Snaefellsjokull National Park Travel Guide

Start planning your visit to one of Iceland’s most visually diverse destinations by exploring Snaefellsjokull National Park. This guide covers what to see, how to get around, and how to choose the right experiences, helping you make the most of your time in this iconic part of West Iceland.

Snaefellsjokull National Park is found on the tip of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula and is one of three National Parks in Iceland. Known as "Iceland in Miniature" for its varied landscapes, the area is named after the Snaefellsjokull Glacier and Volcano and is a key highlight on many Snaefellsnes tours.

Others prefer to explore the park through self-drive tours, following coastal roads and stopping at beaches, lava fields, and viewpoints along the way. With hiking, lava caves, and glacier views, the park also fits naturally into wider nature tours and adventure holidays across Iceland.

In the sections below, you will find practical travel tips, a clear overview of the park, and the best places to visit. Additional guidance on visitor centers, tours, and seasonal conditions will help you plan your trip with confidence.

Snaefellsjokull National Park at a Glance

• What is it: Snaefellsjokull National Park is a protected natural area in West Iceland, centered around a glacier-covered volcano at the western tip of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula.

• Visitor centers: Official visitor centers are located at Malarrif and Hellissandur.

• Getting there: The park is about 120 miles (190 kilometers) from Reykjavik by road.

• Entrance fee: There is no entrance fee, though small parking fees may apply at certain locations.

• Accessibility: Several viewpoints and walking paths in the park are designed to be accessible for visitors with limited mobility.

Is Snaefellsjokull National Park Worth Visiting?

Yes, Snaefellsjokull National Park is worth a visit if you want to experience Iceland’s defining landscapes in one place. The park is centered around Snaefellsjokull, a glacier-covered volcano made famous as the entrance to the Earth’s core in Jules Verne’s Journey to the Center of the Earth.

Located on the western tip of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, the park brings together a glacier-capped stratovolcano, lava fields, coastal cliffs, and historic fishing villages. These contrasting landscapes sit close together, which makes the area easy to explore in a single day.

At the heart of the park rises Snaefellsjokull itself, a 700,000-year-old stratovolcano reaching about 4,744 feet (1,446 meters) above sea level. Its most recent eruption, around 1,800 years ago, sent lava across the peninsula’s western edge, forming the plains, craters, and volcanic features that characterize the park today.

How To Visit Snaefellsjokull National Park

Snaefellsjokull National Park lies about 120 miles (190 kilometers) from Reykjavik and is typically reached in 2.5 to 3 hours by car in good conditions. The park sits at the far end of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, where the land meets the Atlantic, and is most commonly visited as part of a self-drive trip through West Iceland.

From Reykjavik, the usual route follows Route 1, also known as the Ring Road, north toward the town of Borgarnes before continuing onto Route 54 across the peninsula. Route 574, also known as Utnesvegur, loops around the base of the glacier and provides access to many of the park’s main sights.

In the summer season, all of these roads are normally open and easy to drive in standard two-wheel-drive vehicle rentals. In the winter season, road conditions can change quickly due to snow, ice, and strong winds, and Route 574 may be partially closed or require extra caution.

There is no entrance fee to visit Snaefellsjokull National Park, and access is free year-round. Some sites within the park may charge parking fees, and visitors should always check posted signs for current payment requirements.

Snaefellsjokull National Park Map

The map shows how the main roads, coastal stops, and top attractions inside Snaefellsjokull National Park connect to one another. It is especially useful for planning a loop drive around the glacier and understanding where the park’s most popular sights are located.

Snaefellsjokull National Park Visitor Center Locations

Snaefellsjokull National Park has two official visitor centers where you can get maps, local guidance, and background information before exploring the area. Stopping at a Snaefellsjokull National Park Visitor Center is especially useful if you want up-to-date conditions, ranger advice, or a better understanding of the landscape.

The Snaefellsjokull National Park Center at Hellissandur is the main hub for the park. Open daily from 10 AM to 4 PM, it offers educational displays about Snaefellsjokull National Park. The center also includes a small souvenir shop focused on national park products and an on-site cafeteria.

The second Snaefellsjokull National Park Visitor Center is located at Malarrif on the park’s southern coast and is open daily from 10:30 AM to 4:30 PM. Set inside restored sheepfold buildings, the Malarrif center features hands-on exhibits, a children’s corner, restrooms, and outdoor picnic areas.

Top 9 Things To Do in Snaefellsjokull National Park

Snaefellsjokull National Park offers some of the top things to do in the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, with hiking, coastal walks, and guided lava cave tours. The area is known for compact distances that make it easy to experience several landscapes in a short time.

The activities below highlight the most popular places to visit inside Snaefellsjokull National Park. They focus on coastal headlands, beaches, volcanic craters, and walking trails that fit naturally into a loop drive around the glacier.

9. Visit Ondverdarnes and Its Lighthouses

Ondverdarnes marks the westernmost tip of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula and offers wide ocean views and a strong sense of isolation. Parking, picnic tables, viewpoints, and a lighthouse make it a rewarding stop for travelers exploring the outer edge of Snaefellsjokull National Park.

The area was once an important fishing hub, with cottages and a small chapel, but it has been abandoned since 1945. Remains of the former settlement are still visible, along with the Ondverdarnes Lighthouse.

Just south of Ondverdarnes rise the sea cliffs known as Svortuloft, which have been the site of many historic maritime accidents. Above the cliffs stands Skalasnagi Lighthouse, adding another dramatic landmark to this rugged and windswept coastline.

8. Walk to Svalthufa and Thufubjarg

Svalthufa and Thufubjarg form a large tuff headland just east of Londrangar Basalt Cliff and are among the best places in Snaefellsjokull National Park for coastal views and birdlife. The sea-facing cliffs of Thufubjarg are a major nesting site, with thousands of seabirds arriving in spring to raise their young.

A parking lot is located close to Thufubjarg, which makes the area easy to access. From there, a marked trail leads to the edge of the cliffs and continues along the coastline past Londrangar. The route is well-maintained and suitable for most visitors looking for a scenic walk rather than a demanding hike.

This trail offers wide ocean views and excellent opportunities for bird watching, especially during the nesting season. With viewpoints, picnic tables, and open terrain, Svalthufa is a rewarding stop for travelers who want dramatic scenery without a long detour or steep climb.

7. Walk Up Saxholl Crater

Saxholl is a 131-foot-high (40-meter-high) volcanic crater in Snaefellsjokull National Park and one of the easiest viewpoints to reach. A set of steps leads to the rim, allowing most visitors to walk to the top and enjoy wide views over the surrounding lava fields, the coastline, and Snaefellsjokull Glacier.

Parking is available at the base of the crater, which makes Saxholl a convenient stop on a loop drive through the park. At the summit, a compass rose marks the directions and adds context to the surrounding landscape.

The crater is extremely sensitive to erosion, so it is important to stay on the marked paths and viewing platforms at all times. The walking trail and stair design have received multiple design and architecture awards, highlighting both the accessibility of the site and the care taken to protect the fragile terrain.

6. Visit Skardsvik Golden Beach

Skardsvik is a small, sheltered cove on the northern side of Snaefellsjokull National Park, known for its yellow shell sand and clear, aquamarine water. The bright colors stand out sharply against the surrounding dark volcanic terrain, which makes this one of the park’s most visually striking beaches.

Parking is available close to the beach, and picnic tables make Skardsvik an easy stop for families visiting Iceland with kids or travelers looking for a quiet place to relax. The calm setting and open space make it well-suited for a short break, especially in good weather.

To reach Skardsvik, take exit 547 from Utnesvegur onto the road leading toward Svortuloft and Ondverdarnesviti. The beach is clearly signposted from the main road and easy to reach as part of a loop drive through the park.

5. Spend Time in Hellissandur

Hellissandur is the westernmost town on the northern side of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula and one of the main service hubs near Snaefellsjokull National Park. The town offers parking, restrooms, and a playground, along with restaurants, cafes, a campsite, the Adventure Hellissandur Hotel, and the National Park Center.

Hellissandur is home to the Maritime Museum, where visitors can see Bliki, the oldest preserved rowing boat in Iceland, built in 1826. The town’s fishing heritage is closely tied to the surrounding coastline, and museums and exhibits provide insight into daily life and seafaring history in the area.

The coastline between Hellissandur and Rif is one of the most important bird habitats in the region and includes one of Iceland’s largest nesting areas for Arctic terns. Several walking paths run through and around the town, and a paved trail connects Hellissandur with Olafsvik.

4. Explore the Budahraun Lava Field

Budahraun is one of the most striking lava fields in Snaefellsjokull National Park. The lava originated from Budaklettur, a 289-foot-high (88-meter-high) volcanic crater near the center of the field, which erupted around 5,000 to 8,000 years ago and sent lava flowing across the surrounding landscape.

Budir Church stands within the lava field and is an attraction in its own right, widely photographed for its black wooden exterior set against moss-covered lava, open grassland, and distant mountains. The church sits next to Hotel Budir and serves as a clear landmark.

From the church, a marked hiking trail leads to Frambudir, an area of moss-covered ruins where traces of past settlement are still visible. The walk takes about 30 minutes each way and offers a close look at the textures and colors of the lava field.

For longer hikes, Budahraun also connects to the coastal trail between Budir and Arnarstapi. This route follows the shoreline and takes around 6 to 8 hours to complete, which makes it suitable for experienced hikers when there is good weather and sufficient daylight.

3. Explore Vatnshellir Lava Cave

Vatnshellir is a lava cave in Snaefellsjokull National Park formed by volcanic activity thousands of years ago. A parking area is located nearby, which makes it an easy stop along the main road for visitors interested in Iceland’s caves and volcano tours.

Access to the cave is only possible on a guided Vatnshellir tour, which leads visitors down a metal spiral staircase into an ancient lava tube system. Inside, the cave reveals mineral-colored walls, narrow passages, and chambers shaped by flowing magma. Helmets and safety equipment are provided, and guides explain how the cave formed.

Vatnshellir is open year-round and offers a sheltered experience in all seasons. While the staircase and uneven surfaces require reasonable mobility, the descent itself is part of what makes the visit memorable, providing a rare opportunity to step directly into the volcanic interior of Snaefellsjokull National Park.

2. Visit Djupalonssandur Black Beach

Djupalonssandur is a dramatic black-pebble beach in Snaefellsjokull National Park, named after two coastal lagoons, Djupalon and Svortulon, that lie just inland from the shore. The beach is famous for its smooth black stones, often called the pearls of Djupalon, which have been shaped by constant wave action.

One of the most distinctive features here is Steinatok, a set of four historic lifting stones once used by fishermen to test their strength. Scattered iron fragments along the beach come from the British trawler Epine GY-7, which ran aground nearby in 1948 and serves as a quiet memorial to the dangers of the sea.

Parking and restrooms are located near the main road, with a smaller parking area closer to the lagoons. A wheelchair-accessible viewing platform overlooks the beach, and marked trails lead down to Djupalonssandur and onward to Dritvik, where the remains of seasonal fishermen’s huts can still be seen.

1. Walk the Arnarstapi to Hellnar Coastal Trail

Arnarstapi and Hellnar are linked by one of the most popular hiking trails in Snaefellsjokull National Park. The well-marked path runs through a lava field and along the coastline, passing sea cliffs and rock arches. The walk is relatively easy and can be started from either village, with parking available at both ends.

The coastline between Arnarstapi and Hellnar has been protected since 1979 and is especially lively from spring through autumn, when seabirds nest along the cliffs. Along the way, you’ll find viewpoints, Valasnos, a rocky headland that juts into the ocean, and Badstofa, a sea cave known for its shifting colors depending on light and sea conditions.

Hellnar marks the western end of the trail and was once an active fishing village. Today, it is a relaxed stopping point with coastal views and some of the best cafes on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. At the eastern end, Arnarstapi offers well-developed visitor facilities and is linked to Bardars Saga Snaefellsas, one of the Icelandic sagas.

Arnarstapi and Hellnar also serve as common starting points for guided experiences on the glacier. Popular options include glacier hiking on Snaefellsjokull, a snowcat tour on Snaefellsjokull, and an ATV tour of Snaefellsjokull that crosses lava fields on the way toward the glacier.

Snaefellsjokull National Park Tours

If you prefer not to drive or want guided access to areas that require local knowledge, joining guided tours offers an easy way to explore Snaefellsjokull National Park and the wider Snaefellsnes Peninsula. Options range from full-day sightseeing trips to multi-day tours that include lava caves and northern lights viewing.

• Top-Rated Snaefellsnes Peninsula Small-Group Tour: A guided small-group tour from Reykjavik that visits key highlights across the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, including lava fields, coastal villages, cliffs, and viewpoints around Snaefellsjokull National Park.

• Snaefellsnes Peninsula Day Tour by Minibus From Reykjavik: A small-group minibus tour that explores key stops across the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, offering a more personal experience with time at major natural and cultural landmarks.

• Spectacular Snaefellsnes Peninsula Sightseeing Day Tour: A sightseeing-focused day tour designed for travelers who want to see a wide variety of landscapes, including cliffs, craters, beaches, and fishing villages, in a single day.

• 2-Day West Coast Tour of Snaefellsnes Peninsula With Caving: A two-day guided tour that combines sightseeing in Snaefellsjokull National Park with a lava cave experience, allowing more time to explore the region at a slower pace.

• 2-Day Snaefellsnes Peninsula Sightseeing and Northern Lights Tour: A two-day tour that pairs daytime sightseeing on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula with evening Northern Lights hunting during the winter season.

Accommodation Options in Snaefellsjokull National Park

There are no hotels located inside the protected boundaries of Snaefellsjokull National Park, so most visitors stay in nearby fishing villages along the park’s edge. These locations provide quick access to the main sights and make it easy to start exploring early in the day.

On the southern side of the park, Hellnar and Arnarstapi hotels are the most popular places to stay. Both villages sit along the coastline and are connected by a well-known walking trail that passes cliffs, rock formations, and sea views. This area works well for hikers and travelers who want easy access to coastal scenery.

Along the northern edge of the peninsula, Rif and Hellissandur accommodations offer a quieter atmosphere shaped by fishing history. Staying here suits budget-conscious travelers and birdwatchers, with the added benefit of being close to the National Park Center in Hellissandur and the dramatic coastline near Svortuloft.

For those who prefer more services close at hand, Olafsvik hotels sit about a 10-minute drive outside the park boundary. The town offers grocery stores, fuel stations, and a wider range of restaurants, which makes it a practical choice.

FAQs About Snaefellsjokull National Park

Planning a visit to Snaefellsjokull National Park often raises questions about access, timing, safety, and what you can realistically see in one trip. The answers below are arranged in a logical order to help you plan your visit step by step.

How long do I need to spend in the park?

You can see several major highlights, such as Djupalonssandur and Londrangar, in about 4 to 5 hours. If you plan to hike the coastal trails between Arnarstapi and Hellnar or join a Snaefellsjokull glacier tour, spending a full day allows for a more relaxed experience.

What is the best time to visit Snaefellsjokull National Park?

Summer, from June through August, is the most popular time to visit, with longer daylight hours and easier access to hiking trails and coastal roads. Weather conditions tend to be more stable during this period, though fog, wind, and sudden changes are still common in the area.

Winter visits offer a very different experience, with snow-covered landscapes and northern lights opportunities, but access depends heavily on weather and road conditions. Some roads and trails may be closed at times, which can affect how much of the park you are able to explore.

Do I need a four-wheel-drive vehicle to visit Snaefellsjokull National Park?

A four-wheel-drive vehicle is not required to visit most areas of Snaefellsjokull National Park in summer. The popular sites are accessible with a standard two-wheel-drive car in good condition.

Is Snaefellsjokull National Park suitable for families and children?

Yes, the park is well-suited for families. Many locations offer short walking paths, picnic areas, playgrounds, and open space. Sites such as Arnarstapi, Malarrif, Saxholl, and Skardsvik are particularly family-friendly, though care is needed near cliffs and rocky shorelines.

Is it safe to visit Snaefellsjokull National Park in winter?

Visiting Snaefellsjokull National Park in winter requires extra care, as weather and road conditions can change quickly. Coastal roads are often maintained, but snow, ice, and strong winds can affect travel, especially around the glacier.

Checking weather forecasts and road conditions before driving is essential, and flexibility is important if conditions worsen. Some areas may be inaccessible at times, which makes guided tours a practical option for winter visitors.

Can I visit Snaefellsjokull National Park without a car?

Yes, it is possible to visit Snaefellsjokull National Park without a car by joining guided tours from Reykjavik or nearby towns. Public transportation within the peninsula is limited, so tours are the most practical option without driving.

Can you see the northern lights at Snaefellsjokull National Park?

Yes. With very little light pollution, Snaefellsjokull National Park is one of the best places in West Iceland to see the northern lights from September through April, provided skies are clear and solar activity is favorable.

Add Snaefellsjokull National Park to Your West Iceland Trip

Snaefellsjokull National Park fits easily into a West Iceland trip, offering glaciers, volcanoes, lava fields, and dramatic coastline in a compact area that is simple to explore by car and on foot. Scenic drives, short walks, coastal viewpoints, and guided experiences make it easy to tailor your visit based on available time, season, and interests.

After exploring the park, the surrounding Snaefellsnes Peninsula adds more of the classic things to do in West Iceland to your route. Kirkjufell Mountain rises just east of the park, the Berserkjahraun Lava Field showcases dramatic volcanic terrain, and Ytri Tunga is one of the region’s best places to see seals resting along a sandy beach.

Together, these landscapes show why West Iceland rewards travelers who take time to explore beyond a single stop. Adding Snaefellsjokull National Park to your route creates a journey shaped by volcanic forces, coastal scenery, and quiet natural moments, which makes it one of the most varied and memorable parts of an Iceland itinerary.