Aerial view of rugged green cliffs and small bay at Westman Islands, Iceland, with ocean and islands in background
Beluga whale underwater close-up during Westman Islands tour
Panoramic view of Westman Islands town with colorful buildings nestled below dramatic volcanic mountains at sunset
Rocky sea cave opening revealing green moss-covered cliffs and calm ocean waters at Westman Islands Iceland
Green volcanic cliffs and rocky coastline of Westman Islands with small islands and blue ocean in background
Purple lupine flowers in bloom with dramatic volcanic cliffs and green mountains in Westman Islands, Iceland
Aerial panoramic view of Westman Islands town with colorful houses, harbor, volcanic hills, and blue ocean

Reykjavik, Iceland

Private Full Day Tour to Westman Islands

11 hoursMin 1 guests
Listing ID : 67365
Duration11 hours
Group SizePrivate
Starts AtSeljalandsfoss Waterfall, South Iceland
LanguagesEnglish
Private Day Tour

Vestmannaeyjar Westman Islands Private Tour

Volcanic landscapes, marine wildlife, and island heritage in one unforgettable private journey.


The Vestmannaeyjar Westman Islands Private Tour takes you through one of Iceland's most geologically and culturally remarkable archipelagos, combining dramatic volcanic scenery with rare wildlife encounters and centuries of history.

From the towering cascade of Seljalandsfoss to the still-warm slopes of Eldfell volcano, this tour moves through landscapes shaped by some of nature's most powerful forces. The 40-minute ferry crossing from Landeyjahöfn frames the arrival at Heimaey with sweeping coastal views and a genuine sense of discovery.

Wildlife is woven throughout the experience, from the puffin colonies at Stórhöfði to the rescued beluga whales at the SEA LIFE Trust Sanctuary. Each stop on Heimaey adds a distinct layer of understanding, whether geological, ecological, or historical.

The private format means the pace and focus adapt to your group. The tour is conducted in English unless otherwise arranged, and the full day allows enough time to engage meaningfully with each site rather than simply passing through.

Tour Highlights

Walk behind the curtain of Seljalandsfoss, a 60-meter waterfall on the South Coast of Iceland.

Hike to the summit of Eldfell volcano and feel the warmth still radiating from the 1973 eruption beneath your feet.

Observe Atlantic puffins in one of Iceland's largest colonies at Stórhöfði, Europe's windiest headland.

Meet Little White and Little Grey, two beluga whales rescued from captivity, at the SEA LIFE Trust Sanctuary.

Visit the Stafkirkjan stave church, a gift from Norway marking a millennium of Christianity in Iceland.

View Elephant Rock, a basalt formation along Heimaey's cliffs that mirrors the silhouette of an elephant at the sea.

Cross the waters on a scenic 40-minute ferry from Landeyjahöfn with views of the South Coast and Eyjafjallajökull glacier.

Tour Itinerary

1
Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

The tour opens with a stop at Seljalandsfoss, where water falls 60 meters from a volcanic plateau. A path behind the falls allows a rare vantage point through the cascade, surrounded by mossy cliffs and mist.

2
Ferry Crossing from Landeyjahöfn

A 40-minute ferry ride connects the mainland to the Vestmannaeyjar archipelago. The crossing offers coastal views, glimpses of dramatic cliffs, and, in clear conditions, the outline of Eyjafjallajökull on the horizon.

3
Eldfell Volcano and Elephant Rock

On Heimaey, the hike up Eldfell rewards with panoramic views of the island and the lava fields produced during the 1973 eruption. Nearby, Elephant Rock presents a basalt formation sculpted by centuries of Atlantic weather into an unmistakable silhouette.

4
Stórhöfði Headland

At the southern tip of Heimaey, Stórhöfði is classified as the windiest point in Europe and hosts one of Iceland's largest puffin colonies. A viewing hut provides close observation without disturbing the nesting birds.

5
Stafkirkjan and Skansinn

The wooden stave church near Skansinn was gifted by Norway in 2000 to mark a thousand years of Christianity in Iceland. Its Nordic craftsmanship stands in quiet contrast to the surrounding lava fields.

6
SEA LIFE Trust Beluga Whale and Puffin Sanctuary

The sanctuary provides a home for two beluga whales previously held in captivity and rehabilitates injured puffins. Guided visits explain the conservation work behind both programmes and allow close, responsible interaction with the animals.

What Is Included

Included

  • Private professional guide throughout the tour
  • Transportation to and from Landeyjahöfn ferry terminal
  • Guided stop at Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
  • Ferry crossing from Landeyjahöfn to Vestmannaeyjar
  • Guided tour of Eldfell Volcano
  • Visit to Stórhöfði headland and puffin viewing
  • Visit to Stafkirkjan stave church
  • Visit to SEA LIFE Trust Beluga Whale and Puffin Sanctuary
  • Viewing of Elephant Rock

Not Included

  • Meals and beverages
  • Personal travel insurance
  • Gratuities for the guide
  • Any optional activities not listed above
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off outside the agreed meeting point

Important Information

This is a private tour tailored to your group. Weather conditions in Vestmannaeyjar can change rapidly, and ferry crossings are subject to sea conditions. Please dress in warm, windproof layers and wear sturdy footwear suitable for volcanic terrain.

Duration
Approximately 11 hours in total, including travel, ferry crossing, and all site visits on Heimaey.
Meeting Point
The tour begins at Seljalandsfoss Waterfall on the South Coast of Iceland before proceeding to Landeyjahöfn ferry terminal.
What to Bring
Wear wind and waterproof outer layers, sturdy hiking footwear, and bring sunglasses. A change of clothes is advisable given the mist near Seljalandsfoss and the wind at Stórhöfði.
Cancellation Policy
Please review the cancellation terms provided at the time of booking. Weather-related disruptions to ferry services may affect the itinerary.
Accessibility
The Eldfell hike and parts of the Stórhöfði headland involve uneven volcanic terrain. The tour is rated easy overall, but participants should be comfortable walking on irregular surfaces.
Age Range
The tour is suitable for all ages. Children should be supervised closely near cliff edges and volcanic terrain.

Reserve Your Private Island Tour

Secure your place on this private full-day journey through Vestmannaeyjar and experience Iceland's volcanic islands, marine wildlife, and living history at your own pace.

Book Now

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Eldfell hike suitable for beginners?
The hike to the summit of Eldfell is manageable for most fitness levels, though the terrain is uneven volcanic rock. Wearing sturdy footwear is strongly recommended.
When is the best time to see puffins at Stórhöfði?
Puffins are present on Heimaey from late April through August, with peak activity in June and July. Outside of these months, the birds are at sea.
Can the ferry crossing be affected by weather?
Yes, ferry services from Landeyjahöfn are subject to sea and weather conditions. In the event of disruption, an alternative sailing point may be used or the operator will advise on adjustments.
Is the SEA LIFE Trust Sanctuary visit guided?
Guided tours of the sanctuary are available and provide detailed information about the conservation work for the beluga whales and the puffin rehabilitation programme.
What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is conducted in English by default. Other language arrangements may be possible if specified at the time of booking.
Is the Elephant Rock viewable from land?
Elephant Rock is best appreciated from the water, where the full basalt silhouette is visible. Coastal viewpoints on Heimaey also offer a partial view of the formation.
VestmannaeyjarWestman IslandsHeimaeyPrivate Tour IcelandEldfell VolcanoPuffin Watching IcelandBeluga Whale SanctuarySeljalandsfossIceland Day TourSouth Coast IcelandStórhöfðiIcelandic Islands
Last updated: 2025-07-14 | Product ID: vestmannaeyjar-private-day-tour

Activity

Availability

You can book up to the start time, as long as there are places remaining. Book now to guarantee your spot.

Additional Information

Physical: Wheelchair Not accessible

Duration

11 hours

Languages

English - Speaking Guide

Additional Information

Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.

Cancellation Policy

Select Date

Meeting Point

Complete Operator information, including local telephone numbers at your destination, are included on your Confirmation Voucher. Our Product Managers select only the most experienced and reliable operators in each destination, removing the guesswork for you, and ensuring your peace of mind.

Activity Site

Complete Operator information, including local telephone numbers at your destination, are included on your Confirmation Voucher. Our Product Managers select only the most experienced and reliable operators in each destination, removing the guesswork for you, and ensuring your peace of mind.

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