Reykjavik Puffin Tour with Golden Circle
Join us for a full day of adventure and discovery, combining a scenic boat tour to spot puffins in their natural habitat with a guided journey through Iceland’s most stunning natural wonders on the Golden Circle Route!
Begin your journey with our top-rated puffin tour in Iceland from Reykjavík Harbor, where you’ll cruise out to sea and witness Atlantic Puffins up close in their natural coastal habitat. After this unforgettable wildlife encounter, we’ll set off on a scenic exploration of the Golden Circle — Iceland’s most iconic travel route.
Marvel at the erupting geothermal power of Geysir, feel the spray from the thunderous Gullfoss waterfall, and walk between two continents at Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. To top it all off, enjoy a visit to the striking Kerið volcanic crater lake, a brilliant splash of color in the rugged landscape.
Our puffin watching tour from Reykjavík is the perfect way to experience one of Iceland’s most beloved seabirds up close. Running during the summer months—from May to mid-August—our tour takes you on a short and scenic boat ride from Reykjavík Harbor to nearby islands like Akurey or Lundey, known for their large puffin colonies.
These islands are home to thousands of Atlantic Puffins that come ashore each year to nest and raise their young. On our tour, you’ll get a front-row seat to observe their vibrant beaks, comical waddles, and impressive diving skills as they hunt for fish. We use small, specialized boats that allow us to get as close as possible without disturbing the birds, giving you the best viewing and photo opportunities.
Our expert guides will share fascinating facts about puffin behavior, their life at sea, and how Iceland plays a key role in their global population. The tour lasts about an hour, making it a quick and family-friendly adventure that fits easily into your day in Reykjavík.
The Golden Circle is one of Iceland’s most popular sightseeing routes, offering a diverse look at the country’s unique geology and natural beauty. Our Golden Circle day trip from Reykjavík includes three major stops: Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet; the Geysir geothermal area, home to bubbling hot springs and the frequently erupting Strokkur geyser; and the powerful Gullfoss waterfall, which plunges into a rugged canyon.
We also include a visit to Kerið, a striking volcanic crater lake known for its vivid colors. The full-day excursion provides insight into Iceland’s volcanic landscape, cultural history, and natural wonders, all within a few hours’ drive of the capital.
Our combo tour includes comfortable transportation, expert commentary, and well-planned stops for photos and exploration. It’s the perfect way to experience the stunning highlights of southwest Iceland in a single day. Whether you’re eager to discover Iceland’s iconic natural wonders on the Golden Circle or excited to see puffin birds up close in their wild coastal habitat, this tour offers a unique, fun, and educational adventure—all starting right from Reykjavík.
Tour highlights & itinerary
- Professional guide
- Free Wifi on board for Golden Circle Tour
- Entrance fee to Kerið Crater (Kerið not included on 12:00 or later departures)
- [Puffin tour] Binoculars are provided on board
- [Puffin tour] Travel aboard the specially designed boat
- Pickup and drop off
- Food or drink
- Warm, water- and windproof clothing are always useful in Iceland. Hat and gloves.
- All tickets are e-tickets so there is no need to print them out
- Food and snacks.
- Disclaimer: Duration of tour is 10 hrs. Please be aware that the tour could run longer if affected by bad weather or other delays.
- Cancellation Policy: Cancellation fee of 100% if cancelled 1 day or less before departure
- Pickup and drop off from various central locations is available for an additional charge. Otherwise the meeting point for the tour is at the Special Tours ticket office at Geirsgata 11, 101 Reykjavík, in the old Harbour.
- This puffin tour is operated by our trusted partner Special Tours. Download the Special Tours app to enjoy guidance in English, German, French, Spanish and Chinese.
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Itinerary
Itinerary
MeetupPuffin Watching From Reykjavik HarborExperience the charm of the Atlantic puffins with our puffin watching Iceland excursions—perfect for nature lovers. We begin our puffin watching tour from the meetup location at Reykjavík Harbor.
1 Puffin Watching From Reykjavik HarborAfter all passengers have boarded, our boat sets sail from Reykjavík’s historic Old Harbour, heading a short distance out to the quiet, uninhabited islands of Lundey and Akurey. Iceland is home to over 60% of the world’s Atlantic Puffin population, and these islands are among the best spots in Iceland to observe puffins in their natural environment.
Thanks to the boat’s shallow draft, we can navigate close to the rocky shores and hidden crevices where the birds gather. Once we arrive, the engines are switched off to ensure a peaceful atmosphere that won’t disturb the nesting puffins or other seabirds.
Unlike many birds, puffins don’t build nests; instead, they lay their eggs in burrows they carefully dig into the soft ground. These islands are also bustling nesting sites for other seabird species, including Gulls, Arctic Terns, and Black Guillemots, making this tour a true delight for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts alike.
2 Golden Circle Day TourPlease allow up to 30 minutes for the bus to arrive, as we are picking up guests from multiple locations around the city.
Discover iconic sights on this Iceland Golden Circle journey, including erupting geysers, massive waterfalls, and the historic rift valley at Þingvellir National Park.
3 Thingvellir National ParkStep into the heart of Iceland’s story at Þingvellir National Park, a place where nature and history meet in dramatic fashion. Here, over a thousand years ago in 930 AD, Viking chieftains gathered to form the world’s first parliament—an open-air assembly known as the Alþingi. What began as a meeting in a rift valley has grown into a modern-day institution that still operates, making it the oldest ongoing parliament in the world.
But Þingvellir isn’t just a historic site—it’s a geological wonder. The park lies directly on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates slowly pull apart. As you walk through the Almannagjá gorge, you’re literally between two continents. Nowhere else in the world is this rift more visible on land.
Þingvellir’s landscape is equally striking, from the tumbling Öxarárfoss waterfall to the crystal-clear waters of the Silfra Fissure, where glacier melt filters through lava rock for up to 100 years before surfacing. You’ll also find panoramic views from Hakið, the quaint Þingvallakirkja Church, and a sense of timeless quiet that reflects the site’s enduring legacy.
Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Þingvellir is a must-visit for anyone curious about Iceland’s roots—both cultural and volcanic.
4 Geysir Geothermal FieldNext, we venture into one of Iceland’s most otherworldly landscapes—the Geysir Geothermal Area, a steaming, hissing, bubbling reminder of the volcanic forces beneath our feet. Named after the now-dormant Great Geysir, which once hurled water high into the sky and gave the word “geyser” to the world, this area still pulses with geothermal life.
The true star here is Strokkur, an active geyser that reliably erupts every 5 to 10 minutes, sending a powerful column of boiling water up to 20 meters into the air. As you wait for the next eruption, you’ll feel the tension build—the ground murmurs, water swirls, then suddenly, a blast of energy and steam erupts from the earth. It’s a thrilling, elemental spectacle you won’t forget.
All around you, the earth simmers: mud pots bubble, steam vents hiss, and mineral-rich pools shimmer in shades of turquoise, rust, and white. The air carries a distinct sulfuric scent, adding to the surreal atmosphere.
Nearby, the visitor center offers a chance to warm up, enjoy a hearty Icelandic lunch, shop for local products, or pick up a unique souvenir before continuing your journey into the land of fire and ice.
5 Gullfoss waterfallNo visit to the Golden Circle is complete without standing before the raw power and beauty of Gullfoss, the “Golden Falls.” Fed by meltwater from Langjökull, Iceland’s second-largest glacier, this mighty waterfall is both a natural wonder and a national treasure. As the Hvítá river surges southward, it makes a sudden turn and plunges in two dramatic stages—first an 11-meter descent over a wide shelf, then a thunderous 21-meter drop into a narrow canyon carved deep into the earth.
The result is breathtaking. On sunny days, sunlight catches in the mist and sends shimmering rainbows arching across the sky—nature’s own light show above the roaring waters below.
Well-maintained trails lead you to multiple viewpoints. From the upper deck, near the visitor center, you’ll take in a panoramic view of the entire waterfall and the vast canyon beyond. Walk further and you can descend to the lower viewpoint, where the falls crash beside you with thunderous force and spray.
It’s a place that captures Iceland’s wild heart. Do note that during icy conditions, access to lower paths may be restricted for safety.
6 Kerid Volcanic Crater LakeWe’ll wrap up our day with a visit to the stunning Kerið Crater, a volcanic lake that offers one of the most visually striking sights in the Golden Circle. This dramatic crater is a feast for the eyes—deep red mineral slopes, jagged lava rock walls, and a serene blue-green lake resting quietly at the bottom. The contrast in colors is almost surreal, especially in the golden light of late afternoon.
Formed around 6,500 years ago, Kerid crater came to life through a powerful eruption that emptied its magma chamber. When the chamber collapsed, it left behind the distinctive oval-shaped crater we see today.
You’ll have the chance to stroll along the crater’s rim for sweeping views, or follow a gentle path down to the lake’s edge to take in its beauty up close. In winter, the water often freezes, turning the crater into a silent, icy bowl.
It’s a peaceful and reflective way to end the journey—a final glimpse into Iceland’s volcanic soul before we make our way back to Reykjavík.
- Drop off
After experiencing the final highlight of the day, we begin our comfortable journey back to Reykjavík. As we drive through the changing Icelandic landscape, you’ll have time to reflect on the day’s unforgettable sights—from thundering waterfalls and erupting geysers to ancient rift valleys and puffin-filled islands.
We’ll drop you off at the same location where you were picked up earlier, ensuring a smooth and easy end to your adventure with us. Thank you for joining the tour—we hope it’s a day you’ll always remember.
Experience the charm of the Atlantic puffins with our puffin watching Iceland excursions—perfect for nature lovers. We begin our puffin watching tour from the meetup location at Reykjavík Harbor.
After all passengers have boarded, our boat sets sail from Reykjavík’s historic Old Harbour, heading a short distance out to the quiet, uninhabited islands of Lundey and Akurey. Iceland is home to over 60% of the world’s Atlantic Puffin population, and these islands are among the best spots in Iceland to observe puffins in their natural environment.
Thanks to the boat’s shallow draft, we can navigate close to the rocky shores and hidden crevices where the birds gather. Once we arrive, the engines are switched off to ensure a peaceful atmosphere that won’t disturb the nesting puffins or other seabirds.
Unlike many birds, puffins don’t build nests; instead, they lay their eggs in burrows they carefully dig into the soft ground. These islands are also bustling nesting sites for other seabird species, including Gulls, Arctic Terns, and Black Guillemots, making this tour a true delight for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts alike.
Please allow up to 30 minutes for the bus to arrive, as we are picking up guests from multiple locations around the city.
Discover iconic sights on this Iceland Golden Circle journey, including erupting geysers, massive waterfalls, and the historic rift valley at Þingvellir National Park.
Step into the heart of Iceland’s story at Þingvellir National Park, a place where nature and history meet in dramatic fashion. Here, over a thousand years ago in 930 AD, Viking chieftains gathered to form the world’s first parliament—an open-air assembly known as the Alþingi. What began as a meeting in a rift valley has grown into a modern-day institution that still operates, making it the oldest ongoing parliament in the world.
But Þingvellir isn’t just a historic site—it’s a geological wonder. The park lies directly on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates slowly pull apart. As you walk through the Almannagjá gorge, you’re literally between two continents. Nowhere else in the world is this rift more visible on land.
Þingvellir’s landscape is equally striking, from the tumbling Öxarárfoss waterfall to the crystal-clear waters of the Silfra Fissure, where glacier melt filters through lava rock for up to 100 years before surfacing. You’ll also find panoramic views from Hakið, the quaint Þingvallakirkja Church, and a sense of timeless quiet that reflects the site’s enduring legacy.
Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Þingvellir is a must-visit for anyone curious about Iceland’s roots—both cultural and volcanic.
Next, we venture into one of Iceland’s most otherworldly landscapes—the Geysir Geothermal Area, a steaming, hissing, bubbling reminder of the volcanic forces beneath our feet. Named after the now-dormant Great Geysir, which once hurled water high into the sky and gave the word “geyser” to the world, this area still pulses with geothermal life.
The true star here is Strokkur, an active geyser that reliably erupts every 5 to 10 minutes, sending a powerful column of boiling water up to 20 meters into the air. As you wait for the next eruption, you’ll feel the tension build—the ground murmurs, water swirls, then suddenly, a blast of energy and steam erupts from the earth. It’s a thrilling, elemental spectacle you won’t forget.
All around you, the earth simmers: mud pots bubble, steam vents hiss, and mineral-rich pools shimmer in shades of turquoise, rust, and white. The air carries a distinct sulfuric scent, adding to the surreal atmosphere.
Nearby, the visitor center offers a chance to warm up, enjoy a hearty Icelandic lunch, shop for local products, or pick up a unique souvenir before continuing your journey into the land of fire and ice.
No visit to the Golden Circle is complete without standing before the raw power and beauty of Gullfoss, the “Golden Falls.” Fed by meltwater from Langjökull, Iceland’s second-largest glacier, this mighty waterfall is both a natural wonder and a national treasure. As the Hvítá river surges southward, it makes a sudden turn and plunges in two dramatic stages—first an 11-meter descent over a wide shelf, then a thunderous 21-meter drop into a narrow canyon carved deep into the earth.
The result is breathtaking. On sunny days, sunlight catches in the mist and sends shimmering rainbows arching across the sky—nature’s own light show above the roaring waters below.
Well-maintained trails lead you to multiple viewpoints. From the upper deck, near the visitor center, you’ll take in a panoramic view of the entire waterfall and the vast canyon beyond. Walk further and you can descend to the lower viewpoint, where the falls crash beside you with thunderous force and spray.
It’s a place that captures Iceland’s wild heart. Do note that during icy conditions, access to lower paths may be restricted for safety.
We’ll wrap up our day with a visit to the stunning Kerið Crater, a volcanic lake that offers one of the most visually striking sights in the Golden Circle. This dramatic crater is a feast for the eyes—deep red mineral slopes, jagged lava rock walls, and a serene blue-green lake resting quietly at the bottom. The contrast in colors is almost surreal, especially in the golden light of late afternoon.
Formed around 6,500 years ago, Kerid crater came to life through a powerful eruption that emptied its magma chamber. When the chamber collapsed, it left behind the distinctive oval-shaped crater we see today.
You’ll have the chance to stroll along the crater’s rim for sweeping views, or follow a gentle path down to the lake’s edge to take in its beauty up close. In winter, the water often freezes, turning the crater into a silent, icy bowl.
It’s a peaceful and reflective way to end the journey—a final glimpse into Iceland’s volcanic soul before we make our way back to Reykjavík.
After experiencing the final highlight of the day, we begin our comfortable journey back to Reykjavík. As we drive through the changing Icelandic landscape, you’ll have time to reflect on the day’s unforgettable sights—from thundering waterfalls and erupting geysers to ancient rift valleys and puffin-filled islands.
We’ll drop you off at the same location where you were picked up earlier, ensuring a smooth and easy end to your adventure with us. Thank you for joining the tour—we hope it’s a day you’ll always remember.