The Westman Islands (Vestmannaeyjar) are in the south coast of Iceland and consists of around 16 islands. Only one of them called Heimaey is inhabited and has a population of around 4300 people. Around those islands there are a number of rocks and skerries making the seabird life very rich and bountiful. .
The islands are considered to be the largest Atlantic Puffin colony in the world. A volcanic eruption began without warning on the edge of the village on the main island in January 1973. We have an option to hike up to the new crater. Another eruption occurred 10 years earlier in 1963 in the ocean which created a new island, Surtsey.
The trip with the ferry from the south coast to the islands, takes only 35 minutes. If we are lucky, we may see whales and seals on the way. We will either drive into the crater or hike up to the mountain and enjoy the view of the crater and the village. Our guide will tell you his personal experience of being on the island during the clean-up, the year after the eruption in (1974). We will explore and drive around the whole island and visit other interesting sightseeing spots while reviewing the history of the island. One option is a visit to Belgua Whales & Puffin Sanctuary. Other interesting spots are Stórhöfði to see the puffins up close, Herjólfsdalur farmhouse ruins, the elephant rock etc.
Tour Details
Highlights
- Seabirds / Puffin watching (May-August)
- Lava walk on Eldfell the volcanic crater (easy hiking)
- Visit to a volcanic Museum (Eldheimar) (An option)
- Fresh Seafood (lunch time)
- Walking behind a waterfall (Seljalandsfoss)
- Boat tours around the islands (An option which takes approx 1,5 hours)
- Beautiful Island with cliffs and mountain
Important Information
- This tour includes a ferry sea tour for up to 2 passengers
Meeting PointReykjavík area
Pickup Time08:00 am
Minimum AgeNo minimum age
Languages
englishicelandic
What's Included
Included
- Pick up at your hotel or agreed location in Reykjavik area and drop off
- Your exclusive private tour and flexibility
- Ferry fee for the vehicle and 2 passengers (you can add more pax during booking)
- English speaking Certified guide
- Admission and parking fees
- Icelandic water bottle
Not Included
- Food and drinks, but you will have the opportunity to buy them along the way
- Personal travel insurance
- Extra tours such as boat safari, and museums (options)
Booking Options (Can be added during booking process)
| Option | Price | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Boat tour | $105 per person | 1,5 hour tour |
| Ferry from Landeyja harbor to Westman Island and back same day | $44 per person | The tour price includes ferry tickets for 2 passengers. You may add more during booking process |
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I bring with me?
- Warm clothes.
- Water and windproof clothing as second layer.
- Hiking boots, but good walking shoes/sneakers should be sufficient.
- Camera.
- Your beautiful smile.
How long is the ferry tour?
We board the ferry from Landeyjahöfn (harbor) and it take 35 minutes one way.
How is your cancellation policy?
You will be able to cancel your booking with 48 hours’ notice from the departure time and get full refund.
In case of cancellation by the tour operator due to extreme weather or road conditions, or if there is no ferry due to bad weather, we will assist you in rebooking at another day or offer you different option or give you full refund.
Videos
Puffins
The best place to see puffins during summer time is in Westman Islands
