CityBuddy
Elliðaey Nature Reserve Hike
Best time to visit
Late spring through summer offers calm seas for easier boat rides and the best chance to see wildlife in vibrant activity. Morning hikes catch the soft sunlight over the island’s cliffs.
Budget tips
No entry fee applies, but boat trips cost around 5000 ISK; booking round-trip tickets early online often saves money. Pack your own snacks to avoid pricey options on the mainland before departure.
Recommended for
Bird watchers, Adventure hikers, Nature photographers
Plan your visit
3-4 hours
About
Quick facts: An island spot only reachable by boat or a challenging hike, it hosts an old hunting lodge dating to the 1950s. You might spot puffins and seals around the rocky coastline during the warmer months.
Highlights: A tiny lighthouse stands on the southern tip, often shrouded in mist, giving an eerie yet beautiful vibe. The island’s wide-open grassy meadows feel like stepping into another world, perfect for peaceful solitude.
Insider tips
- Wear sturdy hiking boots and layered clothing for changing weather and rocky paths.
- Bring binoculars for close-ups of seabirds and seals along the coast.
- Aim for early morning departures to avoid midday crowds and catch the soft, golden light.
- Skip visiting on stormy days when boat access is risky and the hike becomes slippery and dangerous.
Have you heard of free walking tours?
After traveling to 30+ countries, there's one thing I wish someone had told me from day one, and it completely changed how I experience new cities.
Free walking tours. Yes, actually free. No credit card needed. No catch.
Local guide, 2-3 hours
Major sights, hidden gems, local stories
100% tip-based
Guides earn only tips, so they give their absolute best
You tip what feels right
At the end, just tip whatever you feel is right
I've done these in dozens of cities and they've been the highlight of almost every trip. If you're visiting Reykjavik, Iceland, do this on your first day. You'll thank me later.
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