Exploring the Puffin Paradises of Iceland
by Hope Pashos
© Hope Pashos
Iceland is home to numerous breathtaking natural wonders. Among its most beloved inhabitants are the adorable and charismatic puffins. These delightful seabirds, with their colorful beaks and distinctive waddle, captivate visitors from around the world. If you're an avid birdwatcher or simply seeking an unforgettable wildlife encounter, Iceland offers several locations to observe puffins in their natural habitat.
Here are just three of the many locations in Iceland where you can get up close and personal with these adorable little clowns:
East Fjords
The East Fjords region in Iceland is a hidden gem that boasts breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife. Nestled between towering mountains and picturesque fjords, this area provides an ideal habitat for puffins.
One of the most popular puffin colonies in the region is located on Papey Island, but since this is accessible only by a guided boat tour from Djúpivogur, the gem (sadly not so hidden any longer) of Borgarfjörður Eystri will allow you to walk next to, over and around a very large colony of puffins.
© Hope Pashos
Borgarfjörður Eystri itself enchants visitors with its awe-inspiring landscapes, vibrant cultural heritage. The drive to the end of the Fjord is filled with serene views, cascading waterfalls, and dramatic mountains. The village is located on the shores of the fjord, providing stunning views and a tranquil atmosphere. Whether you're an avid photographer, a nature enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, this picturesque destination offers endless opportunities to immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Iceland. Your reward at the end of the curvy road is the vibrant puffin colony.
The surrounding cliffs and hillsides are dotted with puffin burrows, creating a haven for these charming seabirds. From mid-May to mid-August, thousands of puffins flock to the area to nest and raise their young. Witnessing the puffins in their natural habitat is an unforgettable experience. As you explore the trails and cliffs around Borgarfjörður Eystri, be prepared to encounter these adorable creatures, with their vibrant beaks and comical waddling, captivating you at every turn.
Grimsey Island
© Hope Pashos
Nestled on the Arctic Circle, Grimsey Island stands as a remote and captivating destination that beckons travelers seeking an extraordinary wildlife encounter. Renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, rugged cliffs, and an abundance of puffins, this Icelandic gem offers a truly unique experience.
Situated approximately 40 kilometers north of the mainland, Grimsey Island belongs to Iceland's North Eastern region. Despite its remote location, reaching Grimsey is relatively accessible. Visitors can choose between a scenic 40-minute flight from Akureyri, the capital of North Iceland, or embark on an adventurous 3 hour ferry ride from Dalvík. The journey itself, whether by air or sea, provides stunning views of the surrounding fjords and coastline, setting the stage for an unforgettable experience.
As you explore the island's cliffs and grassy slopes, prepare to be greeted by the delightful sight of puffins in their natural habitat. The cliffs provide ideal nesting sites for these seabirds, and you'll witness countless puffin burrows dotting the landscape. Keep your camera ready, as the puffins effortlessly dive into the sea to catch fish, displaying their remarkable flying and swimming skills.
Grimsey Island may be small, measuring only about 5 square kilometers, but it offers an abundance of natural beauty and opportunities for adventure. The island's rugged coastline presents excellent hiking trails that lead you to stunning viewpoints overlooking the Arctic Ocean. As you traverse the scenic paths, keep an eye out for nesting puffins, as well as other bird species such as guillemots, razorbills, and kittiwakes. Some of these other nesting birds are quite territorial and have no problem letting you know you are too close to their nesting sites. Be careful and carry a long stick! In fact, the two guesthouses on the island provide PVC pipes for you to carry while going for a walk!
While exploring Grimsey, don't miss the opportunity to visit the island's iconic landmark—the Arctic Circle sign. This significant latitude line marks the boundary between the Arctic and the rest of the world. Standing on this line, you can officially say that you've crossed into the Arctic Circle. It's a moment worth capturing and cherishing. After crossing the Arctic Circle make a stop in the shop near the ferry port for your official certificate that you crossed in to the Arctic Circle!
Grimsey Island is not only home to puffins but also to a small, welcoming community of approximately 80 residents. The islanders, mostly engaged in fishing and farming, offer warm hospitality to visitors who venture to their remote haven. Experience the authentic island life, engage with the locals, and learn about their traditional way of living amidst Iceland's rugged beauty.
Westfjords
© Paul Nguyen
For a more rugged and off-the-beaten-path experience, head to the Westfjords of Iceland. This remote region offers unparalleled beauty and seclusion, along with exceptional puffin viewing opportunities. Hornstrandir Nature Reserve, accessible by boat from Ísafjörður, is a haven for puffins. Explore the cliffs and grassy hills, and you'll be rewarded with panoramic vistas and close encounters with these charming birds.
Perched on the edge of the Westfjords in the North Atlantic, Látrabjarg is a mesmerizing destination that beckons bird enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. As Europe's westernmost point and one of Iceland's most iconic landmarks, Látrabjarg is a magnificent bird cliff renowned for its dramatic cliffs, stunning panoramic views, and an impressive array of seabirds, including the beloved puffins.
The sheer cliffs span over 14 kilometers and rise to heights of up to 440 meters, creating an awe-inspiring sight. While Látrabjarg is remote, reaching this natural wonder is relatively accessible. The cliff is accessible via a well-maintained gravel road, with the nearest town, Patreksfjörður, serving as a convenient base for exploration. Be warned that gravel roads may be well maintained but they are quite bumpy!
The cliff serves as a nesting site for millions of seabirds, including puffins, guillemots, razorbills, kittiwakes, and fulmars. However, it is the puffins that steal the show with their colorful beaks, whimsical expressions, and amusing behavior. Observing these charismatic seabirds up close at Látrabjarg is a truly magical experience that should not be missed.
© Paul Nguyen
Látrabjarg offers unparalleled opportunities for puffin watching and photography. As you traverse the cliff's edge, you'll witness countless puffins perched on narrow ledges and flying gracefully through the air. Their close proximity to the cliff's edge allows for breathtaking photo opportunities, capturing these charming birds in their natural habitat. Please exercise caution and maintain a respectful distance from the birds to avoid disturbing them. There is a path that is roped off from the puffins and no matter how tempting it is to get closer, please stay behind the rope! Not only will you disturb the puffins but their burrows are unstable and do not provide a sturdy surface for you to stand. So for your own safety and the comfort of the bird colonies respect the boundaries that are set up.
These are just three of the more popular puffin viewing areas of Iceland. Its diverse and dramatic landscapes provide a haven for countless puffin colonies, and the East Fjords, Grimsey Island, and the Westfjords are among the best places to experience these enchanting creatures. Whether you're a wildlife enthusiast, a bird lover, or simply seeking an unforgettable adventure, Iceland's puffin paradises will leave you awe-inspired. Just remember to respect their habitat and observe from a safe distance to ensure the preservation of these clowns of the sea for generations to come.
