Iceland is a bird watcher’s dream, teeming with a wide array of bird species in picturesque settings. In this article I explore ten birding spots where you can experience the magic of Iceland’s wildlife, including puffins, loons, and various wading birds in their natural habitats.
Iceland, with its dramatic landscapes and unique geological features, is not just a paradise for nature enthusiasts but also a haven for bird watchers. The country’s diverse ecosystems, from rugged coastlines and serene wetlands to expansive lava fields, provide ideal habitats for a rich variety of bird species. Whether you’re eager to catch a glimpse of the iconic puffins, hear the haunting calls of loons, or observe the elegant wading birds in their natural settings, Iceland offers a plethora of prime birding locations. Here are ten must-visit spots that promise unforgettable avian encounters, showcasing the breathtaking beauty and biodiversity of this enchanting island.
I spent ten days in Iceland in early June, eager to experience the country’s wildlife and breathtaking landscapes. Although I was ready for some bad weather and windy conditions, I wasn’t prepared for nearly ten days of relentless rain, snowstorms, and fierce North Atlantic gales. The weather hindered my visits to some locations, and my birding experiences at others were less than ideal. However, Iceland’s unpredictable nature is part of its charm, so you should also be ready for inclement weather. In this article, you’ll find birding spots that are easily accessible even in challenging conditions—just don’t forget to bring a rain cover for your camera and lens.
We used the Norwegian weather site yr.no to track the changing weather, and it proved very accurate in its predictions.
Iceland also experiences volcanic activity near the capital, Reykjavik, and the country’s main airport. Our trip was nearly canceled at the last minute due to a volcanic eruption on the Reykjanes Peninsula. Fortunately, air traffic remained unaffected. If you encounter a similar situation, the official tourism website for Iceland, www.visiticeland.com, provides up-to-date information and essential details, allowing you to adjust your travel plans accordingly. I highly recommend checking the site for updates on air and road travel conditions in Iceland.
As highlighted in the article’s introduction, adverse weather conditions greatly impacted my travel itinerary. Despite thorough research on Iceland’s birding spots, I couldn’t visit all of them during my 10-day trip. Consequently, this article begins by detailing six birding locations I explored and concludes with recommendations for four additional spots. These four recommendations stem from my pre-trip research and are deemed worthy of inclusion in this guide.
Amidst the desolate beauty of Iceland’s southeastern coast lies the Ingólfshöfði bird colony, a remote oasis in a vast expanses of black sand accessible only with a guide and a tractor. While the landscape is breathtaking, visitors should be aware that sightings of puffins and razorbills may not always be abundant, requiring binoculars to spot them in the distance.
However, this location offers a unique opportunity to observe the majestic Great Skua up close. The Great Skua, known as “Sterkorinn” in Icelandic, is a formidable seabird that inhabits the coastal regions of Iceland. With its robust build and striking dark plumage, it commands attention along the rugged shores of the island. Known for its aggressive behavior, the Great Skua fiercely defends its nesting territory. While it primarily feeds on fish and scavenging on carrion, it can also go for a tasty puffin (according to the local guide).
The Great Skua
As you journey through the nesting area, be mindful of these large birds and avoid getting too close to their nests. Stick together with your group and follow the guidance of your tour guide to ensure a safe and memorable experience.
A puffin flies by at Ingólfshöfði with the black sand as a perfect backdrop
To get to this remote island colony you need to book a guide and a tractor ride from the company From Coast to Mountain, a family-operated business with over 30 years of experience. Their excellent guides will enhance your birding adventure and provide insights into the fascinating wildlife in the area.
Visit their website at fromcoasttomountains.com for more information and to book your tour.
Borgarfjörður Eystri, ranking as number two on my list, offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness puffins up close – truly up close, reminiscent of my experience on Mykines on The Faroe Islands.
A short video of Borgarfjörður Eystri shot on my mobile phone. It was overcast and raining, but still a wonderful experience
Despite its remote location, Borgarfjörður Eystri stands out as the ultimate spot in Iceland for photographing puffins. The puffin colony sits adjacent to the local harbor, with a wooden walking path leading up the small hill. During the summer months, the hill comes alive with the bustling activity of up to 10,000 nesting puffins.
Visitors enjoy a unique experience, walking amidst the colony, surrounded by these iconic birds as they tend to their cave nests. Remarkably, the puffins remain undisturbed by human presence, providing close encounters and incredible photo opportunities to capture their colorful plumage and comical antics.
Surprisingly, even a wide-angle lens can yield stunning puffin portraits at this spot, but a 70-200 mm lens, like the one I brought, seems ideal for the task. I wholeheartedly recommend this extraordinary place to any traveler visiting Iceland.
Read more on Borgarfjörður eystri here.
Djúpivogur might not feature in many tourist guides, and the local town doesn’t offer much except a couple of cafés and a supermarket. However, just south of the town is a small airstrip surrounded by wetlands, providing plenty of opportunities to spot birds.
To begin your birding adventure, drive to the northern end of the airstrip just outside town, where you’ll find a small parking lot near a birde hide (shed) that offers information about the local area and wildlife. From here, cross the airstrip’s northern section and follow the path through the wetlands. Small bridges over the streams will guide you to an bird hide with a stunning view of the lake. For the best experience, continue along the circular path around the wetlands, eventually leading you back to the airstrip and parking lot.
The wetlands and tidal zones are teeming with life, attracting wading birds such as the Redshank, Snipe, and Whimbrel. Along the rocky shores and serene beaches, you can also spot the tiny Red-necked Phalarope, while the open waters are frequented by seabirds like Arctic Terns and various duck species.
Lake Mývatn, located in northern Iceland, is a birdwatcher’s paradise and ranks as number four on my list of top birding spots in Iceland. This serene and expansive lake, surrounded by volcanic landscapes and lush wetlands, provides a diverse range of habitats that attract a wide variety of bird species. Its name, which translates to “Midge Lake,” hints at the abundant insect life that supports the area’s rich bird population.
One of the most compelling reasons to visit Lake Mývatn for birding is the sheer diversity of species you can encounter. The lake and its surrounding wetlands are home to a significant population of waterfowl, including the striking Harlequin Duck and the Barrow’s Goldeneye, both of which breed in the area. The Eurasian Wigeon, Gadwall, and Northern Shoveler are also common sights. Additionally, the lake’s unique ecosystem supports a variety of waders and shorebirds, such as the Black-tailed Godwit and Red-necked Phalarope.
During the summer months, the lush vegetation and insect-rich waters make Lake Mývatn a breeding haven for numerous bird species. The area is particularly famous for its large colonies of breeding ducks, with over 15 species regularly observed. Birdwatchers can enjoy excellent views from various observation points around the lake, including well-maintained paths and hides that offer close encounters with the birdlife.
Moreover, the surrounding landscapes, featuring volcanic craters, lava fields, and geothermal springs, add to the area’s unique charm and provide additional opportunities for observing Iceland’s diverse flora and fauna. Whether you are a seasoned birder or a nature enthusiast, Lake Mývatn offers an unforgettable birding experience amidst some of Iceland’s most stunning scenery.
Áshildarholtsvatn, a serene lake nestled in West Iceland, ranks as number five on our list of top birding spots in Iceland. This tranquil location is a lesser-known gem that offers birdwatchers a peaceful and intimate setting to observe a diverse array of bird species.
The lake and its surrounding wetlands provide an ideal habitat for various waterfowl and wading birds. During the breeding season, Áshildarholtsvatn becomes a hub of activity, with species such as the Tufted Duck, Eurasian Wigeon, and Northern Pintail making their nests along the shoreline. The area is also home to the striking Red-throated Diver, which can be seen gliding across the water or diving for fish.
One of the standout features of Áshildarholtsvatn is its population of breeding Whooper Swans. These majestic birds, with their distinctive calls and graceful demeanor, are a highlight for any birdwatcher visiting the lake. Additionally, the wetlands surrounding the lake are rich in insect life, supporting a variety of smaller bird species, including the Snipe and the Black-tailed Godwit.
Birdwatchers can explore the area via a network of walking paths that wind around the lake, offering multiple vantage points for observing the birdlife. The paths are well-maintained and provide easy access to the best birding spots, ensuring that visitors can enjoy their experience without disturbing the natural environment.
Áshildarholtsvatn’s relatively remote location means that it remains a quiet and undisturbed spot, perfect for birdwatchers seeking a more secluded and immersive experience. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or simply enjoy spending time in nature, Áshildarholtsvatn offers a rewarding and picturesque birding experience amidst the serene landscapes of West Iceland.
Flói Bird Reserve, located in South Iceland about an hour or so from Reykjavik, ranks as number six on my list of top birding spots in Iceland. This expansive wetland reserve is a haven for birdwatchers, offering flat wetland area that allows you to easily observe a variety of bird species in their natural habitat.
The reserve is particularly renowned for its rich diversity of wading birds and waterfowl. During the breeding season, visitors can expect to see species such as the Red-throated loon and Snipes, all of which thrive in the wetland’s lush, marshy environment. The Flói Bird Reserve is also home to the charismatic Whimbrel and the elegant Whooper Swan. You might even see a sole Short-eared Owl flying low over the marshes.
You have to drive quite some way along a dirt and gravel road, but at the very end is a large parking lot and a single house that is open to all visitors and offers brochures and information about the birds in the area.
The reserve features well-maintained walking paths and observation hides, allowing visitors to explore the area comfortably and get close to the birdlife without disturbing their natural behaviors. Information boards along the trails provide insights into the species you are likely to encounter, enhancing the educational aspect of your visit.
Flói Bird Reserve’s proximity to Selfoss makes it an easily accessible destination for birdwatchers traveling through South Iceland. The reserve offers a rewarding and picturesque birding experience amidst the stunning landscapes of Iceland.
Here are four additional birding locations I had researched and intended to visit during my trip to Iceland. Regrettably, adverse weather conditions prevented me from exploring these spots, so I am unable to share any firsthand experiences or photographs. Nonetheless, I believe they warrant inclusion in the list, as my thorough research indicated their significance. Therefore, if you are planning a birding or wildlife photography trip to Iceland, I recommend considering these locations as well.
Papey, a small island off the east coast of Iceland, is number seven on my list of top birding spots. This secluded island is a sanctuary for seabirds, providing an ideal habitat for a variety of species. Visitors to Papey can observe large colonies of Atlantic Puffins, Common Guillemots, and Razorbills. The island’s rocky cliffs and grassy slopes offer perfect nesting sites, making it a bustling hub of avian activity during the breeding season. Accessible by boat from Djúpivogur, Papey offers birdwatchers an exceptional opportunity to experience Iceland’s seabird diversity in a stunning, remote setting.
Rif Wetland, home to an Arctic Tern Colony, claims the eighth spot on my list. Situated on the northwest coast of Iceland, this wetland area attracts a plethora of bird species, with the Arctic Terns taking center stage during the breeding season. There are plenty of locations were you will encounter the Artic Tern on Iceland, but this should be one of the best. Visitors can witness the remarkable sight of these elegant birds as they dive and swoop over the wetlands, tirelessly guarding their nests. With its breathtaking coastal scenery and abundant birdlife, Rif Wetland offers birdwatchers a memorable and immersive experience amidst Iceland’s natural beauty.
Hornstrandir Nature Reserve, is found in the remote northwest corner of Iceland and secures the ninth spot onmy list. This pristine wilderness is a haven for birdwatchers, offering unparalleled opportunities to observe a variety of seabirds and coastal species in their natural habitat. Visitors to Hornstrandir can marvel at the majestic sight of soaring seabirds such as Northern Fulmars and Kittiwakes, while also catching glimpses of Arctic Foxes and seals along the rugged coastline. With its rugged landscapes and abundant wildlife, Hornstrandir Nature Reserve promises an unforgettable birding adventure amidst Iceland’s untamed wilderness.
Látrabjarg, marking the final spot on my list, is a must-visit destination for bird enthusiasts in Iceland. This towering cliff, located in the Westfjords region, is renowned as one of the largest seabird colonies in the world. Here, visitors can witness the awe-inspiring sight of thousands of seabirds, including Atlantic Puffins, Razorbills, and Northern Gannets, nesting precariously on the cliffs’ sheer edges. The dramatic coastal scenery combined with the cacophony of bird calls creates an unforgettable experience for birdwatchers. As the westernmost point of Iceland, Látrabjarg offers a spectacular finale to any birding expedition in this remarkable country.