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

Iceland’s West Coast in Two Days: A Deep Dive into Nature’s Drama

If you’re dreaming of Iceland’s rugged landscapes, this 2-Day West Coast Tour from Reykjavík offers a chance to see some of the most stunning sights without the rush. For $509 per person, you’ll get a well-paced trip that takes you from the dramatic cliffs and volcanic landscapes of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula to the geothermal wonders of Borgarfjordur. Guided by knowledgeable locals, you’ll visit iconic sites like Kirkjufell Mountain, explore the Vidgelmir Lava Cave, and soak in Iceland’s natural hot springs—all while staying in comfort overnight.

What we love most about this tour is its focus on quality over quantity. You won’t just glance at sights from a bus window; you’ll get time to walk, take photos, and really experience each place. Plus, the inclusion of overnight accommodation means you won’t have to race through your day, giving you a richer connection to the landscape. The small group size—up to 19 people—also keeps things intimate, making it easier for guides to tailor stories and insights.

A couple of things to consider: this is a long two-day journey, so it requires good boots and a bit of stamina, especially for walking around cliffs or lava caves. Also, Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable, so dressing warmly and in waterproof clothes is wise. This tour is ideal for adventurers, photography enthusiasts, or anyone eager to experience Iceland’s natural beauty in depth without the hassle of planning every detail.

Key Points

• In-depth experience: You get time to explore each stop, not just pass through.
• Comfort and convenience: Includes overnight stay, breakfast, and hotel pickup.
• Diverse scenery: From volcanic landscapes and waterfalls to charming fishing villages.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the trip with stories and insights.
• Authentic sites: Visit the famous Kirkjufell, black beaches, lava caves, hot springs.
• Great value: All essential admission fees included, with small group intimacy.

Exploring the Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Day 1: From Reykjavík to Snæfellsnes

Your adventure begins with a pickup between 8:30 and 9:00 am, so you’ll want to get an early start. The scenic drive along Whale Fjord sets the tone—lots of opportunities for photos and appreciation of Iceland’s wild coast. The first stop is in Borgarnes, a quiet town on a small peninsula, where you get a quick 10-minute break to stretch your legs and enjoy the views.

Next, you’ll visit Ytri Tunga Beach, famed for its seal colony. It’s a wonderful spot to see wildlife up close, especially if you love animals. The walk here is relaxed, about 40 minutes, perfect for a picnic or just soaking in the peaceful seaside atmosphere.

From there, it’s time for the Búðakirkja, the striking Black Church that many consider the most beautiful in Iceland. It’s a quick stop, but the stark contrast of the black wooden church against the landscape makes it unforgettable.

The day continues with a visit to Arnarstapi, a fishing village surrounded by spectacular coastal cliffs and moss-covered rocks. Here, you can stroll along the cliffs, breathe in the fresh ocean air, and snap some pictures of the natural stone formations.

Londrangar Basalt Cliffs are next—a pair of towering basalt columns visible from the road, also a bird-watcher’s paradise. The nearby Djupalonssandur Beach features black sands, fishing lifting stones (used historically to test strength), and panoramic views of Snæfellsjökull glacier.

At this point, you’ll circle around Snæfellsjökull, the glacier-capped volcano that inspired Jules Verne’s Journey to the Center of the Earth. The highlight is Kirkjufell, the iconic “Church Mountain,” which has become a favorite for photographers and fans of Game of Thrones. Expect about 30 minutes here, enough for photos and soaking in the scenery.

The day wraps up in Borgarnes, where you’ll stay overnight. This charming town offers lovely views over City Fjord and is known for its Saga Exhibition. Many reviews highlight the peaceful atmosphere here, perfect for spotting the Northern Lights if visiting in winter.

Day 2: Waterfalls, Lava Caves, and Hot Springs

After breakfast, your first stop is Hraunfossar—a mesmerizing series of waterfalls where rivulets flow over a lava field for hundreds of meters into the Hvítá River. It’s a landscape that looks almost surreal, especially when the water contrasts sharply with the dark lava rocks.

A short drive upstream brings you to Barnafoss, whose name means “Children’s Waterfall,” tied to a tragic local legend. It’s a powerful spot, and many appreciate its historical touch.

The day’s highlight is the Viðgelmir Lava Cave, one of the largest lava caves in Iceland, stretching nearly 1,600 meters. Guided by experts, you’ll walk through lava stalactites, stalagmites, and tunnels that look like they belong on another planet. The reviews consistently praise this experience as “epic,” with some calling it a “once-in-a-lifetime” adventure.

The tour concludes with a visit to Deildartunguhver, Europe’s highest-flow hot spring. The bubbling water offers a glimpse into Iceland’s geothermal power, and the sight of the steaming spring is both instructive and beautiful.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

From the glowing reviews, it’s clear this tour is praised for knowledgeable guides who share stories that bring the landscape alive. One reviewer mentioned Maria, who “was amazing, always telling interesting facts,” making the experience more than just sightseeing. The small group size enhances this intimacy, allowing you to ask questions and truly connect to each site.

The scenery itself is hard to beat—Kirkjufell’s postcard-perfect peak, the black sands of Djupalonssandur, and the frozen majesty of Snæfellsjökull. The lava cave in particular receives rave reviews, described as “colorful,” with “amazing lava formations,” and the adventure of walking through tunnels carved by ancient volcanic activity is unforgettable.

Another highlight is the value for money; the tour includes admission fees and a night’s accommodation, which simplifies planning and ensures no hidden costs. Travelers also appreciate the Wi-Fi and USB chargers on the bus, making the long drives more comfortable.

Authentic Experiences and Practicalities

We loved the way guides weave in stories about Iceland’s history, geology, and folklore—adding depth to every stop. For example, the legend behind Barnafoss lends a human touch to the natural beauty. Visitors also enjoy tasting the local stories, like trying fermented shark, adding a quirky culinary twist to the trip.

On the practical side, the long hours mean packing comfortable shoes and warm clothes—especially since Iceland’s weather can shift dramatically. The tour’s structure, with carefully planned stops, balances walking with sightseeing, making it suitable for most travelers with moderate fitness.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for nature lovers who want to see a variety of Iceland’s landscapes without the hassle of planning multiple days. It appeals especially to those interested in photography, as many sites are Insta-worthy. It’s also well-suited for travelers who enjoy guided storytelling and want a knowledgeable guide to enhance their understanding of Iceland’s geology and folklore.

Final Thoughts

This 2-Day West Coast Tour offers a well-rounded look at Iceland’s rugged beauty, with plenty of time to savor each location. The combination of spectacular landscapes, caves, and hot springs makes it a compelling choice for anyone craving a genuine Icelandic adventure. The inclusion of overnight accommodation and all entrance fees simplifies the experience, providing great value for the price.

If you’re after a comfortable, activity-packed journey with a local touch, this tour will not disappoint. It’s especially suitable for those who prefer to travel in small groups, enjoy storytelling, and want a thoughtful pace that leaves room for discovery.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour covers pickup and drop-off at Reykjavík hotels, an overnight stay in Borgarnes, breakfast, and admission to the Vidgelmir Lava Cave. Wi-Fi and USB charging are also provided on the bus.

How long does each day last?
Day 1 is approximately 12 hours, starting early in the morning, with plenty of stops. Day 2 is similarly full, ending back in Reykjavík after visiting waterfalls, caves, and hot springs.

Is comfortable footwear necessary?
Absolutely. You’ll be walking around cliffs, lava fields, and beaches, so sturdy, good hiking shoes are recommended. Weather can be unpredictable, so dress warmly and waterproof.

Can children participate?
Yes, children aged 5 and up are welcome, but they must be accompanied by an adult. It’s suitable for most travelers with a reasonable level of mobility.

What about group size?
With a maximum of 19 travelers, it’s a small group, fostering a more personal experience and easier interaction with guides.

Is this tour suitable for photography?
Definitely. Many stops are iconic photo spots—Kirkjufell, lava caves, waterfalls—and the tour provides ample time to capture the scenery.

In The Sum Up

This two-day journey offers a fantastic balance of adventure, comfort, and authentic Icelandic sights. It’s perfect for travelers eager to see diverse landscapes without the stress of self-planning. The knowledgeable guides, combined with well-chosen stops and included accommodations, make it a standout choice for those wanting a meaningful, picture-perfect adventure in Iceland’s wild west. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or just dipping your toes into Icelandic exploration, this tour delivers a memorable experience packed with natural wonders—and a good dose of Icelandic stories.