Reykjavik: Westman Islands Private Tour

Vestmannaeyjar, Iceland, Reykjavik



Discover the Westman Islands on a private tour from Reykjavik. Visit the Eldheimar Museum, hike up Eldfell Volcano, and see the iconic Elephant Rock and the puffin colony.

Westman Islands Private Day Tour from Reykjavik

Explore Iceland’s Westman Islands on a private day tour from Reykjavik, ideal for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Highlights

  • Private tour from Reykjavik to the Westman Islands
  • Visit Eldheimar Museum to learn about the 1973 volcanic eruption
  • Hike Eldfell Volcano for panoramic island views
  • See Elephant Rock and the puffin colony
  • Ferry ride to the islands with a coffee break in Hveragerði

Description

Your trip begins with pickup from your Reykjavik location. Enjoy a scenic drive with a knowledgeable driver-guide sharing local stories about Iceland’s landscapes.

Stop in Hveragerði, a geothermal town, for a coffee break amid its steaming hot springs and distinctive scenery. This is a good opportunity to stretch before continuing.

From Landeyjahöfn, board the ferry to the Westman Islands, watching for seabirds and dolphins during the crossing.

Start your island visit at Stafkirkjan, a replica of a traditional stave church honoring Iceland’s Viking heritage. Continue to Urðaviti Lighthouse on the rugged coast, with expansive ocean and island views.

At Eldheimar Museum, discover the story of the 1973 volcanic eruption through exhibits and preserved excavated homes beneath lava and ash.

Take a short hike up Eldfell Volcano, the source of the eruption. From the summit, enjoy panoramic views over the islands and sea.

Pause for lunch at a local restaurant featuring fresh seafood and regional specialties.

From May to September, puffin watching is available with your guide leading you to prime viewing spots where these seabirds nest on coastal cliffs.

Walk the black volcanic sands of Vikin Beach and see Elephant Rock, a natural formation resembling an elephant emerging from the ocean.

Experience the traditional island activity of spranga, a rope-swinging demonstration performed on steep cliffs, reflecting local culture.

Animal lovers can visit the Beluga Whale Sanctuary to meet rescued belugas and learn about conservation efforts (not included in tour).

After a full day, return on the ferry to Landeyjahöfn and then to Reykjavik with your driver-guide.

Includes

  • Pickup and drop-off from Reykjavik
  • Professional driver-guide
  • Ferry rides to and from the Westman Islands
  • Visits to Stafkirkjan and Urðaviti Lighthouse
  • Entry to Eldheimar Museum
  • Hike up Eldfell Volcano
  • Lunch at a local restaurant
  • Puffin watching (seasonal)
  • Visit to Vikin Beach
  • View of Elephant Rock
  • Sprangan rope-swinging demonstration

Excludes

  • Tips or gratuity
  • Food and drinks (other than included lunch)
  • Beluga Whale Sanctuary visit

Important Information

  • The tour requires a moderate level of fitness due to walking and hiking
  • Weather can be unpredictable; dress in layers and bring waterproof clothing
  • Puffin watching is available from May to September only

Easy Cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Book early to secure your preferred date and bring sturdy shoes, warm layers, and your camera for a full day of island exploration.

Frequently Asked Questions

The tour includes a private transfer from Reykjavik, a ferry ride to the Westman Islands, visits to Eldheimar Museum and Elephant Rock, a hike to Eldfell Volcano, and a coffee break in Hveragerði.
The tour includes a scenic drive from Reykjavik to the ferry port, followed by a ferry ride to the Westman Islands.
Yes, the tour includes a visit to the puffin colony on the Westman Islands.
Eldheimar Museum is located on Heimaey, the largest of the Westman Islands, and focuses on the 1973 volcanic eruption.
The Eldfell Volcano hike is moderate in difficulty and suitable for most participants with reasonable fitness.
The tour includes a coffee break in Hveragerði, but bringing water and snacks is recommended for comfort.
The tour typically lasts most of the day, including travel time to and from Reykjavik, but check the website for exact duration.
As a private tour from Reykjavik, it offers flexibility and can often be customized according to your interests.
The tour operates year-round, but summer offers longer daylight and better chances to see puffins.
Yes, the tour includes private transportation from your Reykjavik location and ferry tickets to the islands.

Trusted local guides, read by millions every month

  • 2006 online since
  • 26.2M page views a month across the network
  • 14 languages

180+ destination guides, one network

Every guide covers a single destination on its own website, with events, restaurants, things to do and places to stay chosen from local recommendations.

My Guide Network Locations

Nearby Destinations

Add to your trip

Add your travel dates so we can place this on the right day, or save it for later.

Added to your trip Added to day {[{trip.toast.day}]}, MorningAfternoonEvening Saved to your trip Already in your trip Transfer saved to your trip Save your trip to get fresh suggestions Staying in {[{trip.toast.label}]} Base cleared Trip deleted Link copied Could not save your trip Something went wrong, please try again