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

Our review of the 3-Day Westfjords tour offers a detailed look at what travelers can expect when exploring Iceland’s most remote and rugged region. This guided adventure promises stunning scenery, fascinating history, and plenty of opportunities to spot Arctic wildlife—all without the hassle of driving yourself. It’s a great way to see the Westfjords’ dramatic cliffs, black sand beaches, and waterfalls, especially if you prefer a comfortable, informative, and well-organized trip.

What we love most about this tour is the ease of transportation—your group is shuttled smoothly between highlights—plus the inclusion of two nights in en-suite accommodation with hearty breakfasts. These little touches make the experience comfortable and practical. One consideration is that lunch and dinner aren’t included, so you’ll want to budget extra time and money for meals. This tour suits travelers who want a rich, authentic Westfjords experience without the stress of planning every detail themselves, especially those who appreciate knowledgeable guides and scenic stops.

Key Points

• All-inclusive comfort with transfers, two nights’ accommodation, and breakfasts
• Authentic Icelandic sights like Viking longhouses, fjords, waterfalls, and seabird colonies
• Wildlife spotting opportunities for seals, Arctic foxes, and bird enthusiasts
• Spectacular views from skywalks, mountain passes, and cliff edges
• Informative guides who share stories about Icelandic history and nature
• Flexible options for breaks, photo stops, and local interactions

An In-Depth Look at the 3-Day Westfjords Tour

This tour is designed to let you savor the Westfjords’ raw beauty without the hassle of navigating or driving. It offers a rich combination of scenic views, wildlife encounters, and cultural insights, all within a comfortably paced three days. Let’s walk through the itinerary to understand what makes this trip so appealing—and why it might be right for you.

Day 1: From Reykjavik to the Western Edge of Iceland

The journey kicks off early, with pickup from your Reykjavik hotel or designated meeting point. First, you’ll stop in Borgarnes, the charming town on the City Fjord, which offers a quick orientation and a chance to stretch your legs. Next, a highlight is visiting Eiriksstadir, the turf-roofed Viking longhouse where Eirik the Red and his son Leif the Lucky once lived. This site, included in your tour, provides a tangible connection to Iceland’s Viking past, long before Columbus sailed the ocean blue.

From there, the landscape shifts to rocky coastlines, with a visit to coastal cliffs at Breiðafjörður—a great spot for photos of rugged islands and ocean views. The next stop is the Vatnsfjörður, home to Þingmanná Waterfalls and a stunning canyon, offering a taste of Iceland’s dramatic geology.

Crossing the Kleifaheiði mountain range is a memorable experience, especially with the quirky sight of the Kleifabúi stone statue—a surprising marker built by engineers. The day culminates at Látrabjarg, the Westernmost point of Europe, where towering cliffs host bustling bird colonies and the famous Bjargtangar Lighthouse. Expect spectacular views over the Atlantic and plenty of opportunities for birdwatching.

Day 2: Fjords, Waterfalls, and Wildlife

The second day dives deeper into the region’s natural treasures. Early stops include a visit to Gardhur, an abandoned fishing boat as old as the Titanic—an evocative relic that sparks stories of Iceland’s seafaring past. Then, you’ll stroll along Rauðisandur, a 10-kilometer-long beach with multicolored sands that change hue with the light—perfect for peaceful walks and memorable photos.

Next, the charming Fossfjörður waterfall offers a chance to feel the force of Iceland’s waterfalls up close, while the A-House in the Westfjords Region provides a panoramic viewing spot that’s Instagram-worthy. The day peaks with the Dynjandi waterfall, often called the “wedding cake” falls because of its tiered structure. At over 100 meters tall, Dynjandi is the signature spectacle of the Westfjords—its roar and spray make it hard to look away.

In the afternoon, scenic views continue at Önundarfjörður, with a photo stop at the pier amid black sand dunes that seem almost lunar. These spots underscore the region’s rugged, untouched beauty.

Day 3: Exploring Oceanic and Arctic Wildlife

Your final day begins with a drive up to Bolafjall, 628 meters high, where a skywalk platform offers sweeping views over fjords and mountain ranges. It’s a moment where the landscape truly hits home—vast, wild, and humbling.

Next, you’ll visit the Osvor Maritime Museum, which showcases traditional turf-roofed fishing buildings, giving insight into the local way of life. The iconic Óshólar Lighthouse provides one last chance for spectacular ocean views and photo ops.

As you travel back toward Reykjavík, you’ll enjoy the scenery along the seven fjords of Ísafjörður, often described as breathtaking. The tour’s highlight for wildlife lovers is the Arctic Fox Centre, where you can learn about and see the only native land mammal of Iceland—sometimes even spotting them in the wild. Close to the coast, Hvítanes is a popular seal-watching spot, with chances to see these charming creatures lounging on rocks or swimming nearby.

Finally, on the way back, a quick stop at Grábrók Crater allows you to stretch your legs and walk up the volcanic crater to enjoy views of the surrounding lava fields.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This guided tour excels in giving travelers a rundown of the Westfjords’ wild landscapes, wildlife, and history. The expert guides, praised for their storytelling skills and patience, help you connect with each site—turning a scenic drive into a storytelling adventure. The comfortable transportation, with WiFi and air conditioning, ensures you stay connected and comfortable during long stretches.

The two nights in en-suite rooms with breakfast are a real plus—especially in a region where accommodations can be limited. This setup allows for restful nights and energizes you for each day’s adventures.

The tour’s small-group size (max 18 people) adds to the intimacy, giving plenty of opportunities to ask questions and get personalized attention. Plus, the inclusion of entrance fees to key sites like the Viking longhouse and Arctic Fox Center makes it a good value considering the overall package.

The Value of This Experience

For $1,019 per person, this tour covers a lot—transportation, accommodations, entrance fees, and breakfast—making it a hassle-free way to see the Westfjords. When you consider the cost of arranging private trips, car rentals, or multiple independent bookings, the convenience and guided insights add significant value.

Many travelers, including one who called it a “great tour” with “lovely people,” appreciate the local knowledge and the chance to see Iceland’s less accessible corners. The included meals, accommodation, and site visits** mean less planning and more time enjoying the scenery and learning about Iceland’s natural and cultural history.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers who want to see the Westfjords without the stress of self-driving—especially those who appreciate informative guides, comfortable accommodations, and a well-paced itinerary. It’s perfect for wildlife lovers, fans of waterfalls, and anyone curious about Iceland’s Viking past and remote landscapes. If you’re short on time but eager to get a taste of Iceland’s wild side, this tour packs a memorable punch.

However, because meals are not included and some stops involve walking or hiking, travelers should be prepared for a full, active day and have some flexibility with meal planning.

FAQ

Is transportation provided throughout the tour? Yes, you’ll be picked up from Reykjavik hotels or designated meeting points, and transportation is included in the price. The vehicle is air-conditioned and equipped with WiFi.

Are meals included during the tour? No, lunch and dinner are not included, but scheduled stops allow you to buy food and snacks along the way.

What is the size of the group? The tour accommodates up to 18 travelers, which helps keep things personal and manageable.

How many nights do I stay in the Westfjords? You’ll stay for two nights in en-suite rooms with breakfast, giving you a comfortable base to explore the area.

Are entrance fees included? Yes, fees for the Viking longhouse and Arctic Fox Center are included, making it easier to plan your budget.

What are the main highlights? Expect scenic fjords, waterfalls like Dynjandi, bird colonies at Látrabjarg, and wildlife spotting opportunities—especially seals and Arctic foxes.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers? Most travelers can participate, but those with limited mobility should check specific walking requirements, as some stops involve walking on uneven terrain.

What if the weather is bad? This experience requires good weather; if canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This 3-day Westfjords tour offers an authentic glimpse into Iceland’s most remote and striking landscapes. With knowledgeable guides, comfortable accommodations, and carefully curated stops, it’s a fantastic way to experience the raw beauty and wildlife of this northern corner of Iceland. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a landscape lover, or simply seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure, this tour delivers value, comfort, and memorable scenery.

For those who want to skip the hassle of self-driving and want a well-organized, engaging trip, this experience is hard to beat. It’s especially suited for travelers eager to learn about Iceland’s Viking past, spot Arctic animals, and marvel at breathtaking cliffs and waterfalls—content that stays with you long after you’ve returned home.