1 / 6Westfjords Winterbreak
About this activity
Explore Iceland's remote and dramatic Westfjords on a 2-day winter adventure, featuring Europe's largest bird cliff, seal colonies, red sand beaches, and prime Northern Lights viewing from a cosy fjord-side base. This region offers some of Iceland's clearest skies for aurora hunting, combined with raw coastal landscapes shaped by towering cliffs and deep fjords.
This tour takes you to the Westfjords of Iceland, a magnificent area with its steep cliffs, deep fjords, high mountains and white sandy beaches. Not to mention the Northern Lights in the winter, which are the brightest in Iceland and have guided the fishermen for centuries in times of winter darkness, together with the bright shining moonlight. You will certainly experience a unique adventure. You will be taken on a surprising adventure on a 4×4 Super-Jeep. Weather and road conditions permitting you will get to visit the majestic stunning Látrabjarg, the western-most point of Iceland and the biggest bird-cliff in Europe, and Rauðasandur, the unique red colored beach set amidst black cliffs and turquoise blue Atlantic Ocean. Our local guide will take you to a seal colony where they are often seen at a close range. Learn about these playful and curious animals, and because of their curiosity you can expect to get some excellent pictures of these beautiful creatures in picturesque landscape. Before you overnight at the warm and cosy Hotel WEST in the small village of Patreksfjörður, you can relax in one of the many natural hot pools, and if lucky, admire the northern lights. Experience the true adventure of the winter weather.
Highlights
- ✓Látrabjarg cliff — Europe's largest seabird colony with nesting puffins and sea eagles
- ✓Rauðasandur red sand beach framed by black cliffs and turquoise Atlantic waters
- ✓Seal colony encounters with opportunities for close-range wildlife photography
- ✓4×4 Super-Jeep access to remote roads impassable in standard vehicles
- ✓Natural hot pool soak before Northern Lights hunting
- ✓Overnight at Hotel WEST in the fishing village of Patreksfjörður
Insider tips
- ★Bring a camera with manual settings and a tripod if possible — Westfjords skies are exceptionally clear for Northern Lights, but you need the right gear to capture them
- ★Layer up aggressively; winter winds at the cliffs are fierce and coastal exposure amplifies the cold beyond the thermometer reading
- ★The seals are curious but wild — let them approach rather than chasing; your guide will position you for the best shots without disturbance
Good to know
- •2-day itinerary includes Super-Jeep transport, guide services, and 1 night accommodation; weather and road conditions may limit specific site visits
- •Remote location means limited dining options nearby — confirm meals are included or plan accordingly
- •Winter roads to the Westfjords are rough; not suitable for regular cars, hence the 4×4 vehicle requirement
Who it's for
Best time to visit
November to February offers the longest nights and best Northern Lights odds, though weather is unpredictable and road closures are possible. Aim for clear nights with low cloud cover and minimal moon interference for optimal aurora visibility.