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 puffin tour from Reykjavík Harbor, where you’ll cruise out to sea and witness Atlantic Puffins up close in their natural coastal habitat. After this wildlife encounter, continue with a scenic exploration of the Golden Circle.
What can you experience on the Reykjavik puffin tour?
Our puffin watching tour from Reykjavík runs during the summer months, from May to mid-August, and takes you on a short boat ride to nearby islands like Akurey or Lundey, known for their large puffin colonies.
- Boat tour from Reykjavík Harbor
- Close views of Atlantic puffins
- Opportunities for photos and wildlife observation
Observe their vibrant beaks, comical waddles and diving skills as they hunt for fish. We use small, specialized boats to get as close as possible without disturbing the birds, offering excellent viewing conditions.
If you’d like a dedicated wildlife experience, you can also explore our puffin watching boat tour from Reykjavík.
What will you see on the Golden Circle tour?
The Golden Circle is one of Iceland’s most popular sightseeing routes, offering a diverse look at the country’s geology and natural beauty.
- Thingvellir National Park – where tectonic plates meet
- Geysir geothermal area – erupting hot springs
- Gullfoss waterfall – powerful cascading falls
- Kerið volcanic crater lake
Marvel at erupting geysers, powerful waterfalls and unique geological formations while learning about Iceland’s natural history and landscape.
This full-day tour combines wildlife, nature and iconic sights, making it an efficient way to experience the highlights of southwest Iceland in one journey.
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
- The meeting point is the Special Tours ticket office at Geirsgata 11, 101 Reykjavík, in the old Harbour. However, hotel pick-up can be added for an additional fee. After the puffin tour, guests will be dropped off at Bus Stop #4.
- 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.