8 Hour Tour with a RIB Boat Ride & Hiking

Gift yourself an 8-hour worth of journey that would calm your senses and kick your adrenaline, all at the same time!
In this tour, we take you on an escapade exploring the magnificent Westman Islands (Vestmannaeyjar).

About the Tour

Westman Islands are an archipelago nestled on the south coast of Iceland, steeped in rich history and natural beauty. It is home to a population of nearly 4300 people. Throughout the tour, you will be filled in with amazing stories of early inhabitants, volcanic eruptions, pirate attacks, and how islands were both destroyed and born with lava. Their dramatic landscapes with soaring cliffs, mountains, volcanic craters, wooden houses, and stone-built farmsteads would make you feel like being transported to a fictitious setting.

What Does the Tour Include?

The tour begins from Gljúfrabúi by Road 249, but if your accommodation is closer to the meeting point, we can pick you up from there as well. Then, it will be a quick drive to the harbor, from where our 45-minute ferry ride to Vestmannaeyjar begins!

Upon reaching the main island, Heimaey, we will embark on an hour-long tour exploring small islands on a RIB speedboat by Rib Safari. Enjoy the scenic surrounding as the boat cuts through the waves at a quick speed.  The short yet thrilling tour also includes some stops along the way to explore sea caves that are only accessible by rib boats. During the ride, our experienced guides would explain the historical significance of islands and how natural events have shaped their landscape.

Following the Ribsafari tour, you can treat your taste buds at a local restaurant in the town (the cost of meals is not included in the package). It is a great way to energize yourself and prep for the next activity; a short hike up the Eldfell Volcano. Ideal for both beginners and well-seasoned hikers, this short and easy hike offers you panoramic views of the Westman Islands. It’s a great exercise for both your mind and body.

Then, we head to the Eldheimar Museum that gives you a sneak-a-peak at the history of the Islands. You can learn about the volcanic eruption that happened on Heimaey in 1973 and how it affected the lives of the inhabitants. The museum, with its interesting exhibits, also recounts the tale of Surtsey, an island that was born as a result of a volcanic eruption in 1963. Surtsey sits to the south of Vestmannaeyjar and is famed as the youngest isle in Europe.

With a mix of both relaxing and thrilling experiences, the Westman Islands tour will surely be an unforgettable experience for you.

Highlights

• Vestmannaeyjar
• Rib Safari boat tour
• Eldfell Volcano
• Eldheimar Volcano
• Eldheimar Museum
• The puffin breeding areas of Stórhöfði – if you are lucky!

Interesting Facts about Westman Islands (Vestmannaeyjar)

• The islands are located in the Southern Icelandic Volcano Zone, home to 50-80 volcanoes found both below and above the sea.
• Visitors have the opportunity to climb two volcanoes located within a couple of hours from the town.
• Westman Islands are renowned as the biggest puffin capitals in the world
• The intriguing Elephant Rock, an elephant-shaped rock can be found on a cliff at Heimaey Island.

What to Bring Along?

• Warm outdoor clothing
• Waterproof jackets and pants
• Headwear and gloves
• Boots/shoes ideal for hiking

What’s Included?

• Ferry ride fare
• Rib Safari tour
• Entrance to Eldheimar Museum
• Other attractions and scenic sights

Extras You Can Request

• Lunch at the local restaurant

*The tour from Reykjavík is conducted in small groups and requires easy skills.