Arnarstapi is a treasure for travelers craving authentic Icelandic scenery and memorable adventures. Its dramatic coastlines, striking lava fields, and proximity to the Snaefellsjökull glacier make it an ideal base for a variety of tours. We especially love the Snæfellsjökull: Buggy Tour with Guide for its mix of off-road excitement and breathtaking glacier views. If you’re after a deeper, customizable exploration, the Private Snæfellsnes Peninsula tour offers a private, flexible way to see the highlights. For those with a full day, the Reykjavik: Snæfellsnes Peninsula & Whale Watching Tour combines land and sea adventures, with chances to spot whales and visit iconic sights like Kirkjufell. Lastly, the Snæfellsnes peninsula: Small Group tour by van provides a comfortable, all-in-one day trip ensuring you see all key spots without feeling rushed.
1. Snæfellsjökull: Buggy Tour with Guide
At number 1, this buggy adventure offers a chance to drive through some of Iceland’s most striking landscapes—black lava fields, scenic beaches, and lush valleys. The 2.5-hour tour is perfect for those craving a combination of adrenaline and stunning scenery. The buggies are easy to handle, and the guide takes you along scenic trails that lead to breathtaking views of the Snæfellsjökull glacier. The safety gear—overalls and helmets—are included, making it a safe yet exciting experience. This tour ranks high thanks to its personalized off-road adventure and the chance to see Iceland’s nature from a different perspective.
The highlight is the feeling of driving a powerful vehicle through wild, untouched terrain, and the guide’s tips on local geology and landscapes enrich the experience. The price of $230 per person reflects the high quality and small-group intimacy. This experience is ideal for adventure lovers and those who want to combine scenery with a touch of thrill. The only drawback might be the weather dependency—rain can make the trails slippery, but that just adds to the adventure.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you want an off-road thrill with spectacular glacier views. Book early, as this adventure fills up fast.
2. Private Snæfellsnes Peninsula tour
For around 9 hours, the Private Snæfellsnes Peninsula tour offers a tailored exploration of one of Iceland’s most scenic areas. This fully private experience is led by a local guide who customizes the itinerary based on your interests, making it a flexible choice for families, couples, or groups seeking a personalized trip. The tour includes famous sights such as Kirkjufell mountain, the dramatic coastline at Arnarstapi, and lava caves, with ample time for walking and photography.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on depth and personalization. Your guide shares insights into the area’s geology, history, and legends, creating a rich narrative. The itinerary includes stops at Saxhóll crater, Djúpalónssandur beach, and Búðakirkja, among others, with many photo opportunities. The vehicle is a Jeep/SUV, which comfortably navigates Icelandic roads, and the tour includes multiple scenic stops that make the long day feel manageable.
Guests loved the flexibility, with one reviewer noting, “Our guide customized the day perfectly for us.” The cost is higher than some other options but reflects the private, intimate experience with a dedicated guide. This tour is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, customized day with expert insights.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a flexible, in-depth exploration of Snaefellsnes with a private guide. Reserve early to ensure availability.
3. Reykjavik: Snæfellsnes Peninsula & Whale Watching Tour
At number 3, this full-day tour combines two classic Iceland experiences: exploring the Snaefellsnes Peninsula and going whale watching from Reykjavik’s Old Harbour. Starting with a 11-hour coach trip, you’ll see iconic sights like Kirkjufell and the lava fields of Snæfellsjökull, often called “Iceland in Miniature” for its diverse landscapes. The next day, you’ll cruise Faxaflói Bay, hunting for Minke and Humpback whales and dolphins.
The tour is perfect for those wanting a multi-faceted day combining land and sea adventures without the hassle of organizing separate trips. The guided land portion covers key attractions like Djúpalónssandur and Ytri Tunga, while the whale cruise provides some of the best chances in Iceland to see marine life up close. The review scores are solid, with many travelers praising the comprehensive itinerary and the chance to see wildlife.
This tour is great for families or wildlife enthusiasts who want to maximize their day. The only potential downside: the long duration can be tiring, especially if the weather turns cold or rainy. However, the experience of seeing whales and iconic Icelandic scenery makes it worthwhile.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded choice for travelers who want a full day of sightseeing plus whale encounters. Book early for popular dates.
4. Snæfellsnes peninsula: Small Group tour by van
Closing out our list at number 4, this Small Group tour by van offers a 10-hour, comfortable way to visit all the must-see spots in Iceland’s “Miniature Iceland.” With a maximum group size, it ensures personalized attention and a more relaxed pace. The tour includes all the key highlights like Berserkjahraun lava fields, Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall, and Londrangar cliffs, with plenty of stops for photos and short walks.
The tour’s strengths are its comprehensive itinerary, included lunch, and the comfort of Wi-Fi and hot drinks on board. The guide provides insightful commentary, making sure you get the most out of each stop without feeling rushed. The tour’s value lies in its convenience and the ability to see everything in just one day, especially perfect if you’re short on time but don’t want to miss out.
While the reviews are not officially rated, the emphasis on comfort and thorough sightseeing make it attractive for those who prefer a small-group experience over large buses. It’s suitable for those wanting a hassle-free, all-in-one day trip with some local flavor.
Bottom Line: Excellent for travelers who want a guided, comfortable, and comprehensive tour of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula in one day.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Arnarstapi
When deciding between these great options, consider your budget, time constraints, and interests. If you’re after an adrenaline rush, the buggy tour offers off-road fun and glacier views. For a fully personalized experience, the private tour is best, especially if you want to explore at your pace. If combining land and marine wildlife viewing appeals, the Reykjavik tour delivers both in one day. Lastly, the small-group van tour is perfect if you prefer a relaxed, all-inclusive day with comfort.
Booking early is advisable, especially for popular tours like whale watching or private trips. Think about your fitness level—some tours involve walking, while others are more about scenic drives. Check the weather forecast before heading out, as Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable and might impact outdoor activities.
In summary, Arnarstapi offers a wide range of exciting tours that match various interests and schedules. For the thrill-seeker, the buggy ride is unbeatable. For those wanting a personalized touch, the private tour hits the spot. For a broader experience, the combined day trip or small-group tour provide excellent value and ease. Whichever you choose, booking in advance guarantees you a spot on these memorable adventures—don’t wait too long!