Small-Group 4-Day Snaefellsnes, Golden Circle, & South Coast Summer Tour with Glacier Hiking
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an awe-inspiring 4-day summer journey through Iceland's most treasured landscapes, including the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, the Golden Circle, and the South Coast. If you're keen to delve deep into Iceland's natural wonders during the warmer months, don't hesitate to book this comprehensive summer tour now.
Over four action-packed days, you'll traverse Iceland's stunning landscapes in a comfortable minibus with free Wi-Fi for your convenience. Every evening, you'll retreat to a 3-star or 4-star hotel where a room with a private bathroom awaits you. A hearty breakfast sets the stage for the day's adventures each morning.
Your exploration commences in Reykjavik at 8 a.m., where a friendly, English-speaking guide will greet you.
On day one, be prepared for the outstanding diversity of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. From its thriving seal colonies at Ytri Tunga Beach to the quaint Black Church of Budir, the day is a feast for the senses.
Exploring the charming Arnarstapi fishing village offers insights into Iceland's folk tales, while the striking Londrangar basalt cliffs and the iconic Kirkjufell mountain provide once-in-a-lifetime photography opportunities.
Day two brings you to Iceland's globally renowned Golden Circle for a day full of nature's marvels. See the Strokkur geyser bursting skyward, the cascading might of Gullfoss waterfall, and the geologically astounding Thingvellir National Park. The colorful Kerid Crater and a traditional Icelandic farm visit, where you'll interact with horses and taste homemade ice cream, complete your day.
Day three immerses you in the South Coast's striking beauty. You'll walk the pathway encircling Seljalandsfoss waterfall, hop over stones to reach the secluded Gljufrabui waterfall, and climb the staircase next to Skogafoss for a panoramic view. Witness summer unveiling its magic as native blooms add vibrant hues to the landscape.
Experience the thrill of a glacier hike in the renowned Skaftafell region, a section of the expansive Vatnajokull, Iceland's most massive glacier. During this invigorating trek, you'll traverse icy landscapes that have served as breathtaking backdrops for famous TV series and films, including "Game of Thrones." Based on weather conditions and accessibility, your group might explore Solheimajokull, another majestic glacier, as an alternative.
On your final day, you'll witness the dreamlike scenery of Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach, all the more captivating in the daylight of the Icelandic summer. From there, visiting the Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach gives you a view of the Dyrholaey cliffs in the distance, a summer haven for bird enthusiasts.
Expect to return to Reykjavik by 8 p.m., your heart full of unforgettable experiences and your camera teeming with magnificent photos.
This all-encompassing 4-day tour of Iceland's summer gems offers a sublime blend of adventure and natural beauty. Check availability now by choosing a date.
Included
Activities
Daily itinerary
Day 1 - Snaefellsnes Peninsula
Starting with an 8 a.m. departure from Reykjavik, you'll spend your first day on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. This scenic volcanic area is a canvas of varying landscapes, making each stop exciting.
Your journey begins at Ytri Tunga Beach, a haven for local seals. These playful creatures are often spotted basking on the rocks, offering excellent photography opportunities. You can also soak up the serene atmosphere as the seals frolic in their natural setting.
From there, visit Budakirkja, the Black Church of Budir. Set against a backdrop of rugged lava terrain, the church emanates an old-world charm. Built in 1703 and later restored, it serves as a token of Iceland's religious heritage.
Next, head to Arnarstapi, a quaint fishing village with jagged coastal cliffs formed from prehistoric volcanic activity. As you stroll along the coastline, your guide will share tales of Bardur, a mythical half-troll, half-man who is said to have influenced the region's history.
Then, your group will head to the Londrangar basalt cliffs, home to various nesting seabirds. These 246-foot (75-meter) tall cliffs are visually striking, so ensure your camera is ready to capture the moment.
Next, you'll visit Djupalonssandur beach, famed for its dark volcanic sand. At Djupalonssandur, you'll have the opportunity to try lifting the ancient stones that local fishermen once used to gauge their strength. The beach is also a silent guardian to relics of a 1948 British shipwreck, offering a solemn testament to the sea's untamed might.
Kirkjufell mountain is the day's final stop. This uniquely shaped peak gained popularity as the "Arrowhead Mountain" in Game of Thrones. Capturing Kirkjufell and its foreground waterfall, Kirkjufellsfoss makes for extraordinary photos.
Feeling exhilarated, you'll retire for the night in Reykjavik, looking forward to the adventures that await.
Day 2 - The Golden Circle
Your second day will immerse you in the iconic landmarks of the Golden Circle sightseeing route. Prepare for an unparalleled blend of geological phenomena, history, and extraordinary vistas. From erupting geysers to majestic waterfalls and tectonic rift valleys, this famous loop comprehensively introduces you to Iceland's unique landscapes.
You'll first visit the Geysir geothermal area, a playground of colorful springs and active geysers. The most famed of these is Strokkur, erupting roughly every five minutes and projecting water up to 115 feet (35 meters) high.
Next, you'll witness the Gullfoss waterfall, often called the "Golden Falls." The melted water of Langjokull, Iceland's second-largest glacier, forms this breathtaking cascade. On sunny days, a vivid rainbow often adds a touch of magic to the scene.
Your journey continues at Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, you'll observe the gradual drift between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates, providing a unique glimpse into the earth's geology. The park also stands as the site of Iceland's first parliament, making it a cornerstone of the country's history.
You'll also visit the Kerid volcanic crater today, a geological marvel. Here, you'll be captivated by the vivid hues of its deep blue lake contrasted against the striking red volcanic rock. This natural wonder is an estimated 3,000 years old and offers an unparalleled window into the geological forces shaping Iceland's unique landscape.
Wrap up the day at a traditional Icelandic farm. Here, you'll interact with Icelandic horses and savor homemade ice cream. This authentic farm experience provides a delightful finale to a day of exploration, allowing you to connect with Iceland's rural culture and culinary traditions.
Your day concludes at a comfortable hotel in Southwest Iceland, where you'll eagerly anticipate the next day's escapades.
Day 3 - South Coast Waterfalls and Glaciers
Start your day with a nutritious breakfast, fueling you for a full day of exploring the South Coast's incredible offerings.
Your first stop will be Seljalandsfoss waterfall, an exquisite cascade that reveals its true splendor in summer. A pathway encircles the waterfall, allowing you to experience this natural wonder from behind and capture extraordinary photographs.
Adjacent to Seljalandsfoss, you'll discover Gljufrabui, the "Canyon Dweller." To get up close, you'll carefully tread over river stones, making the eventual view of this hidden waterfall all the more rewarding. The summer season ensures you'll witness Gljufrabui in full glory, cascading through the rocks into a secluded cavern.
Next up is the powerful Skogafoss waterfall. A staircase beside this natural marvel offers the chance for you to enjoy an overhead view of the waterfall and its lush surroundings.
You can also walk close to Skogafoss at its base because the terrain is relatively flat. Getting up close allows full appreciation of it's beauty and power.
From there, you'll prepare for an exciting glacier hike in the famed Skaftafell region, part of the extensive Vatnajokull glacier. Depending on weather conditions, an alternative glacier, Solheimajokull, might become the day's icy playground.
An expert guide will equip you with all the necessary gear, including crampons, a helmet, and an ice axe. Following a brief safety tutorial, you'll venture onto the glacier, treading across an icy wonderland.
The sheer scale and stunning blue hues of the ice will take your breath away. As you navigate crevices and admire ice formations, you'll also recognize landscapes featured in popular media like "Game of Thrones."
After fully immersing yourself in Iceland's varied landscapes, you'll retire for the night at a cozy hotel in Southeast Iceland. Your heart will be full of adventure, and you'll eagerly await the final day of your Icelandic summer journey.
Day 4 - Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, Diamond Beach, and Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
After a wholesome breakfast, prepare for the tour's grand finale, a day filled with Southeast Iceland's most spectacular sights.
Your first destination is the mesmerizing Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon. Here, you'll embark on a boat tour that takes you up close and personal with colossal icebergs that have broken off from the surrounding glaciers.
The floating ice forms a surreal landscape, with shades of blue and white set against the lagoon's deep, dark waters. The boat tour offers an intimate look at these frozen giants, giving you unparalleled photo opportunities.
Next, you'll visit the nearby Diamond Beach. This unique shoreline is where icebergs from the lagoon meet the Atlantic Ocean and are swept back onto the black sands. The ice formations come in various shapes and sizes, each glittering like a diamond under the summer sunlight. It's a surreal spectacle that never ceases to amaze.
Your final stop of the day is the iconic Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach. Known for its towering basalt columns, powerful waves, and panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, Reynisfjara is a dramatic highlight on your itinerary.
The Dyrholaey cliffs are visible in the distance from Reynisfjara, a sanctuary for nesting birds during summer. The area is a haven for nature lovers and photographers alike, offering endless opportunities to capture the untamed beauty of Iceland's coastline.
As the day's adventure peaks, you'll start the journey back to Reykjavik, relishing the vivid memories and incredible photos that fill your camera. Expect to arrive in Reykjavik by 8 p.m., where you can rest and reflect on your unforgettable 4-day exploration of Iceland's summer landscapes.
Your journey has covered the country's top attractions and spanned glaciers, lagoons, waterfalls, and stunning coastlines. As you lay your head down, you'll no doubt start dreaming of your next Icelandic adventure, forever captivated by the natural wonders you've witnessed.
What to bring
Good to know
The driver will offer plenty of bathroom stops and chances for you to buy snacks on the way.
