• Obrázky:
  • obrázek: , Název: Diving in Silfra, Iceland, Popis: Diving in Silfra, Thingvellir National Park, Iceland, Geolokace: Silfra, Iceland

SILFRA ICELAND TOURS

Have you ever been diving between two continents? Do you want to go inside one of the most crystal clear waters of the world? Join one of the diving or snorkeling tours in Iceland and you will discover one of the best dive sites in the world. The Silfra Iceland tours take place in Silfra canyon, where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates divided, a truly special place located in Thingvellir, a national park that is a UNESCO heritage and is part of the Golden Circle of Iceland.

from Silfra

from Silfra

from Reykjavík

from Reykjavík

from Reykjavík

What is Silfra and where is it?

Silfra is a freshwater fissure formed by the divergent movement of the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates. It was created in 1789 and is located within Thingvellir National Park, approximately one hour by car from Reykjavík in the area known as Iceland’s Golden Circle. The fissure is spring-fed by groundwater originating as meltwater from Langjökull, Iceland’s second-largest glacier, about 50 km north of Þingvallavatn Lake. This water is highly filtered, exceptionally clear, extremely pure, and drinkable. With visibility exceeding 100 meters underwater, Silfra is considered one of the best diving and snorkeling locations in the world. Its position between tectonic plates means the fissure is constantly changing, forming new caverns and tunnels over time.

What is Thingvellir National Park and the Golden Circle?

Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2004, is one of Iceland’s most important natural and historical areas. It was the site of the first Icelandic Althing parliament in 930 AD, and visitors can clearly see the divide between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates. The park is part of the Golden Circle, a popular circular route that starts in Reykjavík and includes other iconic sites such as Gullfoss waterfall and the Geysir geothermal area. Thingvellir has also been a filming location for series like Game of Thrones.

What activities can you do at Silfra?

Silfra is renowned for diving and snorkeling, offering an unforgettable experience swimming between two continents. Beyond water activities, the Golden Circle attractions are all nearby: Gullfoss waterfall, Geysir geothermal area, and Thingvellir National Park with its hiking trails. This means group members who prefer not to dive can explore the park on foot while others dive or snorkel. Being only an hour from Reykjavík, you can combine Silfra with other activities, including a visit to a geothermal pool like Fontana or the Secret Lagoon.

Requirements for joining a Silfra tour

• Diving tours: A dry suit diving certificate or a minimum of 10 recorded dry suit dives in the last two years is required. Beginners can take a 2-day diving course to qualify.

• Snorkeling tours: Physically fit, able to swim, and comfortable in water. A dry suit will be worn, which can feel tight and restrictive.

• General: Must understand English for safety instructions. Age, weight, and height restrictions vary by tour; check individual tour details.

Departure points for Silfra tours

Tours may depart from Reykjavík or directly from Silfra in Thingvellir National Park. For tours starting at Silfra, you need a car to reach the park (approx. 1 hour from Reykjavík). The meeting point is usually at the Silfra car park (“Thingvellir Parking P5” on Google Maps), followed by a short 400-meter walk to the guide and dive vans.

---

What is included in a Silfra tour and what to bring?

• Included: Full snorkeling or diving equipment, dry suits, and an expert English-speaking guide. Optional extras may include professional tour photos or souvenirs.

• To bring: Long underwear, thick socks, weather-appropriate clothing, and contact lenses if needed. Always wear trekking gear in Iceland: waterproof pants, sturdy shoes, gloves, light hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and water.

Guided experience

All tours are guided by professional English-speaking dive guides. Groups are kept small to ensure safety and a quality experience. Advance booking is strongly recommended, as tours sell out quickly

When to go

Silfra tours run year-round. No matter when you visit Iceland, you can dive or snorkel in this unique fissure and enjoy the stunning underwater landscapes between two continents.

Why Silfra is special

Silfra is not only a diving and snorkeling paradise but also a natural wonder with crystal-clear freshwater, unique geological formations, and incredible visibility. Even non-divers will enjoy the surrounding national park, hiking trails, and nearby Golden Circle attractions. The cold water (2–4°C year-round) ensures a pristine experience, and dry suits keep all visitors warm and comfortable.

• Obrázky:
  • obrázek: , Název: Ice cave in Iceland, Popis: Ice cave under Katla volcano tour in Iceland, Geolokace: Katla, Iceland

            ICE CAVE TOURS IN ICELAND

Don't stay on the surface, enter one of the many amazing ice caves in Iceland. The colours of the bright ice and the interior of the glacier will blow your mind. You can choose between the incredible ice caves at Vatnajökull glacier, the ice cave under Katla volcano or the ice tunnel at  Langjökull, among others. 

From Reykjavík

From Reykjavík

From Jökulsárlón

from Skaftafell

from Vík

from Húsafell

from Reykjavík

from Langjökull

2 days

What is an ice cave and how is it formed?

The ice caves are caves that are formed inside the ice of a glacier. Although the correct name would be "glacier caves" as ice caves can be found somewhere else, all the people who come to Iceland know them simply as ice caves and that's why we name them like this.  The water, which often comes from the glacier's surface due to the melting ice, enters the ice through a glacier mill and leaves the glacier's snout downward. The heat transfer from the water causes enough melting to create a cavity inside the ice filled with air. Afterwards, the movement of the air causes the expansion of the caves. Another reason these ice caves or glacier caves are formed is the geothermal heat from hot springs under the ice or volcanic vents. Many of the ice caves that are visited can be relatively unstable, so it is recommended to take precautions and it is only possible to visit them on guided tours accompanied by expert guides. The instability is due to meteorological conditions, temperature change and the glacier constant glacier movement. That's why the ice caves can appear and disappear each year and most of them are only possible to see during the winter months, from November to March.

 

What are the colour of the ice caves in Iceland?

You have probably already seen the pictures of the amazing blue colour of the ice caves in Iceland. These pictures were taken from the cave named as "Crystal Ice Cave" and the brilliant blue colours are a result of the compression of snow into ice. The ice is so thick, dense and old that it absorbs all colours of the spectrum except the blue, so that's the colour we see. But the glaciers are in continuous movement, every year different caves are formed and although the guides look for the best ones it is possible that the colour of the cave you are entering may look a bit different. The colour is normally mixed with the colors of the cave itself, which can be gray, black, brown. Therefore you can see many different colours in an ice cave and they are all great. Each cave has one-of-a-kind features and can have different size or colour.   

How many ice caves are in Iceland and in which glaciers can I find them?

It is not possible to know how many ice caves are in Iceland (more than 10% of the Iceland is covered by ice) but here is the list of the main glaciers in Iceland where you can enter an ice cave (remember that you need to book a guided tour in advance as the ice caves in Iceland are dangerous to visit on your own):  

Vatnajökull glacier and the Crystal ice cave: Of course, the largest glacier in Europe is also the favourite one when it's come to ice caves. Most ice caves tours depart from Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon or Skaftafell national park, both at Vatnajökull area. The most famous tour is the ice cave tour at Vatnajökull, known also as the Crystal Blue Ice Cave tour, which departs from Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon and usually goes for the most spectacular cave at the glacier. On the other hand, the ice caves that are seen from Skaftafell National Park are normally combined with glacier hikes. It is more accurate to name these ice caves ice coves or glacier caves. They are formed by the glacier river that runs through the glacier in the summer. For this reason, these ice caves can only be found in the winter when the water has frozen. If you are planning to enter an ice cave at Vatnajökull glacier you have to book a tour in advance. Click on the pictures above, choose your favourite and remember that is only possible to visit between November and March, if the weather allows it.

Mýrdalsjökull glacier and the ice cave under the volcano: Mýrdalsjökull glacier is the fourth largest glacier in Icelandl and is located in South Coast Iceland, so it is accesible from Reykjavík in a one-day tour. In the Kötlujökull Glacier tongue it is hidden the famous Katla ice cave, named after Katla volcano. This ice cave under the volcano has traces of past eruptions and the colour here is less brilliant, with blue and black ice walls dotted with bubbles. There are two great advantage to this ice cave, one is that is possible to book a tour from Reykjavík and the other one is that it is possible to enter this ice cave throughout the whole year. So if you come during summer months, this is definitely your best option. 

Langjökull glacier and the ice tunnel: In the second largest glacier in Iceland it is possible to enter the world's largest man-made ice tunnel. There are actually two main activities that can be done on Langjökull Glacier: a snowmobile tour and a guided tour in the ice tunnel. On the ice tunnel tour you will first go in a specially modified vehicle to be able to cross the glacier. In addition, you can combine both activities, snowmobiles and the visit to the ice tunnel to explore the entire glacier in the best possible way.  Although this is not a natural glacier ice cave, it is really impressive, there is no age limit and it is possible to see it throughout the entire year. For those who are more interested in natural ice caves, some of them have recently appear in this glacier and tours are offered combined with snowmobile ride. The ceiling of the cave is reminiscent of a bright blue river surrounded by white ice, which turns a very unusual gray due to layers of ash from various volcanic eruptions. Both tours are also available with departure from Reykjavík.

What can I do in the glacier in Iceland apart from an ice cave tour?

To make the most of the day you can combined the ice cave tour with different activities, such us a snowmobile tour, a hiking tour on the glacier or the boat tour on Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon. It will depend on the ice cave tour you are taking, the availability and your travel plans. There are already some combined tours offered like the "Glacier Hike and Ice Cave" at Vatnajökull glacier or the "Snowmobiles and Ice cave" at Langjökull glacier but you can also book different tours for the same day as long as the schedules fit. If you have any question, we are here to organize the best trip to Iceland!

Can I visit the ice caves in Iceland staying in Reykjavík? 
Yes, from Reykjavík there is a day tour to the ice cave under the volcano (at Mýrdalsjökull glacier in South Iceland), to the ice tunnel at Langjökull glacier or with snowmobile and to the ice cave (also at Langjökull). If you want to visit the ice caves at Vatnajökull, you need at least two days from Reykjavík. If you are travelling on your own you can book the tours from Skaftafell or Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon. If you are staying in Reykjavík we recommend you to book the fabulous 2 days South Coast tour, which includes the visit to the ice cave and one night in South Coast Iceland.

What is included in an ice cave tour in Iceland?  
The ice cave tours in Iceland always include an English speaking expert guide and the transfers from the pick up point to the ice cave, sometimes in Super Jeeps or even in special modified vehicles to be able to cross the glacier. All the necessary equipment to enter the ice caves is also provided. Remember that Iceland is always quite cold and the glacier brings colder temperatures, so please be sure to pack and dress accordingly. This includes waterproof and windproof jackets, pants and boots, with several layers underneath too, as well as hats, mittens, gloves, scarves, sunglasses and cameras. 

When can I visit an ice cave in Iceland? 
Ice cave tours at Vatnajökull Glacier are only available between November and March. The ice cave under Katla volcano at Mýrdalsjökull glacier runs the whole year as well as the tours on Langjökull glacier. Check the reservation panel to see the dates and choose the one that fits you more. The ice caves in Iceland are a once in a lifetime experience.

Ice cave tours are a popular and unique way to explore Iceland's stunning natural beauty during the winter months. Iceland is home to several glaciers, and as the ice shifts and melts, it creates stunning ice caves that visitors can explore.

Here are some things to know about ice cave tours in Iceland:

1. When to Go: Ice cave tours are typically offered from November to March, when the temperatures are cold enough for the ice to form and the caves are stable enough to explore. However, the exact timing can vary depending on weather conditions and other factors.

2. Tour Options: There are several companies that offer ice cave tours in Iceland, and they typically depart from Reykjavik or nearby towns. Tours can range from short, easy hikes to longer, more challenging treks, and can include transportation, equipment, and a guide.

3. Safety Precautions: Ice cave tours can be physically demanding, and visitors should be prepared for cold and wet conditions. It's important to wear warm, waterproof clothing and sturdy shoes, and to follow the instructions of the guide at all times.

4. Unique Experience: Ice caves are a unique and stunning natural phenomenon, and exploring them is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Visitors can marvel at the blue and white colors of the ice, and learn about the geology and history of the glaciers from their knowledgeable guide.

5. Sustainability: It's important to choose a tour operator that prioritizes sustainability and environmental responsibility when exploring the ice caves. Visitors should respect the fragile environment of the caves and pack out any trash or waste.

Overall, ice cave tours in Iceland are a must-see for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With the right gear and a sense of adventure, visitors can explore the beauty and wonder of Iceland's glaciers in a truly unforgettable way.

Pictures from the Ice cave tours in Iceland:

• Obrázky:
  • obrázek: , Název: Skogafoss waterfall , Popis: Skógafoss waterfall, South Coast Iceland, Geolokace: Skogafoss, Iceland

            SOUTH COAST ICELAND

Waterfalls, black sand beaches, glaciers, volcanoes, glacier lagoons... what more could you ask for? The South Coast of Iceland is probably the most stunning area in Iceland and you can explore it in many different ways. Have you ever imagined yourself walking on a glacier, entering an ice cave under the volcano or going on a speed boat between the icebergs? Check all the awesome places you will find in South Coast Iceland and all the things you can do in the area. It doesn't matter if you come to Iceland for 4 days or two weeks, the South Coast Iceland is a must-see in your travels in Iceland.

From Reykjavík

From Reykjavík

From Reykjavík

from South Coast

From Reykjavík

From Reykjavík

From Vatnajökull

Jökulsárlón

from Skaftafell

from Jökulsárlón

from Jökulsárlón

from Skaftafell

from Fjallrsárlón

from Vík

Kirkjubaejarklaustur

2 days

3 days

3 days

What is the South Coast of Iceland?

The southern coast of Iceland encompasses the entire area from Hveragerdi (a town in the southwest of Iceland) to Skaftafell National Park with the Vatnajökull glacier and the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, in the southeast. The South Coast of Iceland is simply put pure nature with the best Iceland has to offer: glaciers, waterfalls, volcanoes, black sand beaches, glacier lagoons. Some of the most known nature attractions are located in this area, such us Skógafoss waterfall, Vatnajökull glacier, Reynisfjara beach, Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon and many more. It is therefore an excellent place for outdoor adventures and it is easily accessible from Reykjavík.      

How can I explore the South Coast of Iceland?

You can rent a car and explore the South Coast of Iceland on your own (the most well-known places are located near the Ring Road, the main road of Iceland which circumnavigates the island) or you can join one of our tours. Of course, if you book an organized multi-day trip to Iceland you will visit the main attractions of the South Coast too! No matter the option you choose, you will absolutely enjoy it. If you traveling on your own by car or motorhome, you should also check our tours as you can book different activities such us trekking on the glacier or discovering an ice cave, which you can't do on your own.   

Which places can I see in the South Coast of Iceland?

These are the amazing places you will find in the South Coast of Iceland: 

Seljalandsfoss and Gljúfrabúi waterfalls: Seljalandsfoss is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Iceland and you will be able to go behind the curtain of water! When parking, you will have a perfect view of the waterfall from afar. Within a few minutes of walking you can begin to see its beauty and size (about 60 meters high). Also, just a 10-minute walk away there is the Gljúfrabúi waterfall, known as the "hidden waterfall", as you will have to pass through a narrow opening in the cliff and carefully walk along a small river to get there. It's worth it!

Skógafoss Waterfall: One of the most impressive waterfalls in Iceland with more than 60 meters. Feel free to climb the stairs on the right to enjoy the views from the top of the cliff. Parking is free and the waterfall is very easy to find as it is located on the main road (the Ring Road) in southern Iceland, just half an hour from Seljalandsfoss.

Lava Center: Interactive, high-tech exhibition depicting volcanic activity, earthquakes and the creation of Iceland over millions of years in an entertaining and engaging way. Admission to the museum includes a film with everything you could want to know about volcanic eruptions in Iceland. It is the best way to start your South Coast Tour and to understand the magnitude of the amazing things you are seeing in Iceland.

Sólheimajökull Glacier: The glacier located between Katla and Eyjafjallajökull volcanoes is part of the Mýrdalsjökull glacier. This glacier is easy accesible and ideal for activities such as snowmobile tours or hiking on the glacier.

Dyrhólaey Cliffs:  The puffins favorite place, these friendly birds with red beaks usually nest here in the summer months. In addition, you will be able to see a powerful stone arch that protrudes from the sea.

Reynisfjara Beach: Famous black sand beach voted as one of the 10 most beautiful beaches in the world where incredible basalt columns stand out and will leave you in awe, in addition to the troll-shaped rock formations that protrude from the Atlantic Ocean. The waves here have an impressive force so you must take care to walk carefully on the sand and not go near the sea.

Vík: A charming town in the south where you can walk along its black beach, visit the church, eat and recharge your batteries. It is a popular place to spend the night during the visit to South Coast Iceland. From here you an also take the tour to the Ice Cave under the Volcano.

Kirkjubaejarklaustur: Town of only about 160 inhabitants, the only place between Vík and Höfn where you can find a gas station, bank, supermarket and post office. In addition, it is the place from where some excursions leave to places located more inland and for which you needa vehicle with 4x4 if you want to go on your own, such as the Laki craters and the Fjadrargljufur canyon.

Skaftafell National Park: It is the second largest national park in Iceland and is located at the foot of the great Vatnajokull glacier. The biggest attraction in Skaftafell Park is the Svartifoss waterfall. Known as "the black waterfall", it is framed between hexagonal basalt columns. In addition, Skaftafell has the highest mountain in Iceland, Hvannadalshnúkur, which stands out for its contrasts and the richness of its landscapes. In addition, from Skaftafell the famous trekking excursions on the Vatnajökull glacier depart.

Vatnajökull Glacier: The largest glacier in Europe is located in the southeast of Iceland and occupies about 8,000 km2, 8% of the total area of ​​Iceland. The glacier is located on a chain of volcanoes that are close to 2000 meters high, such as Grímsvötn or Bárðarbunga. To go on a glacier hike you need to book a guided excursion. The Vatnajökull Glacier is also famous for its glacial lagoons and for the ice caves that are formed every year and that can be visited between November and March.

Fjallsarlon Glacier Lagoon: The Fjallsárlón Glacier Lagoon is located at the southern end of the Vatnajökull Glacier. Thanks to its smaller size, it is less crowded than the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon but no less spectacular. It occupies about 4 square kilometers, the highlight being the powerful glacier at its back, where we can see the Öræfajökull volcano; and, of course, the icebergs that drift above it. Its beauty has nothing to envy of the Jökulsárlón lagoon, being the favorite place of many people who opt for greater tranquility without giving up spectacular views.

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon: The Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is located at the southern end of the Vatnajökull Glacier, between Skaftafell National Park and the city of Höfn. The beauty of the lagoon is unmatched since it is possible to observe the floating icebergs that are detached from the Vatnajökull glacier, forming a unique landscape. In 1975 the lagoon grew to 18 km2 and today it has a maximum depth of about 160 meters, which makes it one of the deepest lakes in Iceland. Its surface is at sea level, therefore, at high tide, the sea water enters the lagoon. For many it is the number 1 attraction in Iceland.

Diamond Beach: Connected to the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon is the “Diamond Beach”. It is a volcanic black sand beach whose name comes precisely from the icebergs of the Jökulsárlón lagoon. As these large blocks of ice over 1,000 years old make their way through the great lagoon, the first to reach the sand and enjoy their last moments before entering the Atlantic Ocean, come ashore on the black, lava sand and shine and glimmer in the sand, creating a dazzling image.

Höfn: Closest fishing village to the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon and the Vatnajökull glacier. It has hotels, campsites, restaurants, shops, swimming pools, golf courses, trekking trails and several museums, such as the maritime museum, two visitor centers of the national park and the center of the great writer Þórbergur Þórðarson.

What activities can I do in the South Coast?

The most famous activities in the South Coast are those related to the glacier: trekking on the glacier, entering an ice cave, snowmobile on the glacier, boat in the glacier lagoon or exploring the glacier with Super Jeep. You can also travel black sand beach of Sólheimasandur at full speed on an ATV in search of the abandoned plane, visit some interesting museums such us Lava Center or Skógafoss folk museum or explore the highlands of Iceland. Check out all our tours and the meeting points and choose your favorite ones! Do you have any trouble arranging your trip and activities? Contact us!

What kind of tours can I join to see South Coast Iceland?
There are two different types of tours that we offer in our web. On the one hand, there are the activities we offer for those who travel by car on their own and want to experiment an incredible adventure such us trekking on the glacier. The meeting point for these activities are directly at the respective location. On the other hand, we offer different tours for those who are staying in Reykjavík and want to explore the South Coast and return back. You have the option to book a one-day tour, two-days tour or multi-day trip to explore the South Coast. Check out what is included in every tour that we offer and different excursions so everyone can find the one that bests suits them.

How many days do I need to explore the South Coast?  
The more, the better! First, you have to think about the activities you want to do in the South Coast and the attractions you want to see. If you are travelling on your own around the South Coast of Iceland, we recommend to spend at least 2 or 3 days in the whole area so you can explore the area until Vík in one day and the whole Skaftafell area with Vatnajökull and Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon the other day. If you are planning to join one of our tours, we recommend the South Coast of Iceland in 2 days as it covers the main attractions and you will reach Jökulsárlón glacier Lagoon and even visit an ice cave. But if your time in Iceland is limited, take at least a one-day South Coast classic tour and you will be amazed by the impressive waterfalls and the incredible landscape.

Where should I stay in the South Coast of Iceland? 
If you are travelling on your own around the South Coast you have different options where to stay. First of all, you can check Hveragerdi as the starting point of your trip, then you can stay in Vík, a nice village with a black sand beach. You can also find accommodation at Kirkjubaejarklaustur, between Vík and Skaftafell National Park, or directly at Höfn, the closest fishing village to the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon.

When should I visit the South Coast of Iceland?
You can visit the South Coast of Iceland the whole year. Our tours from Reykjavík are running almost everyday! If you come in winter and you are lucky, you will have the chance to see the Northern Lights at night, also you will be able to book a tour to the Ice Cave at Vatnajökull. If you come in summer, you will enjoy all the daylight hours and you will see the puffins, our favorite birds. Any time is good to come to the South Coast as well as to Iceland.

 

The South Coast of Iceland is one of the most popular and scenic areas of the country, known for its dramatic landscapes and natural wonders. The region stretches from the outskirts of Reykjavik to the small coastal village of Vik, approximately 180 km to the southeast.

Some of the highlights of the South Coast include:

1. Waterfalls: The South Coast is home to several impressive waterfalls, including Seljalandsfoss, Skogafoss, and the lesser-known Gljufrafoss. Visitors can walk behind Seljalandsfoss for a unique perspective, and climb up the stairs next to Skogafoss for an aerial view.

2. Black Sand Beaches: The beaches along the South Coast are known for their black sand and dramatic rock formations. The most famous of these is Reynisfjara Beach, near the village of Vik, which is surrounded by towering basalt columns and sea stacks.

3. Glacier Lagoons: Two glacier lagoons, Jokulsarlon and Fjallsarlon, are located along the South Coast. These stunning bodies of water are filled with icebergs that have broken off from nearby glaciers, and visitors can take boat tours to get up close to the ice.

4. Hiking: The South Coast offers a variety of hiking opportunities, including the popular Fimmvorduhals trail that leads from Skogar to Thorsmork. There are also several shorter hikes in the area, such as the walk to the top of the Eldfell volcano on the Westman Islands.

Overall, the South Coast of Iceland is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the country. With its breathtaking natural wonders and opportunities for adventure, it's no wonder that it's one of Iceland's most popular tourist regions.

Pictures from the South Coast tours in Iceland:

• Obrázky:
  • obrázek: , Název: Northern Lights in Snaefellsnes Peninsula, Popis: Northern Lights ar Kirkjufell mountain in Snaefellsnes Peninsula, Geolokace: Snaefellsnes, Iceland

            SNAEFELLSNES PENINSULA TOURS IN ICELAND

Located in the west of Iceland, with Breiðafjörður fjord at the north and Faxaflói at the south, the Snaefellsnes Peninsula is one of the most beautiful places in Iceland thanks to its natural marvels. Snaefellsnes is known as "Iceland in miniature" as here you will discover many of the typical Icelandic landscapes and natural sites. In fact the diversity here is remarkable: lava fields, glaciers and iconic mountains, charming fishing villages, caves, beaches and much more. Come to the place where Jules Verne located the Centre of the Earth in his famous novel and discover the amazing places of the Snaefellsjökull National Park and the whole Snaefellsnes.

from Reykjavík

Snaefellsnes

from Reykjavík

from Reykjavík

from Reykjavík

Snaefellsnes

Grundarfjördur

from Ólafsvik

What is the Snaefellsnes Peninsula and where is it?

Snaefellsnes Peninsula is located in West Iceland; the closest point from Reykjavík is about 2 hours by car, which makes it great for a full one-day tour from the capital. Snaefellsjökull volcano and glacier is the best known place in the area thanks to Jules Verne's book "Travel to the center of the Earth" as it was precisely here where the characters entered to the center of the Earth. It is also said that it is is surrounded by a unique energy field and it has fascinated people from all around the world. The area of the glacier and volcano Snaefellsjökull has been designed as one of the four National Parks of Iceland and includes breathtaking places such as Djupalonssandur beach, Lóndrangar cliffs and Vatnshellir cave. In fact, Snaefellsnes Peninsula is known as "Iceland in miniature" due to the diversity here (lava fields, cliffs, beaches, fishing villages, mountains, caves...). Therefore, it is an excellent place for sightseeing and here you will find the most characteristic landscapes of Iceland.      

How can I explore the Snaefellsnes Peninsula?

If you are planning to travel around Iceland on your own with a rental car, it is a good idea to spend at least 2 days in the area, which means you will need more than a week to do the classical tour around the island. 8 or 9 days around Iceland is ideal to include Snaefellsnes. You can see it at the end of your trip coming from the North or at the beginning departing from the capital.  If you are staying in Reykjavík, you can join one of our day tours to visit the Peninsula. These tours are going daily during the whole year and you will be able to discover the most important places on the Snafellsnes Peninsula. Any option you choose, don't miss the chance to see one of the most interesting areas in Iceland.   

What are the best places to see in Snafellsnes?

Snaefellsnes Peninsula is full of amazing places but here is our list of our favourite sites that you cannot miss while you are travelling around this famous peninsula in Iceland:  

Ytri Tunga beach:  Come to the golden sand beach of Ytri Tunga and see the seals that are frequently playing around on the coast. The best time to see them is in the summer months but it is possible throughout the year. We recommend being respectful, not making noise or getting too close so as not to scare them.

Budir: The church in Búdir was rebuilt in 1987. It has a historic cemetery and relics such as a bell and chalice from when it was first built in 1703. Its black paint and isolated location attract tourists, who can walk through the lava fields and go down to the coast, admiring landscapes that seem otherworldly.

Arnarstapi: A must see on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. The sea breaks with force in front of Arnarstapi cliffs giving us an incredible picture of the strength of the nature. In the area you will also see summer cabins on the lava fields and two important monuments, one in homage to Jules Verne and another, in the shape of a troll, representing Bárður, the guardian spirit of the region.

Hellnar: The coastal walk links the cliffs of Arnarstapi and Hellnar. If the weather is good, it is without a doubt the route to follow until you reach the town of Hellnar, with a great fishing tradition in ancient times. Here you can find one of the most peculiar caves in Iceland, Badstofa, known for its special exposure to light and its colorful interior. Hellnar is also an ideal place to rest, as we can find a small hotel with a lovely café.

Vatnshellir: Vatnshellir Lava Cave is about 8000 years old and is located in the south of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. It was created by the volcanic eruption of a nearby crater and is accessible by guided tours.

Djúpalón beach: The black sand beach of Djúpalónssandur is one of our favourite places on the Snaefellsnes peninsula. The landscape here will for sure impress you. You can walk through its rock formations and discover the remains of the English trawler Eding, which was wrecked here in 1948 and which adds an even more surreal touch to the landscape. A series of rocks emerge from the ocean along the coast as you walk to the black sand beach of Dritvíka.

Snaefellsjökull glacier: The glacier and volcano Snaefellsjökull is not only known among Icelanders for being the place where Jules Verne's characters entered "the center of the Earth". The peninsula is one of the main settings of the Laxdœla saga and was, according to this saga, the birthplace of the first member of the Varangian Guard, Bolli Bollasson. For many people, both Icelanders and all over the world, this volcano is one of the world's energy centers and has a mystical power that is difficult to explain in words. The whole area of the glacier and its surroundings has been designed as one of the national parks in Iceland.

Kirkjufell mountain: This Snaefellsnes symbol is one of the most photographed places in Iceland and appears in series such as "Game of Thrones". But the ascent to this mountain can be very dangerous so it is better to enjoy the incredible views from the Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall and take a break in the fishing village of Grundarfjordur, from where you can also go on whale watching tours.

Grundarfoss: One of the largest waterfalls on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. The hike to the waterfall is a bit rocky and takes about 15 minutes to get there. Without a doubt, it is worth visiting and even climbing to the top. The water here falls down in front of a huge basalt wall.

Stykkishólmur: Coming from the north of Iceland, the first stop on the Snaefellsnes peninsula can be the town Styhhishólumur, with its beautiful views of the small islands that are nearby. In 2008 he received a planning award for the renovation of old houses. In addition, it has been the pioneer in environmental awareness in Iceland and in the city center you can visit three unique museums: the Volcano museum, the Water Library and the Norwegian House. The view from the church over Breidarfjordur is really nice.

What activities can I do in the Snafellsnes Peninsula?

If you are coming on your own to Iceland, there are plenty of activities to do in the Snaefellsnes Peninsula apart form sightseeing. For example you can book the guided tour inside Vatnshellir cave (it is not everyday we have the opportunity to enter an authentic lava cave!) or a whale watching tour at the fishing villages of Holmávik, Ólafsvík or Grundarfjordur, depending on the season.  If you are really adventurous, you can also try the trekking on Snaefellsjökull glaicer (climbing to the top of the Snaefellsjökull glacier is only suitable for the most experienced ones). And of course, if you are coming in winter and stay in the area, let's hope you are lucky with the weather and spend the nights hunting the magic Northern Lights.  

What kind of tours can I join to see the Snaefellsnes Peninsula?
From Reykjavík there are two different tours that you can book to see the Snaefellsnes Peninsula in one day (see all the details clicking on each tour above). Both Snaefellsnes Peninsula tours are guided in English and include the most important places in Snaefellsnes Peninsula but with one of them you will also have the chance to enter Vatnshellir cave. If you want even a better experience try the Snaefellsnes Peninsula private tour. This tour visits the best locations and ends with a whiskey tasting at the one and only Icelandic whiskey distillery before going back to Reykjavík.

How many days do I need to explore the Snaefellsnes Peninsula on my own?  
As we always say, the more, the better! But if you are not planning any special activity, two days are enough to see all the attractions in Snaefellsnes Peninsula. Spend at least one night in the area or you will regret it as you will have no time to see all these amazing places if you spend the previous and the following night somewhere else. Also take into account the season you are travelling to Iceland and the daylight hours you will have each day. 

Where should I stay in the Snaefellsnes Peninsula? 
There are great places to stay both at the North or at the South of Snaefellsnes Peninsula. Some of the accommodations are located in the middle of the nature in idyllic landscapes, other ones are in some of the nicest towns in the area such as Hellnar or Stykkishólmur. You have to book it in advance as the places are often full during summer.

When should I visit the Snaefellsnes Peninsula?
You can get to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula during the whole year but of course during winter the weather can be hard sometimes so the access to Snaefellsnes can get difficult or even impossible. Normally, if the weather allows, the tours from Reykjavík are running almost everyday. But if you come in summer, you will have more daylight hours and more chances to see animals like seals or puffins.

 

The Snaefellsnes Peninsula is a scenic and diverse area located in western Iceland, approximately two hours from Reykjavik. The peninsula is known for its stunning landscapes, which include volcanic mountains, black sand beaches, glaciers, and fishing villages.

One of the most iconic landmarks on the peninsula is Snaefellsjokull, a glacier-capped volcano that is believed to be one of the earth's spiritual centers. The glacier served as the inspiration for Jules Verne's "Journey to the Center of the Earth." Visitors can hike to the summit of the glacier or explore the surrounding national park.

Other popular attractions on the peninsula include the Kirkjufell mountain, often referred to as "the most photographed mountain in Iceland," the picturesque fishing village of Arnarstapi, and the black sand beach at Djupalonssandur.

The Snaefellsnes Peninsula is also known for its wildlife, including seals, whales, and a variety of bird species. Visitors can take boat tours to explore the coastal waters or hike along the many trails in the area.

Pictures from the SNAEFELLSNES PENINSULA TOURS in Iceland: