Snaefellsjokull National Park

The Basics

Most visitors explore the park on day trips or multi-day trips from Reykjavik. Organized day trips typically include other sites within the park, such as Mt. Kirkjufell, the Lóndrangar rock pinnacles, Sönghellir cave, Skarðsvík beach, and black-sand Djúpalónssandur beach, as well as towns and villages on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula such as Hellnar, Arnarstapi, Stykkishólmur, and Grundarfjörður. On 2-day tours of the region, visitors may have the chance to hunt for the elusive Northern Lights after dark.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Snæfellsjökull National Park is a must for nature lovers and adventurers.

• Wear hiking boots and warm layers, including a rainproof outer layer.

• Because of the rough, uneven terrain, Snæfellsjökull National Park may be difficult for wheelchair users to navigate.

How to Get There

Snæfellsjökull National Park is situated at the western tip of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula on Iceland’s west coast, about 124 miles (200 kilometers) from Reykjavik. As attractions within the park are dispersed, it’s best to go by car or as part of an organized tour.

When to Get There

The best time to visit is during the summer months, when daylight lasts longer, temperatures are typically warmer, and services are operating. Get there in the morning to maximize your exploring time.

Snæfellsjökull’s Literary Connections

Snæfellsjökull has long been known to literary-minded Icelanders, having been the setting for the legendary Icelandic saga, Bárðar saga Snæfellsáss. The glacier also famously featured in Jules Verne’sJourney to the Center of the Earth, where it served as the entrance to the center of the Earth.

Ways to explore

About three hours outside of Reykjavik, Snæfellsjökull National Park makes for an action-packed day trip from Iceland’s capital. To avoid tiring out on the drive, book a guided excursion that includes transportation from Reykjavik to the park’s highlights, such as the Arnarstapi cliff formations and Djúpalónssandur black sand beach.

Small-group day trips often include other attractions on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, such as the Ytri Tunga seal colony and Kirkjufell Mountain, made famous by Game of Thrones. Private tours, meanwhile, give you the flexibility to add on other activities, such as whale watching in nearby Ólafsvík.

Accessibility

Most group tours to Snæfellsjökull National Park are not wheelchair accessible, but it may be possible to arrange a private accessible tour.

Age limits

Guided day trips from Reykjavik to Snæfellsjökull National Park typically last 10 hours or more, so consider this when traveling with children.

What to pack

Camera, water, snacks, entertainment for the drive

What to wear

Hiking shoes, layers, waterproof clothing (The weather can change quickly.)

Not allowed

Rules vary by tour, but most don’t allow pets, alcohol, or smoking.

Amenities

The park’s visitor centers have restrooms, information desks, souvenir shops, and dining options.

Address

Located on the western tip of Iceland’s Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Snæfellsjökull National Park is about 124 miles (200 kilometers) from Reykjavik. Rent a car from the Reykjavik airport to drive there on your own, or book a guided excursion with transportation.

Driving

From Reykjavik, take Route 1 (aka the Ring Road) north before heading west on Snæfellsnesvegur (Route 54), which features scenic pit stops en route to the national park. Parking is available at the park’s visitor centers and main attractions.

Public transportation

There’s no direct public bus route from Reykjavik to Snæfellsjökull National Park; you’d have to transfer on several different buses. Since attractions within the park are spread out, it’s best to join a guided tour with included transportation.

Best times to visit

Maximize your time to explore by heading to Snæfellsjökull National Park in the early morning, especially if you’re coming from Reykjavik.

Best days to visit

The park is open every day, but weekend crowds can be especially heavy. Aim to visit on a weekday morning for the most tranquil experience.

Best months to visit

Visit the park from June–August, when temperatures are warmer, daylight lasts longer, and conditions are more hospitable for driving and hiking throughout its diverse landscapes.