Puffin Watching in Reykjavík - Best Tours to See Iceland’s Beloved Birds
- The Puffin Team
- May 2
- 2 min read

Meet Iceland’s Most Charming Birds
If you're visiting Iceland in the summer, puffin watching in Reykjavík is an unforgettable experience. These colourful seabirds, known for their clown-like faces and fluttering wings, nest along the coast from April to August, making it the perfect time for a puffin boat tour from Reykjavík.
Why Puffins Love Iceland
Home to over 60% of the world’s Atlantic puffin population, Iceland is the ultimate puffin destination. The small islands just off the coast of Reykjavík, especially Lundey (Puffin Island), Engey and Akurey, offer ideal nesting grounds for these seabirds. The best way to see them up close? By boat.
Puffin Watching Boat Tours from Reykjavík
Our small-group puffin tours depart daily from Reykjavík’s Old Harbour. In just 15-20 minutes, we reach puffin colonies where you can observe these birds in their natural habitat. The boat stays close to the islands, giving you amazing photo opportunities without disturbing the wildlife. We provide expert guides, binoculars, and a quiet sailing experience that respects the environment and the birds. These tours are perfect for families, bird enthusiasts, photographers, or anyone looking to enjoy Iceland’s nature up close.
What to Expect on a Puffin Tour
🕒 Duration: 1-1.5 hours
📍 Departure: Reykjavík Old Harbour
📅 Season: April to August
👀 Wildlife: Atlantic puffins, arctic terns, guillemots, seals and more
📸 Tip: Bring a zoom lens or use binoculars provided on board
Why Choose a Puffin Boat Tour Over Land Trips?
While puffins can sometimes be seen from cliffs around Iceland, boat tours offer a unique vantage point, bringing you much closer without the need for long hikes or crowded viewpoints. Plus, departing from Reykjavík means you don’t need to travel far to enjoy a genuine nature experience.
Tips for Spotting Puffins
Look for their bright orange beaks and quick wingbeats
Puffins are most active in early mornings and late afternoons
Be patient - they often nest in burrows and fly to sea between feedings
Book Your Puffin Watching Tour from Reykjavík Today!
Don't miss out on one of the top summer activities in Iceland. Our puffin boat tours are a fun, educational, and eco-friendly way to enjoy Iceland’s wildlife. Spaces are limited, so book early to secure your spot!