Iceland is home to almost two dozen species of whales and is often thought of as one of the best destinations in the world to see these gentle giants. If you’re planning to go whale watching in Iceland, this is the guide for you!
When is the Best Time to see Whales in Iceland?
The best time for whale watching in Iceland is from April to October. Peak months / high season are June, July, and August when you’re almost guaranteed to see whales!
Whales return to Iceland during this time to feed before moving on to warmer waters to give birth and breed in the winter months.
What Whales Can Be Seen in Iceland?
In Icelandic waters, you can spot a diverse array of whale species, making it a prime feeding ground for many of these magnificent creatures. Some of the most commonly seen species include:
- Humpback and Minke Whales: Minke whales and humpbacks are among the most frequently spotted in Iceland, especially around the whale-watching hubs of Reykjavik and North Iceland. Humpbacks are known for their spectacular breaching behavior, while minke whales, though smaller, are equally fascinating and often seen feeding close to shore.
- Sperm Whales: Sperm whales, the largest of the toothed whales, can be spotted in the deeper waters of North Iceland but the chances are slim. These massive creatures are usually seen further offshore, making sightings a special experience.
- White-Beaked Dolphins: While not technically whales, white-beaked dolphins are a common sight during whale-watching tours. They are playful and often seen swimming alongside boats, adding to the thrill of the experience.
- Orcas (Killer Whales): The Snæfellsnes Peninsula is the best place in Iceland to see orcas, with success rates highest during the winter months when these predators are more active in the area.
- Blue Whales: The largest animals on the planet, blue whales can occasionally be seen in Icelandic waters, particularly off the coast of Húsavík.
- Fin Whales: The second-largest whale species, fin whales are often spotted in the deeper waters around the northern coast.
4 Best Whale Watching Spots in Iceland
1. Húsavík: The Whale-Watching Capital of Iceland
Tucked away in Iceland’s far north, near the town of Akureyri, Husavik is the country’s whale-watching capital. Whale-watching from Husavik is the best in Iceland, and there will almost surely be humpbacks to see, but you’ll also likely spot dolphins and even puffins.
A small fishing village, you can reach Husavik from Akureyri in just one hour, traveling east along the Ring Road (Route 1) and then turning onto Route 85.
Renting a car from Firefly Iceland is the most convenient way to reach Húsavík. We recommend choosing an SUV for the most comfortable ride along the scenic Route 1 and the picturesque coastal roads.
2. Reykjavik: Convenient Whale Watching from the Capital
Many visitors to Iceland might be surprised to know that you can go whale watching from the capital of Reykjavik! The largest town in Iceland and a hub for travelers, there’s an endless list of things to do in this colorful city, and being able to go whale watching from Reykjavik Harbor is an excellent way to spend your time.
Whale-watching tours in Reykjavik take off from the Reykjavik Harbor, just beside the famous Harpa Concert Center in the middle of town. For those based in Reykjavik, renting a compact car from Firefly Iceland ensures easy navigation and parking in the city.
Visitors can also combine their whale-watching tour with a visit to the Whales of Iceland museum, the largest of its kind in all of Europe. You’ll learn about the different whale species that call Iceland home and take part in interactive experiences.
Akureyri: Whale Watching in the North
Akureyri is the largest city in northern Iceland and provides ample whale-watching opportunities of its own! You’ll board a boat that cruises Eyjafjord in search of cetaceans of all kinds with almost guaranteed sightings. After your adventures, be sure to pay a visit to the Akureyri Botanical Gardens.
Getting to Akureyri is very simple as the town is situated along the famous Ring Road (Route 1). Simple drive clockwise around the Ring Road out of Reykjavik, heading north, and you’ll reach Akureyri in around 4 hours and 45 minutes.
A mid-size SUV from Firefly Iceland is ideal for the journey to Akureyri, ensuring comfort on both highways and local roads.
Snæfellsnes Peninsula: A Hidden Gem for Whale Watching
The striking and mystical Snæfellsness Peninsula is a hidden gem for whale-watching tours in Iceland. Here, you won’t have to fight the crowds you might find in Reykjavik, and you’ll likely have a more intimate whale-watching experience.
This is also the best place in Iceland to see orca whales! Tour operators on the Snæfellsness Peninsula run from February to September because of this as orcas are most often seen in the winter months. Most whale-watching tours on the Snæfellsness Peninsula take off from the town of Olafsvik.
Getting to the Snæfellsness Peninsula is easy from Reykjavik. Simply drive north on the Ring Road, turning onto Route 54 in the charming town of Borgarnes (worth a stop itself!), a route that takes about 2 hours.
You’ll want to rent a sturdy SUV from Firefly Iceland to comfortably explore the rugged terrain and beautiful landscapes of the Snæfellsness Peninsula.
Conclusion
There’s no doubt that Iceland is one of the best places in the world to see whales of all kinds. Get started planning your trip to see humpback whales, minke whales, and orcas (just to name a few!) by renting a car with Firefly Iceland!
