2-Day Northern Lights and Snaefellsnes Peninsula Adventure from Reykjavik

Exploring Iceland’s Arctic Beauty: A 2-Day Northern Lights and Snaefellsnes Tour Review

If you’re dreaming of seeing the Northern Lights while exploring one of Iceland’s most breathtaking regions, this 2-day guided adventure offers a compelling option. Based on various traveler reviews and detailed itineraries, it promises a well-rounded experience filled with scenic vistas, natural wonders, and the chance to chase the elusive aurora borealis—weather permitting, of course.

What we love about this tour? First, it combines the allure of Iceland’s iconic landscapes with the thrill of a Northern Lights hunt. Second, the itinerary is packed with diverse stops, from lava caves to waterfalls, ensuring you get a taste of Iceland’s natural diversity. Third, the small group size and knowledgeable guides promise a more personal, insightful adventure.

A key consideration? The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, so their visibility depends heavily on weather conditions. Travelers should be prepared for the possibility of cloudy skies or unfavorable conditions, which could mean missing out on the lights despite a good forecast.

This tour is best suited for those looking for a balance of adventure, comfort, and authentic sightseeing. It appeals to travelers who enjoy structured yet flexible excursions, and who appreciate the value of an overnight in Iceland’s stunning west coast.

Key Points

• Comprehensive 2-day exploration of Iceland’s Snaefellsnes Peninsula and surrounding highlights.
• Opportunity to see the Northern Lights, depending on weather conditions.
• Small group size (max 18 participants), fostering a more personalized experience.
• Includes hotel stay and breakfast, adding convenience and value.
• Diverse stops from lava caves to waterfalls and iconic mountains.
• Guided by knowledgeable locals, enhancing understanding of Icelandic culture and nature.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This adventure from Reykjavik packs a lot into just two days, making it an efficient choice for travelers short on time but eager to see Iceland’s best. The journey starts with a scenic drive along the west coast, capturing Iceland’s rugged coastlines and striking landscapes. The small group size, capped at 18, means you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and the guides, like Sindri, are praised for their knowledge and personable style.

The real highlight—and what many reviewers mention—is the potential to witness the Northern Lights. While no one can guarantee a sighting due to weather, your guide will actively hunt for them if conditions look promising. This adds a sense of anticipation and excitement to the trip, especially on clear, cold nights.

The itinerary balances iconic sights with unique experiences. You’ll explore the quaint fishing village of Arnarstapi, walk around the volcanic landscape, and perhaps venture into Vatnshellir Cave, an 8,000-year-old lava tunnel. The cave exploration is optional and incurs an extra fee, but even if you skip it, the guide will ensure you don’t miss out on the area’s impressive scenery.

The stops at Djupalonssandur and Kirkjufell mountain are perfect for photography and soaking in Iceland’s dramatic natural beauty. Many reviewers have raved about the views at Kirkjufell, describing it as a “photo paradise.” The journey also includes a visit to the famous Deildartunguhver hot spring, Europe’s most powerful, and relaxing options like Krauma geothermal baths (extra fee), which many find to be a perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring.

In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: From Reykjavik to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula

The adventure kicks off with a pickup in Reykjavik around 9:00 am, setting the tone for a day filled with scenic drives and stunning stops. Your first stop is the iconic Hallgrimskirkja, but since this is a quick stop, most travelers will appreciate the brief but impressive view of the city’s skyline.

Next, your route takes you to Arnarstapi, a charming fishing village with rugged coastlines and unusual rock formations. Here, you’ll have about two hours to walk around and take photos, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere and the impressive cliffs. Many travelers mention how this area feels untouched, providing a real sense of Iceland’s wild beauty.

From Arnarstapi, you can opt for a visit into Vatnshellir Cave—an 8,000-year-old lava tube. If you decide to go underground, prepare for a small fee, but this experience can be likened to stepping into a science fiction story, with natural tunnels carved by volcanic activity. If caving isn’t your thing, your guide will happily walk you around the area, ensuring you still get a good feel for the volcanic landscape.

Lunch in Hellnar is an opportunity to try local cuisine (though many bring their own snacks or plan for an independent meal), before heading to Djupalonssandur beach. This pebble-strewn coast is striking—shipwreck remains add a storybook feel, and testing the traditional lifting stones offers a fun insight into Icelandic fishing culture. Many reviews mention how peaceful and photogenic this spot is.

In the evening, if the weather looks suitable, your guide will take you out to hunt for the Northern Lights. The chance of seeing them depends on clear skies, but many guests report that the effort was well worth it—some even mention having their breath literally taken away by the sight.

Finally, you’ll settle into your hotel accommodation for the night, located conveniently on the peninsula, allowing for an early start the next day.

Day 2: From natural springs to waterfalls

Your morning begins with a visit to Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot spring. The sight of steam rising from the bubbling water is mesmerizing, and many travelers enjoy seeing how this natural resource heats nearby towns. Following this, there’s an optional visit to Krauma, a set of geothermal baths where you can relax and soak—an especially popular choice after a chilly night or long day.

Next, you’ll head to Reykholt, a site rich in history—home to medieval writer Snorri Sturluson and a key location in Iceland’s cultural landscape. The guide’s stories about the area add depth to the visit, making it more than just a pretty stop.

From there, the tour takes you to Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls, waterfalls that flow from lava fields and offer spectacular views. Many reviews highlight how hearing about the waterfalls’ formation and seeing their unique flow makes the experience more meaningful.

The final stop before heading back to Reykjavik is the Gerduberg basalt columns, a geological marvel of perfectly aligned hexagonal stones that look like nature’s architecture. It’s an ideal spot for last-minute photos and marveling at the natural artistry of volcanic activity.

The journey wraps up around 6:00 pm back at Reykjavik, offering a rewarding conclusion to two days filled with natural wonders.

The Real Value of This Tour

When evaluating the USD price of around $540, it’s important to consider what’s included. The tour covers transportation, guided insights, hotel stay, and breakfast—elements that save you both money and hassle. The small group size adds to the experience, allowing for more personalized interaction with guides, who are praised for their knowledge and friendliness.

The optional extras, such as Vatnshellir cave exploration and Krauma baths, let you customize your experience, though they come at an extra cost. Many travelers appreciate the flexibility, especially for those who want to relax in geothermal waters or avoid additional fees if they prefer.

The emphasis on authentic Icelandic sights, combined with the chance to see the Northern Lights, makes this a well-rounded package. The stops are carefully curated to showcase Iceland’s geological and cultural diversity, providing a comprehensive snapshot of the country’s key features in just two days.

While the likelihood of seeing the Northern Lights depends on weather, the effort to hunt for them adds a sense of adventure that many find worthwhile. Guides are experienced in maximizing chances, and the itinerary’s timing enables evening aurora searches when conditions look promising.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This adventure is superb for travelers wanting a packed yet manageable experience of Iceland’s western highlights. It’s ideal if you’re short on time but don’t want to miss the essence of the region, including the potential Northern Lights. Nature lovers who enjoy waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, and geothermal wonders will find plenty to love.

Those who value small group tours and guided expertise** will benefit from the personalized attention and local insights. It’s suitable for families (with a minimum age of 8), couples, or solo travelers seeking a blend of sightseeing and relaxing experiences.

However, if your main goal is guaranteed Aurora viewing, be aware that weather conditions can affect the likelihood. While the guide will do their best, the natural unpredictability means it’s not a guaranteed sighting.

Practical FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately two days, with pickup at 9:00 am and returning around 6:00 pm on the second day.

Are accommodations included?
Yes, the tour includes overnight lodging at a hotel on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, along with breakfast on day two.

Can I join if I don’t want to do Vatnshellir cave?
Yes, if you prefer not to enter the lava cave, your guide will take you walking around the area instead, and the cave exploration remains optional for an extra fee.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the minimum age is 8 years, making it accessible for families with kids who enjoy outdoor adventures.

What if I want a solo room?
You can select the “Single room option” when booking to ensure your own private space.

Will I see the Northern Lights?
The tour offers the chance to see the Northern Lights if weather conditions are favorable, but sightings are not guaranteed due to their natural unpredictability.

To sum it up, this 2-day Northern Lights and Snaefellsnes adventure offers a balanced mix of Icelandic natural beauty, local culture, and comfort. It’s perfect for travelers who want a guided, small-group experience with opportunities for authentic sights, relaxation, and—if luck is on your side—the chance to witness the spectacular Aurora Borealis. Whether you’re a landscape enthusiast or a curious explorer, this trip provides a memorable glimpse into Iceland’s wild, volcanic heart.