Vestmannaeyjar Puffins and Volcanoes — Day Tour from Reykjavík
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
12–13 hours
Fitness Level
Comfortable walking fitness; able to handle 200 m of elevation gain on unstable volcanic terrain and several short hikes during the day
Overview
Spend a long, lively day on Heimaey in the Westman Islands—watch puffins at Stórhöfði, scramble up Mt. Eldfell for lava-field panoramas, and explore the Eldheimar Museum’s 1973 eruption exhibits. This small-group tour packs dramatic geology and accessible hiking into an unforgettable day from Reykjavík.
Vestmannaeyjar Puffins and Volcanoes — Day Tour from Reykjavík
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You step off the ferry and the island greets you like a place that kept its own weather. Sea-salt gusts push against your jacket, basalt cliffs cut clean into the ocean, and somewhere above the harbor a colony of puffins churns the air with wingbeats and bright beaks. For a day, Heimaey—main island of the Vestmannaeyjar (Westman Islands)—becomes a compact lesson in Iceland’s raw geology, seabird life, and modern resilience.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Dress in layers
Wind and rain can arrive suddenly on Heimaey—pack a breathable waterproof shell and insulating mid-layer.
Wear grippy footwear
The Eldfell ascent includes loose volcanic scree and uneven basalt—sturdy hiking boots reduce slip risk.
Bring binoculars
Puffins and other seabirds are best observed with bins; a zoom lens helps for photos from cliffs.
Plan for a long day
Expect 12–13 hours total travel time from Reykjavík; bring snacks and water for between stops.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Atlantic puffin
- Arctic tern
History
Heimaey’s 1973 eruption altered the island’s geography and economy; the community’s evacuation and subsequent reclamation efforts are central to modern local identity.
Conservation
Vestmannaeyjar’s bird colonies are sensitive to disturbance—stay on marked paths, keep distance from nesting sites, and follow guide instructions to protect habitats.
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Adventure Hotspots in Reykjavík
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof wind shell
Protects against sudden coastal winds and rain common on Heimaey.
Sturdy hiking boots
Provides traction on loose lava gravel and uneven trails up Eldfell.
Warm insulating layer (fleece/down)
Even in summer, temperatures and wind make a warm mid-layer useful—essential in colder months.
winter specific
Binoculars or telephoto lens
Helps you watch and photograph puffins and distant seabird colonies without disturbing them.
summer specific