From Reykjavík: 3-Day Tour of the Wild and Wonderful Westfjords

Exploring Iceland’s Westfjords is a bucket-list experience, and this well-reviewed 3-day tour from Reykjavik offers an excellent way to absorb the rugged beauty without the hassle of driving yourself. With a rated 5.0 based on 10 reviews and a consistent 100% recommendation rate, this tour balances impressive sights, wildlife encounters, and cozy accommodations. Priced at $1,019 per person, it’s a significant investment but one that delivers a comprehensive, stress-free experience packed with genuine Icelandic charm.

What I love about this tour are two key aspects. First, the expert-guided storytelling—the tour’s guides, like the one praised for their patience and humor, really bring the landscape and history alive. Second, the diverse sights—from towering cliffs at Látrabjarg to the waterfall spectacle of Dynjandi—mean you get a real taste of Iceland’s wild side, without sacrificing comfort or convenience. An important consideration: the tour involves a lot of terrain and outdoor walking, so be prepared for some physical activity, especially at stops like Grábrók Craters or Bolafjall’s skywalk.

This tour offers excellent value for travelers who want to see Iceland’s finest westward landscapes with knowledgeable guides, comfortable logistics, and a chance to enjoy authentic encounters with wildlife and local history. If you’re after a safe, well-organized way to explore the wildest part of Iceland, this could be just the trip you need.

Key Points

• All-inclusive comfort: Two nights in en-suite rooms with breakfast, plus transportation.
• Expert storytelling: Guides like the one praised for sharing detailed stories about Iceland’s history and people elevate the experience.
• Diverse highlights: From bird colonies at Látrabjarg to waterfalls like Dynjandi, scenery varies widely.
• Wildlife encounters: Opportunities to see seals, arctic foxes, and seabirds, with dedicated visits to wildlife centers.
• Efficient itinerary: Carefully curated stops ensure you see iconic sites without feeling rushed.
• Weather considerations: Good weather is needed; cancellations due to poor weather are fully refunded or rescheduled.

Detailed Review of the 3-Day Westfjords Tour

The Overall Experience

This tour is a great choice if you’re eager to see Iceland’s most remote and striking landscapes without the stress of driving or planning every detail. The group size is limited—up to 18 travelers—which fosters a friendly, intimate atmosphere. Plus, with WiFi on board and air-conditioned vehicles, you’re comfortably connected and cooled during long drives.

Based in Reykjavik, the tour kicks off around 9:00AM, with pick-up options from hotels, the harbor, or bus stops. The first day quickly immerses you in the western Icelandic scenery, weaving together history, nature, and local culture.

Day 1: From Reykjavík to the Westfjords’ Gateway

The first stop is Borgarnes, a town situated on the City Fjord. While it’s free to explore, it sets the tone for the scenic journey ahead. The real highlight here is Eiriksstadir, the turf-roofed home of Eirik the Red and his son Leif the Lucky. The included entry fee means you can walk through this well-preserved Viking longhouse and imagine the days when these brave explorers set out across the Atlantic.

Next, you’ll visit the coastal cliffs along Breiðafjörður Fjord, a dramatic gateway to the Westfjords, dotted with rocky islands and seabirds. This spot offers incredible ocean views and a chance to spot some puffins or other seabirds if you’re lucky. The visit to Vatnsfjörður showcases Þingmanná Waterfalls and a striking canyon, places that embody Iceland’s raw geology.

The drive crosses a mountain range at Kleifaheiði, where, funnily enough, the engineers who built the mountain road left behind a 5-meter-high stone statue called Kleifabúi—a quirky reminder of human effort amidst wild landscapes. The day ends at Látrabjarg, Iceland’s tallest sea cliff and Europe’s westernmost point. Here, you’ll likely see puffins and other seabirds, with some of the most breathtaking cliff-top views over 440 meters above the sea.

Day 2: Wildlife and Waterfalls

The second day starts strong with a visit to a stranded fishing boat at Gardingur, believed to be as old as the Titanic—an eerie and historically fascinating site. Afterward, a stroll along Rauðisandur, a 10-kilometer-long beach with multicolored sands, provides a striking landscape perfect for photos or just a peaceful walk.

A brief stop at Fossfjörður features a charming waterfall, and then it’s time for the Westfjords Instagram favorite, A-House, known for its panoramic views. The day’s centerpiece is the legendary Dynjandi waterfall, affectionately called the “wedding cake” waterfall due to its tiered shape. It crashes down over 100 meters, and you’ll love how close you can get to feel the power of Iceland’s waterfalls. The guide’s storytelling makes the experience even richer, sharing insights about the area’s geology and ecology.

Finally, you visit Önundarfjörður for more stunning vistas, with black sand beaches and dunes creating a landscape that feels surreal and untouched.

Day 3: Skywalks, Wildlife, and the Return

The third day begins with a drive up Bolafjall mountain, where the skywalk platform offers sweeping views of fjords, mountains, and the coast—an excellent photo opportunity and a chance to stretch your legs. Next, you visit Osvor Maritime Museum, a collection of traditional turf-roofed fishing buildings that showcase Icelandic seafaring life.

The 15-minute visit to Ósóhlar Lighthouse provides stunning coastal views and a sense of Iceland’s nautical history. From Ísafjörður, you’ll trace the fjord landscape, with views sweeping across seven fjords, a photographer’s dream.

Crucially, this tour isn’t just about scenery. It incorporates wildlife-focused stops like the Arctic Fox Centre, where you can learn about and potentially see Iceland’s only native land mammal. The seal watching at Hvítanes offers one last chance to see these charming creatures in their natural habitat.

As the tour winds down, there’s a final stop at Grábrók Crater, where walking up the volcanic crater gives you panoramic views of the surrounding volcanic landscape—an energetic and fulfilling way to end the trip before heading back to Reykjavík.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This journey suits travelers who want an immersive experience in Iceland’s wild west rather than just a quick overview. It’s perfect for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and history buffs who appreciate guided storytelling and are comfortable with outdoor walking. The group size means you’ll get personal attention, and the accommodations ensure restful nights after long days of exploration. If you’re a photographer, the variety of landscapes and viewpoints is ideal.

It’s also a good fit if you prefer a stress-free trip—the bus handles the driving, navigation, and logistics, while you focus on soaking in the scenery. Young travelers, families, or older visitors who enjoy active sightseeing will find this tour flexible and accommodating.

Who Might Want to Consider Other Options

If you’re on a tight budget or prefer independent travel, this might seem pricey, but keep in mind the included accommodations, guides, and entry fees provide value. Also, if you’re not comfortable with outdoor walking or mountain drives, some stops might be less accessible. Weather can impact the experience, especially at exposed sites like Bolafjall or Látrabjarg, so good planning and an open mind are advised.

Final Thoughts

This 3-day Westfjords tour offers a rare chance to experience Iceland’s most remote corners with comfort and insight. The combination of stunning landscapes, memorable wildlife moments, and engaging guides makes it a compelling choice for those who want to go beyond the typical Golden Circle or South Coast. The price reflects the comprehensive nature of the trip, including authentic accommodations, which add to the sense of Icelandic immersion.

If you’re eager for adventure, love photography, and enjoy learning about local stories while surrounded by breathtaking scenery, this tour will meet and likely exceed your expectations. Just come prepared for some outdoor walking, bring your camera, and get ready to fall in love with Iceland’s wild, rugged Westfjords.

FAQ: Your Practical Questions Answered

• What is included in the tour price?
  The tour includes two nights in en-suite accommodations with breakfast, guided transportation, entry fees to Eiriksstaðir Viking Longhouse and Arctic Fox Center, WiFi on board, and the skywalk at Bolafjall.

• Are meals provided?
  No, lunch and dinner aren’t included. The stops are scheduled to allow guests to buy their own meals or snacks during the day.

• How are the accommodations?
  Guests stay in private rooms with ensuite bathrooms, providing comfort after long days of sightseeing. Breakfast is included both mornings.

• Is this tour suitable for children or older adults?
  It’s generally suitable for most travelers who enjoy outdoor activities and are comfortable with some walking and mountain roads. Always check with the provider if traveling with very young children or seniors.

• What if the weather turns bad?
  The tour requires good weather to fully enjoy the stops. Cancellations due to poor weather are fully refunded or rescheduled. Weather conditions in Iceland can be unpredictable, so be prepared.

• How far in advance should I book?
  On average, travelers book about 97 days in advance, which helps ensure availability for this popular tour.

• Are wildlife sightings guaranteed?
  While the tour offers opportunities to see seals and arctic foxes, sightings depend on animals’ natural behavior. The Arctic Fox Center and seal stops increase your chances.

• What’s the group size?
  The maximum is 18 travelers, fostering a friendly atmosphere and allowing guides to give more personalized attention.

• How physically active is the tour?
  Expect walking at stops like Grábrók Crater, skywalks, and viewpoints. It’s not overly strenuous but does involve some outdoor movement.

• Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
  Yes, cancellations up to 24 hours in advance are fully refundable. Less notice may forfeit your payment.

This tour is a well-rounded introduction to Iceland’s wild west, blending natural beauty, adventure, and local culture—all with the convenience of expert guidance. It’s ideal if you want a comprehensive, thoughtfully curated experience that takes the stress out of exploring this remote part of the world.