Did you know Iceland is only about 16-18 million years old? Because Iceland is so “new” and remote, only a few species of animals have made it their home.
The only native land mammal is the cute Arctic Fox, but the Viking settlers brought horses and sheep, and reindeer were introduced in the 18th century. But when it comes to migrating birds and marine life, the Icelandic skies and seas are packed! Millions of puffins, ducks, Arctic terns, and other birds come here every summer. They’re joined by more than 20 species of whales, orcas, dolphins, and porpoises who feed and breed in the rich seas off Iceland.
There’s so much to see – we’re here to show you the best spots!
See all of Iceland’s greatest natural treasures, visiting spectacular sights around the “Land of Fire and Ice” on this unforgettable 10-day Grand Tour package!
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See Iceland’s spectacular natural marvels during this 4-Day Package of the Golden Circle, the South Coast, Silver Circle, and Snæfellsnes
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Discover the marvels of the famous Golden Circle, the Snæfellsnes peninsula, and West Iceland, and relax in two of Iceland’s glorious geothermal spas
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Enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the spectacular Westfjords, experience unique sights in unspoiled nature, and look for Arctic Foxes and puffins!
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Discover the unique delights of the Silver Circle in West Iceland and explore spectacular sights in the wild Westfjords, home of the Arctic Fox and puffins!
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Fantastic combination of gigantic glaciers, photogenic mountains, plunging waterfalls, black sand beaches, and a snow-capped strato-volcano
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Discover the world-famous Golden Circle and South Coast of Iceland. Overnight stay in the geothermal village of Hveragerði is included
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Discover the magic of the West, visit fabulous waterfalls and hot springs and see stalactites and stalagmites in a spectacular lava cave
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Discover the magic of the Snaefellsnes peninsula, explore Saga history in West Iceland and unwind in the warming waters of the Canyon Baths
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Discover the sensational waterfalls of Iceland’s thrilling South Coast and enjoy watching puffins and seals in their natural environment
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Iceland’s unspoiled natural environment is the perfect place for all sorts of wildlife to thrive and survive, feeding and breeding in their natural habitat.
Packed with ideal locations for migrating whales, dolphins, puffins, and other seabirds, it’s an unbeatable choice for “up close” encounters with these majestic creatures. Iceland offers you countless options for whale watching, seal spotting, bird watching, and horse riding, all within easy reach on our carefully planned tour itineraries. You’ll never have a better chance than this to see these beautiful animals in their safe havens. And with our expert guides on hand, you can be sure you’re not disturbing them either!
Iceland is a haven for seals, with several colonies dotted all around the island, often very close to the Ring Road.
Grey seals are frequently seen enjoying basking on the floating icebergs at the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon or riding on the tide to the Diamond Beach nearby. They can also be spotted lazing on the beaches that line the Westfjords or the rugged coastline of the Vatnsnes peninsula in North Iceland, close to the Ring Road. Harbor seals are the most common species in Iceland, but you might be lucky to see harp seals, hooded seals, or even walruses!
Arctic Foxes are the only native land mammal in Iceland, so you might say you’re invading their home turf when you come to Iceland! They’re lovable little creatures, but they’re tough cookies too!
The vast majority of Iceland’s Arctic Fox population is found in the Westfjords, where they’ll find food all year long on the beaches of the ice-free fjords, warmed by the Gulf Stream. Did you know that Arctic fox fur is among the animal kingdom’s thickest and changes color with the seasons? Arctic Foxes are pretty elusive, so keep an eye out for them!
Iceland is one of the best places in the world for whale watching, where you can see these marvelous mammals in their natural habitat.
During our Ring Road Tours you can opt in for this activity commencing from Akureyri in the north.
As many as 23 different species of whales can be found off the shores of Iceland. Humpbacks and Minke whales are seen most often, migrating thousands of miles from southern waters. In addition, you might get to spot Killer whales or even the immense Blue whale, the largest animal ever to have lived on Earth!
Enjoying the peace and solitude of East Iceland, wild herds of reindeer roam here, with as many as six thousand of these hardy mammals to be found across the region.
Reindeer were brought here from Norway in the 18th century when it was thought they’d be well-suited to the climate, but the local farmers soon gave up reindeer herding! So, the remaining animals chose the East as their preferred patch. Iceland’s reindeer populations usually live up in the Highlands during the summer months, migrating closer to the coastal pastures in the winter. So, they’re elusive, but you might be lucky to see a herd!
Iceland is a bird watcher’s paradise, with millions migrating here yearly. Dozens of different species come to Iceland to feed and breed, making their nests on towering cliffs or Iceland’s countless lakes, including Mývatn.
Of course, everyone wants to see the most famous bird in Iceland – the charismatic and comical Atlantic Puffin. The world’s largest colonies of puffins are found in Iceland, but that’s not all! You’ll also have a chance to see Arctic Terns, oystercatchers, golden plovers, kittiwakes, guillemots, and more than 20 different duck species! Most famous place for bird lowers in Iceland is Látrabjarg cliff that we visit during our tours to Westfjords
Did you know that Icelandic horses “walk their own way”? Brought to Iceland by the Vikings, they have the usual “speeds” of any other horse – the walk, trot, and canter. But they’ve got two unique gaits perfectly adapted to Iceland’s rugged terrain. The tölt is a fast rhythm, where at least one foot stays on the ground, making it a smooth and comfortable ride. And they’re capable of a fast gallop, the flying pace known as skeið. Icelandic horses are tougher and smaller than other horses.
They’re not “wild,” but don’t ever call them “ponies.” They won’t like it!
When you’re enjoying close encounters with Iceland’s magnificent wildlife, it’s essential to remember that it isn’t a zoo. That means paying close attention to your guides at all times. Listening to their advice will keep you safe and protect the animals too.
Our wildlife watching tours will bring you to Iceland’s most unique natural environments, so you’ll never have a better chance of seeing whales, puffins, seals, and these other wildlife wonders this close! Our success rates are very high, but nothing is guaranteed when it comes to Mother Nature!
Iceland’s breathtaking natural landscapes are matched by its incredible wildlife, with whale-filled oceans, teeming bird colonies, and herds of Icelandic horses to be enjoyed. There’s so much to see here, so booking an organized tour with professional guides makes sense to ensure you make the most of your time.
Don’t miss out on the experience of a lifetime, like a close encounter with humpback whales or watching puffins fly by. So don’t delay – book a wildlife tour with us today!
Still thinking? See below what our guests think about such tours!
Golden Circle Route is definitely the most popular attraction in Iceland and there is a reason for it
Take one of our adventure tours that end up in thermal SPA to experience Iceland to the fullest!
Discover wonders awaiting you to put your feet on the glacier
Explore volcanic craters or go inside lava cave featuring amazing colors and lava formations
Let us take you around Iceland via Route #1 to all the best-known wonders and some hidden pearls
Any questions? We will be happy to assist you!
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Not Sure Where to Go?
Have Questions? We will be happy to assist you!
+354 419 0100 | nicetravel@nicetravel.is
NICETRAVEL was founded by three Icelandic families with the aim of helping visitors to Iceland to enjoy a nice and enjoyable experience
All our services are of course fully licensed by the appropriate Icelandic authorities
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