2-Day West Coast Tour | Snaefellsnes, Silver Circle & the Lava Cave


Discover the magic of the West, visit fabulous waterfalls and hot springs and see stalactites and stalagmites in a spectacular lava cave

On this 2-day tour to West Iceland, we’ll take you first to Borgarfjordur, thought to be the location for many of the famous Icelandic Sagas. Deep in the heart of the wild landscapes here, you’ll see the most powerful hot springs in Europe, awe-inspiring waterfalls and learn about local Viking history. Then you’ll explore an astonishing lava cave system that was created over a thousand years ago, filled with stalactites, stalagmites and fascinating ice formations.

After an overnight stay in Borgarnes, you’ll then spend your second day discovering the dazzling Snaefellsnes peninsula. Snaefellsnes is also known as “Iceland in Miniature” because the highlights of the country can all be found in this one area. There are glittering glaciers, snow-covered volcanoes, black sand beaches, dramatic mountains, pretty fishing villages, cute seals, seabird colonies, and much more.

Day 1 | The Silver Circle with Lava Caving

Your 2-day West Iceland adventure will begin when we collect you from your accommodation in Reykjavik and drive you to Borgarfjordur. It’s a quick journey, as we take the coastal route past Mount Esja and a road tunnel deep under Hvalfjordur to Borgarnes, the gateway to the region. There’ll be a quick stop here for refreshments and to take in the amazing views of Hafnarfjall (Harbour mountain) and Skessuhorn mountain. 

Then we leave the Ring Road behind and turn inland through fertile farmlands, crossing rapid rivers from the nearby Langjokull glacier, the second biggest in the country.

Glanni Waterfall

Your first stop will be at Bifrost – a place that you might have heard about when reading stories about Norse Mythology. Here, aside from mythical boarder between human and god´s world, you will find tiny, but charming waterfall called Glanni. Located on the Nordura River multiple tiers fall down across old lava fields called the Grabrokarhraun. In fact, you can also enjoy the view over 3 volcanic craters called Grabrok, that rise above these fields.

Deildartunguhver - the most powerful hot spring in Europe

Deildartunguhver is the next stop on our tour, the site of the most powerful hot spring in Europe, which pumps out more than 180 liters of boiling water every second. Deildartunguhver produces the hot water and heating for all the towns and villages in the surrounding area. The power of nature can truly be felt as you walk amongst clouds of steam vapor and bubbling springs on boardwalks, or you can see these from a viewing platform instead.

Reykholt Historic Site

The last stop on the first day of the tour is Reykholt, which is an historic site in Iceland’s folklore, featured in the writings of Snorri Sturluson, a famous poet and local chieftain. Snorralaug (Snorri’s Pool) is an old-time hot spring, where locals have bathed for hundreds of years. Snorralaug is now a protected archaeological treasure, and there is also a traditional timber church here to look at too.

Hraunfossar - unique Lava Waterfalls

Just a little further inland, we soon come to Hraunfossar, a magnificent stretch of waterfalls that runs for nearly a kilometer over a rugged lava field. Hraunfossar, which translates as the “Lava Waterfalls” is a wide plateau waterfall, with several viewing platforms that allow you to see the cascades from many different positions. Glacial meltwater from the nearby Langjokull glacier crashes over jagged cliffs into the fierce Hvita (White) river below. It’s an awesome sight to view countless waterfalls stretching as far as the eye can see.

There is another waterfall nearby, known as Barnafoss, or the “waterfall of the children”. Once there was a stone arch making a natural bridge over the Hvita river here. Many years ago, two children from a nearby farm were drowned when they tried to cross it. Their heartbroken mother had the bridge destroyed to save others from the same sad end.

Husafell - a woodland oasis

Set between two glaciers, Husafell is an enchanting place filled with Viking history, including traditional turf houses and sweet little elf huts to amuse the children too. This magical spot, with its thick birch tree forests and crystal-clear waterfalls, has been an inspiration for local artists and many works of art are on display here. As well as that, the “Husafell Stone” can be found here. This is a legendary “lifting stone”, once used to test the strength of the locals and still used in international competitions today.

Lava Cave Expedition at Vidgelmir

The highlight of the first day in West Iceland is a 1.5 hour expedition to the Lava Cave at Vidgelmir. Just over a thousand years ago, a volcanic eruption here in the Hallmundarhraun lava field created a hollowed-out lava tube that stretched for hundreds of yards. Over time, the roof of this tube has collapsed in several places, making it possible for visitors to climb down and explore the depths in safety on well-built walkways with permanent lighting.

The Vidgelmir Lava Cave is an incredibly colorful underworld, measuring 1585 meters long, nearly 16 meters high, and 16 meters wide. That means it’s easily the largest lava tunnel in the country. Inside, guided by local experts, you will see some incredible sights – delicate lava formations, ice crystals, stalactites and stalagmites. It is thought that early Viking settlers may have sheltered here, which makes it even more exciting to visit here.

Overnight Stay in Borgarnes

Day 2 | The Snaefellsnes Peninsula

The second day of our West Iceland adventure takes you to the Snaefellsnes peninsula, which translates as the “Snow Mountain Peninsula”. Snaefellsnes is also described as “Iceland in Miniature” because it contains all of the best aspects of Iceland in one amazing region. Snaefellsnes is packed with colossal mountains that hug the coastal roads, an enormous glacier-topped volcano, marvelous waterfalls, black sand beaches, seal and bird colonies, rapid rivers, rugged volcanic cliffs and so much more.

As soon as we leave Borgarnes and start our circuit around this 100km peninsula, the glacier-topped volcano called Snaefellsjokull comes into view. At nearly 1500m, Snaefellsjokull dominates the skyline here, capped with a glittering crown of snow and ice.

Snaefellsjokull was the inspiration for Jules Verne when he wrote “Journey to the Center of the Earth”, where the entrance to the planet’s core was thought to be located, and many people still think of Snaefellsnes as a very spiritual place.

Ytri-Tunga Seal Colony

Our first stop is at the Ytri Tunga seal colony, where you’ll get the chance to visit these cute creatures as they laze around here on summer days on a golden sand beach. We’ll show you how to find them on a stretch of coastline next to a deserted farm. The seals can often be quite playful when they’re feeding here, and it’s also unusual to find a golden sand beach in Iceland too.  

Black Church - Budakirkja

The next stop on the southern side of the peninsula brings us to the beautiful 19th-century church of Budakirkja. This black timber church is famous for being built by a determined local woman, even though the church authorities didn’t think there was much need for one here. Nowadays, it has become a very popular place for couples to get married, as it is in such a fabulous location.

Arnarstapi

Atlantic waves crash offshore at the ancient fishing hamlet of Arnastapi, which is our next stop. We’ll stay here for long enough for you to take a breathtaking stroll along the sea-cliffs to see the astonishing sea-arch of Gatklettur, the “Rock with a Hole”, which is an amazing sight. There is a tremendous combination of colors here, with black lava rocks covered with bright yellow and green mosses, all set against the background blues of the Atlantic. There’s also a tribute to Jules Verne and an enormous stone monument.

Londrangar Cliffs

Just a little further onwards, we come to the towering Londrangar Cliffs, where awesome basalt columns cling to jagged 70-meter-high pillars, providing a summer home for puffins and other seabirds while they feed and raise their chicks. Watch out for the Arctic terns, who often dive-bomb unwary visitors!

Black Beach of Djupalonssandur

Our next stop is the stunning black sand beach of Djuplalonssandur, a sweeping stretch of dramatic coastline, approached by walking through ancient lava fields. There is a lot of history here, with the four “Lifting Stones” that were used to test the strength of the local fishermen, and the remains of a shipwrecked English trawler too. You might want to test your own strength to see which of the four stones you can also lift, as they range from 23kg all the way to 150kg!

Kirkjufell Mountain & Waterfalls

Kirkjufell is said to be one of the most photographed mountains in Iceland, and it’s been featured in “Game of Thrones” as the “Arrowhead Mountain”, and seen in several Hollywood films too. Set in a sweeping fjord, this majestic mountain resembles a shark fin, although its name actually translates as the “Church Mountain”. Kirkjufell is a stunning sight at any time of the year, with its unusual shape, and standing alone from the surrounding hills. There are many great spots to take an extraordinary photo here – we’ll show you where to look!

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Meeting Point

Pickup is within Reykjavik.

When you complete your booking, you’ll be asked to choose a pick up and drop off location. Where possible, we will collect you directly from your hotel.

Some parts of the city have traffic restrictions, so you’ll need to go to a designated bus stop for collection instead if your hotel is in that area.

There’s a 30-minute window for collection while we pick up other passengers from their locations.

At the end of your tour, you’ll be dropped off at the same place unless you choose to get off at another stop instead – that’s your choice! Drop off can also take up to 30 minutes.

What’s included


  • Professional tour guided in English in a minibus

  • Pick up and drop off within Reykjavik

  • Accommodation for 1 night in a double or a twin room with private bathroom and breakfast included

  • Entrance to Lava Cave

  • Free Wi-Fi on bus and USB chargers next to every seat

What’s excluded

  • Lunch & Dinner – we make scheduled stops so that guests can buy lunch or snacks during the tour

  • Swimwear and towel - needed for optional visit at local swimming pool in Borgarnes

What do I need to bring

  • Hiking boots are mandatory

    Proper footwear when walking on uneven and slippery surfaces increases your safety and comfort. Please note, that you can be banned from participating in glacier activities when not wearing required shoes. If you do not own proper footwear (solid shoes reaching above your ankle) you can rent them during booking process

Important Information

  • Pickup takes place between 08:30 – 09:00 – so please be ready from 8:30 at your pick up location

  • Tour is operated under all weather conditions: please bring warm, wind & waterproof clothes

  • Duration of the tour is 2 days and 1 night

  • Estimated arrival time in Reykjavík on Day 2 is around 20:00 (Depending on weather and road conditions)

  • If you are a single traveler then a Single Room Supplement is mandatory

  • Hiking boots are highly recommended

    Proper footwear when walking on uneven and slippery surfaces increases your safety and comfort. If you do not own proper footwear (solid shoes reaching above your ankle) you can rent them during booking process

  • One small carry-on luggage is included per person

    For your convenience and safety reasons, it is recommended that you pack lightly for this tour, in a small suitcase or backpack. If you have large luggage with you, please check with your accommodation if they offer luggage storage for your time on this tour. If that is not a possibility, you can pay a small fee per luggage and we will make sure we have space for it on the tour bus

Cancellation policy

  • Cancellation fee of 100% charged if cancelled with less than 24 hours notice.

Guided Language

  • English

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 FAQs

  • When you complete your booking, you’ll be asked to choose a pick up and drop off location. Where possible, we will collect you directly from your hotel.

    Some parts of the city have traffic restrictions, so you’ll need to go to a designated bus stop for collection instead if your hotel is in that area.

    This link will tell you which bus stop is closest to your accommodation.

    There’s a 30-minute window for collection while we pick up other passengers from their locations.

    At the end of your tour, you’ll be dropped off at the same place unless you choose to get off at another stop instead – that’s your choice! Drop off can also take up to 30 minutes.

  • Iceland’s weather is famously unpredictable, so you’ll need to prepare appropriately, whatever the time of year for your tour.

    That means choosing the right clothes (light layers), shoes (sturdy and waterproof) and coats (windproof & waterproof). And not wearing jeans, just in case it rains!

  • If you’re booking a multi-day tour of up to three days, the maximum “carry-on” bag size is 50 x 30 x 60 cm (19.6 x 11.8 x 23.6 inches).

    If your multi-day tour is longer than three days, then your ticket includes “carry-on” (see above) and “checked” baggage, with a maximum combined size (W+L+D) of 160 cm (63 inches).

    For shorter tours, you can choose to add “checked” baggage for an additional fee during the booking process.

    If you want to guarantee bringing a larger bag on a shorter tour, it is best to book in advance.

  • Hotel accommodations are chosen with care to make the best use of your time in Iceland, with reasonable drive times between stops.

    You’ll enjoy a private room with en suite bathroom facilities and breakfast, WiFi, towels and, in most cases, a kettle for a morning brew.

    Outside the capital, most Icelandic hotels are comfortable and unfussy, with friendly, welcoming and knowledgeable staff.

    Enjoy the scenery while relaxing at the end of each day!

  • Hotel rooms are sold based on two adults sharing, so single-room occupancy is more expensive as a result.

    If you are a solo traveler, we will not assign you a room with a stranger, so the single supplement fee becomes applicable.

    If you are two people traveling together and staying in the same room but paying separately, the single supplement fee is not applicable.

    Simply add the name of your travel companion in the “special requirements” section when completing your booking.

  • For couples or groups traveling together, rooms will be assigned according to the number of people who have booked together.

    Depending on availability at each location, you may request twin beds if that is your preference.

    Larger groups will be accommodated in combinations of triple, double and twin rooms – three people in a triple room, four people in two doubles or twin rooms, five people in one triple and one double, and so on.

    If a person in your group would prefer a single room, you must select “single supplement fee” for them when booking.

    Solo travelers must pay a single supplement fee in all instances.

  • Breakfast is included at each overnight location, featuring bread and butter, preserves, boiled eggs, cooked meats, fruits, yoghurts, tea, and coffee.

    All other meals are at your own expense.

    As the tour continues around the country, you can grab lunch and dinner at each of the scheduled stops, and we’ll offer recommendations if you want them!

  • Yes. We monitor the weather and road conditions on the tour route to maximize your chance to see Iceland’s attractions at their best.

    That means we may change the order or timing of the stops to take advantage of the weather (avoiding rain or snow showers where possible) and “golden hour” photo opportunities.

    If we receive a weather alert from the Icelandic Meteorological Office or roads are closed by the local authorities, we must cancel tours for your safety.

    Iceland’s weather is very changeable, meaning changes may occur quickly. If we have to cancel tours, we will send you an email notification immediately.

    So please check your email inbox before heading out to the collection point, particularly if the weather looks bad in the city.

    Sometimes the weather is worse outside the city, or vice versa!

  • We schedule our tours carefully to ensure you see Iceland’s natural marvels in daylight, even in the winter when there are more hours of darkness.

    Many attractions are also illuminated, adding another layer of magic to the natural splendor! During shortest days, these places are usually visited at dusk or

    In the winter months, tours will begin and end in darkness, but rest assured, you will see all the places you want to see!

  • Everyone who comes to Iceland in the winter hopes to see the Northern Lights.

    This mesmerizing cosmic spectacle is a bucket-list experience, with magical splashes of multi-colored lights dancing across the heavens.

    But it’s important to remember that it’s a natural phenomenon, requiring certain levels of solar activity and clear, dark skies.

    That means there’s no guarantee that you’ll be lucky enough to see them while you’re in Iceland.

    Our selected hotels are in the remote Icelandic countryside, ideal for spotting the Aurora Borealis, with far less artificial light than in the city.

    Wake-up calls can be requested if the Northern Lights are spotted later at night.

  • On average, we will cover 200-300 kilometers each day, with four to five hours of driving.

    We schedule our tours as evenly as possible, with driving distances between each stop varying from 45 minutes to a couple of hours.

    You’ll have around 30 to 60 minutes to explore each location, with most attractions just a short walk from the parking lot.

    As with everything in Iceland, the precise timings of the tour will depend on weather and road conditions on the day, as our priority is to keep you safe while exploring Iceland.

  • If you want to bring small children on our tours, we will provide booster seats to ensure their safety and comfort.

    Important: bringing children younger than the minimum age stated for each trip is not permitted; please check carefully before submitting your booking.

    Please contact us by email at least 24 hours in advance, with the subject line “Booster seat + your booking reference number”.

  • After the final stop on the tour, we will return to the city. There is no specific time or drop off location – this can differ from the pick up spot.

    You’re free to ask the guide to drop you off in the city center, or back at your collection point, whichever is the most convenient for your evening plans.

    You can expect to be dropped off within 30 minutes after the scheduled end of the tour.

Would you like a private tour?

If you would like a customized tour or just want the tour on your own schedule, please send us a message and we will happily arrange things for you.