Europe's massive westernmost cliffs (14km long) in the Westfjords. The world's best place to photograph fearless puffins up close.
Story & Legend
Stand at the edge of Europe. These cliffs host millions of seabirds. They are also the site of the miraculous 1947 'Dhoon' rescue, where locals saved 12 sailors by rappelling down icy cliffs in the dark, a feat considered impossible. Today, it is the best place in the world to photograph Puffins, who will let you get within a meter.
Geology & Science
The cliffs are 14km long and rise up to 441 meters high. They are home to millions of seabirds (Puffins, Razorbills, Guillemots). The rock layers are clearly visible, showing millions of years of lava flows built up one on top of another.
Safety
CRITICAL: Puffin burrows make the cliff edge hollow and unstable. It can collapse under your weight. The rule here is: Lie flat on your stomach to look over the edge. It is also extremely windy.
Photo Tip
Puffins here are fearless and will let you get within a meter (no zoom needed). The best time is in the evening (golden hour) when they return from fishing. Focus on the eye contact. If you want a landscape shot, capture the lighthouse at Bjargtangar.
Insider Tip
To photograph the puffins safely, lie flat on your stomach near the edge. The puffins are surprisingly tame, but the cliff edges are fragile and can collapse under your weight if you stand.
Best Time to Visit
Late evening (8:00 PM - 10:00 PM) during summer when the puffins return from fishing.
What to Bring
A windproof jacket and clothes you don't mind getting dirty (from lying on the grass). The winds here are notorious.
