Hafnarfjordur may be small, but it’s packed with unique opportunities for travelers who want more than just a quick look around. Its proximity to Reykjavik makes it an ideal base for exploring Iceland’s diverse landscapes, cultural traditions, and quirky local events. Among the tours available, I especially recommend the Christmas Market and Yule Lads Driving Tour, for its festive charm and local folklore. Plus, the Reykjanes Peninsula Private Guided Day Tour offers a deep dive into Iceland’s volcanic geology. For those interested in modern tech, the Full-Day Drone Workshop Tour stands out for its opportunity to learn aerial photography in stunning landscapes.
Quick Overview
Hafnarfjordur is a hub for a variety of tours, from seasonal Christmas festivities to adventurous volcanic excursions and cutting-edge drone workshops. Whether you want to soak up holiday cheer, explore Iceland’s geological marvels, or get creative with aerial photography, there’s a tour here that will suit your interests. Now, let’s look at each option in detail.
1. From Reykjavík: Christmas Market and Yule Lads Driving Tour
This festive driving tour from Reykjavik is a top pick for families or anyone wanting to experience Iceland’s holiday traditions firsthand. The tour lasts about 5 hours and includes stops at the Heiðmörk Reserve Christmas Market, Hafnarfjörður’s Christmas Village, and the Reykjavik Ice Rink. It’s a lively way to enjoy the season without the hassle of planning your own itinerary.
What makes this tour special is its focus on Icelandic holiday folklore, including the mischievous Yule Lads, which adds a playful twist to the experience. Your guide shares stories about Iceland’s Christmas customs, making it more immersive. Visitors rave about the seasonal treats and artisan stalls, where you can pick up handmade gifts and warm up with hot drinks. The highlight for many is the chance to receive a gift from underneath a Christmas tree, creating a warm holiday memory.
This tour is ideal for travelers who want a relaxed, family-friendly outing with cultural insights and a festive atmosphere. It’s a good value considering the included visits, local stories, and seasonal treats. The only downside might be the limited time, so it’s best for those wanting a quick but meaningful holiday experience.
Bottom Line: A cheerful way to celebrate the holidays, perfect for families and anyone eager to enjoy Iceland’s Christmas traditions without leaving Reykjavik.
2. Iceland: Full-Day Drone Workshop Tour to 3-8 Locations
For those interested in photography or technology, this full-day drone workshop offers a rare chance to learn aerial photography in Iceland’s breathtaking landscapes. Over approximately 9 hours, guided by a local drone pilot, you’ll visit somewhere between 3 and 8 carefully chosen sites, depending on weather and light. The focus is on capturing stunning images of glaciers, volcanoes, waterfalls, and lava fields—some of the most iconic scenery in Iceland.
What makes this tour stand out is its personalized approach—you can tailor your experience to your interests and pace. The guide shares expert tips on drone operation, composition, and safety, enhancing your skills whether you’re a beginner or more experienced. The small group setting ensures plenty of hands-on time and individual guidance. Many reviewers praise the tour for its “fantastic scenery” and “expert instruction,” with one mentioning how they left feeling more confident flying their own drone back home.
This tour is perfect for photographers, tech enthusiasts, or travelers seeking a unique way to experience Iceland’s landscape. The 9-hour length means it’s best for those prepared for a full day of outdoor activity, and it offers excellent value if you’re eager to improve your drone skills while exploring.
Bottom Line: A hands-on, personalized experience that combines Iceland’s natural beauty with the chance to develop your aerial photography talents—ideal for creative travelers.
3. Reykjanes Peninsula: Private Guided Day Tour
This private guided day tour of the Reykjanes Peninsula is tailored for travelers who want a custom, intimate look at some of Iceland’s most distinctive geological features. With a focus on volcanic landscapes, the tour includes stops at the Gunnuhver Hot Springs, the Bridge Between Continents, Reykjanes Lighthouse, and the geothermal area at Seltún. The itinerary also offers opportunities to spot puffins along the rugged coastline.
What sets this tour apart is its personalized nature—your guide shares detailed insights on the area’s volcanic activity, hot springs, and tectonic plates, making it ideal for geology enthusiasts or curious travelers. Traveling in a private vehicle allows for flexibility; you can spend more time at spots like the bubbling Gunnuhver or take extra pictures at the lighthouse. The route is carefully designed to maximize exposure to Iceland’s raw volcanic beauty in just 6 hours.
Many travelers appreciate the expert guidance and tailored itinerary, with some noting that the guide’s knowledge made the geology come alive. The tour is also well-suited for those with limited time but who want a comprehensive, in-depth experience. The $1,380 price per group is a bit higher but reflects the private, flexible nature of the tour.
Bottom Line: Perfect for geology lovers or travelers who want an exclusive, flexible exploration of Iceland’s volcanic coast with detailed insights.
$1,380 per group up to 3
How to Choose
When deciding between these tours, consider your interests and how much time you have. If holiday cheer is your goal, the Christmas Market and Yule Lads Tour offers seasonal magic in a relaxed setting. For a combination of technical skills and stunning scenery, the Drone Workshop is ideal, especially if you love photography or tech. If geology and landscape are your priorities, the Reykjanes Peninsula private tour provides an in-depth, personalized look at Iceland’s volcanic features.
Budget-wise, the drone workshop and private tour are more expensive but offer more specialized, in-depth experiences. The Christmas tour is budget-friendly and perfect if you’re traveling during the holiday season. Keep in mind that booking early, especially for the private tour and drone workshop, ensures availability during busy times.
In summary, Hafnarfjordur’s range of tours allows every traveler to find something memorable—from festive holiday traditions, to geological wonders, to creative photography. Whether you’re after a cozy holiday outing, an educational adventure, or a personalized exploration of Iceland’s volcanic landscape, these tours deliver authentic and enjoyable experiences.
Happy travels and don’t forget to reserve your spot early—these popular options fill up quickly!