Full Day Private Westman Island Tour from Reykjavik

Exploring Iceland’s Westman Islands: A Practical Look at the Full Day Private Tour from Reykjavik

If you’re planning a trip to Iceland and want to venture beyond the usual Golden Circle or South Coast highlights, a trip to the Westman Islands offers a unique blend of natural beauty and fascinating history. This full day private tour promises a personalized experience, taking you from Reykjavik right to the heart of this volcanic archipelago. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, I’ve researched it thoroughly and can give you a clear picture of what to expect.

What makes this tour stand out are a couple of key features: first, the private guide and transportation mean you won’t be stuck with a large group, enabling a more relaxed, flexible day. Second, the inclusion of the ferry trip offers some of the best views of the rugged coastline and volcanic islets. On the flip side, a possible consideration is the price point—at $1,850 for a group of up to four, it’s not the cheapest option but could be worth it for the personalized experience and convenience.

This tour is an excellent fit if you’re someone who values in-depth exploration, personalized guides, and a chance to see a more rugged, less touristy side of Iceland’s landscape. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want to avoid the hassle of self-driving and prefer having someone else handle the logistics, especially given the 12-hour duration.

Key Points

• Private Experience: You’ll enjoy a personalized, relaxed day with your own guide and transportation.
• Scenic Views: The ferry ride offers fantastic opportunities for photos of cliffs and volcanic islets.
• Historical Insight: Learning about the 1973 eruption at the Eldheimar Museum provides context to the islands’ landscape.
• Includes Admission: The entrance fee to Eldheimar Museum is covered, saving you time and money.
• Flexible Stops: The tour includes stops for food and drinks, plus a café on the ferry.
• Limited Group Size: Up to four people, ideal for intimate, tailored experiences.

Introduction: Why This Tour Might Be a Great Choice

If you’re craving a day that combines natural beauty with a touch of history, this full-day private tour to Westman Islands could be just what you need. The idea of being whisked from your hotel in Reykjavik, with a guide handling all the logistics, sounds appealing—especially if you want a hassle-free day focused on exploring.

One of the best things we found about this tour is how it offers a perfect mix of sightseeing and storytelling. The guide will take you around the main sights on Heimaey, the only inhabited island in the archipelago, and share stories about its volcanic past and recent eruptions. Plus, the ferry ride itself provides stunning views—think dramatic cliffs, volcanic islets, and maybe puffins in summer—that you can capture with your camera.

However, the cost is on the higher side, and it’s worth considering whether the price aligns with what you get. For many travelers, the personalized approach and the ease of door-to-door service outweigh the expense. If you’re a fan of small-group or private tours, and enjoy a mix of natural scenery and local history, this experience should definitely be on your radar.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

The Westman Islands Archipelago

The trip begins early morning, with pickup from your Reykjavik hotel, saving you from arranging transport to the ferry port. The total transit time to the islands is around 3 hours—so you’ll be on the move at the start of the day but will spend roughly 6 hours actually exploring the islands and engaging with your guide.

Ferry Ride & Scenic Views

A highlight of this tour is the ferry trip across the North Atlantic, which takes you from the mainland to the islands. During the ride, you’ll have ample opportunity to admire the coastline, with views of towering cliffs and volcanic islets that are truly distinctive. The ferry café is a bonus, offering snacks and drinks to keep you energized for the day.

Heimaey & Main Sights

Once on Heimaey—the largest and only inhabited island—you’ll have several hours to explore its volcanic landscape. Key stops include:

• Eldfell Mountain: The volcanic cone that erupted in 1973, reshaping the island and creating new land, is an impressive sight.
• Herjólfsdalur Valley: A scenic area dotted with ruins of old farmhouses, offering a glimpse into traditional Icelandic life.
• Elephant Rock: A striking rock formation resembling an elephant, perfect for photos and appreciating Iceland’s natural artistry.
• Eldheimar Museum: The highlight for history buffs, this museum details the 1973 eruption and its aftermath. You’ll learn how the islanders responded to the volcanic activity and see preserved remnants of the eruption, including a ruined farmhouse.

Lunch & Food Stops

The tour doesn’t specify a set meal, but it guarantees stops at restaurants where you can sample local fare. Plus, there’s a café on the ferry, so you can grab a quick snack or drink, making the day less rushed and more comfortable.

Why Reviewers Love It

This trip garners rave reviews, mostly focused on the knowledgeable and charming guides. One traveler said, “Orvar was a wonderful, knowledgeable, charming guide,” highlighting how much a good guide can elevate the experience. The views are also frequently praised—”fabulous experience,” as one reviewer put it—especially for photography and simply taking in Iceland’s volcanic scenery.

The value for money seems to be a common theme among positive reviewers, considering that the tour includes private transport, ferry tickets, and museum admission. The intimate size of the group (up to four people) allows for a personalized, flexible experience, meaning your guide can tailor stops or answer questions more thoroughly.

Considerations & Practical Tips

While this tour offers a lot, a couple of things are worth keeping in mind. First, the cost is fairly high, but many believe it’s justified by the personalized attention and convenience. If budget is a concern, comparing it with group excursions could be worthwhile, but you might miss out on the private guide experience.

Weather can affect the day—if Iceland’s notorious wind or rain roll in, parts of the trip might be less enjoyable. The tour provider offers a full refund or rescheduling if the weather causes cancellations, so it’s flexible in that regard.

Since the tour lasts around 12 hours, be prepared for a full day of activity. Comfortable clothing, sturdy shoes, and an appetite for adventure are recommended. If you’re traveling with children, just consider their stamina, as long days might be tiring.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This private Westman Islands tour is best suited for travelers seeking a tailored experience and willing to invest in a full, immersive day of Icelandic nature and history. It’s perfect for those who enjoy scenic boat rides, exploring volcanic landscapes, and learning about local resilience in the face of natural disasters.

The combination of personalized guiding, stunning scenery, and historical context makes it stand out from more generic day trips. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a small group looking for a special adventure, the ease and intimacy of this tour are big advantages.

Remember, this experience isn’t just about ticking boxes—it’s about savoring Iceland’s rugged charm in a way that feels relaxed and authentic. If you’re ready for a memorable, well-organized day exploring a volcanic island paradise, this tour could be a highlight of your trip.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s a full-day trip that involves some walking and time outdoors. If you’re comfortable with a 12-hour day and moderate activity, it should suit you.

What is included in the price?
The tour covers private transportation, round-trip ferry transport, and the entrance fee to the Eldheimar Museum. Meals are not included but stops are guaranteed for food and drinks.

How long does the full trip take?
From pickup to drop-off, expect around 12 hours. The ferry and exploration time on the islands will be roughly 6 hours, with transportation and travel time taking the rest.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes suitable for walking, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera for the stunning views. Snacks and drinks are available during stops, but you might want to bring some extra if you’re hungry.

Will I see puffins?
In summer, puffins are common around the islands, so if you visit during that season, you might get lucky.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour provider offers a full refund or rescheduling if weather conditions lead to cancellation. The tour requires good weather to proceed safely.

Is this tour good for families or children?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, most children comfortable with a full day of outdoor activity should handle it well. Just consider their stamina and interest in volcanic landscapes.

How does the guide enhance the experience?
The guide shares stories about the islands’ volcanic past, explains the significance of sights like Eldfell, and offers insights into local life, making the visit more meaningful than just sightseeing.

If you’re after a personalized, scenic, and historically interesting day away from Reykjavik, this Westman Islands trip could be just the thing. It combines Iceland’s volcanic drama with the charm of small island life—a memorable way to see a less-visited part of this incredible country.