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Borgarfjordur Eystri Puffins
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Borgarfjörður Eystri in Iceland's East Fjords is widely regarded as one of the premier locations globally for observing Atlantic puffins at close range. At the small harbor of Hafnarhólmi, more than 10,000 pairs of these colorful birds nest annually between mid-April and mid-August. The local community has installed specialized boardwalks and observation platforms that allow visitors to watch the nesting process without disturbing the birds in their burrows. In addition to puffins, the cliffs host black-legged kittiwakes, northern fulmars, and eider ducks. The area is not only biologically significant but also deeply rooted in Icelandic folklore; the nearby Álfaborg rock is famously considered the seat of the Icelandic Elf Queen. The region is characterized by pristine wilderness and steep rhyolite mountains that shimmer with various hues in the sunlight. Sustainable tourism practices in Borgarfjörður Eystri ensure that the delicate colonies remain protected while providing guests with an authentic wildlife experience. The fjord's remote location has contributed to the long-term stability of its avian populations.
- Location: Iceland
- Top sights: Hádegisfjall · Borgarfjörður · Puffins Colony
- Nearby: Seyðisfjörður (32 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -1 | -1 | -1 | 1 | 3 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 3 | 1 | -1 |
| Rain mm | 111 | 90 | 95 | 81 | 85 | 68 | 94 | 98 | 110 | 134 | 126 | 123 |
📋 Practical info
Best season
The best time to see puffins at Borgarfjörður Eystri is from May to August. During these months the birds nest on the cliffs and are most active, before heading back to sea in September.
Best time of day
Puffins are most active early in the morning and late evening, when they hunt in nearby fishing grounds. During the day they spend much time in their burrows or on the water, so patience is needed.
Etiquette
Do not approach the birds too closely - the viewing platform provides sufficient distance for safe observation. It is forbidden to feed the birds or enter the nesting areas; dogs must be kept on a leash.
What to bring
Medium-magnification binoculars (8x or 10x) are well-suited for viewing puffins from a distance. Warm, windproof clothing is essential, as the cliffs can be cool and windy even in summer.
Getting there
Borgarfjörður Eystri is in eastern Iceland and is reachable via the Ring Road (Route 1) and Road 94. From the town of Egilsstaðir it takes about one hour; a parking area is located near the cliffs.
What to expect
Puffins often arrive in groups and may rest on the water - wait until they return to the cliffs. Early mornings offer the best odds, but even then you may need to wait 20-30 minutes for the next burst of activity.
Geography
Facts
- Hosts over 10,000 nesting pairs of Atlantic puffins annually.
- Best viewing time is from mid-April through August.
- Hafnarhólmi features accessible observation platforms.
- Nearby Álfaborg is said to be the capital of Icelandic elves.
- The region is renowned for its colorful rhyolite mountains.
- Black-legged kittiwakes share the nesting cliffs with puffins.
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Sights in the town Borgarfjordur Eystri Puffins (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
When can you see puffin colonies?
The birds nest here from mid-May to mid-August on the cliffs of Hafnarhólmi.
How do you reach the village?
Borgarfjörður Eystri is located about 70 km from Egilsstaðir via road 94.
Are there marked hiking trails?
Yes, the area is known as Víknaslóðir and has numerous trails into the Dyrfjöll mountains.
Is the location family-friendly?
Yes, the bird-watching platforms are safe and easily accessible for children.
What services are available?
In the village of Bakkagerði, there is a guesthouse, a campsite, and a small café.
Borgarfjordur Eystri Puffins: where is it located?
Borgarfjordur Eystri Puffins is located in Iceland.
Borgarfjordur Eystri Puffins: what is there to see?
Highlights include Hádegisfjall, Borgarfjörður, Puffins Colony.
Borgarfjordur Eystri Puffins: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Borgarfjordur Eystri Puffins: why is it worth visiting?
Borgarfjörður Eystri in Iceland's East Fjords is widely regarded as one of the premier locations globally for observing Atlantic puffins at close range.
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