Heimaey Island, part of the Westman Islands in Iceland, offers a wealth of unique tours that showcase its volcanic landscapes, seabird colonies, and rich Viking history. Unlike many tourist spots that rely on busloads or generic sightseeing, Heimaey’s tours are small, personalized, and often adventurous—perfect for those who want a close-up look at Icelandic life and nature. We especially appreciate the Puffin and Volcano Tour with Ebbi for its mix of wildlife, geology, and history, and the Volcano ATV Tour for a fun, off-road exploration of Eldfell and the coast. These experiences give you a chance to see puffins up close, wander through volcanic craters, or enjoy a private, eco-friendly drive around the island. If you’re visiting Heimaey, these tours are a great way to make the most of your time and see its highlights without feeling rushed.
Quick Overview
Heimaey offers a variety of tours suited for different interests and activity levels. From wildlife encounters like the Puffin and Volcano Tour to lively boat excursions and electric scooter adventures, you’ll find options that fit your style. For those seeking a relaxed yet exclusive experience, the Private BMW X5 Tour offers a tailor-made drive. If you prefer hands-on fun, the ATV and Eyjascooter tours provide active ways to explore volcanic sites and wildlife. And for a quick introduction, the Vestmannaeyjar Boat Tour offers an hour and a half of scenic, wildlife-filled sailing. Below, we detail each experience to help you pick the perfect adventure.
1. Puffin and Volcano Tour with Ebbi
At number 1, the Puffin and Volcano Tour with Ebbi is a winner for wildlife lovers and geology enthusiasts alike. This 2-hour shared tour takes you around Heimaey to visit a puffin colony, explore the Eldfell volcano crater, and learn about the island’s Viking roots at Herjólfsdalur. Ebbi, a charismatic and knowledgeable guide, leads you over the island’s key sites, including Elephant Rock and the largest puffin colony in the world at Stórhöfði. The journey also includes entry to the Viking Museum and Herjólfsstad, giving a well-rounded look at both natural and cultural history.
What makes this tour stand out is its balance of wildlife, geology, and local lore. Visitors rave about Ebbi’s enthusiasm and depth of knowledge—”Ebbi was a wonderful guide who loves his island,” one review states. The tour’s highlights include seeing puffins in their natural habitat, walking into Eldfell’s crater where the 1973 eruption started, and viewing Elephant Rock, a striking natural formation. It’s a perfect choice for those who want a compact, informative, and fun introduction to Heimaey.
Bottom Line: This tour offers excellent value, combining wildlife, volcano exploration, and Viking history with a personable guide. Ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive yet manageable experience.
2. Volcano ATV Tour
Number 2 on our list is the Volcano ATV Tour, a lively way to cover ground and get a close look at Eldfell and the island’s coast. This approximately 1-hour adventure is perfect for active travelers. The tour guides you around Prestvik beach, where the fishing ship Pelagus was stranded, and along the lava fields surrounding Eldfell—the volcano that erupted in 1973. You’ll also pass the site where Guðlaugur Friðþórsson swam ashore after the volcanic eruption, a story of resilience that’s part of local lore.
The ATV experience is straightforward—automatic, easy to drive, and suitable for ages 6 and up, with a driver’s license required for the driver. The small group size (max 14) ensures personalized attention and flexibility, letting you stop for photos or enjoy a moment of quiet along the coast. Tour guides share stories and history, making the ride both fun and educational.
The reviews highlight how much fun this is: “Mar was a fantastic guide,” says one traveler, “and the views and stories made it a highlight of our trip.” The price includes safety gear like helmets, gloves, and overalls, giving you confidence to explore the lunar-like volcanic landscape.
Bottom Line: Perfect for families or adventure-seekers wanting a quick, exhilarating tour with stunning views and local tales. It’s an active way to see the island’s volcanic heart.
3. Boat Tour in Vestmannaeyjar
Number 3, the Boat Tour in Vestmannaeyjar, offers a scenic, wildlife-rich cruise around Heimaey in about 1 hour and 30 minutes. This is a straightforward, relaxing way to see the island from the water. You’ll pass Elephant Rock, a classic photo stop, explore sea caves, and listen to explanations about the island’s volcanic activity and seabird colonies, including puffins and other seabirds. The boat’s unobstructed views and the crew’s commentary make this a good choice for families or travelers who want a gentle, scenic experience.
The tour departs from Tangagata, at 2:15 pm, and offers a chance to see lava formations and birdlife in their natural environment. Recent reviews mention how enthusiastic and informative the crew is, with one visitor calling it “breathtaking and very scenic.” It’s a flexible, low-effort way to enjoy Heimaey’s marine scenery without heavy activity.
For a relaxed day afloat, this cruise balances nature, geology, and wildlife, making it a solid pick for those short on time but eager for a memorable view of the island’s rugged coast.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who prefer a calm, scenic overview of Heimaey’s natural beauty, with the added bonus of wildlife spotting.
4. The Best of Vestmannaeyjar with Ebbi
Number 4, The Best of Vestmannaeyjar with Ebbi, is a two-hour minibus tour that offers a compact but thorough look at the island’s highlights. It’s perfect if you want to see a bit of everything—volcanoes, Viking history, and scenic views—without the physical effort of hiking or riding. Ebbi again leads the way, sharing stories and insights into the island’s natural and cultural history.
This tour includes visits to Eldfell, the Viking town at Herjólfsdalur, Elephant Rock, and the windiest place in Europe, Storhöfdi. You even get to see a replica Viking house, giving a taste of Iceland’s early settlements. The itinerary is flexible, allowing stops according to your interests, and the tour is well-reviewed for its friendly guide and comprehensive coverage.
This experience suits travelers who want a blend of scenery and history with a local touch. It’s a full but manageable look at Heimaey’s top sights, ideal for those with limited time or who prefer touring by comfortable minibus.
Bottom Line: A great choice for a quick but diverse introduction to Heimaey, especially if you enjoy storytelling and cultural insights.
5. Private 2-Hours Tour in a BMW X5
Number 5, the Private 2-Hours Tour in a BMW X5, offers an exclusive, customizable experience around Heimaey. For about $607 per group (up to 4 people), this tailored drive allows you to decide where to go, whether it’s puffin viewing, visiting Eldfell, or stopping at Elephant Rock. The guide, Malissa, customizes the itinerary to match your interests, making it perfect for travelers who want a flexible, private adventure.
This tour is ideal if you prefer comfort and personalized attention. The BMW X5 is a hybrid, emphasizing eco-friendliness while offering a smooth ride. Reviewers praise the guide’s local knowledge and friendly approach: “Melissa was very friendly and accommodating,” one says. The tour can include stops at any of the island’s key sites, with no rush.
While this option is pricier, it provides a level of intimacy and control that larger tours can’t match. It’s suited for small groups or couples seeking a private, relaxed, and tailored experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who value exclusivity and want to customize their route, especially on a special occasion or with specific sights in mind.
6. Eyjascooter Volcano Tour in Westman Island
Number 6, the Eyjascooter Volcano Tour, uses electric scooters equipped with seats, making it accessible and comfortable for a variety of riders. This roughly 1-hour tour combines fun with education, as your guide shares stories about the island’s volcanic history and local wildlife like puffins, sheep, and Icelandic horses. The guided ride takes you over the lava fields and around Eldfell, offering a different perspective on Heimaey’s volcanic landscape.
What makes this tour distinctive is its use of electric scooters with seats, making it easier for larger or less experienced riders to enjoy. The safety gear, including helmets and knee/elbow covers, is included, and the tour is suitable for ages 6 and up. Reviewers mention how much fun they had: “This place was amazing! We adjusted our tour due to late arrival and they still accommodated us,” says one traveler, highlighting the flexible and friendly approach.
This tour is ideal if you want a quick, active adventure that’s both eco-friendly and family-friendly. It’s a lively way to see the island’s natural features without the physical strain of hiking or biking.
Bottom Line: A highly engaging, eco-conscious choice for families and active travelers wanting a fast-paced, fun exploration.
7. Eyjascooter Puffin Tour in Iceland
Rounding out the list, the Eyjascooter Puffin Tour combines wildlife viewing with the thrill of electric scooters, lasting about 1 hour and 45 minutes. Small groups (up to 6) explore the island to find puffins nesting along cliffs and in grassy areas. Your guide provides insights into these charming seabirds and Icelandic wildlife, while you whiz around on a guided scooter ride.
This tour includes tickets to the Sea Life Trust Museum, enhancing your understanding of Iceland’s bird and fish populations. Reviewers rave about the personal service and the opportunity to see hundreds of puffins up close, with one noting, “We saw so many puffins, within ten feet!” The safety equipment and the manageable pace make it accessible even for beginners.
It’s a fantastic option for wildlife lovers who want a more active, immersive experience. The scenic views and close encounters make this a memorable highlight, especially for bird enthusiasts.
Bottom Line: An exciting, small-group adventure ideal for those wanting to see puffins in their natural habitat with a personal guide and a touch of fun.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Heimaey
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, activity level, and interests. If you love wildlife and history, the Puffin and Volcano Tour with Ebbi is a fantastic all-rounder. For a quick, scenic boat trip, the Vestmannaeyjar Boat Tour won’t disappoint. Active travelers should look at the Volcano ATV or Eyjascooter options for a lively exploration of volcanic landscapes and wildlife.
If you prefer a private, tailored experience, the BMW X5 Tour offers the flexibility to customize your route. Meanwhile, families or those seeking easy, eco-friendly fun will enjoy the Eyjascooter and Puffin scooter tours—they combine adventure with wildlife encounters.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak season (summer), when these tours fill up quickly. Consider your fitness level and how physically active you want to be—most tours are accessible, but some, like the ATV and scooter trips, are more involved.
Final Thoughts
Heimaey Island’s diverse tours make it a standout destination for those interested in Iceland’s volcanic beauty, seabird colonies, and Viking history. If you’re after a rundown, the Puffin and Volcano Tour or the Best of Vestmannaeyjar offer excellent value and insight. For adventure and fun, the ATV or electric scooter tours are unbeatable. And if you crave privacy or customization, the private BMW X5 will deliver.
No matter your style, early booking is key—these tours tend to sell out in summer. With options ranging from gentle boat cruises to active wildlife safaris, Heimaey promises memorable experiences for every traveler.