The Westman Islands, or Vestmannaeyjar in Icelandic, are a captivating archipelago located off the south coast of Iceland. With numerous Westman Islands tours available, these islands offer a unique and breathtaking destination for travelers seeking to explore Iceland’s natural beauty and rich history.
The islands were formed through intense volcanic activity. Visitors can explore the dramatic landscapes shaped by eruptions, including Eldfell, a volcano that erupted in 1973. The lava fields and rugged coastlines are a testament to the dynamic geological forces that created the Westman Islands.
Aside from its geological wonders, the Westman Islands in Iceland also boasts a rich cultural heritage. A visit to Heimaey, the largest island in the archipelago, offers a glimpse into the islanders' way of life.
Here, you can learn about the history of puffin hunting, see the local fishing industry in action, and visit the Eldheimar Museum, which provides insight into the 1973 eruption and its impact on the community.
For nature enthusiasts, the area is a birdwatcher's paradise. It's home to countless seabirds, including puffins, guillemots, and kittiwakes. Puffin-watching tours are popular, allowing visitors to get up close to these remarkable creatures in their natural habitat.
With their dramatic landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and abundant wildlife, the Westman Islands provides an unforgettable experience. A trip to this captivating archipelago is sure to leave lasting memories for every traveler looking to discover one of Iceland’s most stunning and unique destinations.
The Legend Behind the Name “Westman Islands”
The Westman Islands is made up of 15 islands and 30 rocky outcrops. The total surface area is approximately 6.5 square miles (17 square kilometers). As of 2024, around 4,600 people live in the archipelago, all residing on the main island of Heimaey.
The islands are named after the "Westmen," a term used by Norse people to refer to the Irish. According to legend, the name originated when Irish thralls fled to the islands to seek refuge in the 9th century.
They were then chased down and killed in retribution by their former master's blood brother and Iceland's first settler, Ingólfur Arnarson. Since then, the islands have been called Vestmannaeyjar, or “Westman Islands.”
Top Attractions in the Westman Islands
Those visiting the Westman Islands in Iceland will find a breathtaking blend of adventure, nature, and history in this stunning archipelago. Here are some of the top attractions that make the Westman Islands a unique Icelandic destination:
Heimaey Island: This is the largest and most visited island. It’s a must-see destination brimming with attractions. Explore the picturesque town, hike to the summit of Eldfell Volcano for breathtaking views, and discover the dramatic story of the 1973 eruption at the captivating Eldheimar Museum.
Surtsey Island: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this volcanic island emerged from the sea in 1963 and is one of the youngest landmasses on Earth. Access to the island is restricted to protect its fragile ecosystem. However, you can learn about it at the Surtsey Visitor Centre on Heimaey.
Puffins: The Westman Islands is one of the best places in Iceland to see puffins, especially in the summer months (late spring to early fall). Take a boat tour around the islands to get close to puffin colonies and other seabirds. The island of Ellidaey is particularly famous for its puffin population.
Whales: Whale-watching tours give you a chance to see minke whales, orcas, humpback whales, seals, and dolphins. These tours provide fantastic opportunities to see marine life in its natural environment.
Lava Tubes and Caves: The islands feature fascinating volcanic formations, including lava tubes and caves, which reveal the long-lasting effects of volcanic activity. Some of these caves were even used for shelter during storms in the past, adding to their historical significance.
Eldheimar Museum: This museum offers a deep dive into the history of the 1973 volcanic eruption, which forced the evacuation of Heimaey. Visitors can see preserved homes and artifacts from the eruption as part of an immersive experience.
The Vestmannaeyjar Heritage Museum: This museum offers insights into the culture, history, and fishing traditions. It showcases artifacts from the islands’ past, including the dramatic volcanic eruptions and the local fishing industry.
Herjolfstown Museum: This captivating cultural attraction is also known as the Viking Wax Museum. The museum features life-size wax figures and exhibits that bring Iceland’s Viking history to life.
The Westman Islands Golf Course: For golf enthusiasts, the archipelago has one of the most unique golf courses in the world. Located on Heimaey, the course offers beautiful views of the vast ocean and volcanic landscapes.
Popular Activities To Do in the Westman Islands
The Westman Islands in Iceland offers a variety of exciting activities for visitors. Here are some popular ones:
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Whale Watching: The waters surrounding the archipelago are rich in marine life, making whale watching a top activity. You can spot orcas, humpback whales, and other marine mammals.
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Volcano Tours: Many Westman Islands tours focus on exploring the Eldfell Volcano. You can take a guided hike to the volcano’s crater or visit the Eldheimar Museum to learn about the 1973 eruption's impact on the local community.
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Puffin Watching: The archipelago is home to one of the largest puffin colonies in the world. During summer, you can see thousands of puffins nesting on the cliffs.
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Hiking: The islands offer numerous scenic hiking trails, including a popular route up to the summit of Eldfell Volcano, where you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views.
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Boat Tours: Take a boat tour around the islands to see the stunning coastline, caves, and rock formations. Some tours also include visits to small, remote islands.
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Playing Golf: The Westman Islands have a unique golf course with spectacular ocean views, offering a truly memorable experience for travelers who love to tee off in a one-of-a-kind location.
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Caving: Explore the volcanic caves on the islands, including the famous lava caves that were formed by powerful volcanic activity.
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Visiting Museums: Visit the Eldheimar Museum to learn about the volcanic eruption, or explore the Westman Islands Museum to discover the islands’ rich history and culture.
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Fishing: The Westman Islands have a strong fishing tradition, and you can take part in fishing tours to experience this local industry first-hand.
With these exciting activities and awe-inspiring scenery, the Westman Islands attracts both nature enthusiasts and adventure lovers from around the world. It’s a truly fascinating destination for all kinds of travelers.
What Are Westman Islands Tours?
Westman Islands tours offer a wide range of experiences for travelers eager to explore the Westman Islands in Iceland. These tours highlight the archipelago’s stunning natural beauty, volcanic landscapes, and vibrant wildlife.
Visitors can enjoy guided tours focusing on dramatic geological features like the Eldfell Volcano, lava fields, and craters formed by past eruptions. Many Westman Islands tours also provide opportunities for birdwatching, as the archipelago is home to thousands of puffins and other seabirds.
Westman Islands tours from Reykjavik provide a convenient way to reach this amazing destination from Iceland’s capital. These tours often include transportation by boat or ferry. Some tours may also offer the opportunity to explore volcanic craters or take boat trips along the coastline, where you can enjoy views of towering cliffs and seabirds.
Top Westman Islands Tours
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1-Hour Boat Tour in Vestmannaeyjar with Transfer from Heimaey Harbor: Embark on an exciting boat tour from Heimaey to explore caves, monoliths, and abundant wildlife, including puffins and whales.
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2-Hour RIB Boat Tour of the Westman Islands with Transfer from Heimaey Harbor: Experience the thrill of a RIB-boat adventure around the Westman Islands, where you'll explore stunning geology, abundant wildlife, and rich history.
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9-Hour Vestmannaeyjar and Puffins Guided Tour from Reykjavik: Discover the natural wonders of the Westman Islands, featuring volcanoes, puffins, and stunning landscapes—all in a day trip from Reykjavik.
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Jeep Tour of Vestmannaeyjar from Reykjavik: Take a private jeep tour through the Westman Islands, exploring volcanic landscapes, dramatic coastlines, and local highlights with a personal guide on this day trip from Reykjavik.
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Day Tour to the Westman Islands from Reykjavik: Enjoy a full-day adventure to the Westman Islands from Reykjavik, featuring a scenic ferry ride, guided sightseeing, and visits to volcanic craters, puffin nesting sites, and historic landmarks.
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Beluga Whale Sanctuary & Puffin Rescue Center Ticket: Visit the Beluga Sanctuary in Vestmannaeyjar to learn about rescued puffins and see beluga whales up close in a unique marine rehabilitation environment.
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3-Day Small Group Highlands & Volcano Adventure Tour from Reykjavik: Explore Iceland’s remote highlands on a three-day guided tour, visiting volcanoes, lava fields, and geothermal areas.
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Puffins and Pirates ATV Tour in the Westman Islands: Ride along black sand beaches and scenic trails on this guided ATV tour through the Westman Islands, combining puffin watching with tales of pirates and volcanic history.
Things To Remember When Booking Your Westman Islands Tours
Westman Islands tours are available throughout the year. Whether you're visiting in the summer, when puffins flock to the cliffs, or in winter, when the islands’ rugged landscapes are covered in snow, there are always tours offered to experience the islands' fascinating highlights.
Tours vary in length and type, with options ranging from short excursions around Heimaey to full-day adventures exploring multiple islands. While summer is perfect for birdwatching, hiking, and exploring lava fields, winter brings a quieter, more serene experience, ideal for those looking to enjoy the islands' beauty without the crowds.
It’s important to note that while the Westman Islands in Iceland are accessible year-round, weather can sometimes affect ferry schedules, especially in winter. Additionally, Some remote islands are only reachable by boat, so planning in advance is crucial.
Also, please keep in mind that tours can fill up quickly during the peak summer months, so it's a good idea to book early. Always plan ahead to ensure a smooth trip.
