Snæfellsnes 2-Day Tour: Lava Cave, Kirkjufell & Northern Lights

Summary

Snæfellsnes Peninsula Adventure: Lava Tubes, Waterfalls & Local Life

If you want to see Iceland’s wild side—lava caves, waterfalls, seal colonies, and maybe even the Northern Lights—this two-day Snæfellsnes tour packs it all in with real local flavor and stories you won’t find in guidebooks.

What’s the experience like?

Wind whipped through my jacket as we stepped out at Kirkjufell, that mountain you see on postcards—only it’s taller and sharper in person. Our guide, Einar, pointed out the moss clinging to the lava rocks, saying it takes decades to grow. We wandered along the shoreline, boots crunching on black pebbles, and watched a few seals bobbing near the old fishing docks at Arnarstapi. There’s a tiny café here, Fjöruhúsið, where the smell of cinnamon buns drifts out even if you’re just passing by.

By late afternoon, clouds rolled in over Búðir’s black church. It’s smaller than you’d think, but the silence around it is something you feel in your chest. We spent the night in Stykkishólmur—our guesthouse had windows facing the harbor, and I could hear the gulls before sunrise. Next morning, after a quick breakfast (the rye bread was still warm), we drove out to Víðgelmir lava cave. The air inside was cool and damp; our helmets scraped the ceiling once or twice as we ducked past ancient lava formations. Einar explained how these tubes formed after eruptions 8,000 years ago—he even showed us a spot where you can see old flow lines on the walls.

We finished at Hraunfossar and Barnafossar waterfalls. The water looked almost blue against the dark lava fields, and there’s this constant low roar that makes you want to linger. On the drive back, everyone kept glancing out the windows for a hint of green—hoping for those Northern Lights to show up one more time.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Snæfellsnes Peninsula

• Visit Kirkjufell Mountain
• Explore Arnarstapi fishing village
• See black church of Búðir
• Overnight in Stykkishólmur or Borgarnes

Day 2 — Lava Caving and Waterfalls

• Venture into Víðgelmir lava cave
• Visit Hraunfossar waterfalls
• Visit Barnafossar waterfalls
• Enjoy other scenic stops

Top questions

Is this tour suitable for kids or older travelers?

Yes, it’s designed for all fitness levels. The caving is guided and safe, with helmets provided. There are specialized infant seats available too.

How much luggage can I bring?

You’re allowed one suitcase and one carry-on per person. If you have extra bags or oversized luggage, just check with us ahead of time so we can make arrangements.

Will we definitely see the Northern Lights?

The Northern Lights depend on weather and solar activity, so sightings aren’t guaranteed—but your guide will keep an eye on conditions and give you the best chance possible.

What’s included

Your seat on a comfy minibus with WiFi, overnight stay with breakfast in a local guesthouse, guided visit to Víðgelmir Lava Cave (gear included), plus an experienced driver-guide who knows all the best stops along Snæfellsnes.