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Iceland Wildlife Tours

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Embark on an unforgettable journey through Iceland’s rugged wilderness and witness the remarkable array of wildlife that calls this remote island home. From the coastal cliffs teeming with puffins to the icy waters frequented by humpback whales, Iceland wildlife tours bring you face-to-face with Arctic animals in their natural habitats. These tours are guided by experienced naturalists and local experts who know where and when to find Iceland’s most iconic creatures. Whether you're traveling in summer or winter, Iceland's wild side is always waiting to be discovered.

Why Choose a Wildlife Tour in Iceland ?

Iceland is one of the few places in the world where you can watch whales breaching in the Atlantic, see puffins nesting on cliffs, and possibly even glimpse an Arctic fox in the same day. Its remote geography and protected ecosystems make it a top destination for eco-conscious travelers and nature photographers. Wildlife tours in Iceland are immersive, educational, and incredibly scenic, combining animal encounters with volcanic landscapes, glaciers, and waterfalls.

Top Animals You Can See on Iceland Wildlife Tours

  • Puffins: These colorful seabirds are iconic in Iceland. Best viewed between May and August on cliffs in Dyrhólaey, Látrabjarg, and the Westman Islands.
  • Whales: Over 20 species including humpbacks, orcas, minkes, and blue whales frequent Iceland’s waters. Whale watching tours operate from Husavik , Reykjavík , and Akureyri .
  • Seals: Spot harbor and grey seals lounging on icebergs or playing in the surf, especially around the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon and Vatnsnes Peninsula.
  • Arctic Foxes: Iceland’s only native land mammal, the elusive Arctic fox roams the Westfjords and Hornstrandir Nature Reserve.
  • Reindeer: Although not native, wild reindeer roam East Iceland and are often seen in the highlands or snowy plains during winter.

Best Destinations for Iceland Wildlife Tours

Wildlife can be found all over Iceland, but certain regions offer more concentrated sightings and specialized tours ..

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  • Westfjords: Remote, dramatic, and brimming with wildlife. A top location for birdwatching, especially puffins at Látrabjarg cliffs, and for spotting Arctic foxes.
  • Húsavík: Known as the whale-watching capital of Europe. Offers high success rates and excellent facilities for marine wildlife observation.
  • Vatnsnes Peninsula: This northern peninsula is a seal hotspot, with multiple colonies and a dedicated seal center.
  • Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon: See seals navigating the icebergs while surrounded by floating ice. Also a great photo stop during South Coast wildlife itineraries.
  • Snæfellsnes Peninsula: Combines stunning geological features with diverse birdlife and marine mammals along the coast.

Popular Wildlife Tour Types in Iceland

Iceland offers a range of wildlife tour styles to suit all levels of adventure, from family-friendly boat trips to multi-day guided treks:

  • Whale Watching Cruises: Operated year-round, with the best chances in summer. Tours last 2–3 hours and depart from ports like Húsavík and Reykjavík.
  • Puffin Watching Tours: Operate May to August and often combine boat rides and short hikes to puffin colonies.
  • Wildlife Photography Tours: Led by professional photographers who guide you to ideal vantage points with the best lighting and composition tips.
  • Kayaking with Seals: Paddle through Iceland’s glacier-fed waters and see curious seals up close in their natural setting.
  • Arctic Fox Tracking: Multi-day treks through the Westfjords or Hornstrandir with local guides trained in spotting Iceland’s most secretive predator.

Best Time to See Wildlife in Iceland

The time of year greatly influences what animals you’ll encounter:

  • Summer (May–August): Puffins arrive in droves, whales are most active, and seals are easily spotted. The Midnight Sun offers long daylight hours for exploration.
  • Spring & Fall (April, September): Good for whale watching and fewer tourists. Puffins begin to migrate, but you may still spot a few in early September.
  • Winter (October–March): While puffins migrate and many tours pause, this is the best time for Arctic fox sightings and possibly reindeer, especially in snow-covered areas.

Ethical and Sustainable Wildlife Watching

Iceland takes nature preservation seriously. Tour operators adhere to strict wildlife viewing guidelines to ensure minimal disturbance to animals and their habitats. As a guest, you can support responsible tourism by choosing licensed operators, avoiding drone usage near birds or marine mammals, and respecting local ecosystems during hikes or drives.

Wildlife Photography Tips in Iceland

  • Use a zoom lens (200mm+) for safe, ethical distances.
  • Wear neutral colors to blend with the environment.
  • Be patient — some sightings require quiet waiting.
  • Protect your gear from rain, wind, and volcanic dust.
  • Early mornings and evenings offer the best lighting and fewer crowds.

What to Pack for a Wildlife Tour

Iceland’s weather can shift rapidly. Bring:

  • Waterproof outerwear and layers for warmth
  • Binoculars or camera with a zoom lens
  • Snacks, water bottle, and sunscreen
  • Comfortable, waterproof hiking shoes
  • Notebook or phone to document sightings
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Popular Package in Iceland

FAQs

When is the best time to see puffins in Iceland?

Puffins are best seen in Iceland from May to early August, when they come ashore to breed on cliffs along the coast, especially in the Westman Islands and Westfjords.

Where can I go whale watching in Iceland?

Top whale watching spots include Húsavík, Reykjavik, and Akureyri. Tours are available year-round, but summer months offer the highest chance of sightings.

Are Iceland wildlife tours suitable for kids?

Yes! Many tours are family-friendly and tailored for all ages, including boat trips, puffin hikes, and easy coastal safaris ideal for children.

Can I see Arctic foxes during my trip?

Yes, especially in the remote Westfjords or Hornstrandir Nature Reserve. Winter offers the best chance, though sightings are rare and require patience.

Do I need special gear for a wildlife tour in Iceland?

Basic gear includes warm, waterproof clothing, binoculars or a zoom camera, and good walking shoes. Tour operators often provide safety gear when needed.

Conclusion

Iceland wildlife tours are a magical blend of adventure, education, and appreciation for the natural world. Whether you’re peering over cliffs at puffin colonies, cruising with whales in icy fjords, or capturing a seal basking on a drifting iceberg, every encounter feels like a once-in-a-lifetime experience. With ethical operators, expert guides, and the awe-inspiring Icelandic backdrop, these tours connect you deeply to the island’s wild spirit. For nature lovers, photographers, and eco-travelers, Iceland’s wildlife tours are a must on any Arctic bucket list.

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OUR ICELAND TOUR REVIEWS

See what makes our Iceland trips special with testimonies from our lovely customers.

John & Marian
Australia

A truly amazing experience! With Iceland Packages, I reserved an Iceland trip package for my honeymoon, and it well above all my expectations. Everything about the experience was beautiful, from the breath-taking scenery to the flawless setups. Strongly advise anyone organizing a romantic gateway to use their services.

John Legend
United States

A Memorable Iceland Journey! I had the most amazing holiday ever with my family. All the must-see locations and activities were included in the thoughtfully designed tour package. The local guides were immensely informative, and the accommodations were excellent. I'm eager to make another reservation with them.

Jeff Daniels
United States

A Fantastic Trip to Iceland! I am so grateful to Iceland Packages for planning the ideal trip for me. Everything was handled perfectly from the time I landed until I left. I was able to take my time discovering Iceland's hidden treasures because I could alter my schedule to suit my needs. Absolutely once in a lifetime!".

Mel Gibson
Ireland

Easy Reservations and Top-Notch Support! It was really easy to book my flights and vacation package to Iceland. Their customer service team was really helpful throughout the entire process. The trip itself was excellent; every aspect had been carefully thought out. Strongly advised for hassle-free trip preparation!.