Plizio Visual Lab
Grimsey Island Wildlife
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
wildlife
Grimsey Island is located approximately 40 kilometers off the northern coast of Iceland and is the only inhabited part of the country intersected by the Arctic Circle. Covering an area of 5.3 square kilometers, the island is of volcanic origin and is primarily characterized by impressive basalt formations and steep coastal cliffs. Grimsey is world-renowned for its incredibly rich birdlife, which attracts hundreds of thousands of individual birds during the summer months. The Atlantic puffin is the island's most iconic resident, with nesting colonies that rank among the densest in all of Iceland. In addition to the avian population, the island's shores provide a habitat for seals, which are frequently seen resting on the rocky outcrops. The surrounding waters are exceptionally productive, supporting both the local fishing economy and the vast numbers of seabirds. Despite its northern position, the climate is moderated by the Gulf Stream, sustaining surprisingly lush green vegetation.
- Location: Iceland
- Nearby: Siglufjörður (59 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 | 2 | 4 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| Rain mm | 108 | 91 | 97 | 77 | 63 | 43 | 63 | 75 | 106 | 124 | 118 | 126 |
📋 Practical info
Best season
Grimsey is a destination from June to August for seabirds like puffins and guillemots, which then breed in large numbers. The midnight sun allows round-the-clock observations, a special experience.
Best time of day
Thanks to the midnight sun, birds are active at any time, but the calmest observation hours are late evening and early morning. Midday can be windy, making observation difficult.
Etiquette
Keep distance from nests and do not climb around on the cliffs. It is forbidden to feed or startle the birds; do not use loud noises or flash photography.
What to bring
Warm, windproof clothing is essential even in summer as Grimsey is constantly windy. Binoculars and a camera with image stabilization help capture birds despite the movement.
Getting there
Grimsey can be reached by plane from Akureyri (daily flights in summer) or by ferry from Dalvík. The island has a small airport and a harbour; accommodations are limited, so book early.
What to expect
Bird numbers are impressive, but the animals are used to humans and can often be observed well. Weather changes can affect activity; a sudden drizzle can interrupt observation.
Geography
Facts
- Only inhabited part of Iceland on the Arctic Circle
- Total island area is 5.3 square kilometers
- Located 40 kilometers from the mainland
- Home to some of the densest puffin colonies
- Composed primarily of volcanic basalt
- Climate is tempered by the warm Gulf Stream
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Grimsey Island Wildlife (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Does the Arctic Circle cross Grímsey?
Yes, Grímsey is the only inhabited part of Iceland on the Arctic Circle.
How do you get to the island?
By ferry from Dalvík or by plane from Akureyri.
Are there puffins there?
Yes, in summer the island hosts massive bird colonies.
Can you stay overnight?
Yes, there are guesthouses and a campsite available.
Can you get a certificate for crossing the Arctic Circle?
Yes, visitors can often receive a symbolic certificate.
Grimsey Island Wildlife: where is it located?
Grimsey Island Wildlife is located in Iceland.
Grimsey Island Wildlife: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Grimsey Island Wildlife: why is it worth visiting?
Grimsey Island is located approximately 40 kilometers off the northern coast of Iceland and is the only inhabited part of the country intersected by the Arctic Circle.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Europe
More places in Iceland →
Nearby cities
Akureyri
Akureyri is the largest urban area outside the Reykjavík region, often called the 'Capital of the North'.
Húsavík
Húsavík is a town on the shores of Skjálfandi bay in North Iceland.
Ísafjörður
The largest town in the Westfjords, known for its dramatic mountain setting and fishing heritage.
Ísafjörður
Ísafjörður is the economic and cultural hub of the Westfjords region.
Sauðárkrókur
Sauðárkrókur is the largest town in Northwest Iceland, located on the Skagafjörður fjord.
Sauðárkrókur
The largest town in Northwest Iceland, located in Skagafjörður, known for its horses and fishing industry.
Borgarnes
Borgarnes is located on a peninsula in Borgarfjörður and serves as a key service hub for West Iceland.
Höfn
Höfn is a fishing town in southeast Iceland, situated on a headland between Hornafjörður and the ocean.
Dalvík
Dalvík is a picturesque fishing town on the Eyjafjörður fjord in North Iceland.
Stykkishólmur
Stykkishólmur is a charming town on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, known for its well-preserved old houses and views over the island-dotted B…
Siglufjörður
Iceland's northernmost town, once the world capital of herring fishing, nestled between majestic mountains.
Siglufjörður
Siglufjörður is a historic town in North Iceland, once known as the 'Herring Capital of the World'.
Blönduós
Blönduós is located in northwest Iceland at the mouth of the Blanda river.
Grundarfjörður
Grundarfjörður is located on the north coast of the Snæfellsnes peninsula.
Kirkjufell
The most photographed mountain in Iceland, iconic for its church-like shape and the nearby Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall.
History & landmarks
Nature
More places
🗺️
Kaldakinn Battlefield
Historical site in northeast Iceland known for medieval feuds.
Siglufjörður Port
Once the 'herring capital of the world,' Siglufjörður is now a modern fishing and tourism port.
Húsavík Church
Húsavíkurkirkja is a unique wooden church in Húsavík, built in the Swiss chalet style.
Dalvík Port
Dalvík is a significant port for deep-sea fishing in the north.
Laufás Turf House
Laufás is an ancient turf farm and rectory in northern Iceland.
Laufás
Laufás is a historic turf farm and vicarage representing the lifestyle of a wealthy 19th-century Icelandic farm.
Gásir
Gásir was the main medieval trading post in Northern Iceland.