Ísafjörður: Highlights of Hornvík Day Tour
Tour departs from
Duration
Available
Pick up / meeting point
Languages
Difficulty
Minimum age
Season
Overview
Is Hornbjarg Cliffs on your bucket list? Then this full-day hiking tour is perfect for you, filled with unspoiled nature and wildlife all around you.
What's included?
Professional, English-speaking guide
Boat ride to/from Hornstrandir Nature Reserve
Travel to/from Ísafjörður prior
Personal medical insurance
Personal equipment & clothing
Food and snacks excluded
What to expect?
Embark on an unforgettable hike through Hornstrandir, one of Iceland’s most secluded and awe-inspiring nature reserves. Discover the unspoiled beauty of this wilderness as you explore the towering Hornbjarg bird cliffs, home to countless seabirds, and soak in the breathtaking views of Hornvík Bay. Whether you’re a passionate hiker or a lover of nature, this adventure offers a chance to immerse yourself in the untouched majesty of Iceland’s wild North.
If you only have one day to spend in Hornstrandir, deciding where to go can be a challenge. With natural beauty in every direction, it’s not easy to choose. However, Hornvík Bay stands out as a top choice for many visitors—and it’s our top recommendation for anyone asking, “What’s the best place to explore in a day?”
Hornvík provides an unparalleled experience, making it a must-visit for those with limited time in this extraordinary nature reserve. After a full day of adventure, unwind on the scenic boat ride back to town, reflecting on your journey while enjoying a refreshing snack and drink.
Hornvík is more than just a destination—it’s an opportunity to reconnect with nature, relax in an untouched setting, and experience Iceland’s unparalleled beauty in a way that few ever do.
Hornvík
We meet at our Service Center (a white container) half an hour before departure for a briefing. During this time, we’ll answer any questions and make final preparations. Departure is at 9 a.m. from the harbor in Ísafjörður aboard our passenger ferry.
The ride to Hornvík Bay takes between 2 and 3 hours. En route, you’ll see the entire coastline and the bays carved into Hornstrandir. These bays were once inhabited by our ancestors, who harvested the land and fished the waters. The ferry will drop us off near the old farm of Horn, and we’ll begin circumnavigating the edge of the magnificent Hornbjarg bird cliffs.
During the hike, you’ll experience the breathtaking view from the 400-meter cliffs (if you dare) and see kittiwakes bathing in the lake below, thousands of birds soaring along the edge, Arctic foxes searching for food on the beach, and the stunning, isolated scenery. We’ll then start our descent toward the pick-up location for the ferry back to Ísafjörður.
Distance: 12 km
Altitude gain: 550 m
Check availability
Good to know
Meeting point: Borea Adventures, Mávagarðsbryggja, Ísafjörður
What to bring
Please remember that everything you bring must be carried on your back for the entire hike, so pack as lightly as possible while still bringing the essentials.
Wear warm outdoor clothing, including hiking pants and warm upper layers—avoid cotton, as it stays cold when wet and dries slowly. Bring a waterproof jacket and pants, as well as waterproof, high-top hiking boots for ankle support. Don’t forget a hat and gloves for warmth.
Carry a small backpack with your personal medical kit (such as band-aids, throat lozenges, lip balm, seasickness tablets, and any necessary personal medication like an asthma inhaler). Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and after-sun cream for protection.
It’s also recommended to bring a water bottle and snacks to stay hydrated and energized. Binoculars are optional but great for wildlife spotting—and of course, don’t forget your camera!