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Western Region, IcelandOutdoor activities

Our most recommended Western Region, Iceland Outdoor activities

Reykjavík: Whale Watching and Marine Life Cruise

1. Reykjavík: Whale Watching and Marine Life Cruise

Take a boat trip from Reykjavik’s harbor to discover Iceland’s rich marine life, which is one of this island country’s highlights. All year round you can spot a variety of whales and other marine animals in the Reykjavik area, including minke and humpback whales, harbor porpoises, and whale-beaked dolphins. Have an opportunity to see some of Iceland's most beautiful marine animals, along with the stunning scenery of the Icelandic coast. The peak season for whale watching runs from April to October, but of course, the ocean is always full of magical creatures, and you never know what you might see. Benefit from the services of specially-trained whale watching guides who are experts at spotting the animals. You will be free to listen as they tell you about the behavior of the whales, and answer any questions you may have. Enjoy the stunning scenery of the Icelandic coast as you spot local wildlife. Take a break and warm up in the heated indoor area. Relax on board the boat and enjoy the indoor and outdoor seating, and purchase drinks and snacks along the way from the onboard bar and cafeteria. You will experience a pleasant and comfortable ride, even at higher speeds, and will be able to share your adventure live on social media with the onboard WiFi.

Húsafell: Into the Glacier Ice Cave Tour

2. Húsafell: Into the Glacier Ice Cave Tour

Experience Iceland’s second-largest glacier from the inside and enjoy the rare sight of blue ice at the heart of an ice cap glacier on this half-day tour.  Catch a shuttle to the Glacier Base Camp, Klaki from Húsafell. Meet your professional guide and gear up in warm overalls if needed, before boarding a specially-modified glacier truck for the drive up to the cave entrance. Arriving at the cave entrance, head inside the glacier with your guide. The man-made Langjökull Glacier Tunnel is a wonder to behold. The ice is lit up from behind by glowing hues, allowing you to see the layers that have formed over many years. Listen as your guide walks with you through the glacier's corridors where you will have a chance to learn about geology, the history of glaciers, how they are formed, and how they move.

Reykjavik: Snaefellsnes Peninsula and Kirkjufell Day Trip

3. Reykjavik: Snaefellsnes Peninsula and Kirkjufell Day Trip

Visit the Snaefellsnes Peninsula on this guided day trip from Reykjavik. See what Iceland has to offer on one trip including the Berserkjahraun lava fields, Snaefellsjokull volcano, and Kirkjufell mountain. Learn about local legends and see a seal colony. Begin your trip in the local town of Borgarnes. Grab some snacks before heading to the peninsula and try to catch a peak of the ice-capped Snaefellsjokull stratovolcano. Arrive at the Berserkjahraun lava field, and learn the origin of its name. Next, head to Kirkjufell, famously known for its role on the "Game of Thrones" television show, and for being the most-photographed mountain in the entire country. Visit the neighboring waterfall, and be swept away by the magic. Then climb the staircase to the top of Saxholl (visited only from March – November), a 100-meter-high volcanic crater. Reach the top and be rewarded by the stunning views of this 3000-year-old feat of nature. Learn local legends and the history of strong Icelandic ancestry. Venture into the uninhabited settlement of Djupalonssandur, and test your strength as local men used to on the beach. Head to the fishing village of Arnarstapi and witness the beautifully eroded cliffs and the sculpture of Barour Snaefellsas. Finally, discover a more in-depth understanding of Icelandic history at Budakirkja, or the "Black Church." View historical artifacts from the 19th century. Continue to the enchanting golden-colored beach of Ytri-Tunga (only from March - November). Witness a huge seal colony, laying on the rocks and enjoying the sun.

From Reykjavik: Snæfellsnes Peninsula Full-Day Tour

4. From Reykjavik: Snæfellsnes Peninsula Full-Day Tour

Depart Reykjavik and head to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula on a bus day trip to experience Iceland's diverse natural beauty. Take in the dramatic landscape of volcanic peaks, sea cliffs, golden beaches, and sparkling fjords. Visit charming fishing villages, such as Grundarfjordur, Arnarstapi, and Hellnar. Admire the spectacular mountains and volcanic craters, including Kirkjufell and Ljósufjöll. Cast your eyes on the black sand beach at Djúpalónssandur, and see the majestic glacier of Snæfellsjökull. Take a photo stop at the famed Black Church at Budir, and spot seals lolling in the sea at Ytri Tunga beach. Tour at a leisurely pace and experience the magnificent scenery of the peninsula at ease. This tour visits a variety of landscapes in a compact region which was immortalized by Jules Verne in his book, "Journey to the Centre of the Earth." 

Laugarvatn Fontana: Geothermal Bread-Baking Experience

5. Laugarvatn Fontana: Geothermal Bread-Baking Experience

Take part in a unique baking experience in the heart of the Golden Circle, the most popular route in Iceland. Take a stroll around the geothermal area and learn about the history of this baking technique. Witness firsthand how the dark rye dough is prepared and then buried in the warm ground with a lively 30-minute demonstration. Discover how the slow cooking of 24 hours gives the bread its memorable taste. Get to sample a fresh batch of lava bread, placed in the ground the day before. Geothermal bathing is also offered at Laugarvatn Fontana, however, tickets for bathing must be booked separately.

Icelandic Sea Fishing from Reykjavik

6. Icelandic Sea Fishing from Reykjavik

Make the catch of a lifetime on a sea angling adventure perfect for all ages. Head out on a great boat and find the best troves of cold water fish including cod, halibut, haddock, rockfish, and pollock. Setting off from Reykjavik's Old Harbor, you will head out to Faxaflói Bay, where your experienced guide knows exactly where to angle for the best catch. Along the way, you'll be treated to spectacular Icelandic ocean views, and often guests will spot puffins hanging out on their "puffin island." And even if you've never been out sea angling before, your expert fishing team will help you learn the ropes quickly so you'll be reeling in the fish in no time! Whatever you catch on your 2.5-3 hours on the water can be barbecued right after. Sink your teeth into your reward! Fishing in Iceland is a memory that will last a lifetime, and whether you're a professional fisherman or it's your first time out on the seas, it's a day filled with fun, beauty, and the chance to eat some tasty fish!

From Reykjavik: Whale Watching Tour by RIB Boat

7. From Reykjavik: Whale Watching Tour by RIB Boat

Climb aboard a rigid inflatable boat (RIB) equipped with special shock suspension seating for a smoother ride. Look for whales and other marine life in the wild. Travel aboard the 12-meter long boat to get extra close to whales in a way that is safe for passengers and the animals. Benefit from warm flotation suits, life vests, gloves and goggles to keep you cozy and safe, and avail of the services of an experienced guide who will provide information about the animals and bay in English.  Stop by the island of Akurey to look for adorable puffins during the summer. See their nests along the coast during their breeding season. Head out to the bay on a fast and thrilling ride with the wind in your hair. Reach a comfortable cruising speed of 32 knots and get plenty of time in the feeding grounds. Then, take a scenic route back along the coast of Reykjavik. After your tour, you can visit the Whales of Iceland Museum, located in the Grandi harbor district of Reykjavik. Here, you can discover more about the various whale species of the Atlantic, with exhibits on whale biology, migration, and conservation.

Reykjavik: Whale Watching by RIB Speedboat

8. Reykjavik: Whale Watching by RIB Speedboat

Hop aboard a RIB speedboat and head out for a thrilling adventure just off Reykjavik's coast. Marvel at the abundance of sea life Iceland has to offer, such as majestic whales, dolphins, and porpoises. Begin your tour from Reykjavík’s Old Harbor and cruise among the small islands in the Faxaflói Bay, as well as along the coast of Reykjavík. Admire fantastic views of the city and its landmarks like the Harpa concert hall as you search for wildlife in the water. During your tour, pass by Engey, the second-largest island of the Kollafjörður (Faxa Bay) fjord in western Iceland. Also cruise past Lundey, literally “Puffin Island” in Icelandic, a small uninhabited island off Reykjavík’s western coast. Enjoy the chance to see incredible animals in their natural habitat without being overcrowded onboard the boat. And if you don't get lucky with wildlife sightings on the day you go, you'll receive a complimentary ticket to try again another day.

Reykjavik: 3-Hour Sea Angling Gourmet Experience Tour

9. Reykjavik: 3-Hour Sea Angling Gourmet Experience Tour

Enjoy a 3- to 3.5-hour sea angling tour from Reykjavik and breathe the salty air of the fishing grounds of Faxaflói. A must for first-timers and experienced anglers alike, you will be joining in a fantastic Icelandic tradition. The fishing grounds in Faxaflói have attracted Icelandic fishermen for centuries, and the captains of these tours know the area like salty sea dogs. They will take you to the best spots for catfish, cod, haddock, mackerel, and pollack. And what you catch, you keep! The crew will cook the fish that is caught on the boat's BBQ with homemade sauce and potatoes.  Just breathing in the fresh air, being out on the open ocean, and catching your first fish of the day makes this an experience you’ll never forget. All equipment is provided, and there is no need to worry about your sea skills, as the captain and guide will teach you the best fishing moves, if you don't know them already.

Krauma Geothermal Baths Entrance Ticket

10. Krauma Geothermal Baths Entrance Ticket

Treat yourself with entrance to the geothermal baths at Krauma, where multiple outdoor pools are heated by the Deildartunguhver hot spring. Soak in the warm waters as you admire spectacular views of the natural surroundings. Make your way to the baths to begin your relaxing experience. You’ll have access to six baths – five warm and one cold – as well as two steam rooms. There are outdoor showers and a relaxation room, where guests can lie back and enjoy a warm fire. Bathrobes are available to rent, and the dressing rooms provide shampoo, conditioner, soap, body lotion, and hair dryers. Feeling hungry? The onsite restaurant serves Icelandic dishes (available at your own expense), made with ingredients sourced from local farmers and producers.

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What people are saying about Western Region, Iceland

A really cool experience. A small hike to the baths, and because the baths are private, this is the only way in. Our guide had grown up in the area, and it was awesome hearing about the history of the area and the sustainability practices of the area as well. There were only about 8 people in the group. There are small changing rooms by the baths, and you can also borrow water shoes when you get there. A great way to experience some geothermal baths and also learning a lot. Highly recommend!

An outstanding day with AJ, our guide on this tour. He gave us plenty of time at each stop, we also had a few unplanned stops too which was much appreciated. AJ was welcoming, informative and passionate about what he spoke about. The locations were absolutely stunning and I loved visiting every one of them!

I don't know how to spell the name of the guide that starts with "M". He is very professional and took us to many special places, providing detailed explanations. He also managed time very well. I highly recommend him.

journey was long and cold,I bought sandwiches for way back,seeing the whales come in and out the water,as our tour guide notifying us of were they were. definitely recommend

Very informative guide. Friendly crew. The offer of free access to top class photographs from the trip was much appreciated.