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Things to do in Arnarstapi

Our most recommended things to do in Arnarstapi

Reykjavik: Snaefellsnes Peninsula and Kirkjufell Day Trip

1. Reykjavik: Snaefellsnes Peninsula and Kirkjufell Day Trip

Visit the Snaefellsnes Peninsula on this guided day trip from Reykjavik. See what Iceland has to offer on one trip including the Berserkjahraun lava fields, Snaefellsjokull volcano, and Kirkjufell mountain. Learn about local legends and see a seal colony. Begin your trip in the local town of Borgarnes. Grab some snacks before heading to the peninsula and try to catch a peak of the ice-capped Snaefellsjokull stratovolcano. Arrive at the Berserkjahraun lava field, and learn the origin of its name. Next, head to Kirkjufell, famously known for its role on the "Game of Thrones" television show, and for being the most-photographed mountain in the entire country. Visit the neighboring waterfall, and be swept away by the magic. Then climb the staircase to the top of Saxholl (visited only from March – November), a 100-meter-high volcanic crater. Reach the top and be rewarded by the stunning views of this 3000-year-old feat of nature. Learn local legends and the history of strong Icelandic ancestry. Venture into the uninhabited settlement of Djupalonssandur, and test your strength as local men used to on the beach. Head to the fishing village of Arnarstapi and witness the beautifully eroded cliffs and the sculpture of Barour Snaefellsas. Finally, discover a more in-depth understanding of Icelandic history at Budakirkja, or the "Black Church." View historical artifacts from the 19th century. Continue to the enchanting golden-colored beach of Ytri-Tunga (only from March - November). Witness a huge seal colony, laying on the rocks and enjoying the sun.

From Reykjavik: Snæfellsnes Peninsula Full-Day Tour

2. From Reykjavik: Snæfellsnes Peninsula Full-Day Tour

Depart Reykjavik and head to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula on a bus day trip to experience Iceland's diverse natural beauty. Take in the dramatic landscape of volcanic peaks, sea cliffs, golden beaches, and sparkling fjords. Visit charming fishing villages, such as Grundarfjordur, Arnarstapi, and Hellnar. Admire the spectacular mountains and volcanic craters, including Kirkjufell and Ljósufjöll. Cast your eyes on the black sand beach at Djúpalónssandur, and see the majestic glacier of Snæfellsjökull. Take a photo stop at the famed Black Church at Budir, and spot seals lolling in the sea at Ytri Tunga beach. Tour at a leisurely pace and experience the magnificent scenery of the peninsula at ease. This tour visits a variety of landscapes in a compact region which was immortalized by Jules Verne in his book, "Journey to the Centre of the Earth." 

Reykjavik: Snaefellsnes & Mt. Kirkjufell Guided Minibus Tour

3. Reykjavik: Snaefellsnes & Mt. Kirkjufell Guided Minibus Tour

Discover an oasis of tranquility in the west of Iceland and journey back to the land of myriad secrets and ancient landscapes on this group tour from Reykjavik. Travel to the highlights of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula aboard a climate-controlled minibus. Make your way to the dramatic Snæfellsnes Peninsula, where mangled lava fields reveal the stresses and destruction the land once endured. Marvel at volcanic rocks of unimaginable shapes as they flare up in twisted forms from the earth. Take a walk beside the jagged cliffs of Arnarstapi and see the beautiful arcs of Hellnar, where pillars of basalt slowly ascend from the unforgiving sea. Take in the stunning backdrop of the summit of the Snæfellsjökull glacier. Journey along roads less traveled to find beaches of lava and smooth volcanic rock at Djupalónssandur. Explore the north side of the peninsula and the famous Mt. Kirkjufell. Discover the photographer's dream subject, the black church at Budir, which sits in desolate isolation. Look out for playful seals at Ytri Tunga gold beach, your final stop. Then, journey back to your meeting point in Reykjavik. Benefit from the extensive knowledge and experience of your guides. They will share not only the must-see sites but local knowledge, great stories and personal recommendations to make the most of your time in Iceland.

Arnarstapi: Snæfellsjökull Glacier and Volcano Hike

4. Arnarstapi: Snæfellsjökull Glacier and Volcano Hike

Put on your hiking boots and join the tour group on a wonderful hike to one of the most beautiful peaks in Iceland. Snæfellsjökull is a glacier-covered volcano located on Snæfellsnes peninsula in the west of Iceland and stretching 1446 m above sea level. Admire the stunning views over the peninsula, made famous by Jules Verne's book, Journey to the Center of the Earth. The entire hike from the base of the glacier usually takes about 5-6 hours.  Starting from Snæfellsnes road, hike along a rocky path for 1-hour to get to the base of the glacier. Stop to put on glacier gear, crampons, harness, ice axes, and ropes. The guides will show you how to use this equipment and there will be time to stop for a snack and water.  Hike for about 3 hours to the summit of Snæfellsjökull. On clear days the view is beautiful over the peninsula. Depending on your inclination, stop at around 1400 m or adventure all the way up to 1446 m. It is a steep slope to the top of the peak that is protected with ropes. Spend some time at the summit to eat some lunch and take in the stunning views. Head back down along the same trail which usually takes between 1-2 hours. 

From Reykjavik: Iceland 4-day South and West Coast Tour

5. From Reykjavik: Iceland 4-day South and West Coast Tour

Enjoy the experience of a lifetime on this unforgettable 4-day tour of the Land of Fire and Ice! Your adventure will start with a city pick-up, traveling in a small group (19 or less), and savoring the scenery en route to West Iceland. Day 1 - Silver Circle & Lava Caving After a stop in Borgarnes, you’ll see the most powerful hot spring in Europe at Deildartunguhver and two spectacular waterfalls at Hraunfossar and Barnafoss. Then we’ll take you deep underground to explore a lava tunnel at Víðgelmir, where you’ll see fascinating ice and lava formations! Day 1 will end in the Viking heartland of Húsafell and Reykholt before spending the night in Borgarnes. Day 2 | Snæfellsnes National Park The second day will take you to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, often called “Iceland in Miniature.” You’ll see the famous “Black Church” at Budakirkja and the thrilling rock formations at Arnarstapi, including Gatklettur and the towering pinnacles at Lóndrangar. Take a stroll on the picturesque black sand beach at Djúpalónssandur and enjoy the breathtaking sight of Kirkjufell, one of Iceland’s most photogenic peaks. We’ll then return to the city for the night. Day 3 | South Coast Waterfalls & Black Beach The third day takes you to Iceland’s stunning South Coast, where you’ll be amazed by a parade of astonishing waterfalls, including Seljalandsfoss, Gljúfrabúi, and Skógafoss. You’ll get close to a glittering glacier at Sólheimajökull, discover the dark rock arches of Dyrhólaey, and walk on the famous black sand beach at Reynisfjara. We’ll stay in the peaceful countryside overnight, always watching for the Northern Lights overhead, provided the weather conditions are suitable! Day 4 | Glacier Lagoon & Blue Ice Cave The final day brings you to the dream destination of the Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach at Jökulsárlón. Then we’ll take you deep into the Vatnajökull National Park with a Super Jeep journey for a Blue Ice Cave experience! On our return to Reykjavík, you’ll also see a traditional turf-roofed church at Hofskirkja.

Snæfellsnes Peninsula: Private Day Tour

6. Snæfellsnes Peninsula: Private Day Tour

Meet your guide at your hotel and prepare for a day of adventure as you set off to see the incredible views of this epic peninsula. Relax in a comfortable 8-seater jeep, with your friends and family, as your guide drives you to some of Iceland’s most iconic landscapes. Marvel at the stunning Kirkjufell mountain, as seen on the hit show Game of Thrones, as you travel to Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall, next to the mountain. Continue to Búðir, where you will get to see the beautiful black church, a gorgeous spot for photos. Explore this beautiful area known for its diverse landscapes that include, lava fields covered in moss, basalt rock formations, mountain ranges, black sand beaches, and a lot of beautiful wildlife between tiny fishing villages. During the tour, your guide will make stops throughout, giving you plenty of time to take the perfect photo of each spectacular view, while they fill you in on the fascinating history of the peninsula.

From Reykjavik: Snaefellsnes National Park - Small Group

7. From Reykjavik: Snaefellsnes National Park - Small Group

Spend the day in Snæfellsnes National Park, described as “Iceland in Miniature,” on a full-day tour from Reykjavik. Following your transfer from the city center, travel along the coast of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula and Snæfellsnes Glacier, enjoying mountain scenery on one side, and the unique Breiðafjörður beach on the other. Locals call it the "Golden Beach" as it is one of the only beaches in Iceland that is not made of black sand. Pass small towns and fishing villages, including the hamlets of Arnarstapi and Hellnar, and see spectacular birds nesting in cliffs by the sea. Look out for other wildlife, including - if you are lucky - seals! End in the center of the park at the mighty Snæfellsjökull volcano glacier, made famous by Jules Verne in “Journey to the Center of the Earth.” On the north side of the peninsula you will see the famous church-shaped Kirkjufell Mountain, with the nearby waterfall of Kirkjufellfoss.

From Reykjavik: Snæfellsnes Private Day Trip

8. From Reykjavik: Snæfellsnes Private Day Trip

Discover the rugged beauty of the Snæfellsjökull National Park on this day trip from Reykjavik. After getting picked up from your hotel in the morning, travel through the region of Snæfellsnes. Enjoy panoramic views of the area's rolling cliffs, lava fields, and mountains. Upon arrival at your first stop, Ólafsvík, enjoy a wander through the streets of Iceland's oldest market town and stop for lunch at a delicious local restaurant. Next, continue to Stykkishólmur and take in breathtaking views of Breiðarfjarðarflói. Later, head to Snæfellsjökull Glacier. Listen to your local guide's stories about the elves and trolls who are said to live here and learn more about the glacier's mythical history before returning to Reykjavik.

Reykjavic: Private Snaefellsnes and Kirkjufell Jeep Tour

9. Reykjavic: Private Snaefellsnes and Kirkjufell Jeep Tour

Snaefellsnes Peninsula is one of the most beautiful areas in Iceland. Often referred to as "Iceland in a nutshell" due to its great variety of landscape, it is a great off-the-beaten-track region to visit on a private Jeep tour from Reykjavik. Your first stop on this Private Snaefellsnes Peninsula Tour is Gerduberg, a place famous for its huge basalt columns. You will have some time here to admire the huge basalt columns, before you continue on our journey. You will then stop in Budir, where a black wooden church stands surrounded by spectacular moss-covered lava fields. Following this, you will enter the Snafellsjokull National Park where you will drive through some amazing landscapes with your comfortable jeep. You will then stop in the old fishing village of Arnarstapi, located at the foot of the mystic Snaefellsjokull glacier. This charming village offers great photo opportunities, as you walk along its spectacular sea cliffs and enjoy the view of the majestic Snaefellsjokull. The glacier is mentioned in Jules Verne's novel Journey to the Center of the Earth as the entrance to the center of the earth itself. Your Snaefellsnes Peninsula tour will then continue to volcano craters, black beaches, lighthouses, beautiful cliffs, and the famous Kirkjufell, the most photographed mountain in Iceland. You will then drive to hidden places you will not see on a bus tour, and if you are lucky, we will get to see some seals or even whales before your return trip to Reykjavik in the evening.

Iceland: Complete Island Self-Guided Audioguide

10. Iceland: Complete Island Self-Guided Audioguide

With the Iceland complete audio guide, you get all the information that a tour guide would otherwise give you. Using GPS, the app recognizes where you are on your round trip and provides you with exciting information in the right places. So nothing stands in the way of your individual rental car tour. Your digital Iceland travel guide for the whole island of fire and ice! This audio guide offers more than 340 stations (7.5 hours of playing time) worth knowing about the country, people, and sights in all parts of the country. It includes not only the Ring Road and the Golden Circle but also the Reykjanes and Snaefellsnes Peninsulas, the Westman Islands, the East and West Fjords, and the wild Icelandic Highlands.

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What people are saying about Arnarstapi

Overall rating

4.7 / 5

based on 1,895 reviews

We went on the Snaefellsnes Tour last Wednesday and the weather didn’t cooperate at all, but it didn’t matter because our guide Siggi made this day a wonderful experience and we had a great time. He kept us entertained and made us laugh for 12 hours straight. He was very energetic and passionate about his job and we learned many interesting things about Iceland. Lots of the scenery wasn't visible due to the weather, but that's obviously part of the deal and we still saw lots of cool stuff, mountains, waterfalls, beaches and a crater. We felt this trip was well worth it :)

We were absolutely satisfied with the offered tour to the Snærfellsnes peninsula - a highly recommended must-do even for short stays. Our tourist guide and driver Michael was extremely knowledgeable, customer oriented and very friendly. A very positive experience. Many thanks, Brigitte and Thomas (Aachen/Germany)

We used holiday tours on Feb 20 to visit the Snaefellsnes peninsula and it was one of the highlights of our trip ! Tour guide was nice and informative and we had a wonderful day and seen so much beauty would recommend !

Excellent tour!!! Really enjoyed our guide, AJ! You cover a ton of ground so this is a tour I’d prefer to do over driving myself. Had some sudden bad weather that our driver navigated so well!

Not the best weather but the tour guide made the day most enjoyable.