Ingólfshöfði Puffin Tour

Your Journey to a Timeless Landscape

Midway between Skaftafell and Jökulsárlón, Cape Ingólfshöfði blends dramatic scenery with history: Iceland’s first settler, Ingólfur Arnarson, landed here in 874 AD. Your visit begins with a 30‑minute tractor‑drawn hay‑cart ride over the Hofsnes sand flats, followed by an easy 2–3 km guided walk on the cape’s grassy plateau.

Witnessing the Wonders of Wildlife

From mid‑May to mid‑August the cliffs bustle with thousands of seabirds, most famously puffins. Peak viewing runs from mid‑June to early August, and cloudy or breezy days can bring birds closer to the cliff edges for unforgettable photos. Sightings vary with weather and fish supply, making each tour unique.

Essential Information for Your Hike

Expect one short, steep sand slope (15–25°) at the start; the rest of the route is mostly flat with frequent stops. Participants should be comfortable walking 2–3 km. Children must be at least six years old; if a younger child arrives, one adult must stay behind and the ticket is non‑refundable.

Prepare for Your Adventure

Weather on this exposed headland shifts quickly—anything from sunshine to rain or sand‑laden winds. Dress in sturdy waterproof layers, gloves, and a hat. Tours rarely cancel except in very high winds; puffins often relish mist and moderate rain.

What’s Included in Your Ingólfshöfði Adventure?

The experience combines the hay‑cart transfer, a guided interpretive hike led by locals from Hofsnes farm, sweeping coastal views, stories of early settlement, and close‑up bird watching.

Important Information for Your Trip

Arrive 15 minutes early at the Ingólfshöfði Check‑In Hut, 2 km south of Route 1 between the Hofsnes and Fagurhólsmýri farms (GPS 63.879167, –16.659000). Look for the large puffin sign. For queries call +354 894 0894 or visit www.puffintour.is.

What Should You Bring?

Pack waterproof clothing, sturdy shoes, and protective covers for cameras or binoculars; on windy days sand can damage equipment. Keep gear stowed during the cart ride if dust is blowing.

Cancellation Policy

Cancellations incur a 10 % fee up to 14 days before departure, 50 % up to 3 days before, and 100 % within 24 hours.