5 Day Snæfellsnes & South Coast Winter Adventure | Tröll Expeditions
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5-Day South Coast & Snæfellsnes Minibus Tour

Tour Description

Embark on a thrilling 5-day adventure tour that covers the finest highlights of Iceland! Your journey commences in Reykjavík and ventures through Borgarfjörður and Snæfellsnes Peninsula. From there, you'll traverse the famed Golden Circle before delving into the captivating landscapes of Iceland's South Coast.

This comprehensive multi-day excursion promises an unparalleled exploration of the captivating natural splendours, historical treasures, and distinctive encounters that grace the regions of West and South Iceland.

As you navigate through this expedition, you'll be fully immersed in Iceland's enchanting and varied terrains. Witness the majestic cascade of waterfalls, the allure of black sand beaches, the allure of geysers, and the magnificence of glaciers. This adventure presents you with a unique opportunity not only to delve into the country's rich history but also to marvel at its awe-inspiring natural marvels and unparalleled geological phenomena.

Start from

From Reykjavík

Open season

All Year

Duration

5 Days

Pick-up

Minibus tour: Pick up & Drop off included

Difficulty

Easy



Map and Itinerary

Day 1: The Golden Circle

Day 1 is dedicated to exploring the legendary Golden Circle route. Your guide will pick you up at your designated pickup location to visit the three primary attractions. You will start at Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site where you can stand directly between the separating North American and Eurasian tectonic plates and explore the site of Iceland's first parliament. Next, you will visit the Haukadalur Geothermal Area to witness the famous Strokkur geyser erupting every few minutes. The final stop on the route is the majestic Gullfoss Waterfall, where you can see the powerful glacial river plunge down a deep canyon. Your day concludes at a countryside hotel strategically located for maximizing your chances of viewing the Northern Lights in the dark night sky.

Please note: The itinerary is subject to change due to weather, road conditions, and availability of activities. Your guide will always ensure the best and safest experience possible.

1

Pickup in Reykjavik

Your 5-day adventure starts promptly at 8:00 AM in Reykjavík; after meeting your group, you will begin a comfortable minibus journey through the Golden Circle, complete with local stories and photo tips from your guide.

2

Þingvellir National Park

At Þingvellir National Park, the first stop of the day, you will witness the stunning sight of volcanic fields and mountains blanketed in snow. This UNESCO World Heritage site is uniquely beautiful, showcasing the exposed North American and Eurasian tectonic plates moving apart and holding significant cultural heritage as the founding location of Iceland's first parliament in 930 AD.

3

Geysir Geothermal Area

Explore the vibrant Haukadalur Geothermal Area, where the famous Strokkur geyser erupts spectacularly every 5 minutes, shooting water up to 35 meters. This stop highlights Iceland's raw energy and is named after the now-dormant Great Geysir, which gave its name to all geysers worldwide.

4

Gullfoss Waterfall

The final stop on the Golden Circle is the majestic Gullfoss ("Golden Waterfall"), formed by the glacial meltwater of Langjökull, Iceland’s second-largest glacier. Here, you'll witness the powerful river plunging into a deep canyon and, on clear days, can often capture a spectacular photo of a rainbow in the mist.

5

Accommodation: Hrífunes Guesthouse(or Similar) with Breakfast

After a day exploring Iceland’s South Coast, we’ll spend the night in a comfortable countryside hotel in the same area, typically Hotel Drangshlíð or a similar option. The location offers easy access to the next day’s activities and is ideally situated for Northern Lights viewing during the winter months, far from city lights.

Northern Lights Hunt

Arriving at our hotel, (in the winter season) your guide will let you know the chances of seeing Northern Lights tonight and if the conditions are favorable. He will suggest places near the hotel, and if the sky is clear and the forecast is good, we can hope for the magic to begin.
Please be aware that the Northern Lights are a natural occurrence; therefore, we cannot guarantee their appearance. Nevertheless, we will make every effort to guide you to the most suitable locations where the likelihood of witnessing them is high.
(Please keep in mind that the Northern Lights sightseeing is possible only in the winter time as Nature allows, usually from September to beginning of April)

Day 2: South Coast & Glacier Hike

You will journey along the dramatic South Coast, a region defined by its stunning waterfalls and powerful volcanic landscapes

Please note: The itinerary is subject to change due to weather, road conditions, and availability of activities. Your guide will always ensure the best and safest experience possible.

1

Morning Meetup: Breakfast and Briefing

For Day 2, Once you’ve had breakfast, you will meet up with your guide for the start of an exciting new day. Departure times are normally between 8:00 and 9:00 AM."

2

Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

Upon arrival you will enjoy the powerful theatrics of Seljalandsfoss. Bring a raincoat and you’ll be able to make the short hike behind the falls. The scene behind the fall and the trembling ground from the power of the falling water makes for an automatic photo blockbuster!

3

Skógafoss Waterfall

Further east along the coast is Skógafoss waterfall. Skógafoss is an incredibly picturesque sight: tucked in a little gorge, the river Skógá tumbles down a 60 meters cliff before continuing down the landscape towards the Atlantic Ocean. Alongside the gorge, a 527 steps staircase can take you to the shelf above the waterfall for stunning views.

4

Reynisfjara

Black Sand Beach Heading further east, we visit the black sand beach of Reynisfjara, where the Atlantic coastline presents massive waves hitting the unique basalt columns in the cliffs above the sand. Rock pillars in the water and the cliffs of Dýrhólaey are seen in the distance.

5

Included Activity: Glacier Hike

Glacier Hike completes our perfect adventure we will hike an outlet glacier spawning from one of the largest glaciers in the country. After meeting our highly trained glacier guides and strapping on our safety and glacier equipment, including helmets, harnesses, crampons and ice axes, we hike on the ice for an hour and a half. A spectacular experience and an opportunity to learn more about this breathtaking and increasingly rare natural phenomenon.

6

Accommodation: Hotel Drangshlíð (or Similar) with Breakfast

After a day exploring Iceland’s South Coast, we’ll spend the night in a comfortable countryside hotel in the same area, typically Hotel Drangshlíð or a similar option. The location offers easy access to the next day’s activities and is ideally situated for Northern Lights viewing during the winter months, far from city lights.

Northern Lights Hunt

Upon arrival at your accommodation (during the winter season, September–April), your guide will check the latest Northern Lights forecast. While the Aurora Borealis is a natural phenomenon and cannot be guaranteed, we strategically select remote hotels and suggest the best viewing spots nearby to maximize your chances of witnessing the magnificent display.

Day 3: Jökulsárlón & Blue Ice Cave

Today, we dive into the breathtaking landscapes of East Iceland a land of majestic glaciers and unforgettable views., where your first stop offers a stunning photo opportunity to admire Vatnajökull, Europe's largest glacier.

Please note: The itinerary is subject to change due to weather, road conditions, and availability of activities. Your guide will always ensure the best and safest experience possible.

1

Morning Meetup: Breakfast and Briefing

For Day 3, Once you’ve had breakfast, you will meet up with your guide for the start of an exciting new day. Departure times are normally between 8:00 and 9:00 AM."

2

Diamond Beach and Jökulsárlón

A 200m deep glacial lake fed by Breiðamerkurjökull, an outlet glacier of Europe’s largest glacier. Fed enormous icebergs all year round the lagoon is usually filled with ice that floats south. We walk alongside the glacier lagoon enjoying the magnificent views and dead silence of Icelandic nature. Diamond Beach On the other side of the road the icebergs from Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon float into the Atlantic Ocean where they are quickly thrown back to shore by the tide and winds. This black sand beach is full of smaller ice rocks in all shapes and sizes, sparkling like diamonds in the daylight. The ice itself comes in all shades of white and blue forming beautiful contrasts, guaranteed to make your Instagram account pop!  

3

Included Activity: Blue Ice Cave

And to make the experience even better we end with an Ice cave tour from Jökulsárlón, where you'll meet our guides, hop into our super jeep and take on an amazing journey up the glacier where the blue ice caves are. There you'll enter the unique phenomenon which is the blue ice cave.

4

Accommodation: Hotel Island (or Similar) with Breakfast

After the end of your days tour, A countryside stay after your Glacier Lagoon, Ice Cave, and Black Sand Beach tour provides an essential rest stop near the dramatic landscapes you've just explored.

Northern Lights Hunt

Arriving at our hotel, (in the winter season) your guide will let you know the chances of seeing Northern Lights tonight and if the conditions are favorable. He will suggest places near the hotel, and if the sky is clear and the forecast is good, we can hope for the magic to begin.
Please be aware that the Northern Lights are a natural occurrence; therefore, we cannot guarantee their appearance. Nevertheless, we will make every effort to guide you to the most suitable locations where the likelihood of witnessing them is high.
(Please keep in mind that the Northern Lights sightseeing is possible only in the winter time as Nature allows, usually from September to beginning of April)

Day 4: Borgarfjörður, Waterfalls, and Viking Heritage

Explore the cultural heart of West Iceland on this journey through Borgarfjörður, home to Europe's most powerful hot spring, Deildartunguhver. You will discover unique waterfalls and immerse yourself in the Viking history of the area, including the legacy of medieval scholar Snorri Sturluson.

Please note: The itinerary is subject to change due to weather, road conditions, and availability of activities. Your guide will always ensure the best and safest experience possible.

1

Morning Meetup: Breakfast and Briefing

For Day 4, Once you’ve had breakfast, you will meet up with your guide for the start of an exciting new day. Departure times are normally between 8:00 and 9:00 AM."

2

Borgarfjörður

You will head on to Borgarfjörður, a region rich with historical heritage where Viking sailors first reached land and established settlements in West Iceland.

3

Deildartunguhver

Next, explore Reykholtsdalur Valley, where you can learn about the forces of Deildartunguhver, Europe's most powerful hot spring. Your journey continues to the village of Reykholt, a site of key historical importance, renowned as the former home of medieval scholar and chieftain Snorri Sturluson, who wrote invaluable records of Norse mythology and history.

4

Hraunsfossar and Barnafoss

Journey a short distance to discover two stunning waterfalls: Hraunfossar, where countless streams magically cascade out of a dark lava field, and Barnafoss, a bright blue stream powerfully rushing through a narrow ravine. This contrast of color and force makes them a magnificent sight in West Iceland.

5

Accommodation: Stykkishólmur-Inn ( or Similar) with Breakfast

After a full day exploring the West Iceland, you'll head to your accommodation for a restful night's sleep to prepare for the next exciting day.

Northern Lights Hunt

Look for the magical Aurora Borealis at night, especially when the sky is clear and starry (available from September to early April). Your guide will provide the latest forecast upon arrival at the hotel and suggest the best local spots to view the Northern Lights, maximizing your chances of witnessing this incredible natural phenomenon.

Day 5: Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Prepare to explore amazing things like lava fields, dreamy waterfalls, dark caves, black and white beaches, historical locations, and the mighty Snæfellsjökull Glacier of the west. The glacier played an important role in the novel Journey to the Centre of the Earth by Jules Verne, where it was the opening point to a great underground journey. You will have a nice breakfast and then head out for an adventure where you will be exploring the underground.

Please note: The itinerary is subject to change due to weather, road conditions, and availability of activities. Your guide will always ensure the best and safest experience possible.

1

Morning Meetup: Breakfast and Briefing

For Day 5, your designated guide will pick you up from your hotel between 8:00 AM and 9:00 AM, after you've enjoyed breakfast.

2

Ytri-Tunga

Once you have reached the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, next you will be able to explore a white sand beach at Ytri-Tunga, which is unusual for Icelandic beaches, most of them have black sand. The sand in Ytri-Tunga is golden and the location is great for spotting seals.

3

Arnarstapi

The village of Arnarstapi is your next destination, a small fishing village surrounded by basalt ravines and lava pillars. You can see old fisherman landing spots and you can follow a path leading you along the coast with the Atlantic Ocean waves crushing against Gatklettur arch rock.

4

Djúpalónssandur

You will head to Djúpalónssandur, a black pebble beach, to get there you will trek through a unique field of lava pillars and rocks, a very special location, unlike anything else. When you reach the beach you can walk on the pebble shore and take in all the incredible features of the location.

5

Kirkjufell Mountain

Afterward, the iconic Kirkjufell Mountain will welcome you with all of its unique features. As you may know, the mountain was featured in the popular series, Game of Thrones and has become one of Icelands most popular sites.

6

Arrival Back to Reykjavik

After your thrilling tour, you will begin the scenic drive back south to the capital. The long journey allows you to relax and reflect on the incredible sights and experiences of your 5-day tour. You will arrive back in Reykjavík in the evening, with an estimated arrival time of around 8:00 PM, though this may vary depending on weather and road conditions.



Available Add-ons

Support Shoes

Rent shoes for keeping your ankles safe to prevent injuries.

$29
waterproof-jacket
Waterproof Jacket

Rent a jacket to keep you dry

$22
Waterproof Pants

Rent pants to keep you dry

$22
Luggage Storage

Store your extra luggage.

$22
Summer Activity Boat Tour

Add-on boat tour: sail between icebergs in a glacier lagoon (summer only) – Extra + 55 USD per person

$55
Beanie and Gloves

Buy our Troll Beanie and Gloves to feel part of our winter Trolls and keep you warm in the Icelandic cold

$22
Neck-warmer

Buy our Troll Neck-warmer to feel part of our winter Trolls and and protect your face from cold wind

$4
Summer Cap

Buy our Troll Summer-Cap to feel part of our summer Trolls and protect yourself from the sun

$10
20% off - Departures before 15th Dec.
Promo code:
Price from
$1,403
/ traveler
Choose a date to start

Frequently Asked Questions

• Warm clothes (first layer) • Waterproof outdoor clothing (second layer) • Hiking boots (available for rent when booking) • Joy and happiness!

  1. Customers traveling alone must pay a Single Supplement Fee during the payment process, as it is not possible for solo travelers to share a room with other solo travelers on this tour.
  2. Reservations for 2 people: will be allocated a double room (supplement fee does not need to be paid unless you want another private room).
  3. Reservations for 3 people: 1 triple room will be automatically allocated (supplement fee does not need to be paid unless you want another private room).
  4. Reservations for 4 or more people: 2x Double Rooms will be allocated (supplement fee does not need to be paid unless you want another private room).

• Order or availability of attractions may change due to road or weather conditions and we may have to adjust timings to the short daylight of winter days. • The limit is one suitcase of 24 inches per person, but you can store your extra luggage in our office for 3,000 ISK per item. It can be added as an extra fee at the time of booking, and is non-refundable upon payment in all cases. • Pick-up is from designated locations in Reykjavík on a drop-down menu at the time of booking. Pick-up is not available from Keflavik airport or outside of the greater capital area.

The minimum age suggested for this tour is 8 years old since there are some included activities following that restriction. For the glacier hike, the minimum age requirement is 8, in addition, the minimum shoe size to be able to participate in the tour is EU 34. If children under those ages are on the tour, then an adult needs to stay with them while others do these activities. For the ice cave, the minimum age limit is 6. As per legal requirements, children aged six and below must utilize a child seat. Therefore, reserving a seat on the bus specifically for the child seat is necessary.

✓ All-day tours 24 hours from the departure time by sending a written email to info@troll.is. You will receive a full refund except the 3% card fee. All cancellations requested less than 24 hours from the departure time are non refundable. ✓ In the case of cancellation of the tour by the operator because of extreme weather, road conditions, or other factors, we will assist you with rebooking to another date or booking other activities when possible or provide a full refund. ✓ The 24-hour policy “applies to extras as well (rental Hiking Boots, Waterproof Jacket & Waterproof Pants).

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