Puffins in Iceland can be seen at several prime locations known for large colonies and good viewing opportunities. The most notable places to see puffins include:
- Vestmannaeyjar (Westman Islands): Home to the world's largest puffin colony, with millions nesting on Heimaey island. It's a popular spot for puffin tours and combines birdwatching with volcanic landscapes.
- Látrabjarg Cliffs in the Westfjords: Famous for close-up puffin sightings and dramatic coastal cliffs. This area hosts millions of puffins and other seabirds, great for bird photography.
- Dyrhólaey Peninsula: Near the village of Vík in South Iceland, it's a great puffin spot, especially during breeding season. Access is sometimes limited to protect birds.
- Borgarfjörður eystri (East Iceland): Known as the "capital of the puffins," with extensive nesting colonies where visitors can safely observe puffins from wooden platforms.
- Near Reykjavík: The small islands of Akurey and Lundey just off the coast are accessible by boat and have puffin colonies.
- Papey Island (East Iceland): A remote island with puffins that offers an up-close natural experience for those willing to take a boat from Djúpivogur.
The best time to see puffins is generally from late April to mid-August, with peak chick-feeding activity in June and July. Some puffins may still be seen in early September, but this is less certain.
Overall, the Westman Islands and Látrabjarg cliffs are among the top recommended locations for guaranteed puffin sightings in Iceland, with additional excellent spots at Dyrhólaey, Borgarfjörður eystri, and nearby islands to Reykjavík.