2 Day Snæfellsnes Tour Lava Caving and the Northern Lights

If you’re dreaming of experiencing Iceland beyond Reykjavik’s city limits, this 2-day tour offered by Troll Expeditions could be just what you need. It’s designed for those who love adventure, outdoor scenery, and a touch of magic — think lava caves, northern lights, and breathtaking landscapes all packed into a manageable itinerary.

From what we’ve seen in reviews and descriptions, two things stand out: first, the expert guide who keeps everyone engaged and informed, making the journey more meaningful; and second, the stunning natural scenery that really captures the rugged beauty of the country. On the flip side, the tour involves some gear rentals and a fair amount of time outdoors, which might be a consideration if you’re not super into hiking or cold-weather gear.

This experience really suits travelers who are comfortable with a bit of adventure, appreciate guided tours that handle the logistics, and want to maximize their time in Iceland’s wilderness. It’s not necessarily for those looking for luxury or a slow-paced relaxing holiday, but if you’re after memorable sights and unique activities, it’s worth considering.

Key Points

• Adventure-focused: Lava caving and northern lights viewing make this a memorable trip for outdoor lovers.
• All-inclusive logistics: Pickup, overnight accommodation, and breakfast make it hassle-free.
• Expert guide: Guides like Gilfy are praised for their knowledge and ability to entertain.
• Gear rentals: You might need to rent hiking boots or waterproof gear — plan for extra costs.
• Short but rich experience: Just two days, but packed with unique Icelandic sights.
• Limited group size: With a maximum of 18 travelers, it feels more personal than large tours.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Day 1: From Reykjavik into the Wilderness

Your adventure starts early at 8:00am with pickup from your Reykjavik hotel, which is a big plus — no need to worry about transportation to the starting point. The group will head west toward the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, a region often called “Iceland in Miniature” because it offers a bit of everything: volcanoes, lava fields, cliffs, and charming villages.

Once there, the main highlight is visiting the Vidgelmir Lava Cave, which is about 8,000 years old. We love the way the description emphasizes the lava tube as a key feature — it’s a chance to see a geological wonder that’s both old and packed with character. Expect specialist gear rentals to be an additional cost, so if you don’t have your hiking boots or waterproofs, be prepared to rent. The cave tour provides a close-up look at Iceland’s volcanic history and topography, which is quite fascinating even if you’re not a geology buff.

Day 2: Northern Lights and More Scenic Finds

After a cozy overnight stay with breakfast, the second day is where the tour shines for its natural spectacle. The region is a prime spot for northern lights viewing, especially if the conditions are right. The tour makes the most of this by taking you to a good viewing location. It’s an experience that’s worth the wait — the reviews underscore how strong the guide’s local knowledge is when it comes to hunting down the best spots.

Throughout the trip, WiFi on the bus helps you stay connected, and the small group size means you get a more personal experience. Given Iceland’s unpredictable weather, packing layers and waterproof gear is advised. While gear rentals are available, they do come at extra costs (around 1,750 ISK for waterproofs and 3,000 ISK for boots), so budgeting for that will make things smoother.

Logistics and Comfort

The round-trip transfer from Reykjavik simplifies logistics for travelers. You won’t have to worry about arranging transport — just hop on the bus and enjoy the scenery. The tour lasts roughly two days, giving you a taste of Iceland’s wild side without overcommitting to a longer trip.

The accommodation, included in the package, offers a comfortable place to rest after a day of exploration. Breakfast the next morning helps fuel your continued adventures or travels.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

One of the most praised aspects is the knowledgeable guides. As one reviewer said, “Gilfy knew so much about the history of Iceland and kept everyone interested and entertained.” If you enjoy learning as you go and having a friendly guide who can answer questions, you’ll likely find this aspect a real plus.

The scenic variety is another highlight. From lava caves to potential northern lights, the tour covers a wide range of what makes Iceland special. The natural scenery is indeed stunning in the photos and reviews, giving you a true sense of Iceland’s rugged landscape.

Value for Money

With a price of around $504.41 per person, including accommodation and breakfast, this tour offers a decent value for those wanting a guided experience with convenience. The small group size and expert guidance add to the perceived value, especially if you’re new to Iceland or prefer everything organized.

However, keep in mind that additional expenses like gear rentals (boots, waterproofs) are not included, which can bump up the total cost. Still, considering the inclusions and the experiences packed into just two days, many travelers seem happy with what they get.

Practical Tips: Making the Most of Your Tour

• Book in advance: The tour is often booked about 47 days ahead, so if this sounds appealing, plan early.
• Gear up appropriately: Think about renting or bringing good waterproofs and hiking shoes — Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable.
• Bring layers: Regardless of the season, layers help you stay comfortable during outdoor activities and chilly evenings.
• Prepare for the dark: Northern lights viewing depends on weather and darkness, so check forecasts and be flexible.
• Stay connected: WiFi on board is a nice perk for sharing your adventures or catching up on messages.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers who want to see Iceland’s volcanic side and enjoy natural spectacles like the northern lights. It’s also suitable for those who prefer guided tours that handle the logistics for them — especially if you don’t want to rent or carry a lot of gear.

It’s a good fit if you’re comfortable with some walking and outdoor conditions, and you’re eager for a more active, nature-focused look at Iceland rather than just city sightseeing. While not explicitly tailored for families, older children and teens who enjoy outdoor activities would likely find this trip fun and engaging.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour provides round-trip transportation from your Reykjavik hotel, making logistics straightforward.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience spans approximately two days, with pickup at 8:00am on the first day.

Are meals included?
No, lunch and dinner are not included, so plan to bring snacks or meals along for the day.

What equipment do I need?
While some gear is available for rent, you might want to bring or rent hiking boots (3,000 ISK), waterproof jackets (1,750 ISK), and waterproof pants (1,750 ISK).

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund — just keep track of the timing to avoid losing your money.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but it involves outdoor activities and gear, so consider physical comfort and weather readiness.

What’s the maximum group size?
Up to 18 travelers, which helps keep the experience feeling personal and engaging.

Will I see the northern lights?
While the tour aims to take you to good viewing spots, seeing the northern lights depends on weather conditions and solar activity, so it’s not guaranteed.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day Snaefellsnes tour offers a well-rounded, adventure-packed glimpse into Iceland’s volcanic terrain and natural beauty. With knowledgeable guides, scenic stops, and the chance to see the northern lights, it’s a solid choice for outdoor enthusiasts who want a bit of everything — lava caves, stunning landscapes, and night sky wonders.

While it isn’t a luxury experience, the value and authenticity make it a compelling option for those eager to explore Iceland’s wild side without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. Just remember to prepare for outdoor conditions, budget for gear rentals, and keep an eye on the weather forecast for the best northern lights chances.

If you’re after an active, engaging, and scenic Iceland experience, this tour could very well be the highlight of your trip.