal area, Gullfoss waterfall, and Thingvellir National Park. You'll also marvel at the vivid colors of the Kerid crater and visit a traditional Icelandic farm.
Day three showcases the South Coast's scenic wonders, including Seljalandsfoss, Gljufrabui, and Skogafoss waterfalls. Those visiting between October and April can experience the thrill of glacier hiking and a Blue Ice Cave tour.
If you're touring between September and March, brace yourself for a nighttime northern lights hunt, a moment that could be the highlight of your trip. Seeing the sky light up in gorgeous shades of green and purple is a unique experience you'll remember for years.
Your final day is equally captivating, featuring visits to Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon and Diamond Beach. Marvel at mesmerizing icebergs drifting on lagoon waters and ice chunks washed up on jet-black sands.
A scenic drive will take you back to Reykjavik, first stopping at the Reynisfjara black sand beach. This captivating beach features impressive basalt columns, towering sea stacks, and mighty waves.
Throughout the tour, you'll relish the personalized attention from your knowledgeable guide, the comfort of minibus travel equipped with free Wi-Fi, and the coziness of your 3-star accommodation.
Don't miss this 4-day Snaefellsnes, Golden Circle, and South Coast winter journey with ice caving, glacier hiking, and northern lights hunting. Check availability now by choosing a date.
Included
Activities
Daily itinerary
Day 1 - The Snaefellsnes Peninsula
Day one starts with an 8 a.m. departure from Reykjavik on a minibus bound for the captivating Snaefellsnes Peninsula. This striking volcanic area showcases a variety of stunning landscapes, each stop as intriguing as the last.
The day's first stop is at Ytri Tunga Beach, known for its resident seal colony. Friendly and curious, these seals often climb onto the beach's rocks, providing fantastic photo opportunities. Take a moment to appreciate the tranquil atmosphere as these marine creatures frolic in their natural habitat.
Next, you'll find yourself captivated by Budakirkja, the Black Church of Budir. Nestled amid a rugged lava field, this tiny church emanates a romantic allure. Built in 1703 and renovated in the late 20th century, it represents Iceland's rich religious history. Don't miss its historic graveyard and timeless bell and chalice, connecting you to an era long past.
Your next stop is Arnarstapi, a picturesque fishing village. Here, you can marvel at its dramatic coastal cliffs resulting from ancient volcanic activity. Stroll along the shoreline as your guide regales you with local folklore about Bardur, a figure considered half-man, half-troll, who influenced the area's history.
Transition from village life to the breathtaking Londrangar basalt cliffs. These towering 246-foot (75-meter) pinnacles are remnants of a larger crater and serve as a nesting ground for various seabirds. The cliffs offer a stunning backdrop for any keen photographer.
Venture to Djupalonssandur next, a black volcanic sand beach and historically renowned fishing grounds. Here, you can attempt to lift the traditional stones once used by fishermen to test their strength. Scattered across the shore are remnants of a 1948 British shipwreck, a sobering reminder of nature's untamed power.
Lastly, witness the iconic Kirkjufell mountain and its neighboring Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall. Popularized as the "Arrowhead Mountain" on Game of Thrones, its unique shape is a marvel of natural erosion. Multiple viewpoints offer ideal spots for capturing its majesty.
With your camera full and your spirit invigorated, you'll head to your Reykjavik accommodation, eagerly anticipating the coming days.
Day 2 - The Golden Circle
Day two of your tour sets you on a course for the iconic attractions of the Golden Circle sightseeing route. Get ready to immerse yourself in geological wonders, historical marvels, and breathtaking scenery at Iceland's most famous attractions.
Your first stop is at the Geysir geothermal area, home to a collection of colorful hot springs and erupting geysers. The most famous of these is Strokkur, a geyser that puts on a spectacular show every five minutes, ejecting water up to 115 feet (35 meters) into the air. The original Geysir, now dormant, gave its name to all geysers worldwide, making this a site of global significance.
Continuing your journey, you'll arrive at the magnificent Gullfoss waterfall, known as the "Golden Falls." Here, meltwater from Langjokull, Iceland's second-largest glacier, cascades into a deep canyon. On a sunny day, a vivid rainbow forms in the waterfall's mist, setting the stage for awe-inspiring photographs. In the distance, catch a glimpse of Langjokull glacier, adding another layer to the breathtaking scene.
Next, explore Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site of great geological and historical importance. Witness the slow drifting of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, offering an unparalleled view into Earth's dynamic forces.
As the site of Iceland's first parliament, founded in 930 AD, Thingvellir holds a unique place in the national identity. Its name, meaning "Parliament Plains," reflects its storied past.
Amidst the geological grandeur, don't miss Thingvallavatn, Iceland's largest natural lake, teeming with diverse fish and bird life.
The day also includes a trip to the striking Kerid volcanic crater, a colorful wonder further highlighting Iceland's rich geological makeup.
Your final stop is at a traditional Icelandic farm. Here, you can interact with Icelandic horses and delight in homemade ice cream, providing a sweet ending to a day of adventures.
Head to your Southwest Iceland accommodation, brimming with newfound knowledge and unforgettable memories, ready for the next day's thrilling discoveries.
Day 3 - South Coast Waterfalls and Glaciers
Day three promises an enthralling blend of waterfalls, glaciers, and, if conditions allow, a magical northern lights experience. From awe-inspiring landscapes to thrilling hikes, prepare for an unforgettable day.
Begin your day at Seljalandsfoss waterfall, where nature's beauty is fully displayed. The cascade boasts a fairytale-like setting with a path leading to a cavern behind the water. Although the trail is closed in the depths of winter, its ambiance will inspire you.
Adjacent to Seljalandsfoss is the secluded Gljufrabui waterfall, also known as the "Canyon Dweller." Reaching it is a mini-adventure because you'll need to hop across river stones to this hidden gem. A momentary loss of balance might result in wet feet, but it adds a layer of fun to your journey.
Continue east to encounter Skogafoss, another natural masterpiece. The Skoga River plunges dramatically from a 197-foot (60-meter) cliff, creating a picture-perfect scene. You can walk close to the cascade due to the relatively flat terrain at its base.
Next, engage in an exhilarating glacier hike in the Skaftafell area, part of the vast Vatnajokull, Iceland's largest glacier. Here, you'll trek across icy terrains made famous by TV shows and movies like "Game of Thrones." Depending on weather and availability, an alternative glacier, Solheimajokull, may be visited instead.
You'll also visit the Blue Ice Cave, an adventure available from October to April. Discover intricate ice formations and vividly colored ice as you venture through this winter wonderland.
If visiting between September and March, end your evening with a northern lights hunt. The clear Icelandic skies offer an ideal canvas for this celestial light show, turning an already memorable day into an absolute highlight.
With a camera roll full of spectacular sights and a heart full of adventure, retire to your accommodation in Southeast Iceland, eager for what's still to come.
Day 4 - Jokulsarlon, Diamond Beach, and Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
The grand finale of your 4-day journey across Iceland's enchanting landscapes unfolds with a deep dive into more stunning South Coast wonders. Each location you visit is a testament to the country's natural beauty.
Begin your day at the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, a tranquil body of water where icebergs calve from the Breidamerkurjokull glacier and float on the lagoon's surface. This lagoon is one of the deepest in Iceland, reaching a depth of 656 feet (200 meters).
The giant icebergs floating in the lagoon present a dynamic landscape, continually changing as they break apart and slowly melt into the surrounding water. As you explore the lagoon's perimeter, you'll have the opportunity to witness this frozen spectacle, a perfect example of nature's artistry at work.
Transitioning from the icy tranquility of Jokulsarlon, you'll head to Diamond Beach. Here, the lagoon's icebergs are swept by currents into the Atlantic Ocean, only to be washed back onto a striking black sand beach.
The contrast of the ice against the sand creates a natural mosaic of whites, blues, and blacks. The icebergs are sculpted by wind and waves into various forms, sizes, and textures, each glittering under the daylight like precious gems.
Your next stop is Reynisfjara, the world-renowned Black Sand Beach. Here, the raw power of the Atlantic Ocean collides against towering basalt cliffs and unique columnar formations.
Though the sea is too ferocious for a swim, its waves crashing against the shore make for a dramatic scene that's any photographer's dream. The jagged cliffs and cave formations offer additional elements of grandeur and provide perfect frames for your keepsake photos.
As the day's excitement peaks, you'll begin the journey back to Reykjavik. You're expected to arrive by 8 p.m., depending on weather and road conditions.
The day's diverse and vivid experiences will leave a lasting impression. You'll finish the tour with a newfound appreciation for Iceland's unbeatable natural treasures.
What to bring
Good to know
The driver will offer plenty of bathroom stops and chances for you to buy snacks on the way.
