Captivating 12-Hour Private Tour to the Westman Islands with Seljalandsfoss Waterfall Visit

Discover the beauty of one of Iceland’s most stunning archipelagos on this captivating private tour of the Westman Islands. This 12-hour adventure takes travelers off Iceland’s South Coast to see volcanic landscapes, iconic cultural attractions, and the celebrated Seljalandsfoss waterfalls.

Your action-packed day begins when a friendly local guide picks you up from your Reykjavik accommodation. With your family or friends, you’ll ride a spacious vehicle that will comfortably take you to the Westman Islands.

Before reaching the Westman Islands, you’ll stop at the breathtaking Seljalandsfoss waterfall. Also located along the South Coast, Seljalandsfoss features a 200-foot (60-meter) waterfall plunge over a cliff once part of the coastline. You’ll see its water curtain cascading and contrasting the surrounding rugged landscape.

However, Seljalandsfoss waterfall’s most fascinating feature is the unique opportunity to walk behind its cascading water. When you visit during warmer months, you can access the path behind the waterfall and experience the powerful cascade from a unique perspective.

After enjoying the beauty of Seljalandsfoss waterfall, continue toward the direction of the port where you’ll ride a ferry to the Westman Islands. Also called “Vestmannaeyjar,” the Westman Islands is known for its dramatic landscapes and rich history. Comprising 15 islands and numerous islets, the Westman Islands are most famous for Heimaey, the only inhabited island and the largest in the group.

Heimaey is home to a unique mix of natural beauty, including volcanic landscapes, steep cliffs, and diverse wildlife, particularly puffins, which flock here in large numbers during the summer months.

You’ll also visit the Eldfell volcano, which forced the islands’ residents to evacuate after its massive eruption in 1973. Moreover, the Eldfell volcanic eruption created a new lava field. You can see the Eldfell volcano’s crater by hiking to the summit and enjoying the breathtaking landscape from the top.

If you wish to learn more about the Eldfell volcanic eruption and its impact on the Westman Islands, you can visit the Eldheimar Museum for an interactive tour.

Another must-see attraction of the Westman Islands is Storhofdi, considered one of the windiest places in Europe. Storhofdi is the southernmost point of the Westman Islands and offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding sea and islands. 

Interestingly, Storhofdi is also a prime location for birdwatching. Its cliffs are home to thousands of seabirds, including puffins, which nest here during summer.

Next, you’ll visit the Elephant Rock basalt sea cliffs. As the name implies, this natural rock formation features a striking resemblance to the head of a giant elephant. If you examine the Elephant Rock, you’ll notice half of its trunk underwater, as if the elephant is attempting to drink from the ocean.

You’ll also visit the lush valley of Herjolfsdalur, a site with historical significance. Herjolfsdalur valley has a rich Viking history, with its name coming from Herjolfur, one of the early Viking settlers in Iceland in the 9th century.

Herjolfur was said to have established homesteads and farms across the Westman Islands. Interestingly, archaeologists unearthed artifacts and ruins traced back to sheds and houses from the Viking era, one of which was believed to be Herjolfur’s.

Alternatively, you can visit Herjolfstown, a replica of the Westman Islands’ first settlement. Lunch will be enjoyed in one of the many local restaurants on the islands.

Don’t miss this chance to see one of the most captivating places in Iceland by booking this Westman Islands private tour. Check availability now by choosing a date.