Overview
Escape the mainland and discover one of Iceland’s most extraordinary destinations on our Westman Islands, Volcano & Puffins Private Tour. This unforgettable full-day adventure takes you across the Atlantic Ocean to Heimaey, the largest island in the Westman Islands archipelago, where volcanic landscapes, dramatic sea cliffs, fascinating history, and one of the world’s largest Atlantic puffin colonies come together.
Travel comfortably with your private driver to the ferry terminal before enjoying a scenic crossing to the islands. Throughout the day, you’ll explore volcanic craters, breathtaking coastal viewpoints, charming fishing villages, and the remarkable sites created by the famous 1973 volcanic eruption, while learning how the islanders rebuilt their community after one of Iceland’s most dramatic natural disasters.
Whether you’re interested in wildlife, volcanoes, photography, or Icelandic history, this private tour offers one of the country’s most unique and unforgettable experiences.
Itinerary
Your adventure begins with hotel pickup in Reykjavík before travelling along Iceland’s beautiful South Coast toward the Landeyjahöfn Ferry Terminal, surrounded by volcanoes, glaciers, and picturesque countryside.
Enjoy a scenic 40-minute ferry crossing to Heimaey Island while admiring spectacular ocean views, volcanic islands, and, if you’re lucky, seabirds flying alongside the ferry.
Discover the incredible story of the 1973 volcanic eruption at one of Iceland’s most fascinating museums. Built around a house buried beneath volcanic ash and lava, the museum tells the remarkable story of the island’s overnight evacuation and recovery.
Visit the volcano that changed the island forever during the 1973 eruption. Guests who wish can hike to the summit for breathtaking panoramic views over Heimaey, the harbor, and the surrounding Atlantic Ocean.
Visit Iceland’s unique Beluga Whale Sanctuary, home to rescued beluga whales living in a protected natural bay. Learn about marine conservation while exploring interactive exhibitions about Iceland’s ocean wildlife.
Enjoy free time in the island’s charming harbor town. Relax at a local restaurant or café, explore the colorful streets, and experience the unique atmosphere of Iceland’s largest fishing community.
Discover one of the island’s most beautiful valleys, surrounded by towering green cliffs. Visit the reconstructed traditional Icelandic turf house and learn how Icelanders once lived using nature’s own building materials.
Visit the beautiful Norwegian-style Stave Church, gifted to Iceland to celebrate the 1,000th anniversary of Christianity. This elegant wooden church is one of the island’s most peaceful landmarks.
See one of Iceland’s most famous natural formations—a volcanic cliff remarkably resembling the head of a giant elephant dipping its trunk into the Atlantic Ocean. One of the island’s most photographed landmarks.
Visit one of the world’s largest Atlantic puffin colonies. During the nesting season, thousands of puffins gather along the dramatic sea cliffs, making this one of Iceland’s very best wildlife experiences.
Admire distant views of Surtsey, one of the youngest islands on Earth. Formed during a volcanic eruption between 1963 and 1967, this protected UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the world’s most important natural laboratories.
Visit the southernmost point of Heimaey, famous for breathtaking ocean views, dramatic cliffs, abundant birdlife, and being one of the windiest places in Europe.
After an unforgettable day exploring the Westman Islands, board the ferry back to mainland Iceland before returning comfortably to Reykjavík.
Includes/Excludes
What's Included
- Private vehicle
- Professional local driver/guide
- Hotel pickup & drop-off
- Round-trip ferry tickets to the Westman Islands
- Complimentary Icelandic bottled water
- Icelandic snacks
- Free Wi-Fi onboard
- Flexible itinerary
- Plenty of time at every stop
- Fuel and parking fees
- Child seats available upon request
Not Included
- Lunch and drinks
- Personal expenses
- Eldheimar Volcano Museum admission (optional)
- SEA LIFE Trust Beluga Whale Sanctuary admission (optional)
Good to Know
Tour duration: 12–13 hours
Ferry crossing: Approximately 40 minutes each way
Puffins are normally seen from May to August
Eldfell Volcano hike is optional and requires moderate fitness.
Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.
Ferry schedules may vary depending on weather conditions.
The Farago Difference
Our Westman Islands, Volcano & Puffins Private Tour offers an unforgettable journey to one of Iceland’s most fascinating destinations. From volcanic craters and dramatic sea cliffs to charming villages, puffin colonies, and incredible stories of resilience, this carefully planned private experience combines history, wildlife, geology, and breathtaking scenery in one remarkable day. With a private vehicle, flexible itinerary, and ferry tickets included, you’ll enjoy the Westman Islands in complete comfort and at your own pace.
