Puffin Tour
Journey to Ingólfshöfði by tractor-drawn hay cart, exploring Iceland’s historic cape and observing thousands of nesting seabirds, including puffins, in a rare, private nature reserve steeped in Viking history.
Area
Northern Iceland
Type
Wildlife & Nature
Who
Adults
Teens
Duration
1-2 Hours
Half Day
Step back in time and into Iceland’s natural splendour on a private excursion to Ingólfshöfði, a remote cape where history, wildlife, and untamed landscapes converge. Named after Ingólfur Arnarson, Iceland’s first settler, who spent his first winter here in 874 AD, the cape is a place where human story and natural history intertwine against a backdrop of the North Atlantic’s raw beauty.
To reach this secluded nature reserve, you travel across six kilometers of waters, marshes, and sandy plains aboard a traditional tractor-drawn hay cart, a journey in itself that evokes the rhythm and resilience of Icelandic life. The ride, lasting around 25 minutes each way, heightens the anticipation as the cape gradually emerges from the horizon, promising encounters with some of the island’s most extraordinary wildlife.
Once on Ingólfshöfði, a guided 1½-hour walk reveals the cape’s true magic: thousands of nesting seabirds, including the endearing puffin and formidable great skua. Observing them in their natural habitat offers a rare intimacy, a window into their seasonal rituals that few visitors are privileged to witness. The dramatic coastline, rugged cliffs, and windswept plains create a sense of isolation and wonder, making every step feel like a journey into another era.
This private experience is designed for those who value solitude, discovery, and story. It is an intimate encounter with Iceland’s natural and cultural heritage, where the legacy of its first settler meets the timeless rhythms of birdlife, and the extraordinary beauty of the landscape lingers long after you leave.
Tours Featuring This Experience
Be inspired by the itineraries below which include this experience and let our travel specialists craft a bespoke luxury holiday for you.
-
View TourFOCUS: Iceland Wonders - A private Family Adventure
A private, family-focused journey through Iceland’s iconic sights, from Reykjavík and the Golden Circle to glaciers, lava fields, and puffin-filled fjords, with exclusive access, expert guides, and seamless luxury throughout.
-
View TourWonders of the North: Iceland and Ireland
Discover Iceland’s glaciers, geysers, and volcanoes, then explore Ireland’s castles, coastlines, and cultural highlights. Private guides, exclusive access, and exceptional experiences make this a seamless journey through two of Northern Europe’s most iconic destinations.
-
View TourFOCUS: Iceland Decoded - Exploring the Elements
Experience Iceland’s volcanoes, glaciers, and hidden landscapes with private guides, family-friendly adventures, and exclusive access, from inside a dormant volcano to secret ice caves and Zodiac glacier tours.
-
View TourHighlights of Iceland - Summer Adventures
Experience Iceland’s summer magic: geothermal lagoons, the Golden Circle, Silfra snorkeling, and remote adventures at Deplar Farm. Finish with Blue Lagoon indulgence or Reykjavik city charm, a journey designed to explore, unwind, and connect.
-
View TourLittle Adventurers in Iceland
A thoughtfully paced Iceland adventure for families, combining Reykjavik, glaciers and volcanoes with hands-on experiences, expert guides and space to relax, from whale watching and snowmobiling to lava caves and the Blue Lagoon.
Recommended Hotels Nearby
A selection of luxury hotel options in the area, handpicked and recommended by our travel specialists.
-
View Accommodation
Eleven Deplar Farm
A remote Icelandic retreat wrapped in wilderness and wellbeing, Eleven Deplar Farm offers rare luxury, soul-stirring adventures and world-class guiding. An exclusive Scott Dunn escape for travelers seeking the extraordinary.
-
View AccommodationION Adventure Hotel
The Hotel Ion is a truly unusual hotel. It resembles a world war bunker and its remote location only adds to the intrigue. The setting is beautiful and is perfect for making the most of the ample winter and summer activities on offer in the area.
-
View AccommodationSIGLO HOTEL
Sigló Hotel offers an intimate northern Iceland retreat with clifftop fjord views, stylish interiors, local cuisine, and personalized excursions, providing discerning travelers with a personalized and unforgettable Arctic experience.
-
View AccommodationHotel Ranga
Hotel Ranga offers a warm welcome, delicious gourmet food and wine, and the opportunity to enjoy the natural wonders of this remarkable part of the country. Its location means there is good chance of catching sight of the Northern Lights.
More Experiences in This Area
Discover more things to do in the area and chat to our specialists about crafting these experiences into your tailor-made holiday.
-
View ExperienceDiamond Circle Tour
Explore Iceland’s wild northeast on a private journey through glaciers, canyons, and Europe’s most powerful waterfall, ending at the Arctic coast and charming fishing village of Húsavík, a journey of raw power and sublime beauty.
-
View ExperienceSnowmobiling in the Troll Peninsula
Explore the mountains of the stunning Troll Peninsula on the back of a snowmobile, taking in the incredible views as you speed across the snow. During the winter, look out for the Northern Lights dancing through the sky above.
Call us on 212 372 7009 to start planning