Things to do in

Western Region, Iceland

Take a boat trip from Reykjavik’s harbor to discover Iceland’s rich marine life, which is one of this island country’s highlights. All year round you can spot a variety of whales and other marine animals in the Reykjavik area, including minke and humpback whales, harbor porpoises, and whale-beaked dolphins. Have an opportunity to see some of Iceland's most beautiful marine animals, along with the stunning scenery of the Icelandic coast. The peak season for whale watching runs from April to October, but of course, the ocean is always full of magical creatures, and you never know what you might see. Benefit from the services of specially-trained whale watching guides who are experts at spotting the animals. You will be free to listen as they tell you about the behavior of the whales, and answer any questions you may have. Enjoy the stunning scenery of the Icelandic coast as you spot local wildlife. Take a break and warm up in the heated indoor area. Relax on board the boat and enjoy the indoor and outdoor seating, and purchase drinks and snacks along the way from the onboard bar and cafeteria. You will experience a pleasant and comfortable ride, even at higher speeds, and will be able to share your adventure live on social media with the onboard WiFi.

Come aboard a yacht and see the incredible wealth of marine wildlife that lives in the waters just off the shores of Reykjavík City. See some of Iceland's majestic whales, dolphins, and porpoises on this whale-watching tour.  Your ship sets sail from Reykjavík's Old Harbor and sails among the small islands in the Faxaflói Bay, as well as along the coast of Reykjavík, providing you with fantastic views of the city as you search for the wildlife in the water. Spot minke and humpback whales, dolphins, and porpoises. If you're lucky, you may even see a few orcas (also known as killer whales) as well as a wealth of other species. Make the most of three panoramic deck areas aboard the yacht, moving about the decks to get the best views and take advantage of great photo opportunities. The outside decks are also partially covered, providing some shelter from wind and rain. The professional crew on board the Amelia Rose are very experienced in spotting whales and they are dedicated to making sure you leave with a smile. Combine relaxation with education as you enjoy a personal and memorable experience. Amelia Rose is designed as an offshore vessel, making it better adapted to take on the turbulent waves of Iceland's waters, resulting in a smoother sail with less probability of passengers experiencing nausea or seasickness. There is no guarantee, however, that you will not get seasick.

Depart Reykjavik and head to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula on a bus day trip to experience Iceland's diverse natural beauty. Take in the dramatic landscape of volcanic peaks, sea cliffs, golden beaches, and sparkling fjords. Visit charming fishing villages, such as Grundarfjordur, Arnarstapi, and Hellnar. Admire the spectacular mountains and volcanic craters, including Kirkjufell and Ljósufjöll. Cast your eyes on the black sand beach at Djúpalónssandur, and see the majestic glacier of Snæfellsjökull. Take a photo stop at the famed Black Church at Budir, and spot seals lolling in the sea at Ytri Tunga beach. Tour at a leisurely pace and experience the magnificent scenery of the peninsula at ease. This tour visits a variety of landscapes in a compact region which was immortalized by Jules Verne in his book, "Journey to the Centre of the Earth." 

Step aboard the Puffin Express for a charming bird-watching adventure in Reykjavik. Enjoy a 100% guarantee of puffin sightings, and learn about these and other local birds from an expert guide. Head out from the Old Harbour of Reykjavik to the surrounding Faxaflói Bay and onto two nearby islands, Lundey and Akurey, covered in small hills and slopes and known for their colorful birdlife. Once arriving at the islands, observe the native birds and picturesque surroundings with the boat's engine turned off. Enjoy seeing puffins as well as other birds, such as northern fulmars, gulls, Arctic terns, and black guillemots. All of this takes place on an old wooden boat, Skúlaskeið, which is fondly referred to as "Old Skuli." It is spacious enough to hold 33 passengers but not too big, in order to ensure that your tour is personal and comfortable.

Climb aboard a whale-watching boat operated by the only environmentally certified whale watching company in Iceland. Get up close to humpback whales, minke whales, as well as abundant sea birds, white-beaked dolphins and harbour porpoises. After setting sail, explore the southern part of Faxaflói bay off Reykjavik’s Old Harbor and have an excellent chance of encountering mysterious and fascinating whales off the coast of Iceland, where the ocean currents create some of the best whale-watching conditions in the world. Enjoy a tour with a high success rate: Whales are seen on more than 95% of summer tours and 80% of winter tours, often surfacing within a few meters of the boat. To ensure that the animals are not disturbed, boats sail at a constant speed toward the whales' habitat, a sustainable policy that also minimizes oil use and pollution. Learn about the wildlife and scenery from guides that have gone through an extensive training program, based on exclusively developed guiding principles. And as a successful whale watching tour is a team effort, the crew works closely with passengers to spot whales, helping you feel an important part of the experience.

Venture into the west of Iceland and explore the Snæfellsnes Peninsula on a tour from Reykjavik. See highlights, including the cliffs of Arnarstapia and the Snæfellsjökull glacier, and travel aboard a climate-controlled minibus. Make your way to the dramatic Snæfellsnes Peninsula, where mangled lava fields reveal the stresses and destruction the land once endured. Marvel at volcanic rocks of unimaginable shapes as they flare up in twisted forms from the earth. Take a walk beside the jagged cliffs of Arnarstapi and see the beautiful arcs of Hellnar, where pillars of basalt slowly ascend from the unforgiving sea. Take in the stunning backdrop of the summit of the Snæfellsjökull glacier. Journey along roads less traveled to find beaches of lava and smooth volcanic rock at Djupalónssandur. Explore the north side of the peninsula and the famous Mt. Kirkjufell. Discover the photographer's dream subject, the black church at Budir, which sits in desolate isolation. Look out for playful seals at Ytri Tunga Gold Beach, your final stop. Then, journey back to your meeting point in Reykjavik. Benefit from the extensive knowledge and experience of your guides. They will share not only the must-see sites but also local knowledge, great stories, and personal recommendations to make the most of your time in Iceland.

Take part in a unique baking experience in the heart of the Golden Circle, the most popular route in Iceland. Take a stroll around the geothermal area and learn about the history of this baking technique. Witness firsthand how the dark rye dough is prepared and then buried in the warm ground with a lively 30-minute demonstration. Discover how the slow cooking of 24 hours gives the bread its memorable taste. Get to sample a fresh batch of lava bread, placed in the ground the day before. Geothermal bathing is also offered at Laugarvatn Fontana, however, tickets for bathing must be booked separately.

See the incredible northern lights from the panoramic decks of a yacht on this guided tour. This tour is perfect for those looking for an awe-inspiring experience watching the celestial display of the aurora borealis. Meet your captain and crew at Reykjavik's Old Harbor, where you'll board the yacht. You will sail among the small islands in Faxafloi Bay and along the coast of Reykjavik before the yacht begins to sail away from the lights of the city. This will allow you to enjoy the beauty of the northern lights to the fullest. The panoramic triple deck area allows every passenger to enjoy the breathtaking colors of the aurora, and to capture some amazing photos of the green, pink, and white light. If you wish to stay inside during the trip, you will find a lovely bar and lounge area inside where you can relax. 

Visit the Snaefellsnes Peninsula on this guided day trip from Reykjavik. See what Iceland has to offer on one trip including the Berserkjahraun lava fields, Snaefellsjokull volcano, and Kirkjufell mountain. Learn about local legends and see a seal colony. Begin your trip in the local town of Borgarnes. Grab some snacks before heading to the peninsula and try to catch a peak of the ice-capped Snaefellsjokull stratovolcano. Arrive at the Berserkjahraun lava field, and learn the origin of its name. Next, head to Kirkjufell, famously known for its role on the "Game of Thrones" television show, and for being the most-photographed mountain in the entire country. Visit the neighboring waterfall, and be swept away by the magic. Then climb the staircase to the top of Saxholl (visited only from March – November), a 100-meter-high volcanic crater. Reach the top and be rewarded by the stunning views of this 3000-year-old feat of nature. Learn local legends and the history of strong Icelandic ancestry. Venture into the uninhabited settlement of Djupalonssandur, and test your strength as local men used to on the beach. Head to the fishing village of Arnarstapi and witness the beautifully eroded cliffs and the sculpture of Barour Snaefellsas. Finally, discover a more in-depth understanding of Icelandic history at Budakirkja, or the "Black Church." View historical artifacts from the 19th century. Continue to the enchanting golden-colored beach of Ytri-Tunga (only from March - November). Witness a huge seal colony, laying on the rocks and enjoying the sun.

Fly above a new volcano in an uninhabited area on Iceland's Reykjanes Peninsula on a 35–50 minute helicopter tour from Reykjavik. Get ready for a once-in-a-lifetime experience in the skies of Iceland, observing lava fields, Mount Esja, and Faxafloi Bay from above. Set off from the Icelandic capital, where 19 miles (30 km) away lies a new volcano in an area with three eruptions in the last two years. Climb aboard this five- or six-seater helicopter and lift into the sky. Come face-to-face with a volcano and potentially see its simmering crater, flowing lava stream, and extensive lava field. Soak up the unforgettable panoramic view from the clouds and use the opportunity to take spectacular photos to take home with you. Feel at ease throughout the flight in a modern and safe helicopter piloted by experienced staff.