Enriching 1-Hour Puffins and Pirates ATV Tour of Vestmannaeyjar

Discover a captivating Icelandic archipelago’s wonders and rich history on this thrilling ATV tour. This one-hour enriching experience takes travelers to Vestmannaeyjar, also called the Westman Islands, on an adventure to see Icelandic puffins before revisiting the path of the pirates from the 1600s.

The action begins at the ATV homebase in Vestmannaeyjar, where a friendly local guide will warmly welcome you and give you a brief tour background. They will discuss the attractions included in the tour and introduce the ATV, especially for first-timers.

Part of the briefing is explaining the basics of operating an ATV. You will also be equipped with the necessary riding gear and safety equipment like gloves, a helmet, and overalls. If you have any questions about the ATV and the scheduled attractions, the guide will happily answer them.

Exploring Iceland on an ATV is an exhilarating way to experience the country's breathtaking landscapes. ATVs, or all-terrain vehicles, offer a combination of adventure and accessibility, allowing you to reach some of Iceland’s most stunning and remote locations. Though this ATV tour doesn’t involve driving along off-road routes, you’ll still get the power and stability you need to reach.

Your first stop for the day is along the west coast, which is Elephant Rock, one of the most fascinating attractions in Vestmannaeyjar. Formed by volcanic activity and erosion, Elephant Rock is a striking rock formation that resembles a giant elephant. You’ll notice the shape of an elephant with half of its body submerged in the sea, including its trunk, like it is drinking the water.

Next, you’ll drive to Vestmannaeyjar’s southernmost point, leading you to what is considered Europe’s windiest place: Storhofdi. Here is where you’ll find the world’s biggest puffin colony. Before reaching Storhofdi, you’ll be treated to majestic views of Vestmannaeyjar while driving your ATV.

Upon reaching Storhofdi, you’ll alight from the ATV and walk around the area to appreciate its beauty further. You’ll then proceed to the area where the cute little puffins abound.

Icelandic puffins are one of the country’s most beloved and iconic birds. They boast a distinctive appearance, featuring vivid orange beaks, black-and-white plumage, and expressive eyes rimmed with bright orange. You’ll see the puffins’ unique movements and behaviors, like “billing,” wherein they tap their beaks together to strengthen their bond.

After enjoying the puffins in Storhofdi, you’ll ride your ATV once more and take the path of the pirates of Vestmannaeyjar. In 1627, Vestmannaeyjar became the target of a notorious raid known as the “Turkish Abductions.”

Algerian and Moroccan pirates launched a brutal assault on the Westman Islands, marking one of Iceland’s darkest days. The raiders arrived at Heimaey, wreaking havoc, capturing over 400 Icelanders, and killing some of those who resisted.

As you retrace their steps, you’ll learn about the pirates’ arrival, their epic battles with the locals, and how the Icelanders defended and hid from the pirates. You’ll then reach Herjolfstown, a Viking museum considered Iceland’s first stone house. Here, you’ll see how the pirates looked and how they lived.

To cap off the tour, you’ll ride back to the ATV homebase in Vestmannaeyjar. 

Grab this chance to visit the Westman Islands and learn about Icelandic puffins and pirates by booking this easy ATV tour. Check availability now by choosing a date.