Imagine setting out from the charming harbor town of Seydisfjordur, a place with brightly colored houses and a peaceful vibe, to discover the wild beauty of East Iceland. For about 5 hours, you’ll visit Hafnarhólmi, a tiny island bursting with puffins, wander through an authentic turf house, and enjoy the soothing spray of Gufufoss Waterfall. Led by friendly guides, this tour offers a taste of Iceland’s natural wonders and local culture, perfect for wildlife lovers and curious travelers alike.
What makes this experience stand out for us is the opportunity to get surprisingly close to puffins—these charming seabirds are often elusive elsewhere—and the chance to explore a traditional turf house, giving us a glimpse into Icelandic history. Plus, the peaceful Gufufoss offers a quiet moment to appreciate Iceland’s raw landscape. However, be aware that the tour involves some winding roads and a bit of walking, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with these factors. If you’re keen on wildlife, dramatic scenery, and authentic culture, this trip is a great fit.
Key Points
- Close-up Puffin Viewing: Hafnarhólmi is one of Iceland’s top puffin colonies.
- Authentic Icelandic Culture: Visit the Lindarbakki Turf House for a glimpse of traditional architecture.
- Stunning Waterfalls: Gufufoss offers a peaceful, misty retreat.
- Scenic Village Walks: Borgarfjordur-Eystri is full of colorful houses and fishing tales.
- Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides add depth and humor to your experience.
- Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance, or reserve now and pay later.
Exploring East Iceland’s Natural Marvels
This five-hour tour offers a wonderfully balanced mix of wildlife, culture, and natural beauty. Starting right at Seydisfjordur’s port, your guide will pick you up and whisk you via scenic roads into some of Iceland’s lesser-known but most captivating spots. The journey itself is part of the charm, with winding roads revealing increasingly dramatic views.
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Hafnarhólmi: Puffins in Their Element
The highlight for many visitors is Hafnarhólmi, a small rocky islet home to thousands of nesting puffins during the summer months. These birds are both amusing and endearing, with their distinctive beaks and clumsy flight. We loved the way guides carefully explain puffin behavior, making the experience educational as well as visually delightful. According to reviews, you might get surprisingly close to the birds—one traveler noted they “got really close to the puffins,” making for memorable photos.
Puffins are a highlight because they’re such a photogenic symbol of Iceland’s abundant seabird life. Watching them flutter around their nests, often just a few feet away, feels like observing a lively, feathered community thriving in the wild.
Lindarbakki Turf House: A Window into Icelandic Past
Next, your tour includes a visit to Lindarbakki Turf House, a well-preserved example of traditional Icelandic architecture. These turf houses were built to withstand Iceland’s harsh weather and are a fascinating look at how Icelanders historically combined practicality with craftsmanship. Walking through this old home helps visitors understand local life before modern conveniences, offering a quiet contrast to the lively puffin colonies.
Borgarfjordur-Eystri: A Picturesque Fishing Village
The small village of Borgarfjordur-Eystri is set in a fjord that looks straight out of a postcard. Brightly colored houses line the waterfront, and fishing remains a vital part of life here. As you stroll through, guides often share stories about local traditions, fishing, and folklore, adding layers to your experience.
More Great Tours NearbyGufufoss Waterfall: A Peaceful Finale
As your tour winds down, you’ll stop at Gufufoss, a tranquil waterfall that’s perfect for a breather. The steady cascade creates a calming mist, and the surrounding scenery invites you to pause and soak in Iceland’s essence. It’s an ideal spot for photos and for simply appreciating the power and serenity of untouched nature.
Practical Details: What to Expect and What to Bring
This tour is designed with convenience and comfort in mind. Pickup and drop-off are included right at Seydisfjordur’s cruise terminal, so there’s no need to worry about logistics. The vehicle is comfortable, and free WiFi is available during the trip, helping you share your photos or look up more about Iceland’s wildlife.
The guides are all English-speaking and know their stuff—many travelers, like Helgard, appreciated Ivy’s insights about Iceland’s culture and nature. The tour lasts about five hours, making it manageable even on a tight cruise schedule. It’s best suited for those who are comfortable walking a bit and don’t mind some winding roads—children over 2 are welcome.
What to bring: Comfortable shoes, since you’ll be on your feet exploring the village and viewing sites, and rain gear, as Iceland’s weather can change unexpectedly.
Cost and Value
While the tour doesn’t include food or drinks, its comprehensive nature and focus on wildlife, culture, and scenery offer strong value for the price. You’re paying for an intimate look at some of Iceland’s most charming and less-traveled highlights, guided by experts eager to share their knowledge.
Authentic Experiences and Real Traveler Perspectives
Reviewers consistently praise the guides for their helpfulness and local knowledge. One traveler noted, “We learned a lot about the country and its people from our guide Ivy,” highlighting the educational aspect. The opportunity to see puffins up close received high marks, with one saying, “The best place to see puffins,” adding that it was “really nice and helpful guide.”
Some minor points to consider include initial meeting point confusion, but this was quickly resolved, and the overall experience remained highly positive. The winding roads and walking might be a consideration for travelers with mobility issues, but for most, the scenic views and wildlife encounters outweigh these small inconveniences.
Who Should Take This Tour?
If you’re seeking close-up wildlife encounters, especially with puffins, and want a taste of Icelandic village life and folklore, this tour fits the bill. It’s ideal for those who appreciate small-group intimacy, authentic culture, and breathtaking scenery. It offers enough variety—wildlife, history, nature—to keep most travelers engaged, especially those with a curious spirit and an appetite for genuine Icelandic experiences.
This tour isn’t just a sightseeing drive; it’s an opportunity to connect with Iceland’s essence in a manageable, well-paced way. Perfect for wildlife enthusiasts, culture lovers, or anyone looking to add a memorable chapter to their Iceland adventure.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children over 2 years old are welcome. The tour involves some walking and outdoor exposure, so ensure your kids are comfortable with that.
What should I wear?
Bring comfortable, weather-resistant shoes and rain gear, as Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable even in summer.
How long is the tour?
It lasts about 5 hours, including transportation, stops, and sightseeing.
Is food or drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring water or snacks if desired.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
What is the guide’s language?
Guides speak English and share insightful information about wildlife, folklore, and local culture.
Will I see puffins even if I don’t have much bird-watching experience?
Absolutely. Guides are experienced and eager to help you spot and learn about the puffins, making it accessible for all.
Final Thoughts
This Puffin & Gufufoss Waterfall Tour from Seydisfjordur offers a well-rounded look at East Iceland’s natural beauty, wildlife, and culture. It’s a particularly good choice if you want to see iconic puffins close up and experience authentic Icelandic village life without straying far from your cruise port. The knowledgeable guides, scenic stops, and intimate settings make it a trip that many travelers will fondly remember.
If wildlife photography, traditional architecture, and peaceful waterfalls appeal to you, then this tour deserves a place on your Iceland itinerary. It balances fun, education, and stunning landscapes in a way that feels genuine and accessible—an authentic slice of Iceland’s wild heart.
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