Puff, puff, puff—say hello to arrays of puffins that took all over Iceland. From mid-April to August these toy-like birds make Iceland their home. They come to feed, breed and, of course, amuse the visitors. This spectacle is something—many tourists even say they haven't seen such a huge colony of birds in one place.
Perfect sites for watching these fluffy birds are Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach near the city Vik and the islands Heimaey, Lundey, and Akurey that you can easily reach by ferry. Don't forget to clean up your photo memory card—you'll be absorbed in taking pictures of puffin's characteristic colourful beak and fluffy white face. Have fun!
Practical info
When is the best time to see puffins in Iceland?
From mid-April through August, visitors to Iceland have the best chance of spotting puffins. These charming birds can be seen in a variety of locations, including Heimaey, Lundey, and Akurey. One popular spot for birdwatching is Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, located near the city of Vik. Show more
Where are the best places to spot puffins in Iceland?
Puffin watching is a popular activity in Iceland, and many of the best locations are readily accessible by ferry. In addition to the islands of Heimaey, Lundey, and Akurey, visitors can observe puffins congregating at Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach near Vik. Show more
How many puffins can be seen in one place?
Iceland's Heimaey, Lundey, and Akurey islands are among the spots where visitors can observe puffins in vast numbers. During the breeding season, which falls between mid-April and August, visitors can witness millions of these charming birds flocking to Iceland to feed and mate. Show more
What is unique about the puffin's beak and face?
The puffin's beak has a unique triple-flanged shape, is orange and red, and sports a colourful top. Puffins' plumage is black-and-white, while their faces are white with black eye-stripes. These characteristics make puffins easily recognizable, especially when they are gathered together. Show more
Are there any restrictions on photographing the puffins?
Visitors are welcome to take photographs of puffins. However, conservationists recommend maintaining a safe distance from these birds, which promotes both tourist safety and bird well-being alike. Iceland's conservation efforts have helped to increase puffin populations, and it is important for visitors to respect the birds and their habitats when photographing them. Show more
