Reykjavik: 2-Day West Tour with Snæfellsnes & Silver Circle

If you’re considering a trip to Iceland and want to see some of its most captivating sights without the hassle of planning every detail, this 2-day guided tour from Reykjavik might just be the perfect choice. It offers a well-rounded taste of the country’s stunning landscapes, from waterfalls and hot springs to volcanic caves and glaciers. Based on reviews and detailed itineraries, it seems like a great option for travelers craving an immersive experience in a relatively short time.

What we particularly like about this tour is the variety it packs into just two days. You’ll get to explore Snaefellsjokull National Park, known for its dramatic glacier and volcanic landscape, and visit the Deildartunguhver hot spring, Europe’s most powerful. Plus, the chance to dip into Husafell Canyon Baths or explore a lava cave makes this tour engaging and different from standard day trips.

One thing to consider is the pace—two days packed with stops means you’ll want to keep comfortable and be prepared for some early mornings, with pickup from Reykjavik starting around 8:30 AM. If you’re more of a relaxed traveler or on a tight schedule, this might be tight, but for most, the experience is well worth it.

This tour suits those who love nature, want a taste of Iceland’s wild beauty, and appreciate knowledgeable guides who can bring the landscapes alive through stories and insights. It’s especially fitting if you’re looking for a structured, hassle-free way to see a lot in a short period.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Itinerary: Covers major natural wonders and cultural sites over two days.
• Expert Guides: Known for friendly, knowledgeable guides who enhance the visit.
• Variety of Experiences: From waterfalls and glaciers to lava caves and hot springs.
• Flexible Options: Choose between visiting the lava cave or relaxing in canyon baths.
• Comfort & Convenience: Includes transportation, accommodation, and WiFi onboard.
• Limited Group Size: Up to 19 travelers, making for a more personal experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the 2-Day Iceland West Coast Adventure

If you’re dreaming of Iceland’s dramatic scenery, this tour promises a nicely balanced adventure that hits many of the highlights without overwhelming your schedule. Here’s a detailed walkthrough of what you can expect, based on the official itinerary and reviews from past travelers.

Day 1: From Reykjavik to Borgarnes and Beyond

Your journey begins with a pickup in Reykjavik, a smooth start that gets you out of the city and into the landscape fairly early, with pickup times beginning around 8:30 AM. The scenic drive along Route 1 is the first treat, giving you your first glimpses of Iceland’s rugged beauty.

The first major stop is Borgarfjordur, a region packed with waterfalls, hot springs, and historical sites. The Hraunfossar waterfalls are a particular highlight—these are the “Lava Waterfalls,” where water streams through lava fields, creating a surreal, almost otherworldly scene. Nearby, Barnafossar waterfalls add to the dramatic landscape, and many reviewers mention these as standout sights.

Continuing to Deildartunguhver, you’ll see Europe’s most powerful hot spring. This geothermal marvel is both impressive and useful—its steam and boiling waters are a reminder of Iceland’s volcanic activity shaping its environment.

Next, you visit Reykholt, a site with historical significance, adding a cultural layer to the day. For some, the highlight comes later: the option to explore the Vidgelmir Lava Cave, which is reportedly the largest lava cave in Iceland. This adds an adventurous element—crawling through underground tunnels, surrounded by volcanic formations. Alternatively, you might prefer a 4WD tour to Husafell Canyon Baths, where you can relax and soak in thermal waters amid pristine landscapes, enjoying the peaceful woodland setting.

The overnight stay in Borgarnes is a cozy break from the drive, with charming cafes and the possibility of catching the Northern Lights if the conditions are right—something several reviews have highlighted as a bonus.

Day 2: Iceland’s Snaefellsnes Peninsula and Seals Galore

The next morning kicks off with a new adventure on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, often called “Iceland in Miniature” because it contains so many of the country’s iconic features—glaciers, lava fields, rocky coastlines, and charming fishing villages.

Your first stop is Ytri-Tunga Beach, where if luck is on your side, you’ll see a colony of seals playing on the rocks. It’s a picture-perfect spot that many travelers love for its wildlife and rugged beauty. Then, you’ll gaze upon the Snæfellsjokull glacier, a stunning volcanic glacier that looms over the landscape, making for some excellent photo opportunities.

One of the most recognizable sights on this day is Kirkjufell, a mountain famous for its distinctive shape and often called the “most photographed mountain in Iceland.” The nearby Kirkjufoss waterfall just adds to its photogenic appeal. The combination of these natural features makes the day visually memorable.

You’ll also visit the coast again at Ytri-Tunga Beach, where seals are often spotted, offering a fun wildlife encounter. As you make your way back to Reykjavik, the scenery continues to impress, rounding off a well-rounded exploration of Iceland’s west coast.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The tour package provides a lot of value. You get accommodation in a double or twin room, which means you won’t have to worry about finding a place to stay after your day of exploration. The guided tour is in English, with a friendly professional guiding you through the sights and stories, which many previous guests find adds depth to the experience.

Transportation is handled in a comfortable minibus with WiFi, making it easy to share photos or catch up on your trip notes. It’s a small group—up to 19 people—ensuring a more intimate atmosphere.

Admission fees to the Vidgelmir Lava Cave or Husafell Canyon Baths are included, so you won’t have to pay extra for these experiences. However, lunch and dinner are not included, meaning you’ll need to plan for mealtimes at scheduled stops. Most travelers find this manageable, especially with the scenic spots often offering cafes or picnic options.

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A Few Practical Tips

• Be sure to bring warm and waterproof clothes—Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable, even in summer.
• Hiking shoes are available for rent if you don’t have suitable footwear.
• The pickup window is between 8:30 and 9:00 AM, so plan to be ready on time.
• With a relatively small group size, expect a friendly, personalized vibe, but also remember that schedules can be tight, so packing light and being prepared will improve your experience.

Authentic Traveler Feedback

Reviews paint a glowing picture of the guides, with many mentioning how they made the trip memorable. For example, one traveler raves, “JK was a very good guide, sharing interesting stories along the way and bringing us to many bonus locations,” highlighting the value of a knowledgeable guide. Others appreciated the scenery—“Very scenic and covered most if not all key attractions”—and the Lava Cave, which was described as “very original.”

A guest also noted that their guide, Siggi, made the experience enjoyable, recommending the tour to those wanting a well-organized, scenic adventure. The friendly, approachable guides seem to be a consistent highlight, making the long days more enjoyable.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This 2-day tour is ideal for travelers who want to cover a lot of ground in Iceland’s West and Snæfellsnes regions without the stress of organizing transport or accommodations. It’s perfect for those who enjoy nature, wildlife, and geological wonders, and are comfortable with some early mornings and full days on the road.

If you’re a curious traveler eager to learn from guides who share stories and insights, you’ll likely find this trip rewarding. It’s less suited for those looking for a very relaxed pace or with mobility issues, given the amount of walking and varied terrain involved.

Final Thoughts

This Reykjavik 2-Day West Tour hits many of the best spots in Iceland’s west coast—waterfalls, glaciers, lava caves, hot springs, and charming towns—delivered comfortably and with expert guidance. It offers great value considering the included accommodation, entrance fees, and small group size, making it an efficient way to see Iceland’s diverse landscapes.

While it’s a busy itinerary, the variety and scenic beauty should keep you engaged throughout. For travelers craving an active, visually stunning adventure with the benefits of local knowledge, this tour is a solid choice.

If you’re looking to tick off several major Icelandic sights in a short time and enjoy a guided experience, this tour will suit you well. Just don’t forget your waterproof gear—weather in Iceland is famously unpredictable—and get ready for two days of incredible landscapes and stories.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
While the tour covers many outdoor and uneven terrains, it’s primarily designed for reasonably mobile travelers comfortable with some walking and outdoor exploration.

Do I need to bring my own meals?
Yes, lunch and dinner are not included, so you’ll need to buy food at scheduled stops or bring your own snacks. The scenic locations often have cafes or picnic options.

What is the maximum group size?
Up to 19 people, which creates a more intimate and engaging environment compared to larger bus tours.

Can I see the Northern Lights on this tour?
While Northern Lights sightings are possible in Borgarnes if conditions are favorable, they are not guaranteed and depend on the weather and solar activity.

Is the Lava Cave tour physically demanding?
Visiting the Vidgelmir Lava Cave involves some walking and crawling through lava tunnels, so it’s best for those comfortable with moderate physical activity.

What should I pack for this trip?
Warm, waterproof clothes are essential. Hiking shoes are available for rent if you don’t have suitable footwear. Don’t forget your camera and a sense of adventure.

This detailed tour review hopefully gives you a clear picture of what to expect and helps you decide if this Iceland adventure fits your travel style. It’s a well-rounded experience for those wanting to see Iceland’s wild beauty with ease and expertise.

You can check availability for your dates here: