Where to see Puffins in Iceland

The Atlantic puffin is one of Iceland’s most iconic birds, drawing visitors from all over the world with its unique appearance and captivating behavior. With their colorful beaks and stocky bodies, puffins are often referred to as the "clowns of the sea." These seabirds nest on the rocky cliffs of Iceland, offering incredible viewing opportunities. If you’re dreaming of seeing puffins in their natural habitat, this complete guide will help you know when and where to see them in Iceland while respecting their fragile environment.

When to see Puffins in Iceland

Puffin Season: May to August

Puffins spend most of their lives at sea, but they return to Iceland’s coasts during the breeding season, which lasts from May to August. This is the best time to observe them, especially between June and July when they are most active.

• May: The first puffins arrive on Icelandic shores in late April or early May to begin nesting.
• June and July: The peak puffin viewing season, as birds are actively feeding their chicks and are often seen with fish in their beaks.
• August: Puffins gradually leave the cliffs at the end of August, so it’s best not to wait too long if you want to see them.

Daytime and evening Puffin watching

Puffins are often more active later in the day. In Iceland, during summer, the midnight sun provides nearly 24 hours of daylight, making it possible to observe puffins late into the evening, which is ideal for avoiding the crowds.

Best places to see Puffins in Iceland

Látrabjarg – Westfjords

Látrabjarg is arguably the best place to see puffins in Iceland. Located in the remote Westfjords, these towering cliffs are home to the largest colony of seabirds in the world, including thousands of puffins.

• Access: The road to Látrabjarg can be long and occasionally challenging due to rough conditions, but it’s worth the effort. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended.
• Proximity to birds: At Látrabjarg, puffins nest close to the cliff edges, allowing for extremely close observation.

Dyrhólaey – South Coast

Dyrhólaey is a dramatic peninsula near the town of Vík, famous for its black sand beaches. It’s also a prime spot for puffin watching from May to August.

• Access: Easily accessible from Route 1, Dyrhólaey is about a 2.5-hour drive from Reykjavik.
• Protected ecosystem: Some areas of the reserve may be closed during the nesting season to protect the birds.

Vestmannaeyjar (Westman Islands) – Heimaey

The Vestmannaeyjar archipelago is renowned for its large puffin population. Heimaey, the largest island in the archipelago, is home to hundreds of thousands of puffins during the summer months.

• Access: Regular ferries run from the port of Landeyjahöfn to Heimaey, with multiple crossings throughout the day. Once on the island, you can explore by foot or car.
• Fun fact: Every August, young puffins who lose their way while heading to the sea are rescued by locals in a tradition known as “Puffling Patrol.”

Papey Island – East Iceland

Papey is a small island off Iceland’s east coast, near the town of Djúpivogur. This peaceful island is home to a smaller but dense puffin colony.

• Access: You can take a boat tour from Djúpivogur to visit Papey. Most tours offer guided walks around the island, where you can observe the birds and other wildlife.
• Tranquility: Less frequented by tourists, Papey is perfect for those seeking a more serene puffin-watching experience.

Grímsey – Arctic Circle

Grímsey is a small island located 40 kilometers north of Iceland, and one of the few places where you can cross the Arctic Circle. It is also home to a significant puffin population.

• Access: A regular ferry service operates from Dalvík to Grímsey, or you can take a short flight from Akureyri.
• Unique experience: Watching puffins while crossing the Arctic Circle is a rare and unforgettable experience.

Borgarfjörður Eystri – East Iceland

The remote village of Borgarfjörður Eystri on the east coast is another excellent location for puffin watching, surrounded by stunning fjords and mountains.

• Access: It’s about a 2-hour drive from Egilsstaðir, but the journey offers breathtaking landscapes.
• Close observation: An observation hut has been built to allow visitors to view puffins up close without disturbing them.

Tips for Puffin watching in Iceland

Respect the birds and their habitat

Puffins are sensitive to human disturbance. It’s important to follow these simple guidelines to protect their environment:

• Don’t get too close to the nests: While puffins may seem friendly and curious, it’s essential to respect their space.
• Stay on marked paths: Walking off the trails can disturb nests and harm fragile vegetation.
• Leave no trace: As with all wildlife experiences, be sure to take any waste with you and leave nature untouched.

What to bring

• Binoculars: While some locations allow for close viewing, binoculars can help you observe puffins at a distance.
• Camera with zoom: Puffins are photogenic, but to avoid disturbing them, a zoom lens is essential for capturing distant shots.
• Warm, waterproof clothing: Iceland’s weather is unpredictable, especially near the cliffs where winds can be strong, so it’s important to be well-prepared.

Other birds to watch in Iceland

While puffins are the main attraction, Iceland is home to a variety of other seabirds. You might also spot:

• Common murres
• Arctic terns
• Northern fulmars
• Black-legged kittiwakes

Many puffin colonies also host other seabird species, creating a rich bird-watching experience for enthusiasts.

Conclusion

Seeing puffins in Iceland is a must-do experience for any nature lover. With their colorful beaks and charming behavior, these birds captivate both seasoned birdwatchers and casual visitors. By planning your trip well, you’ll have the opportunity to witness puffins in some of Iceland’s most breathtaking landscapes. Always remember to respect their habitat and enjoy this unforgettable encounter with Iceland’s stunning wildlife.

Happy puffin watching!