Half-day Private Puffin and Elves Tour in Borgarfjordur Eystri

Travel into one of East Iceland’s most magical and charming areas on this private half-day tour to Borgarfjörður Eystri – a region known for close-up puffin encounters, dramatic coastal landscapes, and a rich world of folklore where elves still reign in local legend.

From your pickup point in Egilsstaðir or Seyðisfjörður, we drive through rugged mountain roads with several scenic stops along the way. Your guide will share stories about the land, the people, and the hidden creatures that are said to inhabit these valleys and cliffs.

Our main destination is Hafnarhólmi, a small harbor where you can get incredibly close to puffins and seabirds in their natural environment (May–August). This is one of the best birdwatching spots in Iceland, with wooden walkways that let you enjoy the birds without disturbing their nesting areas.

We also take time to explore the village of Borgarfjörður Eystri, home to around 100 residents – and possibly the queen of the Icelandic elves, said to reside at Álfaborg (The Elves’ Castle) in the heart of the village.

Before heading back, we recommend a short break at a local café – a chance to enjoy homemade food (like fish soup!) and soak in the peaceful atmosphere of this remote and welcoming community.

This tour offers an intimate glimpse into Icelandic nature and folklore – a light, relaxed half-day adventure for those who want to see puffins, hear stories, and visit somewhere truly unique.

Operated as a private tour for 1–7 passengers

Private guided tour (for 1–7 passengers)
A personalized experience led by a local guide who shares the stories, folklore, and wildlife of East Iceland.
Pickup and drop-off in Seyðisfjörður or Egilsstaðir
Comfortable transport in a private vehicle, tailored to your group’s pace and preferences.
Local storytelling and cultural insights
Learn about the area’s history, daily life, and the legendary elves said to live in the region.
Visit to Hafnarhólmi puffin colony
Experience one of Iceland’s best birdwatching spots with close-up views of puffins (May–August) and other seabirds.
Exploration of Borgarfjörður Eystri village
Walk through this remote, friendly town and see Álfaborg – the hill said to be home to Iceland’s elf queen.
Optional scenic stops on the return journey
If time and weather permit, we’ll stop at beautiful viewpoints on the way back.
Free water bottle for each guest
Stay refreshed during your tour with a complimentary reusable water bottle provided at the start.Bottled water

Puffins are seasonal
Puffins nest at Hafnarhólmi from May to mid-August. Outside of this period, birdwatching is limited.
The drive includes gravel mountain roads
The road to Borgarfjörður Eystri includes narrow, winding sections with gravel surfaces. All driving is handled by your experienced local guide.
Tour duration includes travel time
The tour lasts approximately 4.5–5 hours, including the 1.5-hour drive each way.
Restroom access is limited
Facilities may be basic or unavailable between major stops. A restroom is usually available in the village and at Hafnarhólmi.
Mobile service is limited
Expect low or no signal in parts of the fjord – a great excuse to unplug and enjoy the moment.
Meeting your guide
Your guide will meet you outside your accommodation, with a marked vehicle and a sign with your booking name. Look for the East Highlanders logo on the guide's clothing.

A 100% charge applies if canceled within 2 days of the start time.

Pickup in Seyðisfjörður or Egilsstaðir
Begin your adventure into Icelandic nature and folklore
Your guide will pick you up at preselected pickup point either in Seyðisfjörður or Egilsstaðir. From there, we head east into the mountains toward one of Iceland’s most scenic and story-filled fjords.
Scenic drive to Borgarfjörður Eystri
Mountain views and storytelling along the way
We drive directly to Borgarfjörður Eystri (approx. 1.5 hours), following a dramatic mountain route. Your guide will share local tales, history, and points of interest as we travel through this wild and remote landscape.
Arrival at Borgarfjörður Eystri village
A quiet village full of charm and character
We enter the peaceful village of Borgarfjörður Eystri, home to around 100 residents – and, according to local lore, the queen of the elves at Álfaborg (The Elves’ Castle), a grassy hill in the heart of town.
Puffin watching at Hafnarhólmi
Get up close to Iceland’s most iconic bird
Just outside the village lies Hafnarhólmi, a small harbor and birdwatching haven. Wooden walkways and platforms allow you to see puffins, kittiwakes, and other seabirds in their natural nesting grounds – often just a few meters away.
Optional café stop in the village
Relax with local flavors and fjord views
If time allows and the café is open, we recommend a short break to enjoy coffee or a light bite (not included in the tour). It’s a great opportunity to connect with the peaceful atmosphere of the village.
Return drive with optional scenic stops
Let the landscape surprise you on the way back
On the return journey, we may stop at a few beautiful viewpoints if weather and timing allow. It’s the perfect chance for one last photo and a moment to take it all in.
Drop-off in Seyðisfjörður or Egilsstaðir
A lighthearted adventure comes to a close
After exploring the land of puffins and elves, we return you to your pickup location with new memories, stories, and (hopefully) a few puffin photos to share.

Clothing suitable for Icelandic weather
Dress in layers and bring a waterproof and windproof outer layer. Even summer days can feel cold near the ocean.
Good walking shoes or boots
Closed-toe footwear with a sturdy sole is essential, especially for walking near Hafnarhólmi or around Álfaborg.
Hat and gloves
Especially useful on cooler or windy days — even in June and July.
Reusable water bottle
A complimentary water bottle is provided for each guest, but you’re welcome to bring your own too.
Snacks or small bites
Food is not included in the tour. We may stop at a café, but it’s always good to have something on hand.
Your phone or camera
Capture the puffins, the scenery, and maybe even a hidden elf or two! And don’t forget to tag us:
#easthighlanders #creatememories
Your good mood 😄
This is a light, joyful tour – full of nature, stories, and charm.