5-Day Snæfellsnes & South Iceland Expedition

From

kr.195990

Min Age

8 years

Duration

5 days

Overview

Embarking on our five-day tour from West to East offers an incredible opportunity to discover some of Iceland’s most stunning and sought-after attractions. The Snaefellsnes Peninsula, hailed as the ultimate winter destination by Travel & Leisure, promises an adventure through charming rural landscapes that are both distinctive and unconventional. Meanwhile, the South Coast beckons as a haven for sightseers, boasting an abundance of natural wonders ranging from majestic waterfalls and glaciers to sprawling national parks and striking black volcanic beaches. Prepare to be awe-struck as you take in these breathtaking sights along our journey.

Highlights Of The Tour

✓ Visit Golden Circle

✓ Hike on Vatnajökull Glacier

✓ Explore Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

✓ Walk the shores of Diamond Beach

✓ Visit Natural Ice Cave

✓ See Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

✓ See Mount Kirkjufell

✓ Enjoy Reynisfjara black sand beach

✓ Witness Hraunfossar and Barnafoss Waterfalls

✓ Explore highlights of Snæfellsnes Peninsula

✓ Northern Lights (during winter & under the right conditions)

✓ Soak in Krauma Nature Resort (optional)

✓ Get inside Vatnshellir Cave Tour (optional)

Included/Exclude

  • Pick-up & drop off from Reykjavík
  • Guided tour in a minibus
  • Accommodation with private bathroom - 4 nights
  • Breakfast
  • English speaking tour guide
  • Free WiFi on board

Tour Amenities

Accepts Credit Cards
Car Parking
Free Coupons

Tour Plan

About the Tour

In the first leg of our journey, we’ll explore the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, where you’ll encounter a wide range of stunning landscapes, from tranquil bays and rugged cliffs to glittering glacier tongues. We’ll venture into ancient lava tube caves, stroll along black pebble beaches adorned with dramatic cliff formations, and visit the iconic Kirkjufell mountain. If weather permits, we’ll even embark on a Northern Lights chase at night.

Next, we’ll journey through the Borgarfjörður area, starting with the breathtaking views of Mount Kirkjufell. Our adventure continues with a visit to the picturesque Hraunfossar waterfall and the historic village of Reykholt, known for its ties to Icelandic poet Snorri Sturluson. You’ll have the option to relax in the soothing Krauma geothermal baths or participate in activities at Sturlureykir horse farm. Our route also takes us to witness Europe’s most powerful hot spring, Deildartunguhver.

On the third day, we’ll explore the iconic Golden Circle route, featuring the geological wonder of Thingvellir National Park, where you can stand between two tectonic plates. We’ll marvel at the majestic Gullfoss waterfall and witness the impressive geothermal activity of the Strokkur geyser. Continuing southward, we’ll visit Seljalandsfoss waterfall and Reynisfjara black sand beach, with the possibility of catching a glimpse of the Northern Lights in the evening.

The fourth day brings us to the awe-inspiring Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where you’ll be mesmerized by the sight of icebergs floating in the lagoon. We’ll explore the Diamond Beach, where ice monoliths glisten in the sunlight. Then, we’ll venture into a natural ice cave in Vatnajökull glacier, where our guide will ensure your safety and provide fascinating insights into the glacier’s formation.

Finally, on the last day of our tour, we’ll visit the magnificent Skógafoss waterfall before returning to Reykjavik. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to soak in the breathtaking landscapes of South Iceland, passing by moss-covered lava fields and snow-capped mountains.

DAY 1 – HIGHLIGHTS OF SNAEFELLSNES PENINSULA

We’ll be picking you up around 9:00 A.M., whether you’re at your hotel or another spot you’ve chosen in Reykjavik. Just keep in mind, the entire pickup process might take about half an hour.

Our first stop is Borgarnes, known for its Viking history. Then, we’ll head to Ytri Tunga beach, famous for its golden sands. After that, it’s off to Búðir, a charming spot with stunning views of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.

Our next destination is Arnarstapi, a picturesque fishing village where we’ll pause for lunch. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can explore Vatnshellir Cave with a guide for an extra fee. Alternatively, you can visit the Malarrif visitor center and its lighthouse for free.

To wrap up the day, we’ll visit Djúpalónssandur, a black sand beach with the remains of a shipwreck. Then, we’ll take you to the Hellissandur Adventure Hótel or a similar accommodation.

If you’re traveling between late September and early April, keep an eye out for the Northern Lights if the weather permits.

Day Highlights
  • Borgarnes village
  • Gerðuberg basalt columns
  • Ytri Tunga beach
  • Deildartunguhver Hot Spring
  • Búðir
  • Arnarstapi fishing village
  • Vatnshellir cave (optional extra)
  • Djúpalónssandur beach
  • Northern Lights (during winter and if weather conditions allow it)
Included
  • Pick-up from Reykjavik
  • Guided tour in minibus
  • One night in a hotel room
    Accommodation

    Adventure Hotel Hellissandur

    or similar

DAY 2 – BORGARFJÖRÐUR AREA

After enjoying a delicious breakfast, kickstart your day by visiting the iconic Mount Kirkjufell, often hailed as one of the most picturesque mountains around. Fans of the TV show “Game of Thrones” may recognize this spot, as it served as a filming location for the series.

Next, we’ll make a brief stop at Grundarfjörður, a charming Icelandic town, where you’ll have a chance to grab some snacks or any other essentials you might need.

Our journey continues with a visit to the stunning Hraunfossar and Barnafoss Waterfalls. Hraunfossar, also known as “the Lava Waterfalls,” is a breathtaking series of cascades flowing through lava formations. Barnafoss, or “Children’s waterfall,” holds a folk legend involving a tragic incident where two children drowned.

We’ll then head to the historic site of Reykholt, home to Snorralaug, a hot spring pool frequented by Iceland’s renowned poet and politician, Snorri Sturluson. Here, you’ll have the chance to relax at Krauma Geothermal Baths for an additional fee, or opt to continue exploring the area.

If you’re interested, we’ll make a stop at Sturlureykir horse farm, where you can meet Icelandic horses and learn about the farm’s unique geothermal heating system.

Our final destination for the day is Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot spring. This impressive natural wonder maintains a constant temperature of 206 degrees Fahrenheit (97 degrees Celsius) and releases a staggering 47.5 gallons (180 liters) of water per second, providing heating and hot water to nearby areas.

Day Highlights
  • Mount Kirkjufell
  • Grundarfjörður
  • Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls
  • Historic site of Reykholt
  • Krauma geothermal baths (optional extra)
  • Sturlureykir horse farm (alternative to Krauma)
  • Deildartunguhver hot spring
Included
  • Breakfast in hotel
  • Guided tour in minibus
  • Drop off in Reykjavik
    Accommodation

    Hotel Island

    or similar

DAY 3 – The Golden Circle

We’ll explore the famous Golden Circle, starting with a visit to Thingvellir National Park. This stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site showcases incredible geological formations shaped by the movements of tectonic plates. Take in the breathtaking rift valley and learn about the rich history of the Althingi, the oldest parliament in the world.

Next, we’ll journey southwest to Haukadalur Valley, home to the Geysir geothermal area. Prepare to be amazed by the sight of Strokkur, a geyser that shoots hot water high into the air every few minutes like clockwork.

Our adventure continues with a visit to the majestic Gullfoss waterfall, also known as the Golden Waterfall. Despite plans to harness its power for hydroelectricity in the past, Gullfoss remains untouched and retains its natural splendor for all to enjoy.

Continuing along the Ring Road, we’ll catch sight of the infamous volcano Hekla as we make our way to our next destination, Seljalandsfoss Waterfall. The path leading to the waterfall is short, taking us right behind it for an unforgettable experience. From there, we’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding area, and if the weather cooperates, we might even spot a rainbow encircling the waterfall. Seljalandsfoss plunges about 196 feet (60 meters), so it’s a good idea to have waterproof clothing handy.

To cap off the day, if the forecast looks promising, we’ll keep an eye out for the Northern Lights. Then, we’ll head to our hotel near the charming town of Kirkjubæjarklaustur for some well-deserved rest.

Day Highlights
  • Þingvellir National Park
  • Geysir Hot Springs
  • Gullfoss Waterfall
  • Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
  • Northern Lights (winter only)
Included
  • Hotel Accommodation
  • Hotel Breakfast
  • Visit to all Highlights of Golden Circle
  • Visit to Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
  • Hotel Near Vík
    Accommodation
    Adventure Hotel Geirland
    or similar

DAY 4 – Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon and ice caving

As we journey through the picturesque rural landscapes, passing scattered farms along the way, we’ll head eastward. Along the drive, we’ll be treated to the enchanting sight of moss-covered lava fields, adding to the magical ambiance of our journey.

Today’s adventure revolves around glaciers, offering an opportunity to explore a natural ice cave within Vatnajokull Glacier and the breathtaking Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon. Keep in mind that glacier adventures are subject to weather conditions, which can be unpredictable.

At Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and nearby Diamond Beach, prepare to be mesmerized by icebergs of all shapes and sizes drifting in the lagoon or resting on the black sand beach. If luck is on our side, we may even spot seals basking in the golden-hued sands as the late afternoon sun fades.

Our next destination is Skaftafell and Europe’s largest glacier, Vatnajokull. Our certified glacier guide will ensure we have an unforgettable experience exploring the glacier, deciding the best timing for our adventure. Remember to dress warmly, as the temperature inside the ice cave is significantly below freezing.

Strapping on our ice crampons, we’ll embark on our glacier hike, guided by experts who will introduce us to the vibrant, ever-changing world of the glacier. From incredible crevasses to deep moulins and naturally formed ice caves, there will be no shortage of awe-inspiring sights to capture with our cameras.

After our glacier experience, we’ll settle in for the night in Kirkjubæjarklaustur. If the weather looks promising, we’ll keep an eye out for the mesmerizing Aurora Borealis dancing across the sky.

Day Highlights
  • Vatnajökull National Park
  • Skaftafell Nature Reserve
  • Natural Ice Cave
  • Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
  • Diamond Beach
  • Northern Lights (winter only)
Included
  • Breakfast at a Hotel in Vík
  • Guided Glacier Hike tour
  • Visit to a Natural Ice Cave
  • Certified Glacier guide
  • Specialized Glacier Hiking Gear
  • Hotel in Skaftafell
    Accommodation
    Adventure Hotel Geirland
    or similar

DAY 5 – South Iceland Sightseeing

After enjoying a hearty breakfast, we’ll start our journey back to Reykjavik, taking in the main highlights along the south shore of Iceland. If the road conditions permit, we may take a small detour to Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon before continuing to the iconic Elhraun lava field.

Our next stop is Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, where you’ll witness the raw power of the Atlantic Ocean. Explore a black basalt cave and marvel at the Reynisdrangar basalt stacks rising from the sea, steeped in mythical legend.

Continuing our tour, we’ll visit Skógafoss, a majestic 60-meter tall waterfall cascading into a serene pool below. Legend has it that beneath this waterfall lies Viking treasure waiting to be discovered. You’ll also have the chance to climb 527 steps to a panoramic viewpoint overlooking the falls.

As we make our way back to Reykjavik, we’ll have the opportunity to visit more sites along the south coast, soaking in the stunning scenery before reaching the city.

Day Highlights
  • Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon
  • Elhraun lava field
  • Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
  • Skógafoss Waterfall
Included
  • Breakfast at Hotel in Skaftafell
  • Guided Tour
  • South Coast Highlights
  • Drop off in Reykjavík

What To Bring

  • Warm outdoor clothing
  • Waterproof jacket and pants
  • Headwear and gloves
  • Good hiking boots

Cancellation Policy

More than 14 days’ notice                                           100% refund

Less than 14 days’ notice                                             50% refund

Less than 48 hours notice                                            No refund

Cancellations or amendments with more than 14 days’ notice before trip departure:

You will be refunded 100% of the total tour price.

Cancellations or amendments with less than 14 days’ notice before trip departure:

You will be refunded 50% of your total tour price. 50% is non-refundable, as this represents our direct cost of canceling any arrangements made for your tour.

Cancellations or amendments with less than 48-hours’ notice before trip departure:

No refund will be given if tours are canceled or if amendments are made with less than 48 hours’ notice, as Tourism Iceland will be charged for all costs such as guides, transport, etc.

Extras and rental gear, booked as part of a multi-day tour fall under the terms as stated here above.

Self Drive tours are not eligible for partial cancellations of included activities and/or passenger count. Complete cancellations follow the terms mentioned here above.

Offered by Arctic Adventures, a partner vendor

Sea Kayaking

Sea Kayaking

One of the most exhilarating ways to experience Antarctica, the Arctic and beyond.

Sea kayaking holidays in the humbling wilderness of Antarcticathe Arctic, and some of the world’s most biodiverse regions, are guaranteed to stir your soul. Paddle between brash ice and icebergs of all shapes and sizes, absorbing the majestic scenery as it unfolds before you. 

In Antarctica, keep your camera on-hand for unforgettable encounters with penguins, seals and whales, and occasionally leopard seals or orcas. In the Arctic, prepare to  paddle under nesting bird colonies, past massive glaciers and around large iceberg. 

Led by experienced guides, you and your small group of like-minded adventurers will paddle between ice floes, brash ice and icebergs of all shapes and sizes. Paddling is one of the best ways to access and intimately explore the beautiful coastlines we visit and therefore make the most of your time in the wild and remote destinations we visit

Top reasons to choose a Sea Kayaking holiday

Annotation 2023-04-28 030538

See wildlife unobtrusively

Kayaking is one of the best ways to spot rare wildlife, from penguins to puffins.

Annotation 2023-04-28 030913

Better access

Access intimate bays and coves that bigger crafts can’t reach.​

Annotation 2023-04-28 030939

Knowledgeable guides

Our experienced sea kayak guides will help bring your chosen destination to life.

Annotation 2023-04-28 031035

Become an expert

Hone your kayaking skills and gain a hobby for life!

Annotation 2023-04-28 031035

Make friends

Become lifelong friends with your small group of like-minded adventurers.

Annotation 2023-04-28 031119

Stay fit on your holiday

Being active every day on your holiday means you don’t have to feel guilty about being spoilt by our expert chefs!

Annotation 2023-04-28 031119

Enhance your experience

Add another layer to your once-in-a-lifetime holiday and make the most out of your time in some of the most remote places on earth.

Annotation 2023-04-28 031213

It's fun!

Have the time of your life exploring some of the wildest places on earth from the water.

FAQs

Our guide to paddler ratio is 1:10 and we provide an accompanying safety Zodiac. There are 26 places available in Antarctica and tropical voyages, 20 in temperate regions, South Georgia and all Arctic trips except in Franz Josef Land where the maximum is 16 kayakers.

Kayakers must be 14 or over.

Sea kayaking is offered in place of regular shore excursions. We aim to paddle as often as possible. Depending on the voyage, we generally aim to paddle twice per day.

We will give you a drybag for extra clothing, binoculars and anything that needs to be kept dry. You should also carry a water bottle. We recommend bringing a waterproof camera or phone, or ensuring you have a good quality waterproof case.

If the weather changes during our outing we will head back to the ship and perhaps join a shore excursion. The ship’s captain, expedition leader and kayak guide always maintain close contact to ensure a safe paddling experience. We do not attempt to paddle too far away from the ship. The emphasis is on experiencing the destination rather than travelling long distances.

The kayaks are made with a hard plastic and are easily paddled in swell and conducting shore landings, and through small patches of brash ice. We manoeuvre around the larger ice chunks and floes.

Polar regions

Kayaking in the poles offers a unique wildlife viewing experience. In Antarctica, we have many opportunities to encounter penguins, seals and whales, and occasionally we may even spot leopard seals or orcas. In the Arctic, we’ll paddle under nesting bird colonies, past massive glaciers and around large icebergs, however we maintain a safe distance from polar bears and walruses. Our guides carry rifles and flare guns in the Arctic to ensure your safety against polar bears.

Temperate regions

Kayakers in wild temperate regions will have a unique wildlife experience, with possible encounters with seals and basking sharks. You will have the opportunity to view some of the largest sea bird colonies in the northern hemisphere.

Tropical regions

The superb wildlife-viewing opportunities are endless in the astonishingly biodiverse nature reserves we visit. Kayaks offer a unique opportunity to view marine and land mammals, coral reefs, tropical fish, sea birds and an astonishing range of rainforest birds. We will bring our snorkelling gear with us during our paddles and take advantage of any opportunities to view marine life up close.

In the unlikely event of a capsize, your experienced guide will assist by righting the kayak, stabilising it then pumping it out. Paddlers will re-enter with the guide’s help, or with a support Zodiac. With drysuits and warm clothing underneath you will be comfortable in cold water for up to half an hour. Note that the kayaks have separate compartments with bulkheads, which means they will float after a capsize.

No. Each kayaking place is for one person only. Passengers are unable to share a kayaking place as we customise the kayaks and dry suits for each individual kayaker at the beginning of each voyage.

Contact Us

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Balcony Stateroom Superior

Deck: 4 & 6

Cabin and balcony combined size: 29.2m² – 35.2m² (314.3ft² – 378.9ft²)

Beds: 
Icon

King bed

 
Icon

Twin beds

Features

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Private en-suite (wheelchair accessible)

Icon

Private balcony

Icon

Full size window

Icon

Desk area

Icon

Closet space

Icon

Room-controlled thermostat

Icon

Room safe

Icon

42″ flat-screen TV

Icon

Mini bar*

Cabin Inclusion

  • 1 x 3-in-1 polar jacket per person (polar voyages only)

Some of these rooms are equipped with wheelchair accessible bathrooms.

*Please note mini bar items are chargeable in all cabins except Junior Suite and Captain’s Suite

Sea Kayaking

Sea Kayaking

One of the most exhilarating ways to experience Antarctica, the Arctic and beyond.

Sea kayaking holidays in the humbling wilderness of Antarcticathe Arctic, and some of the world’s most biodiverse regions, are guaranteed to stir your soul. Paddle between brash ice and icebergs of all shapes and sizes, absorbing the majestic scenery as it unfolds before you. 

In Antarctica, keep your camera on-hand for unforgettable encounters with penguins, seals and whales, and occasionally leopard seals or orcas. In the Arctic, prepare to  paddle under nesting bird colonies, past massive glaciers and around large iceberg. 

Led by experienced guides, you and your small group of like-minded adventurers will paddle between ice floes, brash ice and icebergs of all shapes and sizes. Paddling is one of the best ways to access and intimately explore the beautiful coastlines we visit and therefore make the most of your time in the wild and remote destinations we visit

Top reasons to choose a Sea Kayaking holiday

Annotation 2023-04-28 030538

See wildlife unobtrusively

Kayaking is one of the best ways to spot rare wildlife, from penguins to puffins.

Annotation 2023-04-28 030913

Stay fit on your holiday

Being active every day on your holiday means you don’t have to feel guilty about being spoilt by our expert chefs!

Annotation 2023-04-28 030939

Knowledgeable guides

Our experienced sea kayak guides will help bring your chosen destination to life.

Annotation 2023-04-28 031035

Enhance your experience

Add another layer to your once-in-a-lifetime holiday and make the most out of your time in some of the most remote places on earth.

Annotation 2023-04-28 031035

Make friends

Become lifelong friends with your small group of like-minded adventurers.

Annotation 2023-04-28 031119

Better access

Access intimate bays and coves that bigger crafts can’t reach.​

Annotation 2023-04-28 031119

Become an expert

Hone your kayaking skills and gain a hobby for life!

Annotation 2023-04-28 031213

It's fun!

Have the time of your life exploring some of the wildest places on earth from the water.

FAQs

Our guide to paddler ratio is 1:10 and we provide an accompanying safety Zodiac. There are 26 places available in Antarctica and tropical voyages, 20 in temperate regions, South Georgia and all Arctic trips except in Franz Josef Land where the maximum is 16 kayakers.

Kayakers must be 14 or over.

Sea kayaking is offered in place of regular shore excursions. We aim to paddle as often as possible. Depending on the voyage, we generally aim to paddle twice per day.

Sea kayaking is offered in place of regular shore excursions. We aim to paddle as often as possible. Depending on the voyage, we generally aim to paddle twice per day.

If the weather changes during our outing we will head back to the ship and perhaps join a shore excursion. The ship’s captain, expedition leader and kayak guide always maintain close contact to ensure a safe paddling experience. We do not attempt to paddle too far away from the ship. The emphasis is on experiencing the destination rather than travelling long distances.

The kayaks are made with a hard plastic and are easily paddled in swell and conducting shore landings, and through small patches of brash ice. We manoeuvre around the larger ice chunks and floes.

Polar regions

Kayaking in the poles offers a unique wildlife viewing experience. In Antarctica, we have many opportunities to encounter penguins, seals and whales, and occasionally we may even spot leopard seals or orcas. In the Arctic, we’ll paddle under nesting bird colonies, past massive glaciers and around large icebergs, however we maintain a safe distance from polar bears and walruses. Our guides carry rifles and flare guns in the Arctic to ensure your safety against polar bears.

Temperate regions

Kayakers in wild temperate regions will have a unique wildlife experience, with possible encounters with seals and basking sharks. You will have the opportunity to view some of the largest sea bird colonies in the northern hemisphere.

Tropical regions

The superb wildlife-viewing opportunities are endless in the astonishingly biodiverse nature reserves we visit. Kayaks offer a unique opportunity to view marine and land mammals, coral reefs, tropical fish, sea birds and an astonishing range of rainforest birds. We will bring our snorkelling gear with us during our paddles and take advantage of any opportunities to view marine life up close.

In the unlikely event of a capsize, your experienced guide will assist by righting the kayak, stabilising it then pumping it out. Paddlers will re-enter with the guide’s help, or with a support Zodiac. With drysuits and warm clothing underneath you will be comfortable in cold water for up to half an hour. Note that the kayaks have separate compartments with bulkheads, which means they will float after a capsize.

No. Each kayaking place is for one person only. Passengers are unable to share a kayaking place as we customise the kayaks and dry suits for each individual kayaker at the beginning of each voyage.

Contact Us

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