The Westman Islands Day Tour from Reykjavik offers a unique opportunity to explore Iceland’s volcanic landscapes. This 12-hour adventure takes visitors on a scenic drive along the South Coast before a ferry ride to the largest inhabited island, Heimaey. Guests can trek the Eldfell Volcano, visit the Eldheimar Museum, and spot puffins during the summer months. With a knowledgeable driver-guide and flexible booking options, this tour provides an unforgettable glimpse into the remarkable natural wonders of the Westman Islands. What else might visitors discover on this captivating journey?
Key Points
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A 12-hour day tour from Reykjavik to the Westman Islands, including a scenic drive along the South Coast and a ferry ride to the largest inhabited island, Heimaey.
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Highlights include visiting the Eldheimar Museum to learn about the 1973 volcanic eruption, trekking the slopes of the Eldfell Volcano, and spotting puffins at Stórhöfi (in summer).
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The tour includes ferry tickets, entrance to the Eldheimar Museum, an English-speaking driver-guide, and private transportation from Reykjavik accommodation.
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The tour operates rain or shine, but may be canceled due to bad weather, and puffin sightings are limited to the summer months.
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The tour can be booked with a flexible pay later option, and the itinerary is subject to change due to weather or road conditions.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The Westman Islands Day Tour from Reykjavik offers an exciting opportunity to explore the volcanic archipelago of Vestmannaeyjar.
Priced at Kč 43,548 per group (up to 4 people), the 12-hour tour includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now & pay later option.
Priced at Kč 43,548 per group (up to 4 people), the 12-hour tour includes free cancellation and a reserve now & pay later option.
The tour covers scenic stops along Iceland’s South Coast, a ferry ride to the largest inhabited island of Heimaey, and visits to the Eldheimar Museum and the volcanic Eldfell slopes.
With an English-speaking driver-guide, this private tour provides a comprehensive experience of the Westman Islands.
Looking for more options in Southern Region Iceland? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Itinerary and Highlights
Exploring the volcanic Westman Islands, known as Vestmannaeyjar, is the focal point of this day tour from Reykjavik.
The tour begins with a scenic drive along Iceland’s South Coast, including a stop at the Seljalandsfoss waterfall. Travelers then board a 30-40 minute ferry ride to Heimaey, the largest inhabited island, where they’ll visit the Eldheimar Museum.
Next, they’ll trek the slopes of the Eldfell volcano and observe lava fields. The tour also includes a visit to Stórhöfi, Europe’s windiest point, where puffins can be spotted during the summer months.
The day concludes with a stop at the Herjólfsdalur valley and its historical sites.
Inclusions
This tour includes ferry tickets to the Westman Islands, as well as an entrance ticket to the Eldheimar Museum. The tour also provides an English-speaking driver-guide to accompany you throughout the experience.
Plus, the tour offers:
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Private transportation from your Reykjavik accommodation
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Scenic route along Iceland’s South Coast, including Seljalandsfoss waterfall
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Exploration of Heimaey, the largest inhabited island in the Westman Islands
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Trek up the slopes of the Eldfell volcano and observation of the lava fields
Food and drinks aren’t included in the tour.
Important Information
Although the tour operates rain or shine, it may be canceled due to bad weather.
Puffin sightings are seasonal, only occurring from mid-May to mid-August. During winter, limited daylight may mean some attractions are visited in darkness or skipped entirely.
The itinerary is subject to change due to unfavorable weather or road conditions. Travelers should check availability for start times and select the appropriate number of participants and date when booking.
Thanks to the reserve now & pay later option, visitors can enjoy flexibility with their travel plans.
More Great Tours NearbyBooking and Availability
To book the Westman Islands Day Tour, visitors can check the availability for their preferred start times.
The tour offers flexibility, with the option to reserve now and pay later. When booking, customers select the number of participants and date.
This private tour provides an opportunity to explore the volcanic Westman Islands at your own pace:
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Check availability for different start times
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Reserve your spot with the pay later option
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Select the number of participants and preferred date
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Enjoy a private, customizable tour experience
Exploring the Volcanic Westman Islands
Nestled in the vast expanse of the North Atlantic, the Westman Islands, or Vestmannaeyjar, invite visitors to explore their volcanic landscapes.
On this day tour, travelers will ferry to the largest inhabited island, Heimaey, and visit the Eldheimar Museum to learn about the islands’ dramatic volcanic eruption in 1973.
Trekking up the slopes of Eldfell volcano, they’ll observe the lava fields and panoramic views.
At Stórhöfi, they’ll stand at Europe’s windiest point, watching for puffins during the summer months.
The tour also includes a stop at the historical Herjólfsdalur valley before returning to Reykjavik.
Discovering Heimaey, the Largest Inhabited Island
The largest of the Westman Islands, Heimaey is the main destination on this day tour.
Heimaey, the largest of the Westman Islands, is the main destination for this day tour.
Visitors will:
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Explore Eldheimar Museum to learn about the 1973 volcanic eruption that nearly destroyed the island
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Trek up the slopes of Eldfell volcano and observe the dramatic lava fields left behind
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Visit Stórhöfi, Europe’s windiest point, for a chance to spot puffins (in season)
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Discover the Herjólfsdalur valley and uncover the island’s historical sites
With a knowledgeable local guide, travelers will enjoy Heimaey’s unique volcanic landscape and rich cultural heritage.
Trekking the Eldfell Volcano and Observing Puffins
After arriving on the largest of the Westman Islands, Heimaey, travelers will have the opportunity to trek up the slopes of the Eldfell volcano. This dramatic volcano erupted in 1973, forever changing the landscape. Visitors can explore the stark lava fields and observe the steaming vents.
Another highlight is the chance to see puffins, which nest on the islands from late May to late August. Stórhöfi, Europe’s windiest point, offers prime puffin viewing. Travelers may spot these charismatic seabirds soaring overhead or perched on the rocky cliffs.
| Eldfell Volcano | Puffin Viewing |
| — | — |
| Erupted in 1973 | Seasonal (May-Aug) |
| Lava fields | Stórhöfi viewpoint |
| Steaming vents | Soaring overhead |
| Dramatic landscape | Perched on cliffs |
| Hiking opportunity | Charismatic seabirds |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to Fit My Interests?
While the standard tour itinerary is set, the provider may be able to accommodate some customization requests. Travelers should inquire about flexibility when booking to ensure the tour aligns with their specific interests and preferences.
How Do I Dress for the Weather and Terrain on This Tour?
To dress for the weather and terrain, wear warm, waterproof layers, sturdy hiking boots, and bring extra socks. Check the forecast and pack accordingly, as the conditions can be variable and changeable throughout the day.
Are There Any Accessibility Accommodations Available for This Tour?
The tour provides some accessibility accommodations, though the terrain may present challenges. Wheelchair users can access the ferry and museum, but hiking parts of the tour may be difficult. Visitors should inquire about specific needs when booking.
What Should I Bring to Maximize My Enjoyment of the Tour?
To maximize enjoyment, bring warm, waterproof layers, sturdy walking shoes, sun protection, a camera, and a small backpack. Bring snacks and water as well, as food and drinks are not included in the tour.
Can I Extend My Stay on the Westman Islands After the Tour?
Visitors can extend their stay on the Westman Islands after the tour, but they’ll need to book additional accommodations and transportation separately. The tour package only covers the day trip from Reykjavik and doesn’t include an overnight stay.
The Sum Up
The Westman Islands Day Tour from Reykjavik offers an immersive experience in Iceland’s volcanic landscapes. Travelers can explore the islands, visit the Eldheimar Museum, hike the Eldfell Volcano, and spot puffins during the summer. With its flexible booking and knowledgeable guide, this tour provides a captivating way to discover the unique natural wonders of the Westman Islands.
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