From Reykjavík: 3-Day Tour of the Wild and Wonderful Westfjords

Exploring the Westfjords: An Icelandic Adventure in Comfort and Authenticity

If you’re looking to see one of the most remote, rugged, and breathtaking regions of Iceland without the hassle of driving or planning every detail yourself, this 3-day guided tour from Reykjavik is a fantastic choice. Priced at around $1,019 per person, it offers a well-organized way to experience the fascinating fjords, cliffs, black sand beaches, and waterfalls that define the Westfjords, while also including comfortable en-suite accommodation and breakfasts. The tour is perfect for those who want to combine a guided, stress-free experience with authentic sights and wildlife encounters, from arctic foxes to seals, with plenty of photo ops along the way.

Two things we particularly appreciate about this tour are the expert storytelling of the guides, like the one described as friendly, humorous, and full of local insights, and the carefully curated itinerary that balances nature, history, and wildlife. You’ll get to visit iconic sites like Látrabjarg—Europe’s westernmost bird cliffs—and the impressive Dynjandi waterfall, which more than earns its nickname as “the Thunderer.”

A possible consideration? The tour does involve a fair bit of driving—about 8 to 9 hours on the last day—so travelers who prefer a more leisurely or stationary experience might find that aspect a bit fast-paced. It’s also a group tour with a maximum of 18 people, which is usually manageable but might not suit those looking for complete privacy or very small-group intimacy.

This tour suits travelers who value expert guides, seek stunning scenery, and are eager to see wildlife in a natural setting. It’s especially good if you’re interested in Viking history, as the itinerary includes a visit to Eiriksstadir, the home of Erik the Red, and if you’re enthusiastic about photography, with plenty of dramatic vistas.

Key Points

• Authentic Westfjords Experience: Visit iconic sites like Látrabjarg, Dynjandi, and the Arctic Fox Centre.
• Comfort and Convenience: Includes 2 nights in en-suite rooms with breakfast and transfers from Reykjavik.
• Wildlife Encounters: Opportunities to see arctic foxes, seals, and bird colonies.
• Expert Guides: Known for engaging storytelling, local knowledge, and great driving skills.
• Flexible and Well-Planned: The itinerary balances scenic stops, history, and wildlife, with scheduled breaks for meals and photos.
• Value for Money: Combines transportation, accommodation, most entry fees, and guided insights for a comprehensive experience.

Discovering the Rugged Beauty of Iceland’s Westfjords

This 3-day tour offers a rare glimpse into a part of Iceland that remains largely untouched. For those who have already explored Reykjavik and the Golden Circle, this is a chance to see an entirely different landscape—more pristine, less crowded, and at times, almost wild. We loved the way the tour combines nature, history, and wildlife, all within a manageable schedule that avoids exhausting long drives or complex planning.

Day 1: From Reykjavik to the Edge of Europe

Your journey begins in Reykjavik, but very quickly, the landscape shifts to the wild Westfjords. After a brief stop in Borgarnes, a charming town in the City Fjord, the tour heads to Eiriksstadir, the historic turf-roofed house of Eirik the Red. The inclusion of this Viking site is a real highlight, offering a tangible link to Iceland’s Norse past—something that the reviews echo, with travelers appreciating the admission to the Viking longhouse.

Next, you’ll enjoy views of coastal cliffs and the Breiðafjörður Fjord, where dozens of rocky islands dot the bay. This scenery is dramatic—think of jagged rocks and crashing waves—an ideal backdrop for photographs or just soaking in the raw beauty. Then, a visit to Vatnsfjörður introduces you to the Þingmanná Waterfalls and a stunning canyon, with many appreciating the peaceful, untouched feel here.

Crossing Kleifaheiði, a mountain range featuring the intriguing Kleifakarl, a stone statue erected by engineers during road construction, adds a touch of local color. The final stop on Day 1 is Látrabjarg, famed as Europe’s westernmost point and home to lively bird colonies. You’ll walk along gravel paths on steep mountainsides, with the cliffs rising over 440 meters above the ocean. Many reviews highlight how incredible the views are, and how the bird colonies are a major draw—perfect for bird lovers or anyone wanting a sense of isolation and wildness.

Day 2: Fjords, Waterfalls, and Iconic Landscapes

Day 2 is packed with stunning natural sights. First, you’ll see the Gardhur, a stranded 1912 fishing boat, reminiscent of the Titanic—a quirky stop that visitors find charming. Then, Rauðisandur beach impresses with its multi-colored sands stretching for 10 kilometers, offering a surreal, almost otherworldly landscape.

The tour continues to Fossfjörður, where a charming waterfall cascades from the cliffs, and an iconic A-House, a popular Instagram spot, provides sweeping views. The highlight of the day—Dynjandi—is a massive, wedding cake-shaped waterfall that crashes down over 100 meters in a series of gentle drops. One reviewer calls it “the Thunderer,” and it’s easy to see why; it’s a powerful, awe-inspiring sight.

The day concludes with a visit to Önundarfjörður, where the black sand beach and dunes make for excellent photo opportunities. These stops are praised for their visual impact and for helping travelers really sense the scale and variety of the region’s natural beauty.

Day 3: Fjord Views, Wildlife, and Return to Reykjavík

Your final day begins with a drive up to Bolafjall, a mountain at 628 meters, offering a skywalk platform with panoramic views of fjords and mountains. It’s a highlight for many, who enjoy the 360-degree vistas and the chance to stretch their legs.

Next, a visit to the Osvor Maritime Museum introduces you to historic turf-roofed fisherman’s buildings, giving insight into local livelihoods. The Óshólar Lighthouse provides another scenic stop, with cliffs and ocean views perfect for photos.

The journey back to Reykjavík takes you through seven fjords, a breathtaking route that many reviews describe as spectacular. The last stops include the Arctic Fox Centre, where you can learn about Iceland’s only native land mammal—an exciting encounter if you’re lucky enough to spot one. The seal viewing at Hvítanes is another highlight, offering close-up views of these charming creatures.

Finally, a stop at Grábrók Crater allows you to walk up volcanic craters, providing a fitting end to your adventure with stunning vistas of volcanic landscapes.

The Practical Side: What You Get for the Price

At just over $1,000, this tour covers a lot of ground—transfers, accommodations, most entry fees, and breakfast—making it a strong value for travelers seeking a comprehensive Westfjords experience. The air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi makes the long drives comfortable and connected, while the en-suite rooms ensure restful nights after busy days of exploration.

Reviews highlight the great food served during the tour—lamb soup, fresh fish—which adds a genuine local flavor. The guide’s storytelling is another big plus, turning what could be just a scenic drive into a learning experience with fascinating stories and local insights.

What’s Not Included

Lunch and dinner are not provided, but scheduled stops allow plenty of flexibility to sample local eateries or pack snacks. If you want to visit swimming pools, bring swimwear and towels, since there’s an optional stop for swimming. Lastly, the donation to the Westfjords Youth Society at Krosslaug is a thoughtful addition, supporting local community efforts.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for adventure seekers, wildlife enthusiasts, and history buffs alike. If you enjoy fascinating scenery, birdwatching, and learning about Vikings, you’ll find this tour particularly rewarding. The group size (up to 18) keeps it intimate enough for personal interaction but large enough to feel lively. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer guided tours to handle logistics, allowing you to just enjoy the views.

The Sum Up

This 3-day Westfjords tour offers an excellent balance of comfort, natural beauty, and cultural insights. It emphasizes authentic Icelandic landscapes—from towering cliffs and waterfalls to black sand beaches—and combines them with engaging guides and wildlife encounters. The well-planned itinerary ensures you see the highlights without feeling rushed, while the included accommodations and breakfast add value and convenience.

If you’re eager to experience the less-traveled side of Iceland, see spectacular fjords and bird colonies, and learn some Viking history along the way, this tour will serve you well. It’s particularly suited to those who appreciate stunning vistas, wildlife, and local stories—and want to leave with plenty of memorable photos and stories to tell.

FAQ

Is transportation provided during the tour?
Yes, the tour includes a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi, making all the scenic drives and stops easy and enjoyable.

Do I need to bring my own meals?
Lunch and dinner are not included, but the scheduled stops allow you to buy meals or snacks. You’re free to explore local eateries or pack your own if you prefer.

Are accommodations included?
Yes, you’ll stay two nights in private en-suite rooms with breakfast each morning, offering a restful base after busy days of sightseeing.

What wildlife might I see?
You have good chances to see arctic foxes, seals, and bird colonies, especially at Látrabjarg and Hvítanes. The Arctic Fox Centre offers an opportunity to learn more about these native animals.

Is this suitable for travelers with limited mobility?
While most stops involve walking on varied terrain, it’s best to check with the operator about specific mobility concerns, especially for stops like cliffs or uneven paths.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 97 days in advance on average, so planning ahead ensures availability and better planning.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, providing flexibility in case plans shift.

This guided tour of the Westfjords is an excellent way to experience Iceland’s wild side with ease, comfort, and plenty of authentic moments. Whether you’re marveling at the cliffs, spotting seabirds, or learning about Viking legends, it promises a memorable journey into one of Iceland’s most stunning regions.