2-Day Northern Lights and Snaefellsnes Peninsula Adventure from Reykjavik

If you’re dreaming of seeing the Northern Lights while exploring some of Iceland’s most iconic landscapes, this 2-Day Northern Lights and Snaefellsnes Peninsula adventure offers a well-rounded experience. It’s a package that combines scenic drives, fascinating geological sites, charming fishing villages, and the chance to catch the Aurora Borealis if the weather cooperates. With most travelers booking it about three months in advance, it’s clearly popular—and for good reasons.

We really appreciate how this tour balances the thrill of searching for the Northern Lights with a solid sampling of Iceland’s unique natural features. One thing that stands out is the expert guidance, which many reviews praise for making the trip engaging and informative. Plus, the overnight stay in a cozy hotel means you won’t be rushing through the scenery, giving you a chance to relax and soak it all in.

A potential consideration is that the Northern Lights are, by nature, unpredictable. As much as Iceland offers prime conditions, there’s no guaranteed sighting, so patience is key. Also, the tour covers a lot of ground in just two days, so expect some long hours on the road. This experience is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive yet manageable way to see Iceland’s highlights and maybe catch that elusive aurora.

If you’re someone who loves combining adventure with comfort—without sacrificing authenticity—this tour could be a good fit. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate guided experiences that take care of logistics, leaving you free to enjoy the scenery and learn from knowledgeable guides.

Key Points

• Includes overnight stay in a cozy hotel on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula.
• Chance to see the Northern Lights, though weather conditions are critical.
• Explores key sights like Kirkjufell, Vatnshellir Cave, Hellnar, and waterfalls.
• Guided transportation makes it easy to relax and focus on the views.
• Flexible options like caving and geothermal baths are available at extra cost.
• Ideal for travelers who want a balanced mix of sightseeing and aurora hunting.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and First Day Highlights

The tour begins bright and early with hotel pickup in Reykjavik at 9:00 am. From there, you’ll hop into a comfortable minibus, ready for the scenic drive along the west coast of Iceland. The first stop is Hallgrimskirkja, Iceland’s iconic church, which is a quick 30-minute visit. While it’s a free stop, it kicks off your journey with a dose of Reykjavik’s skyline before heading into the wilds.

Next, you’ll head to Arnarstapi, a tiny fishing village that’s perfect for a relaxed walk and photo ops. This stop is about two hours, giving you plenty of time to explore the rugged coastline and capture shots of dramatic cliffs and sea stacks. Visitors consistently praise guides for their local insights here—many mention that guides make the experience more meaningful.

From Arnarstapi, you have an optional visit to Vatnshellir Cave—an 8,000-year-old lava tunnel inside Snæfellsjokull National Park. If you choose to enter, you’ll pay an extra fee, but the cave offers a rare glimpse into Iceland’s volcanic history. It’s like stepping into a scene from Jules Verne’s “Journey to the Center of the Earth,” with otherworldly formations and a sense of adventure.

Exploring the Coast and Volcanoes

Following the cave, the group visits Hellnar for lunch (not included), a charming spot that offers a chance to refuel before heading to Djupalonssandur, a stunning pebble beach with remnants of shipwrecks and the history of fishermen’s lifting stones. This part of the tour is particularly praised for being picturesque and engaging—many mention testing their strength with the old lifting stones, just like local fishermen did.

Depending on the weather forecast and Aurora conditions, you might get lucky with an evening Northern Lights hunt here. The guide’s expertise can make or break this part: many reviews highlight Sindri’s knowledge and personable style, making the hunt both informative and fun.

Iconic Sights and Sunset Photos

The highlight for many is Kirkjufell, often called the most photographed mountain in Iceland. It’s a must-visit, offering striking views that are especially magical at sunset. The opportunity to snap stunning photos is a bonus for visitors eager to capture Iceland’s dramatic landscapes.

Day Two: Hot Springs, Waterfalls, and History

The second day kicks off with a visit to Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot spring. It’s a quick stop, but you’ll see how Iceland harnesses geothermal energy—something that’s integral to the country’s identity.

Next, optional Krauma geothermal baths provide a chance to relax (extra fee applies), which many travelers find tempting after a day of travel. If you skip it, you’ll spend extra time exploring the area, which still offers plenty of scenic views.

Continuing on, your guide takes you to Reykholt, a site rich in history with ties to medieval Icelandic author Snorri Sturluson. It’s a quiet but significant spot, offering a glimpse into Iceland’s cultural roots.

The tour wraps up with stops at Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls—where water flows beautifully from beneath lava fields—and Gerduberg basalt columns, a striking natural monument of perfectly aligned volcanic columns. These stops give you a chance to stretch your legs and marvel at Iceland’s volcanic craftsmanship.

Returning to Reykjavik

By late afternoon, around 6:00 pm, you’ll be back in the capital, having experienced a well-rounded taste of Iceland’s landscape, history, and possibly the Northern Lights. The guided nature of the tour, with Wi-Fi on board and organized pickups and drop-offs, makes it straightforward, especially for first-time visitors.

What the Tour Gets Right

This experience offers great value given what’s included: overnight accommodation, breakfast, guided transportation, and the possibility of Aurora viewing. Many reviewers, like Russell, mention Sindri’s personable and knowledgeable guidance, which elevates the entire trip. The stops are thoughtfully chosen—each contributing something unique, whether it’s geological marvels or scenic beauty.

The flexibility to add extras like Vatnshellir cave exploration and Krauma hot springs at additional costs is a plus—allowing you to tailor the experience to your interests and budget.

Things to Keep in Mind

While the tour’s pacing is efficient, it’s quite full, so be prepared for a lot of moving around. The long hours on the road mean it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy scenic drives and don’t mind a busy schedule.

The Northern Lights part is dependent on weather conditions, and Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable. If catching the Aurora is your main goal, it’s worth knowing that sightings are never guaranteed, but the guides will do their best to find the best viewing spots under favorable conditions.

The price of $539.90 per person reflects a comprehensive experience, but for some, especially those on tighter budgets, the extras like caving and baths might push the total higher. Still, many feel the value is justified given the sights and comfort provided.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day tour offers a fantastic balance of adventure, comfort, and cultural insight. It’s a solid pick if you want to maximize your time outside Reykjavik without the hassle of planning every detail. The Northern Lights hunt adds an exciting element, though patience and luck are the only guarantees.

It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy guided groups, scenic drives, and exploring at a manageable pace. If you’re after a well-rounded taste of Iceland—covering geology, history, and natural beauty—this tour delivers.

While it might not be the best choice if you’re solely focused on chasing the Lights without considering the scenery, it’s an overall great way to experience Iceland’s highlights in just two days. Plus, the comfort of a hotel stay means you won’t be roughing it after a long day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for families?
The minimum age is 8 years old, so it’s suitable for families with older children. The tour involves a lot of driving and walking, so keep that in mind.

Will I see the Northern Lights?
The tour offers a chance to see the Aurora Borealis if weather conditions are right. Guides will take you on a hunt for the lights, but since it depends on the weather, sightings can’t be guaranteed.

What’s included in the price?
Price includes hotel pickup, guided transportation, overnight accommodation, breakfast, and the Northern Lights hunt if conditions permit.

Are there optional activities?
Yes, you can choose to explore Vatnshellir Cave and relax at Krauma geothermal baths for extra fees.

How long is the driving each day?
The tour covers a lot of ground, with most stops lasting between 30 minutes to 2 hours. Expect some long stretches on the road, especially on Day 2.

Can I cancel or change my booking?
Yes, cancellations are possible up to 6 days in advance for a full refund. Changes less than 6 days before are not accepted.

What should I wear?
Dress appropriately for Iceland’s unpredictable weather—layers, waterproofs, and warm clothes are recommended.

How many people are on this tour?
It’s a small group experience, with a maximum of 18 travelers, which allows for a more personalized guide.

Is breakfast included?
Yes, breakfast is included on Day 2 at the hotel. Lunch and dinner are not included, so plan accordingly.

How late will I be back in Reykjavik?
You’ll return around 6:00 pm, giving you the evening free to relax or explore more.

This tour offers an engaging and varied way to experience Iceland’s landscapes and maybe witness the Northern Lights. It’s a fine choice for travelers who want a guided, comfortable, and visually stunning adventure with reasonable expectations about weather and sightings.