Description
See Iceland from its most refreshing perspective—the water on Wildlife and Arctic Foxes — Hornstrandir & Hesteyri by boat. Morning boat departure: Head out from Ísafjörður by boat and cross into the wild, remote Hornstrandir Nature Reserve, where cliffs, fjords and quiet coves set the scene for a true off-the-grid day.
Open horizons, distinctive scenery and a well-organised route make this an easy experience to remember and a pleasure to book. Clear organisation and carefully chosen viewpoints keep the experience smooth, rewarding and easy to enjoy.
Itinerary
Ísafjörður harbour
Boat into the Westfjords wilderness
Meet in Ísafjörður and travel by boat through the deep fjord system towards Hornstrandir. Steep mountains, quiet coves and a growing sense of remoteness set the tone for an extraordinary day.
Hesteyri
Stories from an abandoned settlement
Step ashore at historic Hesteyri, once home to a close-knit fishing community. Weathered buildings and local stories reveal how people lived in this beautiful but demanding corner of the Westfjords.
Hornstrandir trail
Hiking between fjord and mountain
Follow a guided route through wild coastal terrain where sea views, flowering slopes and dramatic mountains fill the horizon. The pace allows time to absorb the silence and photograph the untouched reserve.
Wildlife country
Arctic fox possibilities
Explore one of Iceland’s most promising regions for observing Arctic foxes and birdlife. Sightings are never guaranteed, yet the protected landscape and expert local knowledge create an exciting wildlife experience.
Westfjords picnic pause
Flavours in the open air
Pause in the wilderness for the included refreshments or meal while the surrounding fjord scenery becomes your dining room. It is a simple, memorable moment far removed from busy roads and towns.
Return by boat
A final sweep of the fjords
Reboard the boat for the voyage back to Ísafjörður, looking again across cliffs, islands and sheltered bays. The water route provides a beautiful final perspective on the wilderness explored on foot.
What is included
- Boat ride to and from Hornstrandir
- Professional guide
- Delicious homemade lunch and dinner
What do I need to bring
- Warm outdoor clothing (avoid cotton; it stays cold when wet and dries slowly)
- Waterproof jacket and waterproof pants
- Waterproof, high-top hiking boots with good ankle support
- Hat and gloves
- Sunhat, sunglasses and sunscreen (it can be sunny up north)
- Small backpack
- Water bottle
- Snacks for the day
- Camera/phone (and a power bank)
Good to know
- Duration is around 10 hours (timing may vary with sea and weather conditions).
- This tour includes walking on uneven natural terrain. Good boots and waterproof layers make a big difference.
- Wildlife sightings (including Arctic foxes) are never guaranteed, but the area is one of Iceland’s best for spotting them.
- Dietary options can be selected during booking.
- Minimum age: 4 years.
Get directions
Highlights
- Boat journey into Hornstrandir Nature Reserve
- Hesteyri heritage stop in a remote Westfjords settlement
- Prime Arctic fox habitat and wildlife-focused guiding
- Guided hike in pristine off-the-beaten-path nature
- Homemade lunch and dinner in a unique setting
Wildlife and Arctic Foxes — Hornstrandir & Hesteyri by boat – Frequently Asked Questions
The route is guided and organised so you can focus on the scenery, wildlife or cultural experience rather than logistics.
Allow approximately 10 hours for the advertised experience. Use the exact check-in and departure time shown on your voucher.
The meeting format is on location. Your booking confirmation gives the exact location, arrival time and any selected transfer details.
Wear warm layers and practical footwear. A waterproof and windproof outer layer is strongly recommended around boats, rivers and Iceland’s open coastline.
Essential safety equipment listed for this product is included. Check the booking options and voucher for the exact clothing, gear and extras supplied.
Natural conditions and wildlife always vary. The team uses current information and local experience to create the strongest possible outing on the day.
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