Reykjavík in 1 Day for Friends - Ferry crossing from Landeyjahöfn to Heimaey (≈35 minutes)
In Collaboration with Your Day Tours. Updated on February 25, 2026.
Day tour from Reykjavík to Heimaey (Vestmannaeyjar) featuring puffin viewing, historical sites and a hike to the Eldfell volcano formed in 1973. The day includes the ferry from Landeyjahöfn, a valley walk in Herjólfsdalur, a photo stop at Elephant Rock, puffin viewing at Stórhöfði, a visit to the Eldheimar museum and a hike up Eldfell with island views.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Your Day Tours, inspired by the tour Your Vestmannaeyjar, Puffin and Volcano Tour. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Ferry crossing from Landeyjahöfn to Heimaey (≈35 minutes)
- Puffin and seabird colony viewing at Stórhöfði
- Herjólfsdalur valley walk and turf-farm reconstitution
- Eldheimar Museum (’Pompeii of the North’)
- Hike to the summit of Eldfell volcano with island views
Itinerary
Day 1
Pickup in Reykjavík and coach transfer toward the south coast and the Landeyjahöfn ferry terminal. This period covers vehicle pickup, passenger briefings and the road transfer to the ferry departure point.
Pickup and transfer from Reykjavík
Group pickup across Reykjavík and coach transfer to Landeyjahöfn ferry terminal. Driver/guide will confirm final ferry boarding time and safety briefing en route.
Tips from local experts:
- Have a light jacket and a windproof layer handy — coastal wind can be strong even in summer.
- Bring any medication or motion sickness remedies before boarding; the coach and ferry are the best times to take them if needed.
- Keep your passport or ID and any small valuables in a daypack for easy access during ferry check-in.
Day 1
Board the ferry at Landeyjahöfn for the crossing to Heimaey (the only inhabited island in the Westman archipelago). Onboard there is an indoor cafeteria and an outer deck for fresh-air viewing.
Landeyjahöfn — ferry boarding and crossing
Arrive at Landeyjahöfn, check-in and board the car/passenger ferry to Heimaey. Ferry crossing takes about 35 minutes; restrooms and a small cafeteria are available on board.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive at boarding area promptly to allow vehicle/foot passengers to board in the correct order.
- If you want photos of the island approach, use the outer deck but secure loose items—it can be windy.
- Use the ferry restroom before disembarking on Heimaey; facilities on arrival are limited at small landing points.
Day 1
First on-island stop: Herjólfsdalur valley. A short guided walk introduces local history, turf-farm reconstruction and island legends.
Herjólfsdalur — valley walk
A roughly 30-minute guided walk through Herjólfsdalur, surrounded by Dalfjall and featuring a turf-farm reconstitution (Herjólfsbær). The guide will share historical notes and island folklore.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear sturdy, closed shoes — paths may be uneven and muddy after rain.
- Bring a small water bottle and sun protection; summer sun can be strong during the walk.
- Listen to the guide’s safety notes and stay on the marked path to protect fragile turf and bird nesting areas.
Day 1
Quick photo stop at the famous Elephant Rock formation for coastal views and group photos.
Elephant Rock — photo stop
Short stop for photos at Elephant Rock, a coastal pillar formation that from some angles resembles an elephant with a submerged trunk. Typical stop duration is about 5 minutes.
Tips from local experts:
- Have your camera ready; the stop is brief so prepare camera settings before arrival.
- Keep a safe distance from cliff edges — the viewing point is exposed and can be slippery.
- If travelling with jackets or hats, secure them before stepping out—the site is exposed to gusts.
Day 1
Stórhöfði peninsula is the best local viewpoint for seabirds and puffin colonies during the breeding season; expect a short, interpretive walk with lookout points.
Stórhöfði — puffin and seabird viewing
Walk and lookout time at Stórhöfði to view puffins and other seabirds. The walk and viewpoints take about 25 minutes; the area is exposed and is known for strong winds.
Tips from local experts:
- Puffins nest in summer months (typically late spring–summer); binoculars or a camera with zoom improve viewing.
- Dress in windproof layers—Stórhöfði is often windy and temperatures feel cooler than in town.
- Keep to paths and observation points to avoid trampling nests; follow the guide’s instructions for safe viewing.
Day 1
Visit Eldheimar Museum to learn about the 1973 Eldfell eruption and see excavated homes preserved under lava.
Eldheimar Museum
Guided visit to Eldheimar Museum (the excavation and museum built around a house buried by the 1973 eruption). The visit is typically about 35 minutes and includes indoor exhibits and restrooms.
Tips from local experts:
- The museum has indoor exhibits and restrooms — use them if you need a break from outdoor exposure.
- There are narrow exhibit spaces; if you are in a group, move through displays in small numbers to avoid crowding.
- Photography is usually allowed in public spaces but follow any signage in exhibit areas regarding flash or tripods.
Day 1
Short hike to the summit of Eldfell volcano for panoramic island views and to see recent lava formations. The walk up and down is planned as a guided ascent and takes approximately 55 minutes.
Eldfell — volcano hike
Guided hike to the top of Eldfell. The ascent and descent are planned to take about 55 minutes; terrain is volcanic rock and loose scree in sections. The summit provides wide views over Heimaey and the surrounding sea.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good grip; trails are volcanic and can be loose underfoot.
- Carry a small daypack with water and a light snack; there are no facilities on the trail.
- Follow the guide’s pace — allow others to stop for photos and wait at safe pull-outs to keep the group together.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Friends |
| Transfers | 2 |
| Restaurants | - |
| Total Activities | 5 |
| Total Places | 5 |
| Activities Types | Transfer, Outdoor, Attraction, Culture |
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