Highlights of the tour
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Explore the volcanic Westman Islands (Vestmannaeyjar)
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Ferry ride with stunning coastal views
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Visit the dramatic Elephant Rock
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Puffin watching at Stórhöfði
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Step into history at the Eldheimar Museum
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Stroll through Skansinn Harbor & Viking Church
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Hike the Eldfell Volcano
About Tour
Volcano Tour & Blue Lagoon
The Westman Islands (Vestmannaeyjar) are one of Iceland’s best-kept secrets, and this full-day adventure lets you experience their magic. Just off the south coast, these volcanic islands are packed with rugged landscapes, colorful wildlife, and fascinating history.
Sail across to Heimaey, the only inhabited island, and explore its most iconic sights. Stand in awe at Elephant Rock, visit puffin nesting grounds, learn about the 1973 eruption at the Eldheimar Museum, stroll through the historic Skansinn harbor, and hike the lava-covered slopes of Mt. Eldfell.
Vestmannaeyjar was recently chosen by The New York Times as a top travel destination for 2024 — and after this tour, you’ll see why.
Included
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Professional English-speaking guide
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Guided sightseeing & walking tour
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Admission to Eldheimar Museum
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Round-trip ferry tickets to Vestmannaeyjar
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Pick-up and drop-off from Reykjavik
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Small group experience
What to bring
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Warm outdoor clothing
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Waterproof jacket & pants
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Comfortable hiking shoes
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Thermal layers
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Hat & gloves
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Refillable water bottle
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Camera
Activities
Attractions
Good to know
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Availability: June – September
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Duration: ~12.5 hours
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Difficulty: Easy (short hikes & walking)
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Minimum age: 6 years
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Group size: Small group (max. 19)
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Free WiFi on board
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Lunch is not included, but there will be time to eat at a local restaurant.
Itinerary
Volcano Hike & Hvammsvík hot Springs
Morning Pick-Up & Ferry to Vestmannaeyjar
Your adventure begins with a morning pick-up from Reykjavik or Selfoss. After a scenic drive to Landeyjahöfn Ferry Terminal, you’ll board the ferry to the Westman Islands. The 30-minute ride offers spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and the archipelago. Keep your eyes peeled for seabirds and, if you’re lucky, whales or playful dolphins in the sparkling waters. Your guide will introduce you to the islands’ fascinating history and geology, giving context for the day ahead.
Elephant Rock
Once you arrive on Heimaey, your first stop is the legendary Elephant Rock. This massive basalt formation, sculpted by volcanic eruptions, looks just like an elephant dipping its trunk into the sea. You’ll have time to walk around the viewpoint, take photographs, and marvel at how nature can create such perfect forms. Your guide will explain how eruptions over centuries shaped this unique coastline and share local legends about the rock.
Puffin Watching at Stórhöfði
Next, head to Stórhöfði, one of the windiest places in Iceland and a prime puffin nesting area during the summer months. Thousands of puffins dig burrows in the cliffs here, creating a spectacular wildlife display. Watch them waddle, take off in clumsy flights, and return to their burrows, all while enjoying sweeping views of the ocean. Even outside puffin season, the dramatic cliffs and panoramic views make this a highlight of the tour. Your guide will provide interesting insights about puffin behavior, local ecology, and conservation efforts.
Eldheimar Museum – ‘Pompeii of the North’
After the puffins, visit the Eldheimar Museum, dedicated to the 1973 eruption of Mt. Eldfell. The museum offers a deeply moving experience, showing houses buried under lava and ash and telling the story of how the islanders were evacuated overnight. Walk through preserved homes, view photographs and artifacts, and hear about the resilience and determination of the community. Your guide will share detailed stories about the eruption’s impact on the island and its inhabitants, making history come alive.
Lunch Break
After exploring the museum, enjoy free time for lunch at a local restaurant (not included in the tour price). Vestmannaeyjar is famous for its fresh seafood — perfect for tasting traditional Icelandic dishes while soaking up the island atmosphere. Your guide can recommend dishes or cafes, ensuring you experience authentic local flavors.
Skansinn Harbor & Viking Church
Next, stroll through Skansinn, a historic area by the harbor where an old fortress once stood. Visit the Viking-style Stafkirkjan Church, gifted by Norway, and admire its striking architecture against the rugged coastline. Nearby, a small lighthouse keeps watch over the harbor, and the cliffs provide excellent photo opportunities. As you wander, your guide will share tales from the island’s past, including Viking history, fishing traditions, and the lives of the early settlers.
Hike to Mt. Eldfell Volcano
The grand finale of the tour is a hike up Mt. Eldfell, the volcano that erupted in 1973 and reshaped the island forever. The hike is short but rewarding, offering breathtaking views over Heimaey, the surrounding lava fields, and the open ocean. Learn about the volcanic landscape, new land formations, and the ways in which nature reclaimed the island. Your guide will point out interesting geological formations, explain lava field growth, and share stories of the eruption’s dramatic effects on the town. Take your time exploring the lava fields before heading back to the town center.
Return Ferry & Evening Drop-Off
After a full day of exploration, board the ferry back to the mainland. Relax and enjoy the ocean views while reflecting on the day’s adventure. Upon arrival at Landeyjahöfn, you’ll be driven back to Reykjavik or Selfoss, where the tour concludes with an evening drop-off.
FAQ
The tour lasts about 12.5 hours, including transfers, ferry, and guided sightseeing.
Yes, puffins are usually present from May to late August. Outside puffin season, the views and wildlife are still spectacular.
Meals are not included, but there will be a lunch break with opportunities to try local restaurants on the island.
The hike is considered easy and suitable for most travelers with normal fitness. Good walking shoes are recommended.
Yes, the minimum age is 6 years old.
In case of ferry cancellations, alternative arrangements or refunds will be offered. Safety always comes first.
