Iceland’s stunning Faxaflói Bay is home to an abundance of puffins and seabirds, and the Premium Small-Group Puffin & Bird Watching Tour from Reykjavík offers a unique chance to witness this natural wonder. Guests board a quick RIB boat and, with the guidance of knowledgeable naturalist hosts, have the opportunity to spot up to 30,000 puffins and other avian species in their vibrant, rugged environment. It’s an intimate, educational experience that showcases the best of Icelandic wildlife and scenery – one that may just leave you longing to learn more.

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Key Points

This premium small-group tour from Reykjavík focuses on puffin and bird populations in Faxaflói Bay, providing a personalized wildlife-watching experience.
Guided by knowledgeable naturalists, the tour offers up to four daily departures from May to August, with groups limited to 12 travelers.
Participants can expect to spot puffins, seabirds, and potentially the great auk and gannets, while learning fascinating facts about the local avian population.
The tour includes warm overalls, binoculars, and safety equipment, ensuring a comfortable and safe experience for guests.
With an overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 based on 71 reviews, the tour is praised for its knowledgeable guides and intimate wildlife encounters.

Tour Overview and Highlights

This premium small-group tour from Reykjavík offers a unique opportunity to witness Iceland’s captivating puffin and bird populations.

Departing from the city’s Old Harbour, the quick RIB boat tour takes guests on a personalized exploration of Faxaflói Bay.

Led by knowledgeable naturalist guides, groups of up to 12 travelers can spot puffins, gannets, and the elusive great auk.

With up to four departures daily from May to August, the tour promises stunning wildlife sightings and photo opportunities.

Warm overalls, binoculars, and safety equipment are provided, ensuring a comfortable and immersive experience for all.

Looking for more options in Reykjavik? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Wildlife and Experience

As visitors embark on this tour, they can expect to spot puffins and a variety of other seabirds thriving in Faxaflói Bay. Up to 30,000 puffins nest off Reykjavík’s coast, making it an excellent location for birdwatching.

Along With puffins, guests may observe the great auk and gannets. Throughout the tour, the knowledgeable guides share fascinating facts and stories about the local wildlife, enhancing the overall experience.

Whether it’s the puffins’ vibrant beaks or the graceful movements of the seabirds, this tour offers a unique opportunity to witness Iceland’s diverse avian population in its natural habitat.

Tour Logistics

Travelers meet at the designated meeting point, Ægisgarður 5 in downtown Reykjavík, to embark on this puffin and bird watching tour.

The tour includes all local taxes, as well as binoculars, warm overalls, gloves, goggles, and safety equipment. Groups are limited to a maximum of 12 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

The minimum age is 10 years, and the minimum height is 145 cm. Unfortunately, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions.

The tour operates rain or shine, so dressing appropriately is essential.

Guest Reviews and Feedback

According to the 71 reviews, this puffin and bird watching tour has an overall rating of 4.9 out of 5.

Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides and intimate tour experience, which allows for great wildlife sightings. However, some guests mention the guide’s voice projection could be improved, and there were a few complaints about the availability of binoculars.

Safety and Comfort

This puffin and bird watching tour operates in all weather conditions, so travelers should dress appropriately for the elements.

The tour provides safety equipment, including warm overalls, gloves, and goggles, ensuring participants’ comfort on the rib boat. The boat itself is designed with hydraulic seats, providing a smooth and stable ride.

For added flexibility, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.

Travelers with medical conditions or those who are pregnant should consult with the operator before booking, as the tour may not be suitable for their needs.

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Booking and Flexibility

Booking the puffin and bird watching tour offers flexibility for travelers. The tour provides free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, allowing guests to adjust their plans if needed.

Reservation options are available, providing more choices to fit different schedules. The tour operates from May 15th to August 20th, with up to four daily departures, giving travelers ample opportunities to find a suitable time.

With these features, the tour caters to the needs of various travelers, ensuring a seamless booking process and a memorable wildlife watching experience in Reykjavík.

About the Operator

The tour is operated by a highly-rated adventure company that specializes in providing small-group wildlife experiences in Iceland.

They’ve earned a Badge of Excellence with 100% recommendation from travelers. The company leads personalized tours with a maximum of 12 participants, ensuring an intimate and engaging experience.

Key features include:

Knowledgeable naturalist guides who share fascinating facts and stories about the local puffin and seabird populations.
Provision of essential equipment like warm overalls, binoculars, and safety gear to ensure guest comfort and protection.
Flexibility with up to four daily departures during the peak season.

Preparing for the Tour

Although the tour operates in various weather conditions, participants are advised to dress appropriately for the elements.

Warm overalls, gloves, and goggles are provided, but layering clothing is recommended.

The tour departs from Ægisgarður 5 in central Reykjavík. Travelers should arrive 15 minutes early to check-in.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and it’s not recommended for pregnant individuals or those with serious medical conditions.

A minimum age of 10 years and height of 145 cm is required.

Flexible reservation options allow for easy planning, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Binoculars?

Yes, passengers can bring their own binoculars for the tour. The tour provides binoculars, but bringing personal ones allows for better viewing and flexibility during the wildlife sightseeing experience.

What Happens in Bad Weather Conditions?

The tour operates in all weather conditions, so guests should dress appropriately. Safety equipment is provided, and the comfortable RIB boat has hydraulic seats to ensure a smooth ride, even in inclement weather.

Are There Any Age/Height Restrictions for Children?

There are minimum age and height requirements for this tour – children must be at least 10 years old and 145 cm tall. The tour isn’t suitable for young kids or those unable to meet the physical criteria.

How Many People Are Typically on Each Tour?

The tours have a maximum group size of 12 travelers. This small-group format provides a personalized experience for guests to observe Iceland’s wildlife with the guidance of a knowledgeable naturalist.

Is There an Option to Book a Private Tour?

Yes, the tour offers a private option for travelers who prefer an exclusive experience. Groups are limited to a maximum of 12 participants on the standard tour, but private tours can be booked for smaller groups or individuals.

The Sum Up

The Premium Small-Group Puffin & Bird Watching Tour from Reykjavík offers an intimate and educational wildlife experience. Guests can expect to spot up to 30,000 puffins and other seabirds in their natural habitat, with knowledgeable guides leading groups of up to 12. The tour operates from May to August and includes warm overalls and binoculars, providing a comfortable and breathtaking Icelandic adventure.