All You Should Know About the Icelandic Puffin

Each country has its own symbol, official or not. Something that a given country will always be associated with which is relevant only in that country’s context. Usually it is something that only occurs in that country, a traditional product, or a festival, but it can also be an animal. When you think of it now, it makes sense. Australia will be straight away associated with kangaroos and koalas, while China will be connected to pandas. Our small island has many symbols, most of you wil assosiate it with powerful waterfalls. Among other the most famous one is a Icelandic puffin. You will only realize how famous it became when you first step onto Laugavegur street in Reykjavik city. It is the main theme of all the souvenir shops around! Starting from being a logo on t-shirts through all kind of pendants to huge mascots. Every puffin lover will find something here for themselves.

Puffins in Iceland

Puffins in Iceland, to be more concrete, belong to a group of Atlantic puffins. If you are worried that you might have missed them during your Icelandic travel, I assure you, it’s impossible to miss! This is the most recognizable bird in Iceland due to its characteristic look. They are around 30 cm (2 in) tall and weigh up to 600 grams (21 oz). They happen to be excellent aviators and swimmers. They feed mainly on fish, which also makes them great divers. They spend most of their lives in the ocean waters and that’s why the only time you will be able to see them in Iceland is during their breeding season.

These beautiful and colorful birds are examples to follow. They are monogamous. They are very loyal to their companions and stay together for a long time as they can live up to 20 years. When breeding season starts, the male puffin arrives to the island as first to prepare the nest. He always finds the same place he chose last time. He then waits for his partner, if she does not arrive, he eventually looks for a new bird-wife. The female lays only one egg which the parents take care of in turns. When the baby puffin is big enough, he leaves the comfortable nest to spend its first 3 years of his life in the ocean. He does not come back to the island even for one time during these 3 years. When 3 years have passed, he comes back to the cliff to look for a place for his nest.

Puffin season in Iceland

The puffin season in Iceland spans from early April to September. During this time, puffins return to land to form breeding colonies, making it the perfect period to observe them.

Best places to see puffins in Iceland

Dyrhólaey

Located on the south coast of Iceland, Dyrhólaey is a breathtaking promontory that offers excellent opportunities for puffin watching. The area is renowned for its dramatic cliffs and rock formations, which serve as ideal nesting sites for puffins. The panoramic views of the coastline, along with the vibrant puffin activity, make Dyrhólaey a must-visit location for bird enthusiasts.

Látrabjarg

Látrabjarg, situated in the remote Westfjords, is one of the largest bird cliffs in the world, stretching 14 kilometers and reaching heights of up to 441 meters. This spectacular cliff is a renowned hotspot for puffin sightings, attracting visitors with its vast colonies of seabirds and stunning coastal landscapes. The cliff’s towering heights provide a unique vantage point for observing puffins up close, making it an unforgettable destination for nature lovers.

Westman Islands

The Westman Islands (Vestmannaeyjar) are an archipelago off the south coast of Iceland, known for their rich birdlife. The largest island, Heimaey, is home to one of the most significant puffin colonies in the country. Visitors can explore the island’s rugged terrain and enjoy the sight of thousands of puffins nesting on the cliffs. The islands also offer various guided tours, providing an immersive experience of puffin habitats and local wildlife.

Ingólfshöfði

Ingólfshöfði is a remote headland on the south coast of Iceland, accessible only by guided tours. This isolated location is another excellent spot for puffin watching, offering close encounters with these charming birds. The tours to Ingólfshöfði often include a scenic tractor ride across black sand beaches and marshes, culminating in a hike to the headland where puffins nest. This unique combination of adventure and wildlife observation makes Ingólfshöfði a special destination for birdwatchers.

Akurey and Lundey

Close to Reykjavik, Akurey and Lundey, also known as Puffin Islands, are small, uninhabited islands that host large puffin colonies. Just a few minutes by boat from Reykjavik, these islands are accessible via puffin watching tours that offer a high chance of sighting these birds along with other seabirds like cormorants and guillemots.

Papey Island

Located off the east coast, Papey Island is a small, formerly inhabited island known for its puffin population. Visitors can explore the island’s birdlife and see Iceland’s oldest wooden church. Daily boat tours from Djúpivogur provide access to this charming and secluded spot.

Borgarfjörður Eystri

In East Iceland, Borgarfjörður Eystri offers a fantastic opportunity to see puffins up close from specially designed viewing platforms. With about 10,000 puffin pairs nesting here each summer, this location provides a safe and accessible bird-watching experience.

Grímsey Island

Situated on the Arctic Circle, Grímsey Island is home to a thriving bird population, including numerous puffins. Accessible by ferry or flights from Dalvík and Akureyri, this island offers a unique bird-watching experience with the added allure of crossing the Arctic Circle.

Flatey Island

Flatey Island, located in Skjálfandi Bay, is a bird-watcher’s paradise with over 30 species during the breeding season. This island, although uninhabited, has summer homes and offers boat tours from Húsavík.

Hornstrandir Nature Reserve

In the Westfjords, Hornstrandir Nature Reserve is a pristine and remote area perfect for puffin watching. Accessible only by boat, this nature reserve offers a unique combination of hiking and bird watching in a stunning, unspoiled environment.

Bird Watching in Iceland

For those who do not know where to start with planning your bird watching tour in Iceland we have good news. In Iceland you will find companies who offer guided tours for bird watching. Many of them are the boat tours. The specialized and experienced guides will know exactly where to go and how to approach the puffins so you will enjoy as much as possible out of the trip.

There are also tours of whale watching connected with puffins which you can rent from Husavik. In this tour you will be taken in a boat through the waters where it is usual to meet  whales up to the island where you will be able to watch one on the largest puffins colonies in Iceland.

You will be able to see both, whales and our colorful birds. Remember to dress properly for the tour as it can get quite cold on the boat. You will need a waterproof warm jacket and a hat. Do not let the cold spoil your trip!

Frequently Asked Questions about Icelandic Puffins

When can you see puffins in Iceland?

Puffins can be seen in Iceland from early April to September. The peak season is from May to mid-August, when the birds are most active in their breeding colonies.

Where can I see puffins in Reykjavik?

While Reykjavik itself is not a primary puffin habitat, nearby locations such as the Westman Islands and Dyrhólaey offer excellent puffin watching opportunities.

Can you still eat puffin in Iceland?

Yes, puffin is still considered a traditional dish in Iceland, particularly in some coastal regions. However, its consumption is controversial due to conservation concerns.

Where do puffins go when they leave Iceland?

After the breeding season, puffins spend the winter at sea in the North Atlantic Ocean. They are highly adapted to marine life, only coming to land to breed.

Icelandic puffins are a fascinating and integral part of the country’s wildlife. Whether you’re a seasoned birdwatcher or a casual nature enthusiast, witnessing these charming birds in their natural habitat is an unforgettable experience. Plan your visit during the puffin season in Iceland, and explore the best spots like Dyrhólaey, Látrabjarg, and the Westman Islands to maximize your chances of seeing these iconic birds.

For anyone interested in nature and wildlife, Iceland offers a unique and rich experience with its vibrant puffin colonies. So pack your binoculars, head to the cliffs, and enjoy the spectacular sight of these incredible seabirds.