Would like some help planning the itinerary. Ideally would love to make it as far as Jokulsarlon glacier and also Snaefellsnes Peninsula. We are two couples in our 50s and TRYING to see northern lights is a priority for one of the couples, hence the March visit. Not planning on any hikes. Would love any and all input on the best way to construct an itinerary to hit the highlights and still make it to those places, as well as where to overnight. Thank you!
Posted by
Salem, Oregon, USA
3387 posts
So you aren't going in October? https://community.ricksteves.com/travel-forum/iceland/3-4-night-stopover-end-of-october
You'll have about 12 hours of daylight each day, so if the lights are a priority you'll need to make a late night of it (as long sun activity, weather, and cloud cover cooperate). If you take an excursion make sure you book it very early in your trip so if they cancel due to conditions you have a chance to make it up.
I haven't been to either of those places but I know they're very far apart so you'll be doing an immense amount of driving. Weather isn't always great in March. Hopefully some of our other forum members with extensive Iceland experience can give you good advice.
Posted by
OP
4 posts
Not 100% sure yet on the stopover in October but definitely going with another couple end of March or beginning of April.
Posted by
Snohomish, WA
3464 posts
March is still winter in Iceland so be prepared to be very flexible.
Both Jokulsarlon and Snaefellsness are great, but with 6 days it will be extremely rushed and that is if you have good weather. You can do it ifyou resist the urge to spend time in the golden circle and many places along the south coast. From Reykjavik to Jokulsarlon it is a good 6 hours of driving each way in ideal weather without stops.
Snaefellsness deserves at least a few days. Three would be great. We have been through there on many of our trips and still find new things to do. It is like a condensed Iceland in that there is such a variety of things to see. Take your time there and do not rush.