Snæfellsnes 2-Day Tour: Lava Cave & Northern Lights

Two days of lava tubes, fishing villages, and waterfalls on Iceland's most photographed peninsula

A 2-day guided tour from Reykjavik to Snæfellsnes Peninsula with overnight accommodation and breakfast, covering an 8,000-year-old lava tube, Kirkjufell mountain, Arnarstapi village, and Hraunfossar waterfalls. Your guide picks you up in Reykjavik, leads the sightseeing on day one, and takes you into Víðgelmir lava cave on day two before returning. The overnight stay is in either Stykkishólmur or Borgarnes depending on availability.

The experience

Day one starts with pickup in Reykjavik and heads straight to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. You'll stand in front of Kirkjufell, one of Iceland's most photographed landmarks, then move through the charming fishing village of Arnarstapi and see the black church of Búðir. The sightseeing covers the peninsula's geothermal areas and seal colonies as you follow the same routes Jules Verne and Walter Mitty explored. After the day of stops, you'll spend the night in either Stykkishólmur or Borgarnes with breakfast included the next morning.

Day two takes you into Víðgelmir, one of Iceland's largest lava tubes: an 8,000-year-old formation carved by flowing lava. The cave walk is part of the tour itself, not an add-on. After the cave, you visit Hraunfossar and Barnafossar waterfalls and other scenic stops before the return to Reykjavik. WiFi is available on board throughout both days, and your driver-guide handles all the navigation and commentary.

Pack one suitcase and one carry-on bag. Oversized luggage may have restrictions, so confirm with the operator before travel if you're bringing extra. Specialized infant seats are available if you're traveling with young children. The tour suits all fitness levels, though the lava cave walk involves uneven ground and low passages. Lunch and dinner are not included, nor are rental items like hiking boots or waterproof jackets if you need them.

What’s included

• Pickup from Reykjavik.
• driver-guide for both days.
• overnight accommodation with breakfast.
• entry to Víðgelmir lava cave.
• sightseeing at Kirkjufell, Arnarstapi, Búðir, Hraunfossar and Barnafossar.
• WiFi on board.

Before you book

Days and timesTuesday to SundayDeparts at 08:00

Book up toStart time

GroupUp to 18

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup included.You can choose from 33 pickup points.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.

Prices and times updated 7 days ago

Good to know

Low physical effortInfant seats available

Operated by Troll Expeditions

Is this one for you?Pick this if you want a guide leading the full commentary in English and a pre-set itinerary with accommodation included, rather than building your own schedule.

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Top questions

What is Víðgelmir lava cave like to walk through?

Víðgelmir is one of Iceland's largest lava tubes, formed around 8,000 years ago. The cave walk is included as part of day two, and you'll move through passages carved by ancient lava flows. Wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for uneven ground and low sections. Rental boots are available separately if needed.

Where do I stay overnight, and what's included?

You'll spend the night in either Stykkishólmur or Borgarnes depending on hotel availability: the operator assigns your location. Overnight accommodation and breakfast the next morning are both included in the tour price.

Does the tour include meals besides breakfast?

Breakfast is included on day two, but lunch and dinner on both days are not covered. You'll have time to eat at stops, and your guide can recommend local options in the villages you visit.

What happens if I need hiking boots or waterproof gear?

Hiking boots, waterproof jackets, and waterproof pants are available to rent separately from the tour operator for a fee. Confirm your needs before the tour starts so rentals can be arranged.

How much luggage can I bring on a 2-day tour?

You're allowed one suitcase and one carry-on bag per person. Oversized or excessive luggage may have restrictions, so contact the operator before travel if you're bringing extra items to confirm what's acceptable.