Arnarstapi is a small fishing village on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula that punches well above its weight in scenic beauty and unique experiences. This rugged stretch of coast is famous for dramatic cliffs, basalt columns, and the chance to see some of Iceland’s most iconic landscapes. What makes Arnarstapi especially appealing for tours is how accessible and varied the experiences are—from high-adrenaline adventures like buggy rides to relaxed, private explorations. We especially like the Snæfellsjökull: Buggy Tour with Guide for those craving a taste of off-road excitement or the Private Snæfellsnes Peninsula tour for travelers who want a tailored day with a local guide.
If you want to see Iceland’s powerful volcanoes and glaciers or enjoy a whale-watching cruise, the options linked below will give you a good feel for what this region has to offer. Whether you’re interested in quick day trips or more comprehensive private tours, Arnarstapi is a fantastic base for exploring Iceland’s dramatic west.
1. Snæfellsjökull: Buggy Tour with Guide
The Buggy Tour with Guide around the Snæfellsjökull glacier is a standout for those who love a bit of thrill with their sightseeing. For about $230 per person, this 2.5-hour adventure gives you the chance to drive a sturdy off-road buggy through Iceland’s volcanic landscape. The tour takes you across black lava fields, along scenic beaches, and into lush valleys, all while offering breathtaking views of the glacier—a perfect blend of adventure and scenery.
What makes this tour special is the off-road driving experience, allowing you to get close to Iceland’s raw natural beauty in a way that a regular bus or even a hiking trip can’t match. Your guide will share insights into the glacier and volcanic terrain, making it educational as well as exciting. The safety gear—protective overalls and helmets—is included, so you can focus on the fun.
While it’s a relatively short excursion, its high rating of 5/5 from two reviews suggests it delivers on excitement and value. It’s ideal for adventure-seekers and anyone wanting a hands-on experience with Iceland’s volcanic landscape.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a unique, adrenaline-filled experience in a stunning setting, this buggy tour hits the spot. It’s a perfect choice for active travelers wanting to combine scenery with a bit of thrill.
2. Private Snæfellsnes Peninsula tour
For those who prefer a personalized, flexible experience, the Private Snæfellsnes Peninsula tour offers a 9-hour deep dive into this stunning region. Price details vary, but the key feature is the customizable itinerary, suited to your interests. The tour includes visits to cliffs, waterfalls, and lava caves, while your guide provides detailed commentary tailored to your curiosity.
The itinerary features stops at Kirkjufell, Iceland’s most photographed mountain, and the Saxhóll Crater, along with the Arnarstapi coastline, which is renowned for its basalt formations and birdlife. This tour also includes a visit to the Djupalonssandur beach, where the black sand and shipwreck remains create a surreal atmosphere. The luxury of a private guide means you can spend more time at places that interest you most and skip others that don’t.
Rated 4.3/5, this tour is perfect for travelers who want an in-depth, customized experience beyond what standard tours offer. The longer duration and flexible stops make it suitable for photographers, nature lovers, or anyone wanting a thorough exploration of the peninsula.
Bottom Line: If you value personal attention and flexibility, this private tour offers an immersive experience that covers more ground than most group options.
3. Reykjavik: Snæfellsnes Peninsula & Whale Watching Tour
Combining landscape sightseeing with marine wildlife viewing, this 11-hour day trip from Reykjavik is a great way to see the highlights of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula plus go whale watching. The tour includes a visit to Kirkjufell, the Snæfellsjökull National Park, and the charming village of Arnarstapi, all within a single day.
What sets this trip apart is the whale cruise departing from Reykjavik’s Old Harbour the following day, where you might spot Minke whales, Humpbacks, and even dolphins. It’s a full day of sightseeing, with a guided tour of the area that provides context and stories about Iceland’s geology and flora. The tour’s reviews are solid at 4.2/5, with many travelers appreciating the combination of mountain scenery and marine wildlife.
However, because it’s a long day with multiple stops, it’s best suited for active travelers comfortable with a packed schedule. The extra whale-watching makes this a good pick for families or couples interested in both land and sea experiences.
Bottom Line: For a comprehensive day trip that combines scenic sights with the chance to see whales, this tour delivers a lot of value—just be prepared for a full day.
4. Snæfellsnes peninsula: Small Group tour by van
At around $224 per person, the Small Group Tour by Van covers all the must-see sights of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula in a more intimate setting. It’s a 10-hour tour that makes stops at popular sites like Berserkjahraun lava fields, Kirkjufell, and Ytri Tunga, known for its seals.
This tour’s advantage is the comfortable van with WiFi, bottled water, and hot tea, making your day relaxing even amid Iceland’s chill. The itinerary includes lunch, which adds convenience and value for travelers wanting a seamless experience. The focus here is on visiting all the key highlights in a single day without rushing, and the small group size ensures more personal attention from your guide.
Ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free trip that hits all the highlights without the crowds of larger buses. Its well-rounded itinerary makes it a solid choice for those who want a balanced mix of sightseeing and comfort.
Bottom Line: If you prefer personalized service and a hassle-free day with all the key sights in one go, this small-group tour is a top contender.
How to Choose
When deciding between these tours, consider your budget, schedule, and interests. If you’re craving adventure and off-road fun, go for the Buggy Tour. For a tailored experience, the Private Tour offers flexibility and depth. Want to cover a lot of ground in one day with some marine life thrown in? The Reykjavik combined tour fits that bill. And if comfort, efficiency, and seeing every major site matter most, the Small Group Van Tour is a reliable pick.
Also, keep in mind the season — whales are best seen during summer months, while the buggy and private tours run year-round. Booking early is wise, especially in peak seasons.
Final Thoughts
With options spanning from adrenaline-pumping buggy rides to private, customized excursions, Arnarstapi and its surroundings offer something for nearly every traveler. For those wanting a thrilling adventure, the buggy tour stands out. If personalized service and in-depth exploration are your priorities, the private tour is ideal. Meanwhile, the all-in-one sightseeing experience with marine wildlife viewing appeals to those who want a full day of Icelandic highlights.
No matter which you choose, these tours will give you a memorable taste of Iceland’s stunning west coast. Remember to book early, pack your sense of adventure, and prepare to see some of the most striking landscapes Iceland has to offer.