Private Multi Day Tour West and South Coast Iceland with Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon | 5N6D

Welcome to Iceland! Upon arrival, you will find a representative from Iceland Highlights, who holds a sign with your name on it. He will greet you at the arrival hall. After you locate him, you will be taken to the Blue Lagoon. Once you get there, our driver will help you with the directions and proceed with the check-in at the Blue Lagoon spa, it’s about a 3-minute walk from the parking lot to the entrance of the Blue Lagoon. Please make sure to keep the swim attire somewhere easy to reach, you will need it. You can keep the rest of the luggage in the car and the driver will help to keep them safe.

You will have about 2 hours to enjoy the beauty of the Blue Lagoon, after that, the driver will take you to the accommodation in Reykjavik. You will have the rest of the evening for yourself.

Overnight stay in Reykjavik: 4 stars hotel in Reykjavik

After enjoying breakfast in the morning, let’s start with your adventure to the West. It takes about 2 hours to get to the first stop, sit back and enjoy the scenic ride there.

Bjarnarfoss Waterfall

The first stop of the day will be Bjarnafoss, a small waterfall that stands out from the main highway. It is a nice stop to step outside and do a little bit of walking to enjoy its beauty and uniqueness.

Búðir church

Just a few miles/kilometers away, on the coastal side, there is Búðir church. The church was first built in 1703 but later demolished due to a lack of parishioners. In 1847 new church was built and then rebuilt once again in 1987 in the original design of the previous one. It is distinct from other churches by its’ black color. Because of its’ uniqueness, it is a popular spot for wedding photography.

Now we will enter the Snæfellsnes National Park area, the most western part of the peninsula. It embraces many beautiful sights of nature. Such as the mystical glacier of Snæfellsjökull, Djúpalónssandur Black Sand Beach, Þufubjarg cliff, and more.

Arnarstapi

We will start with a stop at Arnarstapi fishing village, where we get to see the sculpture of the mythological creature Bardur Snaefellsas who was half-human and half-troll. Arnarstapi is also known for its cliffs and unusual basalt arches that you can explore from close range. Just make sure to do not to get too close to the edge of them or else you’ll fall into the cold Atlantic Ocean.

Arnarstapi will also be our lunch stop.

Vatnshellir lava cave

The next stop is the Vatnshellir lava cave. We will join an hour-long activity to explore the area underneath the surface. Inside the lava tube, there are two main sections. The upper section has great features and unique formations of lava statues curved on the sides of the lava tube. The lower part of the lava cave which can be reached by a long and narrow staircase takes us deep down underground to a place that was hidden from the outside world for thousands of years. Vatnshellir was created in a volcanic eruption approximately 7,000 years ago. Fun fact: It is the place where the journey to the center of the earth the science fiction by Jules Verne took place in 1864.

Djúpalónssandur

Our next stop is Djúpalónssandur black sand beach, where you can see and witness the beauty of lava rock formations that were once hot lava that flowed from Snæfellsnes volcano situated 6 miles (10km) away. A beautiful black sand beach where the air is filled with the sounds of birds and the Atlantic waves pounding the sands. You’ll be able to walk through the lava fields on rock steps to the ocean. You will see the rusty remains of an old shipwreck offering a stark contrast to the black sand beach. These ruins are a memorial to men lost at sea here and should be left as they are.

The last stop of the day is the iconic mountain Kirkjufell. For those who have watched the show Game of Thrones, you might recognize this mountain. In the series, it is known as Arrowhead Mountain which appeared in S06E05 and S07E06.

By now we have seen all the highlights of the western peninsula, and now it’s time to go back to the city. Sit back and relax while our driver guide will take you back to your accommodation in the area. If you are doing this package in the winter, the night in the countryside would increase the chance of seeing the northern lights.

Overnight: Borgarfjörður or simiar

Highlights

• Búðir church
• Arnarstapi village and cliffs
• Rauðfeldsgjá gorge
• Djúpalónssandur beach
• Kirkjufell mountain
• Vatnshellir – Lava Cave

Today you are going towards the Borgarfjörður area, we often refer to this day tour as the Silver Circle Tour. Borgarfjörður area is known as the heartland of the Icelandic Sagas, where the untamed landscapes and striking scenery of West Iceland help to bring Viking history to life.

Glanni Waterfall

A place that you might have heard about when reading stories about Norse Mythology. Here, aside from the mythical border between human and god’s world, you will find a tiny, but charming waterfall called Glanni. Located on the Nordura River multiple tiers fall across old lava fields called the Grabrokarhraun. You can also enjoy the view over 3 volcanic craters called Grabrok, that rise above these fields.

Grábrók 

Grábrók is a crater formed by a fissure eruption approximately three thousand years ago. The fissure that initially opened during that eruption wasn’t very long but left behind Grábrók and her two crater sisters that can be seen when on top. Also, from the top the massive lava of about seven square kilometers that surfaced in that eruption is visible.  It is a sight of geological interest comparable to Lakagígar, the Laki craters in the Icelandic Highland accessible from the Southern Region. The view from the top is not only interesting because of the lava. It is an impressive view over the most beautiful part of the Western Region Borgarfjörður and the tiny but beautiful lake Hreðarvatn, that was formed during that eruption.

Deildartunguhver – the most powerful hot spring in Europe

Our next stop is a visit to Deildartunguhver, famed as the most powerful hot springs in Europe. It produces more than 180 liters of boiling hot water per second! You can feel the fierce power of Mother Nature as you walk safely on boardwalks through billowing clouds of steam around the bubbling hot springs, or just see them from the viewing platform.

Reykholt Historic Site

Snorralaug (Snorri’s Pool) is a smaller hot spring found just a few minutes away in Reykholt, where local people have bathed since the 12th century. This pool was first mentioned in the medieval writings of Snorri Sturluson, a famous Icelandic poet, and chieftain, who used to live and bathe here too. Snorralaug is now a protected archaeological site.

There will be time to take pictures of the beautiful old timber church here, which dates back to the 19th century. You can take a look inside, where a viewing glass to a medieval smithy cistern can be seen.

Hraunfossar – famous Lava Falls

we will see the great Hraunfossar, a stunning series of waterfalls formed by several rivers running a distance of about 900m across the Hallmundarhraun lava field, created a thousand years ago by a volcano erupting under the nearby Langjokull glacier.

Hraunfossar translates as the “Lava Waterfalls”, but nowadays it’s clear glacial meltwater that tumbles down into the Hvita (White) River below to provide one of the most breathtaking views in the country.

Barnafoss waterfalls

A short walk through the many viewing points and platforms here brings us to another beautiful waterfall, but this is one with a tragic tale to tell. This is Barnafoss, or “the waterfall of the children”. The sad story here is that there used to be a natural stone bridge over these ferociously powerful falls, and one day two children from a nearby farm fell to their deaths when they were trying to cross the river. The grief-stricken mother had the bridge destroyed so that no others would ever suffer the same fate.

Húsafell

Highlights:

• Glanni Waterfall
• Grábrók Crater
• Deildartunguhver hotspring
• Barnafoss Waterfall
• Húsafell
• Reykholt
• The Canyon Bath or Krauma Bath

Þingvellir National Park

The first stop of the day is Þingvellir National Park, where you will have a chance to see Thingvellir lake, the second biggest in Iceland, and walk in a rift where North American and Euro-Asian tectonic plates meet.

It is also known as the site of Althing, the first parliament in the world that was established year 930 AD. That’s actually where the name of the park Þingvellir (e. Fields of the Parliament) originates from. If you are not in any rush our guide will walk with you over to the Öxarárfoss Waterfall which falls into the rift and merges with Thingvellir Lake.

Laugarvant Fontana Spa

This is a quick but interesting stop to explore how traditional, geothermal steamed bread is made. A tasting activity is not included in the tour price. But can be arranged on request.

Efstidalur Dairy Farm

The next stop is Efstidalur farm where we will see Icelandic cattle and locally made yummy ice cream. This farm has been run by the same family since 1750. If you like ice cream, it is on us. Choose whatever flavor you want 🙂

Haukdalur/ Geysir Geothermal Area

Within 10 10-minute ride, we will reach the Haukdalur/ Geysir geothermal area. Here we will explore some of the most geothermally active areas in Iceland. At the park, you will find the most active geyser in Iceland “Strokkur” which shoots hot water as high as 20-30 meters (65-98ft), at approximately 5-10 minutes intervals. Then we have Litli Geysir (“the small one”) which looks like a boiling pot and around 20 other dormant ones that can wake up at any time. Watch out for getting too close to it, its water temperature is about 100°C (212°F).

Gullfoss Waterfall

We continue with of journey to Gullfoss waterfall, the second-largest waterfall in Iceland. It is only 5min. walking from the parking lot to the viewpoint of the waterfall.

In the summertime, for those who are fine with hiking, we can walk with you to the side of the waterfall where you will have an opportunity to feel the vibration and the fresh breeze from the waterfall cascades.

At this point, we have covered all three main attractions of the famous Golden Circle route. But it is not over yet, we like to show you more.

Fridheimar Tomato Cultivation Farm

Now we will start driving south to visit Fridheimar tomato cultivation farm, where you get a chance to taste various meals and desserts made with tomato as the main ingredient. Some people say that this place offers the best Bloody Mary cocktail in the world. We will only make a short stop there to see the interior of the greenhouse (yes, you can see how things are grown there), and perhaps fancy yourself with a drink or soup from the bar. Please inform us if you’d like to have a proper lunch stop there, we might need to adjust the itinerary a bit to fit it into your schedule.

After the lunch break, we keep moving with our tour and we have a special stop at the Secret Lagoon, where you have a chance to have a soak in the beautiful natural hot spring. We are going to stay here for about an hour so you can experience it.

Kerid crater

Last but not least, we will stop at Kerid to see a beautiful view of this beautiful crater, which is approx. 5000 years old. Our private tour is fully customizable to your needs. Our driver can adjust the itinerary and take a lunch break at your requested time and place. The Kerid crater which was created by an explosive eruption, four thousand years ago. In the middle of the crater, you will find a beautiful lagoon.

We will now be heading to the accommodation in the south, you will have the experience of staying in the cozy countryside. It might be a big bonus, if you do this trip in the winter, you will have a great chance to see the northern lights from the hotel.

Highlights: 

• Þingvellir National Park
• Geysir
• Gullfoss waterfalls
• Kerid crater
• Friðheimar farm
• Efstidalur farm
• Secret lagoon admission

Duration: 10-11 hours

Overnight: In Hvolsvöllur or simiar

After having breakfast in the morning, you are set for the next adventure. Today you will explore the extended south coast tour to the Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon. Please prepare well for a long day, it will be packed full of activities.

Seljalandsfoss waterfall 

Seljalandsfoss waterfall is a stunning natural wonder located on the South Coast of Iceland. This breathtaking waterfall drops 60 meters (197 feet) into a serene pool below and can be viewed from a unique angle by taking a path that goes behind the waterfall. This experience is a must-see for anyone traveling to Iceland and looking to explore the country’s natural beauty.

Skógafoss Waterfall 

Skógafoss is a magnificent waterfall located on the south coast of Iceland, just a short drive from the town of Skógar. With a drop of 60 meters and a width of 25 meters, it is one of the largest and most impressive waterfalls in Iceland. Visitors can walk right up to the waterfall and feel the mist from the water on their faces. For those who want a better view, there is a staircase that leads to the top of the waterfall where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Eyjafjallajökull Glacier 

Eyjafjallajökull is a glacier located in the south of Iceland and is known for its notoriety after the volcanic eruption that occurred in 2010. The eruption caused widespread travel disruptions throughout Europe due to the ash cloud that was produced. The glacier is situated on the edge of the ice cap of Mýrdalsjökull, which covers one of Iceland’s largest and most active volcanoes, Katla. Eyjafjallajökull is also known for its beautiful views of the surrounding landscape, including the rolling hills and mountains that stretch as far as the eye can see. Today, the glacier serves as a powerful reminder of the unpredictability of nature and the importance of protecting our planet’s delicate ecosystems. We will participate in a small group tour a three-hour glacier hike on the glacier that is partly covered with ash from the Eyjafjallajökull eruption in 2010. You will be equipped with all the necessary gear to do the activity, such as a helmet, harness, crampons, and axe.

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach is one of the most stunning and unique natural wonders of Iceland. The black sand beach is famous for its dramatic basalt columns, towering cliffs, and powerful waves that crash onto the shore. It is located near the village of Vík í Mýrdal, and it’s a popular destination for visitors to Iceland. The basalt columns were formed by lava flows that cooled quickly and created hexagonal structures. The beach is also home to a beautiful cave, called Hálsanefshellir, which can be explored during low tide. Visitors can take a walk along the beach, marvel at the impressive cliffs, and enjoy the view of the nearby Dyrhólaey peninsula.

Vík village

Vík is a charming village located on the southern coast of Iceland, known for its stunning natural surroundings and picturesque views of the Atlantic Ocean. With a population of around 300, Vík is the southernmost village in Iceland, and it offers a unique experience for visitors seeking a tranquil getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city. The village is surrounded by beautiful mountains, black sand beaches, and unique rock formations, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and photographers. In addition, Vík is home to several restaurants, cafes, and souvenir shops where visitors can taste local cuisine and purchase authentic Icelandic souvenirs. This is a must-visit stop when you are in the South of Iceland.

Our last stop of this tour is the famous Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon, Fjadrargljufur is a stunning and magical canyon close to Kirkjubæjarklaustur in the South East of Iceland. Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon is best known as the location of Justin Bieber’s video “I’ll Show You.” Enjoy stupendous views and tumbling waterfalls with a visit to Fjadrargljufur! After this stop, you will be taken back to your accommodation in Reykjavik.

Overnight stay in Reykjavik.

Highlights: 

• Seljalandsfoss waterfall
• Skógafoss waterfall
• Kvernufoss waterfall
• Sólheimajökull glacier
• Vík
• Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon

Duration: 12 – 13 hours

Time flies, today is your departure day, if you leave in the afternoon, you will have your leisure time in the morning to do shopping, and our private driver will meet you in the afternoon to take you back to the airport.

If your flight is in the morning, a private driver will meet you at the hotel and take you to the airport in the morning.

Yes, the price per person will change and often is cheaper as you have more people on the tour. Please contact us to get a precise quote for that.

Yes, the activities are extra add-ons, it’s not compulsory, so you can skip them all or some of it, and we can deduct the fee for the activities.