Just off Iceland’s south coast lie the Westman Islands (Vestmannaeyjar), a small volcanic archipelago with an outsized story. Our tours visit Heimaey, the only inhabited island, where a 1973 eruption buried part of the town and reshaped the landscape. Today you can walk on the still-warm lava, hike the volcano Eldfell, and watch one of the world’s largest puffin colonies wheel over the cliffs.
Reached by a short ferry crossing, the Westman Islands offer dramatic scenery, fascinating volcanic history, rich birdlife and boat tours around their sheer sea cliffs and caves — a memorable day trip or overnight escape.
By the Herjólfur car-and-passenger ferry from Landeyjahöfn on the south coast, a crossing of around 35–40 minutes. Flights are also possible.
The 1973 Eldfell eruption and its buried houses (the 'Pompeii of the North'), huge puffin colonies, boat tours of the sea cliffs, and the Þjóðhátíð festival.
Yes — the islands host one of the world's largest puffin populations, best seen roughly from May to August.
Yes, a day trip works well, though staying overnight lets you fully enjoy the hikes, wildlife and relaxed island atmosphere.
A famous festival held on Heimaey over the August bank-holiday weekend, drawing thousands for music, bonfires and fireworks.
