Journey to the Center of the Earth: Snæfellsnes & Lava Cave

Traveling through Iceland’s Snæfellsnes Peninsula often feels like stepping into a storybook — rugged coastlines, volcanic landscapes, and charming fishing villages all in one place. This tour, offered by Holiday Tours, promises a full day of exploring iconic sites that inspired Jules Verne’s classic, Journey to the Center of the Earth. We haven’t been on it ourselves, but the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary make it clear this is a well-rounded adventure suitable for most travelers seeking a taste of Iceland’s diverse scenery.

What really stands out for us is how this tour balances nature, history, and folklore into one day. The stops at Kirkjufell, the lava cave, and the basalt cliffs show a good mix of well-known sights and less crowded gems. Plus, the inclusion of onboard Wi-Fi and hassle-free hotel pickup make it easier to relax and enjoy the journey without the usual logistical worries.

One thing to consider is the duration — at about 12.5 hours, it’s a long day, and not everyone will want to spend so much time on a bus. Also, the price of $215 per person is reasonable given the number of stops and included activities, but it’s worth comparing it with other tours to see if it offers the best value for your style of travel. This tour seems best suited for those who love scenic drives combined with interesting stops rather than those looking for a more relaxed, less packed day.

If you’re eager to see a mix of Icelandic geology, stunning scenery, and enjoy knowledgeable guides, this could be a perfect fit. It’s especially great for travelers who appreciate a well-organized group experience with plenty of opportunities to learn and take photos.

Key Points

• Beautiful stops include Kirkjufell, Svöðufoss, and Vatnshellir Cave, offering a diverse look at Iceland’s landscape.
• Expert guides are praised for their knowledge, storytelling, and added personal touches.
• Comfort and connectivity are prioritized with hotel pickup, drop-off, and onboard Wi-Fi.
• Long day — the tour lasts about 12.5 hours, so be prepared for a full day on the move.
• Value for money appears solid, with many reviewers mentioning it as worth the price.
• Limited walking makes it accessible for most, but expect some uneven terrain during cave exploration and short hikes.

Exploring the Snæfellsnes Peninsula: What to Expect

Starting off with Kirkjufell

You’ll kick off early, with pickup from your Reykjavik hotel, and head straight to the most photographed mountain in Iceland. Kirkjufell is instantly recognizable — featured in Game of Thrones and beloved for its distinctive shape. You’ll have about 30 minutes here to stroll the paths around the waterfall and snap some photos. Reviewers mention this as a highlight, especially for fans of the show or anyone who loves dramatic landscapes.

Svöðufoss Waterfall

Next, we love the idea of visiting Svöðufoss, a lesser-known waterfall framed by rugged cliffs and with views of the Snæfellsjökull glacier. It’s a peaceful spot, perfect for a quick hike and some quiet reflection away from the crowds. It’s a small but meaningful stop — a good example of how this tour mixes popular sights with hidden gems.

Ingjaldshólskirkja Church

The old concrete church dating from 1903 offers a charming stop where you can soak in Iceland’s history and scenery. Surrounded by stunning vistas, it’s a photo-worthy moment and a reminder of the country’s long-standing traditions.

Vatnshellir Lava Cave

One of the trip’s most memorable parts is descending into Vatnshellir Cave. This 8,000-year-old lava tube takes you into a world of winding tunnels, stalactites, and volcanic rock formations that seem straight out of a Jules Verne novel. The tour provides helmets and flashlights, making sure you’re safe as you explore the uneven terrain. Reviewers mention that dressing warmly and sturdy footwear are essential here, and most find the experience to be a fascinating glimpse into Iceland’s volcanic past.

Lóndrangar Basalt Cliffs

Standing tall against the Atlantic, the Lóndrangar sea stacks are a striking piece of Icelandic coastline. These natural sculptures, shaped by volcanic activity and waves, carry stories of folklore and resilience. It’s a spectacular spot for photos and just soaking in nature’s raw power.

Arnarstapi Village & Budakirkja Church

In the tiny fishing village of Arnarstapi, the rugged cliffs and rock formations tell tales of nature’s carving skills. The sculpture of Bárður Snæfellsás, the guardian spirit, adds a mythical touch. The black church at Budakirkja, built in 1703, offers a charming and historic photo stop, with some reviews noting the importance of understanding its background and resilience.

The Logistics: How the Day Unfolds

The tour kicks off at 8AM, giving you a full day of exploring. It’s a small group — only around 19 travelers — which generally means more personalized attention and less rushing. The bus ride is about 12.5 hours, so you’ll need to be prepared for a long but comfortable day. Many reviewers have commented positively on the guide’s knowledge and storytelling, which helps pass the time and enrich the experience.

Transport is modern, with onboard Wi-Fi keeping you connected. The tour also includes hotel pickup and drop-off, so no need to worry about finding meeting points. The itinerary is flexible to some degree, but weather and road conditions can cause slight adjustments — this is Iceland after all.

Cave Exploration and Safety

For the lava cave, safety gear like helmets and flashlights are provided. The cave stays just above freezing year-round, so dressing warmly is advised. Wear sturdy shoes; no flip-flops or high heels here. The tour’s description mentions that you should be physically capable of navigating uneven surfaces — so it’s not ideal if you have mobility issues.

Cost and Value

At $215 per person, many reviews suggest this is a good deal considering the number of stops, the included activities, and the small group setting. It’s more economical than many private tours but offers a level of intimacy and information that larger buses sometimes lack.

Real Traveler Feedback: What People Are Saying

The majority of reviewers give this tour a perfect score — 5 out of 5. They praise knowledgeable guides (like Smári, Mike, and Chris), the stunning scenery, and the well-organized itinerary. Many mention that the stops feel well-paced, with enough time for photos and exploration. Several reviews highlight the extra touches, like local stories, snacks, or spontaneous extra stops, making the experience more personal.

A handful of critics point out some issues, like the jarring music, poor timing for restroom breaks, or vehicle comfort, but these seem to be the exception rather than the rule. One review mentioned a last-minute cancellation, which can happen in Iceland’s unpredictable weather, but the company offers full refunds or alternative dates.

Highlights from reviews:

• “This tour was truly the highlight of our time in Iceland,” says William.
• “The stops at hidden waterfalls and old churches added a special touch,” writes Dawn.
• “Our guide went above and beyond,” shares Bambi, especially noting a surprise coffee stop.
• “Climbing the crater on a sunny day for photos was breathtaking,” mentions Joslen.

These comments reinforce that, overall, this experience offers a great balance of scenic beauty, educational commentary, and local charm.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive day exploring Iceland’s west coast, with a focus on natural wonders and geology. It’s perfect for those who enjoy guided group experiences and appreciate having logistics taken care of, leaving more time for sightseeing. It’s also suitable for people with moderate stamina, as most stops involve walking on uneven terrain, but no strenuous hikes are required.

If you’re someone who’s curious about Iceland’s volcanic past, loves picturesque villages, and wants to avoid the hassle of planning each stop, this trip hits the right notes. It’s less suited for travelers seeking a very relaxed pace or those with specific mobility issues, given the uneven terrain at the cave and some short hikes.

Final Thoughts

This Journey to the Center of the Earth tour combines Iceland’s most captivating sights with expert guiding in a small-group setting. It provides a solid balance of nature, history, folklore, and scenic beauty, making it a compelling choice for anyone wanting a packed, memorable day. The reviews attest to its value, especially highlighting the guide’s knowledge and the breathtaking landscapes.

While it’s a long day, the included stops and the variety of landscapes keep it engaging from start to finish. If you’re comfortable on a bus, enjoy learning stories as you go, and want to see both iconic and lesser-known sites, this tour is definitely worth considering.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour provides hassle-free pickup and drop-off from your Reykjavik hotel, making it convenient and saving you some travel planning.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is generally accessible for most travelers, but be aware that exploring Vatnshellir Cave involves uneven terrain and the need for physical ability to navigate stairs and tunnels. It’s best for older children and those comfortable with moderate walking.

What should I wear for the cave visit?
Dress warmly and wear sturdy shoes. The cave stays just above freezing all year, so gloves and warm layers are recommended.

How long is the total tour?
The tour lasts approximately 12 hours and 30 minutes, so it’s quite a long day. Be prepared for a full day on the bus with plenty of interesting stops.

What is the cost, and is it worth it?
At $215 per person, the price seems reasonable considering the included activities, small group size, and the variety of sights. Many travelers feel it offers good value for money.

Can I cancel if the weather is poor?
Yes, the tour is weather-dependent, and if canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This tour offers a well-rounded, scenic, and educational look at one of Iceland’s most fascinating regions. Whether you’re into geology, folklore, or just want to see stunning landscapes, it’s an experience worth considering.