Wildlife Watching in Iceland: Where and When to Go

Self-Drive Encounters with Puffins, Whales & Arctic Foxes

Few places on Earth rival Iceland’s unspoiled wilderness and its incredible wildlife. From the vibrant colonies of puffins perched on sea cliffs to majestic humpback whales breaching off the coast, and elusive Arctic foxes darting through mossy lava fields — Iceland offers wildlife encounters that are as wild and wondrous as the landscape itself.

What makes Iceland even more special? It’s a land built for road trips. With well-maintained routes cutting through coastal cliffs, volcanic highlands, and glacial valleys, a self-drive journey allows you to explore Iceland’s top wildlife spots on your own schedule.

In this blog, we’ll take you through the best times and places to see Iceland’s wildlife, why renting a car is essential, and provide answers to the most common traveller questions — all wrapped in local insight and expert advice.

Iceland's Signature Wildlife: What to See and When

Puffins – The Iconic Seabird

One of Iceland’s most beloved residents, the puffin is a must-see for summer travellers.

Best time to see puffins: May to mid-August
Top locations:

• Látrabjarg Cliffs (Westfjords) – Europe’s largest seabird cliff. 

• Dyrhólaey (South Coast) – Easily accessible with stunning views.

• Borgarfjörður Eystri (East Iceland) – A hidden gem with a quiet colony.

Puffins nest in large numbers on coastal cliffs. Their comical waddle, colourful beaks, and social nature make them a hit with families and photographers alike.

 

Whales – The Giants of the North Atlantic

Whale watching in Iceland is nothing short of magical. Over 20 species have been spotted in Icelandic waters.

Best time for whale watching: April to October (peak: June–August)
Top locations:

• Húsavík (North Iceland) – Often called the whale-watching capital of Europe.

• Reykjavík (Old Harbour) – Easy access from the city with daily tours.

• Akureyri & Dalvík (Eyjafjörður) – Calm fjord waters with frequent sightings.

Species commonly seen: humpbacks, minke whales, dolphins, and even blue whales.

 

Arctic Fox – The True Native

Iceland’s only native land mammal, the Arctic fox, is shy and elusive, but deeply symbolic of the island’s wild soul.

Best time to see Arctic foxes: Year-round (most visible in autumn and winter)
Top location:

• Hornstrandir Nature Reserve (Westfjords) – Remote, untouched, and teeming with foxes.

This region is only accessible by boat or long hike, making a car rental crucial for getting to the trailheads and ferry points.

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Why Renting a Car is Essential for Icelandic Wildlife Adventures

Public transport in Iceland is limited — especially when it comes to reaching bird cliffs, remote fjords, and highland edges where animals roam. Renting a car gives you control over your itinerary, lets you follow local wildlife tips in real time, and allows for last-minute detours to secluded viewing spots.

Key Benefits:

• Freedom to explore beyond Reykjavik — The best wildlife encounters happen far from cities.

• Flexibility for early morning or late-night sightings — Ideal for summer’s midnight sun or winter’s Arctic fox tracks.

• Essential access to remote regions — Some wildlife spots are off gravel roads or require 4x4 car hire for Icelandic Highlands.

 

Choosing the Right Car for a Wildlife Road Trip

Depending on your travel season and destinations, the right vehicle can make all the difference.

• 4x4 Car Hire for Icelandic Highlands – Crucial for exploring the Westfjords or Hornstrandir trailheads.

• Affordable Car Hire Keflavik Airport – Start your wildlife quest as soon as you land.

• Electric Vehicles – Eco-conscious travellers can go green while watching puffins or whales.

• Winter Car Rental Iceland Tips – Opt for studded tyres and 4WD when chasing Arctic foxes in snowy months.

• Self-Drive Tours Iceland with 4x4 – Plan a wildlife-themed Ring Road trip with customised stops.

With Keflavik to Reykjavik car rental options, you can easily return or drop off your car based on your travel route.

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Throughout your self-drive wildlife adventure, choosing Höldur the best car rental company in Iceland can elevate your experience — providing local insights, reliable vehicles, and seamless support. Whether you need to rent a car for F-roads in Iceland, plan a car rental for Golden Circle Iceland, or prepare a car rental for Northern Lights tours Iceland, Höldur has a trusted fleet to match every explorer.

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FAQs About Wildlife Watching & Car Rentals in Iceland

Can I see puffins outside summer?

No, puffins only nest in Iceland from May to mid-August. Outside these months, they’re out at sea.

Where’s the best place to see whales in Iceland?

Húsavík in the north is the top location, especially for humpbacks, minke whales, and blue whales in summer.

Can I drive to the Arctic fox area?

You can drive to the ferry port or hiking trails leading to Hornstrandir, but the reserve itself is hike-in only.

Is a 4x4 necessary for wildlife watching?

Yes, especially if you're heading into the Westfjords or F-roads near national parks. Many bird cliffs and fox habitats are off gravel tracks.

Are there wildlife tours I can join?

Yes — combine your self-drive trip with local guides for specific animals like whales, foxes, or reindeer in East Iceland.

Is wildlife watching possible in winter?

Yes! Arctic foxes are more visible in snow, and whale sightings continue from Reykjavík’s Old Harbour. Puffins, however, are seasonal.

What car rental is best from Keflavik Airport for a wildlife trip?

Choose a Keflavik Airport car rental with winter features or off-road capacity depending on the season. Höldur offers both 4x4s and electric options.

How long does it take to drive from Keflavik to puffin spots?

To Látrabjarg (Westfjords) it’s a scenic 6–8 hour drive — perfect for a multi-day wildlife-focused road trip.

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Final Thought: Let Iceland's Wildlife Guide Your Journey

Iceland’s animals are more than just sightings — they’re storytellers of the island’s history, mystery, and magic. Whether it’s the haunting call of seabirds along the coast, the echo of a whale breach across a fjord, or the silent gaze of an Arctic fox — these moments become the memories that define a trip.

With your own set of wheels and a flexible itinerary, you can go beyond the guidebooks and let the wild guide you.

Choose Höldur — your warm, expert travel companion — for a self-drive wildlife adventure that’s as free as the creatures you’ll encounter.

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