Situated in remote eastern Iceland, Seyðisfjörður offers great touring options for passengers arriving on cruise ships. The charming town is well situated for our 5 hour-long shore excursion tours.Beautiful waterfalls, strange basalt columns, puffins galore and much more await.

The vast majority of visitors to Iceland never venture this far from Reykjavík – so use the opportunity to explore the highlights of East Iceland with us. Choose the path less trodden with our fantastic range of shore excursions from Seyðisfjörður.

Introducing our Seyðisfjörður Shore Excursions

About Seyðisfjörður

Seyðisfjörður has gained more attention in recent years – it´s cute multi-coloured iron-corrugated houses contrast wonderfully with the surrounding fjord and mountain. The rainbow path leading to the old fashioned church has become an image synonymous with the East Iceland. Home to just 700 or so people, the population can increase 5 fold with arrival or cruise ships and ferries.

More cruise ship lines choose Seyðisfjörður each year for the town´s beauty, as well as the diverse touring possibilites to found in the region. Even before this recent trend though, life has always centered around the town´s harbour – first through fishing, and later as the arrival point for Smyril Line ferries from Denmark for cruise ship. These weekly ferries are used for the imporation of consumer products, as well as a passenger ferry for arriving and leaving Iceland by car.

Highlights from our East Iceland shore Excursions from Seyðisfjörður

Studlagil Basalt Canyon

Studlagil is a unique canyon through which the Jökulsá river flows. The canyon´s sheer walls are made up of enormous basalt columns that stand up to 30m (98ft) high, and overlook the dream-like turquoise waters of the flowing glacial river. The towering basalt columns are perfect hexagonal formations shaped by ancient volcanic activity.

For centuries, the canyon lay submerged under the Jökla River, until water levels dropped after the Kárahnjúkar Hydroelectric Plant was built in the early 2000s. As the river receded, the canyon was revealed, drawing growing interest from visitors.

Despite its beauty, visitor numbers here are relatively low, no doubt due to its remote location. Our tour visits the canyons eastern side, where a new walkway and viewing platform drastically improving accessibility.

Hafnarholmi Puffin Colony

The arrival of puffins to Hafnarholmi marks the start of puffin season in Iceland – these creatures arrive here some weeks earlier than other location in Iceland such as the Westman Islands. Thousands of breeding pairs blanket this little islet – it is is easily accessible with wooden staircases and walkways taking you to within touching distance of these lovely birds – but you must resist this urge!

In June and July the baby puffins emerge from their holes and can be seen lolling around the grassy hilltops.

Gufufoss Waterfall

Situated a short drive uphill from Seyðisfjörður, Gufufoss is an impressive waterfall just off the main road. Flowing elegantly over a rugged cliff, Gufufoss feels like a more intimate counterpart to Skógafoss – just as photogenic, but without the crowds.

Encircled by striking basalt columns, lush mossy stones, and expansive mountain scenery, the setting is undeniably spectacular. The cool spray from the waterfall, paired with the soothing sound of cascading water, leaves you with a calm and satisfied feeling deep within.

Lindarbakki turf-house

Lindarbakki is a beautifully preserved example of typical Icelandic farm houses from the cusp of the 20th century. Once all the houses in the village were like it – but no only Lindarbakki remains.

Partially underground for insulating purposes, the thick walls and roof are made from turf – the walls were then clad in wood, while grass was allowed to grow on the roof. In these days all members of the family would sleep in the same room, with beds lining the walls on either side.

Set in idyllic surrounds, Lindarbakki is a lovely quick stop for anyone visiting the Borgarfjörpur-Eystri area.

Rjúkandi Waterfall

Rjúkandi Waterfall, near Egilsstaðir in East Iceland, is a peaceful, multi-tiered cascade easily accessible from the Ring Road. A short hike from the parking area leads to stunning views of the misty falls surrounded by mossy cliffs and seasonal wildflowers. Best visited in late spring to autumn, Rjúkandi offers a serene and tranquil experience for nature lovers and photographers visiting the east.

Álfaborg – The Elf Rock

Perched on a small hill near Borgarfjörður Eystr, one find Álfaborg or the “Elf Rock” – believed to be home to Iceland’s Elf Queen. This spot is steeped in folklore, making it a unique stop for anyone interested in Iceland’s myths.

Beyond the mythical appeal, the views from here are spectacular, with rhyolite mountains, open landscapes, and a shimmering fjord. Álfaborg offers both scenic beauty and cultural charm. A short walk to the top reveals panoramic views of the village, coastline, and rugged terrain, all set in a peaceful, almost magical atmosphere.