Puffin Tour from Seyðisfjörður w/ Gufufoss & Turf House





Embark on a breathtaking journey to Borgarfjörður Eystri, a hidden gem in East Iceland, where dramatic landscapes, rich culture, and extraordinary wildlife await. This guided tour offers an unforgettable experience, from up-close encounters with puffins to exploring a charming, remote village framed by stunning fjords and rugged mountains. If you’re searching for the best puffin tour in Iceland, look no further!
Begin your adventure with a scenic drive from Seyðisfjörður to Borgarfjörður Eystri, home to one of Iceland’s top puffin-watching destinations. This Iceland puffin tour takes you to Hafnarhólmi, a rocky islet where thousands of these adorable seabirds nest each summer. Perfect for bird enthusiasts and photographers alike, this puffin tour in Iceland offers unparalleled views of these charming creatures in their natural habitat.
Stroll through the picturesque village, where colorful houses sit amidst raw Icelandic nature, offering a harmonious blend of history and breathtaking scenery. Visit the historic Lindarbakki Turf House, a rare glimpse into Iceland’s heritage, and take in panoramic views of the fjord. Then, stop at Álfaborg, the legendary “Elf Rock,” believed to be the home of Iceland’s elf queen. This mystical hilltop offers a fascinating cultural experience along with sweeping views of the surrounding landscape.
Enjoy a cozy break at a beloved local café, sipping warm refreshments while gazing over the mountains and sea. As you make your way back, stop at the majestic Gufufoss Waterfall, where the soothing sounds of cascading water and the serene surroundings provide the perfect end to your journey.
This slow-paced, leisurely tour is ideal for those who want to unwind while experiencing the authentic Icelandic lifestyle and culture.
BusTravel Iceland’s 5-hour day tour from Seyðisfjörður is thoughtfully designed for cruise ship passengers, ensuring a seamless experience with a carefully timed itinerary, convenient pickup, and an expert local guide. Maximizing sightseeing opportunities while fitting within cruise schedules, this tour allows guests to explore Iceland’s vivid wildlife, folklore, and stunning landscapes at a relaxed and enjoyable pace.



Tour highlights & itinerary
- Professional English-speaking guide
- Transportation from Seydisfjordur Harbour Parking and back
- Drop-off and pickup from Puffin Colony Parking
- Food and drinks
- Warm clothes and raincoat. Comfortable walking shoes
- All tickets are e-tickets so there is no need to print them out
- The difficulty rating of the tour is Easy, but there are some staircases you will need to descend and ascend at the puffin colony and other areas in the town.
- Disclaimer: Tour duration is approx. 5 hours. Our tour schedule has been made with your cruise ship in mind.
- Cancellation Policy: Cancellation fee of 100% charged if cancelled with less than 24 hours notice.
- Friendly Reminder: While Hafnarhólmi is one of Iceland’s best puffin-watching spots, sightings can be unpredictable as these wild seabirds follow natural patterns and seasonal changes.
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Itinerary
Itinerary
- Pick-upSeyðisfjörður
Your tour begins at the Seyðisfjörður harbor, with convenient pickup right at the cruise ship parking area. Our start times are carefully planned to align with your ship’s docking schedule, ensuring a seamless experience without any worries about missing your departure.
1 Puffins at HafnarholmiOur journey continues to Hafnarhólmi, one of Iceland’s best puffin-watching tours and a true paradise for bird lovers. This scenic small island, nestled along the rugged coastline of Borgarfjörður Eystri, is home to one of Iceland’s largest puffin colonies, offering a rare chance to observe these charming seabirds up close. With accessible viewing platforms, you can watch puffins in Iceland during puffin season, capturing stunning photos as they engage in puffin nesting along the rocky cliffs.
A must-visit for nature lovers and bird enthusiasts, Hafnarhólmi is more than just a breathtaking puffin tour—it is a nature reserve where thousands of Atlantic puffins thrive in their natural habitat. These cliffs serve as crucial breeding grounds for the Atlantic puffin population, providing shelter and ideal conditions for raising their young during the warmer months. Visitors can witness the mesmerizing sight of puffins diving into the ocean to catch fish, socializing on the cliffs, and tending to their burrows in the mossy terrain.
A stunning rocky islet, Hafnarhólmi is framed by the dramatic landscapes that define East Iceland’s wild beauty. Towering rhyolite mountains, sculpted by volcanic forces, rise in the background, their colorful slopes adding a striking contrast to the deep blue waters of the North Atlantic. The serene fjord setting enhances the experience, with calm, reflective waters on one side and the open ocean stretching toward the horizon.
Nearby, the quaint fishing harbor adds a touch of Icelandic charm, with small boats bobbing in the water. The salty sea breeze, the sound of waves lapping against the cliffs, and the sight of countless puffins fluttering overhead make Hafnarhólmi a picturesque and tranquil wildlife haven. Whether you’re a birdwatcher, photographer, or simply a lover of nature, this bird watching tour in Iceland promises an unforgettable glimpse into the world of puffins in their pristine environment.
2 Álfaborg – The Legendary Elf RockOur next stop takes us to Álfaborg, the mystical “Elf Rock”, which is said to be the home of the Elf Queen of Iceland. This small yet striking hill, located on the outskirts of Borgarfjörður Eystri, is deeply rooted in Icelandic folklore, making it a fascinating stop for those interested in the country’s rich mythical heritage.
Surrounded by dramatic rhyolite mountains, vast open landscapes, and the shimmering fjord, Álfaborg offers both a cultural and scenic experience. A short walk to the top rewards visitors with panoramic views of the surrounding village, coastline, and rugged terrain. The peaceful atmosphere, combined with the area’s deep connection to Icelandic legends, creates a truly magical ambiance.
Whether you’re intrigued by folklore or simply looking for a spectacular viewpoint, Álfaborg is a must-visit stop that beautifully blends nature, history, and myth into one enchanting experience.
3 The Lindarbakki Turf HouseWhen we are in the heart of Borgarfjörður Eystri, we will have a picturesque photo opportunity at Lindarbakki, a beautifully preserved red turf-roofed house that looks like it belongs in a fairy tale. This quaint 19th-century cottage, with its bright red walls and lush green grass roof, is one of Iceland’s best-kept traditional turf houses.
Nestled in the heart of Borgarfjörður Eystri, Lindarbakki is surrounded by rolling hills, rugged mountains, and vibrant wildflowers, creating a truly idyllic setting. This charming home, still privately owned and occasionally lived in, offers a rare glimpse into Iceland’s architectural heritage and the resourceful way early Icelanders built their homes to withstand the harsh climate.
A stop at Lindarbakki is perfect for capturing a piece of Iceland’s history in a breathtakingly picturesque and peaceful environment. Take a moment to enjoy the tranquility, snap some stunning photos, and soak in the charm of this iconic East Iceland landmark.
4 Explore Borgarfjörður EystriIf time allows, take a moment to explore the charming village of Borgarfjörður Eystri, renowned for its cozy atmosphere and stunning natural surroundings. Wander through the colorful streets, where traditional Icelandic homes stand against a backdrop of majestic mountains and open fjords.
While exploring the town, you’ll notice cozy spots where locals gather for coffee and homemade pastries. When time allows, you might want to stop by Álfacafé, a charming café offering a taste of Icelandic flavors in a warm and inviting setting—perfect for relaxing and soaking in the local atmosphere.
5 Gufufoss WaterfallAs we make our way back to Seyðisfjörður, we’ll stop at Gufufoss, one of East Iceland’s most beautiful waterfalls. Cascading gracefully down a rugged cliffside, Gufufoss resembles a smaller version of the famous Skógafoss, offering a stunning photo opportunity without the crowds.
Surrounded by dramatic basalt formations, moss-covered rocks, and sweeping mountain views, the waterfall’s setting is truly breathtaking. The fresh mist from the falls, combined with the peaceful sound of rushing water, creates a tranquil and refreshing atmosphere—a perfect way to wrap up the day’s journey.
Take a moment to soak in the untamed beauty of Icelandic nature, capture some final memorable photos, and enjoy this last scenic stop before returning to Seyðisfjörður harbor in time for your cruise departure.
- Drop-offSeyðisfjörður
As our journey comes to an end, we return to Seyðisfjörður, a picturesque town known for its colorful houses, artistic charm, and breathtaking fjord views. We’ll drop you off right at the cruise ship terminal, ensuring a smooth and timely return before your departure. If time allows, you may take a short stroll around town, admiring its iconic blue church, vibrant street art, and charming cafés. With unforgettable memories of puffins, waterfalls, folklore, and stunning landscapes, this tour offers a perfect taste of East Iceland’s hidden gems before you continue your adventure.



















Your tour begins at the Seyðisfjörður harbor, with convenient pickup right at the cruise ship parking area. Our start times are carefully planned to align with your ship’s docking schedule, ensuring a seamless experience without any worries about missing your departure.

Our journey continues to Hafnarhólmi, one of Iceland’s best puffin-watching tours and a true paradise for bird lovers. This scenic small island, nestled along the rugged coastline of Borgarfjörður Eystri, is home to one of Iceland’s largest puffin colonies, offering a rare chance to observe these charming seabirds up close. With accessible viewing platforms, you can watch puffins in Iceland during puffin season, capturing stunning photos as they engage in puffin nesting along the rocky cliffs.
A must-visit for nature lovers and bird enthusiasts, Hafnarhólmi is more than just a breathtaking puffin tour—it is a nature reserve where thousands of Atlantic puffins thrive in their natural habitat. These cliffs serve as crucial breeding grounds for the Atlantic puffin population, providing shelter and ideal conditions for raising their young during the warmer months. Visitors can witness the mesmerizing sight of puffins diving into the ocean to catch fish, socializing on the cliffs, and tending to their burrows in the mossy terrain.
A stunning rocky islet, Hafnarhólmi is framed by the dramatic landscapes that define East Iceland’s wild beauty. Towering rhyolite mountains, sculpted by volcanic forces, rise in the background, their colorful slopes adding a striking contrast to the deep blue waters of the North Atlantic. The serene fjord setting enhances the experience, with calm, reflective waters on one side and the open ocean stretching toward the horizon.
Nearby, the quaint fishing harbor adds a touch of Icelandic charm, with small boats bobbing in the water. The salty sea breeze, the sound of waves lapping against the cliffs, and the sight of countless puffins fluttering overhead make Hafnarhólmi a picturesque and tranquil wildlife haven. Whether you’re a birdwatcher, photographer, or simply a lover of nature, this bird watching tour in Iceland promises an unforgettable glimpse into the world of puffins in their pristine environment.

Our next stop takes us to Álfaborg, the mystical “Elf Rock”, which is said to be the home of the Elf Queen of Iceland. This small yet striking hill, located on the outskirts of Borgarfjörður Eystri, is deeply rooted in Icelandic folklore, making it a fascinating stop for those interested in the country’s rich mythical heritage.
Surrounded by dramatic rhyolite mountains, vast open landscapes, and the shimmering fjord, Álfaborg offers both a cultural and scenic experience. A short walk to the top rewards visitors with panoramic views of the surrounding village, coastline, and rugged terrain. The peaceful atmosphere, combined with the area’s deep connection to Icelandic legends, creates a truly magical ambiance.
Whether you’re intrigued by folklore or simply looking for a spectacular viewpoint, Álfaborg is a must-visit stop that beautifully blends nature, history, and myth into one enchanting experience.

When we are in the heart of Borgarfjörður Eystri, we will have a picturesque photo opportunity at Lindarbakki, a beautifully preserved red turf-roofed house that looks like it belongs in a fairy tale. This quaint 19th-century cottage, with its bright red walls and lush green grass roof, is one of Iceland’s best-kept traditional turf houses.
Nestled in the heart of Borgarfjörður Eystri, Lindarbakki is surrounded by rolling hills, rugged mountains, and vibrant wildflowers, creating a truly idyllic setting. This charming home, still privately owned and occasionally lived in, offers a rare glimpse into Iceland’s architectural heritage and the resourceful way early Icelanders built their homes to withstand the harsh climate.
A stop at Lindarbakki is perfect for capturing a piece of Iceland’s history in a breathtakingly picturesque and peaceful environment. Take a moment to enjoy the tranquility, snap some stunning photos, and soak in the charm of this iconic East Iceland landmark.

If time allows, take a moment to explore the charming village of Borgarfjörður Eystri, renowned for its cozy atmosphere and stunning natural surroundings. Wander through the colorful streets, where traditional Icelandic homes stand against a backdrop of majestic mountains and open fjords.
While exploring the town, you’ll notice cozy spots where locals gather for coffee and homemade pastries. When time allows, you might want to stop by Álfacafé, a charming café offering a taste of Icelandic flavors in a warm and inviting setting—perfect for relaxing and soaking in the local atmosphere.

As we make our way back to Seyðisfjörður, we’ll stop at Gufufoss, one of East Iceland’s most beautiful waterfalls. Cascading gracefully down a rugged cliffside, Gufufoss resembles a smaller version of the famous Skógafoss, offering a stunning photo opportunity without the crowds.
Surrounded by dramatic basalt formations, moss-covered rocks, and sweeping mountain views, the waterfall’s setting is truly breathtaking. The fresh mist from the falls, combined with the peaceful sound of rushing water, creates a tranquil and refreshing atmosphere—a perfect way to wrap up the day’s journey.
Take a moment to soak in the untamed beauty of Icelandic nature, capture some final memorable photos, and enjoy this last scenic stop before returning to Seyðisfjörður harbor in time for your cruise departure.

As our journey comes to an end, we return to Seyðisfjörður, a picturesque town known for its colorful houses, artistic charm, and breathtaking fjord views. We’ll drop you off right at the cruise ship terminal, ensuring a smooth and timely return before your departure. If time allows, you may take a short stroll around town, admiring its iconic blue church, vibrant street art, and charming cafés. With unforgettable memories of puffins, waterfalls, folklore, and stunning landscapes, this tour offers a perfect taste of East Iceland’s hidden gems before you continue your adventure.