Highlights
- Borgarfjörður Eystri
- Puffins at Hafnarholmi
- Álfaborg – The Elf Rock
- Lindarbakki Turf House
- Gufufoss waterfall
- Seyðisfjörður
About Tour
Discover Puffins, Elves & East Iceland’s Hidden Beauty on This Scenic Day Tour from Seyðisfjörður
Join us on an unforgettable puffin tour in East Iceland, where dramatic fjords, rich folklore, and incredible wildlife come together in the magical village of Borgarfjörður Eystri. This guided day tour is the perfect choice for cruise ship passengers or anyone looking for the best place to see puffins in Iceland during summer.
Your journey begins in Seyðisfjörður, one of East Iceland’s most picturesque towns. From there, we drive through breathtaking landscapes to the remote village of Borgarfjörður Eystri—home to one of Iceland’s top puffin-watching spots, Hafnarhólmi. Thousands of puffins nest here each year, making it a paradise for birdwatchers, nature lovers, and photographers seeking close-up puffin encounters in a stunning natural setting.
But there’s more to this tour than puffins. Explore the charming village with its colorful houses, visit the iconic Lindarbakki Turf House, and walk up to Álfaborg (Elf Rock)—believed to be the home of Iceland’s elf queen. It’s a unique opportunity to connect with Icelandic folklore and culture in an authentic and meaningful way.
Enjoy a relaxing stop at a cozy local café, soak in the peaceful atmosphere, and take in the incredible views over the fjord and mountains. On the return trip, marvel at the powerful beauty of Gufufoss Waterfall, a hidden gem that completes your scenic journey.
This 5-hour small-group tour from Seyðisfjörður is designed to match cruise ship arrival and departure times, offering hassle-free transportation, expert guidance, and a relaxed pace. Whether you’re searching for puffins in Iceland, exploring elf legends, or simply enjoying the raw beauty of East Iceland, this tour promises memories that last a lifetime.
Included
Expert, English-speaking local guide
Round-trip transportation from Seyðisfjörður Harbour Parking
Convenient pickup and drop-off at the Puffin Colony parking area
What to bring
Warm layers and a waterproof jacket (Icelandic weather can change quickly!)
Comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven paths and stairs
No need to print your ticket – all confirmations are electronic
Activities
Attractions
Good to know
This tour is rated Easy, but please note there are stairs to navigate at the puffin colony and other village spots
Duration is approximately 5 hours, designed to match your cruise ship’s schedule
Cancellation Policy: 100% fee applies for cancellations made less than 24 hours before departure
Puffin Sightings: While Hafnarhólmi is one of the best places in Iceland to see puffins, sightings are subject to nature and seasonal patterns

Itinerary: Puffins & Elves Tour from Seyðisfjörður | Borgarfjörður Eystri Day Trip
Departure: Seyðisfjörður Cruise Port Pickup
Begin your East Iceland adventure with convenient pickup from the Seyðisfjörður harbor, perfectly timed to match your cruise ship’s arrival. Our expert local guide will welcome you at the cruise ship parking area for a seamless and stress-free start to your tour.
Stop 1: Puffin Watching at Hafnarhólmi – Iceland’s Top Puffin Spot
Your journey takes you to Hafnarhólmi Puffin Colony in Borgarfjörður Eystri, one of the best places to see puffins in Iceland during the summer months. This small island is home to thousands of nesting Atlantic puffins, offering an unforgettable experience for bird watchers, nature lovers, and photographers.
Accessible viewing platforms allow you to get incredibly close to these beloved seabirds as they dive, nest, and socialize along the cliffs. Puffin watching in Iceland doesn’t get better than this—breathtaking views, incredible photo opportunities, and rare up-close encounters in a peaceful nature reserve.
Stop 2: Álfaborg – Iceland’s Magical Elf Rock
Next, visit Álfaborg, or “The Elf Rock,” a legendary site believed to be the home of Iceland’s Elf Queen. Set in the enchanting landscapes of Borgarfjörður Eystri, this mystical hilltop offers panoramic views over the fjord and village while diving into Icelandic folklore and myth.
Álfaborg beautifully combines cultural storytelling and natural beauty, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in Iceland’s mythical past.
Stop 3: The Lindarbakki Turf House – A Fairy Tale Cottage in Iceland
Marvel at Lindarbakki Turf House, one of Iceland’s most iconic and picturesque turf-roofed homes. This well-preserved 19th-century cottage, with its red wooden exterior and lush green roof, is nestled among vibrant wildflowers and towering mountains.
It’s a perfect stop for photos and to experience a piece of Icelandic heritage and sustainable architecture, showcasing how early Icelanders lived in harmony with nature.
Stop 4: Explore the Charming Village of Borgarfjörður Eystri
If time allows, take a walk through Borgarfjörður Eystri, a remote Icelandic village known for its colorful homes, artistic flair, and breathtaking mountain views. Enjoy the peaceful vibe and, when available, stop by Álfacafé—a cozy local café where you can relax with a warm drink and enjoy traditional Icelandic pastries.
Stop 5: Gufufoss Waterfall – Hidden Gem of East Iceland
On your return to Seyðisfjörður, stop at Gufufoss Waterfall, one of East Iceland’s most photogenic waterfalls. Resembling a smaller version of the famous Skógafoss, Gufufoss offers dramatic views without the crowds. With its cascading water, mossy cliffs, and basalt rock formations, it’s the perfect final stop to soak in the raw natural beauty of Iceland.
Final Stop: Drop-Off at Seyðisfjörður Cruise Port
Return to Seyðisfjörður in time for your cruise ship departure. This charming fjord town, known for its iconic blue church, rainbow-painted streets, and creative spirit, offers a lovely setting to end your day. If time permits, enjoy a quick stroll through town before boarding your ship with unforgettable memories of Iceland’s puffins, folklore, and untouched landscapes.
