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Snaefellsnes peninsula has so much to see, do, and experience. This five-day itinerary is the perfect way to plan your camping trip.
Experience the most magical and diverse landscape of Iceland. Snaefellsnes peninsula, Iceland is filled with natural wonders and is often called 'Iceland in Miniature'. From lava fields to glaciers, there are so many things to see, do and experience within the 90-kilometer-long peninsula.
Instead of splurging on hotel stays, spend five days camping on the Snaefellsnes peninsula. We have curated this exceptional five-day itinerary for one of Iceland's most perfect and epic camping trips.
Camping in Iceland at sleeping tent on the car's roof
How much time do you really need?
If you are planning on a short 3-day trip to Iceland, it is recommended to not have the Snaefellsnes peninsula incorporated into your tight and packed schedule. To enjoy the destination to its best, you'll need to spend at least 3-4 days exploring the peninsula itself. With a one-day trip, you'll probably be able to squeeze in some of the key highlights, but it is still a very limited time.
Camping trip itinerary
Day 1 - Eldborg crater and Snorrastaðir camping site
One of the first stops to make, if you are traveling from Reykjavik is at the Eldborg. This 200 feet tall crater is located on the East of the Snaefellsnes peninsula. Standing tall, right in the center of Eldborgarhraun in Hnappadalur, you could take on a hiking challenge. The trails may take you an hour and forty minutes to complete and will take you through the thick lava field.
2.5 kilometers away from the crater, you'll get to your first camping site for day one - Snorrastaðir. After spending the night at this camping site, pack back up to travel to the town of Stykkishólmur for day two of your itinerary.
Beautiful View from Eldborg Crater on Snaefellsnes Peninsula, Iceland
Day 2 - Stykkishólmur and Grundarfjörður
On day 2 of your camping trip, get ready to explore the largest town in the Snæfellsnes peninsula. For decades, this town has served as a crucial hub for the Breiðafjörður Fjord area. While you are there, ensure you take some time out to relax in the hot tubs with water that is rich in minerals and is great for your skin. Have some fun and take on the big water slide and a 25 meters long swimming pool. Don't forget to visit the church which is an architectural wonder in itself, and enjoy the art installation by American artist Roni Horn.
Stykkishólmur town in western part of Iceland
If whale watching is on your travel bucket list of things to do, get to Grundarfjörður and spot whale species like orcas or porpoises. As the sun gets ready to set, be sure you capture a picture-perfect moment with Kirkjufell mountain in the background. It is not only one of the most beautiful mountains in Iceland, but also the most photographed. Before you get a headstart on the third day of adventure, relax at the Grundarfjörður camping site for the evening.
Panoramic view of Kirkjufell mountain and Grundarfjörður town, Iceland
Day 3 - Arnarstapi, Lóndrangar and the caves
From Grundarfjörður, start your day three towards the west. Before you get to the national park, you'll pass through the towns of Ólafsvík and Rif. The drive to the park and through the park are both beautiful and mesmerizing. The fabulous views of the glacier and a walk to Svörtuloft lighthouse are simply the best parts of the experience.
Make a stop at Vatnshellir (Cave of Water) which is 200 meters long and needs you to carry a flashlight to get through the lava cave. After making your way through the cave, take a short hike along the coast to find Lóndrangar. They are a pair of basalt rock pinnacles that are 230 ft high.
Lóndrangar and cliffs along the cost, Iceland
The next stop is Arnarstapi, the small fishing town which is one of the best places to camp for the evening. There are plenty of spectacular sights to see in Arnarstapi too. If you have some time, and a little energy left, take a ride to Sönghellir, also known as the Cave of Songs.
Arnarstapi small fishing town, Iceland
Day 4 - Snæfellsjökull and home
Camping and hiking trips are best during summers. On day four, experience the breathtaking Snæfellsnes peninsula and everything best it has to offer. The countryside ride with coastal views is a great start. Once you get to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, go on a walk to the lava landscapes and the picturesque views of Snæfellsjökull Glacier. The hike can be quite challenging and you'll need to wear proper gear for the climb. The next stop is at the black pebble beach at Djúpalónssandur and try your luck at stone lifting.
Snæfellsjökull glacier summit, Iceland
Day 5 - Scenic Drive to Akureyri
As you travel out of the peninsula, add Akureyri to your list of places. Akureyri is Iceland’s second-largest city that is located on the longest fjord. This Northern Iceland town is located about 4 plus hours away from Snaefellsnes, Iceland. From Dettifoss waterfall to Godafoss waterfall, and Asbyrgi canyon, there are plenty of things to see in Akureyri. When it's dark, you'll also be lucky to see the Northern lights. There are several camping grounds in Akureyri including Hamrar, Lónsá Campsite, and Systragil. Finally, you are ready to get back home.
Dettifoss waterfall in Northern Iceland
Snaefellsnes Peninsula is more than a travel treat, it is sure to leave you speechless. If you're keen to experience the highlights of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula and South Iceland, but want to swap your tent for bed & breakfast accomodation, our 5 day tour could be exactly what you are looking for.
