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

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Multiday Adventure
Iceland's Nature Tour

Tour Description

Embark on a 5-day journey through some of Iceland’s most remarkable landscapes and cultural sites, starting from Reykjavík. Your adventure begins with the Golden Circle, where you explore Þingvellir National Park, the site of Iceland’s first parliament and the meeting point of two tectonic plates. From there, witness the erupting hot springs of Geysir and the cascading Gullfoss waterfall, a classic example of Icelandic geology and natural power.

On the second day, you follow the South Coast, visiting Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls before reaching Reynisfjara, the famous black sand beach with dramatic basalt sea stacks. The day includes a guided glacier hike, providing a close view of Iceland’s icy landscapes with safety equipment supplied.

The third day takes you to the southeast to experience the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and the nearby Diamond Beach, where icebergs drift ashore against the black sand. During winter months, the tour also includes a guided visit to a natural blue ice cave, offering an up-close encounter with one of Iceland’s seasonal geological wonders.

Next, you explore Borgarfjörður in West Iceland, home to waterfalls like Hraunfossar and Barnafoss, the hot spring Deildartunguhver, and the historic village of Reykholt, associated with the medieval scholar Snorri Sturluson. This day offers insight into Iceland’s Viking heritage alongside its natural attractions.

Finally, the tour concludes on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, often described as “Iceland in miniature.” Here, you explore scenic coastal villages, cliffs, lava fields, and the iconic Kirkjufell mountain, capturing the variety of Iceland’s landscapes in a single region.

Throughout the tour, accommodation, breakfast, and guided minibus transport are included. Daily schedules may adjust for weather, road conditions, or seasonal daylight. In winter, your guide provides nightly updates on the Northern Lights, suggesting nearby viewing spots when conditions are favorable. This itinerary offers a structured and comprehensive introduction to Iceland’s landscapes, history, and geology.

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

Meeting and Greeting at 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

Bruarfoss Waterfall

Often considered a hidden gem within Iceland's breathtaking landscapes, Brúarfoss is famous as "Iceland's Bluest Waterfall."

While it may be smaller than other famous cascades, its unique beauty lies in the serenity of its setting. The silky, sapphire-blue waters create a surreal landscape as they cascade over dark lava rocks. This vibrant blue stands in stunning contrast to the surrounding black rock and the bright green moss, making it a picturesque location perfect for nature lovers and photographers seeking to explore Iceland's untouched wilderness.

4

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.

5

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.

6

Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

Our next stop is the stunning Seljalandsfoss waterfall. You can walk behind the cascade for a one-of-a-kind view. Just bring a rain jacket! The roar of the water and shimmering mist make this an unforgettable experience.

7

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, Your journey will begin from the hotel between 8:00 and 9:00 AM, after you’ve had breakfast. Your guide will confirm the exact departure time and itinerary the evening before.

2

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.

3

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.

4

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.

5

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, Your journey will begin from the hotel between 8:00 and 9:00 AM, after you’ve had breakfast. Your guide will confirm the exact departure time and itinerary the evening before.

2

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

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.

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

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!  

5

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

We visit Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, where the Atlantic coastline features dramatic, massive waves crashing against unique basalt pillars in the cliffs. In the distance, you can see the cliffs of Dyrhólaey.

6

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, Your journey will begin from the hotel between 8:00 and 9:00 AM, after you’ve had breakfast. Your guide will confirm the exact departure time and itinerary the evening before.

2

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.

3

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.

4

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.

5

Accommodation: Hotel Borgarnes ( 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 journey will begin from the hotel between 8:00 and 9:00 AM, after you’ve had breakfast. Your guide will confirm the exact departure time and itinerary the evening before.

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

Víðgelmir Lava Cave

Is a vast and striking lava tube in Iceland, extending more than 1,500 meters and filled with unique lava formations and hanging stalactites. As you walk through its twisting corridors, you can observe the effects of volcanic activity that created both the cave and the surrounding Hallmundarhraun lava field.

7

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.
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Price from
$1,403
/ traveler
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Frequently Asked Questions

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

For pickup, select your designated location in Reykjavík from the drop-down menu when booking; please inform us of your choice at least 42 hours in advance if you are unsure at the time of booking.

Pickup is scheduled between 8:00 AM and 8:45 AM from your chosen point and is not available from Keflavík airport or outside the greater capital area.

  • The tour is generally suggested for participants 8 years and older due to activity restrictions.
  • The Glacier Hike specifically requires a minimum age of 8 and a minimum shoe size of EU 34.
  • The minimum age for the Ice Cave visit is 6. If a child does not meet the requirements for a restricted activity, an accompanying adult must remain with them.
  • Furthermore, a seat must be reserved for any child aged six and under to accommodate a legally required child safety seat.

  • All multi-day tours can be cancelled 24 hours before the departure time by sending a written email to info@troll.is. You will receive a full refund except the 3% transaction 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 less the 3% transaction fee
  • The 24-hour policy “applies to extras as well (rental Hiking Boots, Waterproof Jacket & Waterproof Pants).

  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).

  • Flexibility: The order or availability of attractions may be adjusted due to road or weather conditions. Timings may also change to accommodate the limited daylight hours during winter.
  • Ice Cave Visits: Ice caves are natural, dynamic phenomena accessible only when temperatures are below freezing (typically October to May for this tour). The cave we visit is naturally formed, and its appearance may differ from photos due to its constantly changing nature.
  • Luggage Limit: You are allowed one 24-inch suitcase per person.
  • Extra Luggage: Additional luggage can be stored at our office for a non-refundable fee of 3000 ISK per item, which must be added at the time of booking.
  • Pick-up: Pick-up service is offered only from designated locations in the Reykjavík area, chosen via a drop-down menu during booking. Pick-up is not available from Keflavik Airport or outside the greater capital area.
  • No Guarantee: The Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) are a natural and random phenomenon, and we cannot guarantee their appearance.
  • Optimization: Hotels are chosen for their prime location away from light pollution to maximize viewing chances during the best season of Northern Lights (September to April).
  • Discount Offer: If you do not see the Northern Lights during the tour, you are eligible for a discount on a separate Northern Lights tour from Reykjavík after your multi-day tour concludes.

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