Puffin Tour
Journey to Ingólfshöfði by tractor-drawn hay cart, exploring Iceland’s historic cape and observing thousands of nesting seabirds, including puffins, in a rare, private nature reserve steeped in Viking history.
Area
Northern Iceland
Type
Wildlife & Nature
Who
Adults
Teens
Duration
Half Day
Step back in time and into Iceland’s natural splendor on a private excursion to Ingólfshöfði, a remote cape where history, wildlife, and untamed landscapes converge. Named after Ingólfur Arnarson, Iceland’s first settler, who spent his first winter here in 874 AD, the cape is a place where human story and natural history intertwine against a backdrop of the North Atlantic’s raw beauty.
To reach this secluded nature reserve, you travel across six kilometers of waters, marshes, and sandy plains aboard a traditional tractor-drawn hay cart, a journey in itself that evokes the rhythm and resilience of Icelandic life. The ride, lasting around 25 minutes each way, heightens the anticipation as the cape gradually emerges from the horizon, promising encounters with some of the island’s most extraordinary wildlife.
Once on Ingólfshöfði, a guided 1½-hour walk reveals the cape’s true magic: thousands of nesting seabirds, including the endearing puffin and formidable great skua. Observing them in their natural habitat offers a rare intimacy, a window into their seasonal rituals that few visitors are privileged to witness. The dramatic coastline, rugged cliffs, and windswept plains create a sense of isolation and wonder, making every step feel like a journey into another era.
This private experience is designed for those who value solitude, discovery, and story. It is an intimate encounter with Iceland’s natural and cultural heritage, where the legacy of its first settler meets the timeless rhythms of birdlife, and the extraordinary beauty of the landscape lingers long after you leave.
Tours Featuring This Experience
Be inspired by the itineraries below which include this experience and let our travel specialists craft a bespoke luxury holiday for you.
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Every Scott Dunn Choice hotel is selected for exceptional service and authentic experiences; where our longstanding relationships open doors others simply cannot.
View TourHighlights of Iceland
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View TourFOCUS: Iceland Decoded - Exploring the Elements
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View TourLittle Adventurers in Iceland
A thoughtfully paced Iceland adventure for families, combining Reykjavik, glaciers and volcanoes with hands-on experiences, expert guides and space to relax, from whale watching and snowmobiling to lava caves and the Blue Lagoon.
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View TourTeens-First Adventures: Iceland - Summer Edition
Eight days of midnight sun and raw adventure. Glaciers, snorkeling, and a descent into a volcano.
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View TourWonders of the North: Iceland and Ireland
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View TourFOCUS: Iceland Wonders - A private Family Adventure
A private, family-focused journey through Iceland’s iconic sights, from Reykjavík and the Golden Circle to glaciers, lava fields, and puffin-filled fjords, with exclusive access, expert guides, and seamless luxury throughout.
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View TourTeens-First Adventures: Iceland - Winter Edition
Eight days of ice, darkness, and dancing skies, Glaciers, ice caves, and the Northern Lights.
Recommended Hotels Nearby
A selection of luxury hotel options in the area, handpicked and recommended by our travel specialists.
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View AccommodationHotel Húsafell
Hotel Húsafell offers luxury and seclusion in western Iceland, with cozy contemporary interiors, gourmet Icelandic cuisine, and personalized outdoor adventures amid glaciers, lava fields, and birch forests.
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View AccommodationSiglo Hotel
Sigló Hotel offers an intimate northern Iceland retreat with clifftop fjord views, stylish interiors, local cuisine, and personalized excursions, providing discerning travelers with a personalized and unforgettable Arctic experience.
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View AccommodationReykjavik Konsulat Hotel
Reykjavík Konsulat Hotel offers historic charm and modern comfort on the city’s waterfront, with stylish rooms, personalized excursions, and refined service for discerning travelers seeking a sophisticated Icelandic city experience.
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View AccommodationSilversea Silver Moon
Offering small-ship intimacy, superb service and spacious all-suite accommodation, the Silver Moon has all the ingredients of the luxury Silversea cruising experience. What’s more, guests can enjoy trailblazing destination-based gastronomic experiences.
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View AccommodationParliament Hotel
A stylish retreat in the heart of Reykjavik, Parliament Hotel Blends contemporary design with Icelandic heritage, offering an intimate base for exploring the city's vibrant culture and dramatic landscapes.
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View AccommodationFosshotel Glacier Lagoon
A stylish Icelandic hideaway between glacier and ocean, Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon offers sleek comfort, striking scenery and effortless access to Iceland’s most iconic natural wonders—elevated with Scott Dunn’s personalize-made expertise.
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View AccommodationSörla Camp
Discover the untouched beauty of Iceland with a stay at Sörla Camp, offering luxury yurts, personalized adventures, and personalized service in an extraordinary wilderness setting. A once-in-a-lifetime experience personalized to you.
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View AccommodationIon Adventure Hotel
The Hotel Ion is a truly unusual hotel. It resembles a world war bunker and its remote location only adds to the intrigue. The setting is beautiful and is perfect for making the most of the ample winter and summer activities on offer in the area.
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View AccommodationHotel Ranga
Hotel Ranga offers a warm welcome, delicious gourmet food and wine, and the opportunity to enjoy the natural wonders of this remarkable part of the country. Its location means there is good chance of catching sight of the Northern Lights.
More Experiences in This Area
Discover more things to do in the area and chat to our specialists about crafting these experiences into your tailor-made holiday.
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View ExperienceLake Mývatn Highlights with a Local Guide
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View ExperienceLofthellir Ice Cave Expedition
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View ExperienceHorse Riding by Lake Mývatn
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View ExperienceSuper Jeep Journey to Dettifoss
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View ExperienceSnowshoeing in Mývatn
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View ExperienceNorthern Lights Photography Tour
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View ExperienceSiberian Husky Dog Sledding Adventure
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View ExperienceHverfjall Volcano Sunrise Hike
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View ExperienceArctic Coastline & Whale Watching Day Tour
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View ExperienceEarth Lagoon Geothermal Spa Experience
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View ExperienceMývatn Nature Baths & Spa
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Call us on 212 372 7009 to start planning