Icelandic summer is calling you for an adventure. | Check this out!

Things to Do in Snaefellsnes

Top 5 activities to do in Snaefellsnes

|June 28, 2022
We are lucky to have many talented, adventurous, and open-minded people within our community. Arctic Adventures community consists not only of staff members but also of numerous guest bloggers, fellow travelers, nature lovers and Iceland enthusiasts. Read their stories!

The Snæfellsnes peninsula, often called Iceland in Miniature, is filled with dramatic landscapes and several stunning natural wonders. Your visit to Iceland is never complete without having some time to explore the best of the Snæfellsnes peninsula.


Planning your travel to Iceland? Don't miss out on exploring the most gorgeous spot on Iceland’s western coast - the Snæfellsnes peninsula. Also known as Iceland in Miniature, the mesmerizing natural beauty of this place will create the best travel experiences for you. From spotting the stunning volcanic craters to enjoying a scenic walk by the black and golden sand beaches, there's so much to do and see here. If you are looking for some ideas on the best things to do at Snaefellsnes, we've got you covered. Here's a list that we have specially curated for you. But before we do that, let's get a popular question answered.

Is the Snaefellsnes peninsula worth visiting?

Kirkjufell Mountain and Waterfall in Iceland

Kirkjufell mountain near Grundarfjordur, Iceland

Yes, yes, and yes! This magical place must be on your travel bucket list, especially if you love nature and are an adventure junkie. There are so many things to do and see, most of which are experiences of a lifetime.

Located on the western coast of Iceland, Snaefellsnes Peninsula is north of the capital Reykjavik and is only 120 km from the airport. One of the most popular tourist spots is the Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall. For a complete trip at a relaxing pace, we recommend you plan at least 2 days of just Snaefellsnes Peninsula.

Now to the most important question, when is the best time to explore Snaefellsnes Peninsula? To be honest, this is a year-round destination. But the summer months, from June to August, are the busiest. During the summer, you also get to experience the midnight sun.

Top 5 Things to do at Snaefellsnes

What to do in the Snaefellsnes peninsula should be the least of your travel planning worries. There are so many places to explore and plenty of things to do. We are sure that you are going to have a splendid time creating first-hand experiences as no other destinations can.

1. Seal watching at Ytri Tunga Seal Beach

Seals at Ytri Tunga Beach in Iceland

Seals at Ytri Tunga Beach in Iceland

During summer, it's seal season at the Ytri Tunga Seal Beach. A distinct seal colony on the golden sandy beach is an absolute must-visit in Snaefellsnes Peninsula. Being the most famous observation spot on the Snaefellsnes peninsula, it is one of the few accessible seal colonies.

2. Snæfellsjökull Summit Hike

Snaefellsjokull Glacier Summit in Iceland

Snaefellsjokull glacier summit in Iceland

If you are up for a trekking challenge, Snæfellsjökull Summit Hike is your best pick for an adventure. Snæfellsjökull is undoubtedly one of the most picturesque glaciers in Iceland, and the challenge is well worth your effort. Amazing views, geological wonders that will leave you awe-struck, and a glacier hike to remember - would you need more reasons to consider this tour?

3. Caving in Vatnshellir cave

Vatnshellir Cave in Iceland

Vatnshellir cave, Iceland

This unique experience of caving in an 8,000-year-old lava tube is not to be missed. While there are several hidden caves across the peninsula, Vatnshellir cave is an extraordinary one. The tour lasts approximately 50 minutes and you'll be equipped with all the protective gear and necessary caving equipment.

4. Try the best homemade ice cream

Ice Cream of Efstidalur Local Farm

Efstidalur local farm ice cream stop in Iceland

Located just outside of Búðardalur town, Erpsstadir is a creamery and a local dairy farm that serves the best homemade ice cream you will have ever had. They also produce caraway cheese, skyr, white chocolate, and skyr konfekt.

5. Hike up to the Rauðfeldsgjá Gorge

Couple Hiking to Raudfeldsgja Gorge

Hiking at Raudfeldsgja Gorge in Iceland

Another one of the top things to do in the Snæfellsnes Peninsula is to visit the beautiful gorge in Botnsfjall Mountain. For those who enjoy hiking and want to experience something unique, Rauðfeldsgjá Gorge must be on your list. Also, don't forget to pack waterproof shoes for the hike up to the canyon.

Bonus activity recommendation: Book a Stykkisholmur Sea kayak Day tour to set out on a scenic journey exploring the rugged landscape of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. For adventure junkies, this tour is an experience that must be on the top of your list.

If you have more time in hand and would like to continue discovering this destination, Stykkishólmur, Berserkjahraun Lava Fields, Kirkjufellsfoss, Saxholar Crater, Djúpalónssandur Black Beach, and Snæfellsjökull Glacier are some of the must-visit places. The scenic locale looks right out of a dreamy location. Easily accessible from Reykjavik, you should set aside at least two days to explore this magical location.

Easily accessible from Reykjavik, you should set aside at least two days to explore this magical location. For example, this 2-day tour to Snaefellsnes Peninsula & Borgarfjörður will allow you to explore the most impressive sites in this region.

Best Seller

Recommended Tours

Related Blog Posts


Hi! Can I help you?