Vestmannaeyjar Island, Volcanoes and Puffins Tour

The day begins with a morning pick-up in Reykjavik before heading to Landeyjahöfn Ferry Terminal. Here, we board a ferry for a 30-minute ride across the sea to the only inhabited island in the Westman Islands archipelago. As we approach, you’ll see dramatic cliffs rising from the ocean—home to countless seabirds and shaped by volcanic activity over thousands of years.

Our first stop is one of the island’s most famous landmarks, Elephant Rock (Halldórsskora). This massive basalt formation, naturally shaped like an elephant dipping its trunk into the sea, was formed by past volcanic eruptions. Standing here, you’ll get incredible views of the rugged coastline while learning about the island’s powerful geological history.

Next, we head to Stórhöfði, the windiest spot in Iceland and home to one of the world’s largest puffin colonies during the summer months. These quirky little birds nest in burrows along the cliffs, waddling around before taking off in clumsy yet charming flights.

Like all wildlife, puffins can be unpredictable. They may be out at sea feeding, especially depending on the time and weather. That said, the tour is planned to offer the best possible chance to spot them.

At the Eldheimar Museum, we step into the past to witness the impact of the devastating 1973 volcanic eruption. Known as the ‘Pompeii of the North,’ this museum showcases homes that were buried in ash, frozen in time as a reminder of nature’s raw power. You’ll hear the incredible story of how the islanders were evacuated overnight and how they rebuilt their community from the ashes. 

After the museum, we’ll head into town for a lunch break (not included in the tour price), where you can grab a bite at a local café or try some of the island’s famous fresh seafood.

Next, we hike up Mt. Eldfell, the volcano that erupted in 1973 and changed the island forever. The hike is short but rewarding, leading to sweeping views over the town, lava fields, and surrounding ocean. After soaking in the views, you can explore the lava field on your way back to town, where the new land formed by the eruption tells a story of destruction and rebirth.

For the grand finale, we visit Skansinn, a historic area by the harbor where an old fortress once stood. Here, you’ll find the striking Stafkirkjan, a Viking-style wooden church gifted by Norway, sitting against the dramatic coastline. Nearby, a small lighthouse keeps watch over the harbor, and the cliffs provide a great vantage point over the rugged shoreline. It’s a spot that feels like stepping into the past, with the sound of waves and seabirds all around.

After a full day of exploring, we meet at the harbor for the afternoon ferry back to the mainland. The tour wraps up with an evening drop-off in Reykjavik.

This tour offers an optional visit to the SeaLife Trust Beluga Sanctuary, home to rescued whales “Little White” and “Little Grey” and a puffin rescue center. Entry is not part of the tour price and must be paid on-site.