Iceland
Iceland
85+
species
0
endemics
skill level
Jun, Jul, Aug
best months
Overview
Iceland's species list is short, but the experiences are unforgettable. Puffin colonies number in the millions, Gyrfalcons hunt across volcanic landscapes, and Harlequin Ducks bob in glacial rivers. Midnight sun means 24 hours of birding during peak season. Every species here feels special against the otherworldly terrain.
Home to the largest Atlantic Puffin colonies in the world
Gyrfalcon, the world's largest falcon, breeds across the interior
24 hours of daylight during June and July means unlimited birding
Volcanic landscapes create a surreal backdrop for every sighting
Key Species to Target
Atlantic Puffin
Millions nest on sea cliffs. Latrabjarg and Westman Islands are iconic.
Gyrfalcon
Arctic predator. Scan cliffs and open tundra in the north.
Harlequin Duck
Breeds on fast-flowing rivers. Myvatn area is reliable.
Great Skua
Aggressive seabird pirate. Breeds on moors across the south.
Red-necked Phalarope
Spinning on ponds in summer. Remarkably approachable.
Barrow's Goldeneye
Myvatn holds the entire Icelandic breeding population.
Top Hotspots
Myvatn
50+ speciesDuck capital of Europe. 15 breeding duck species at one lake.
Latrabjarg Cliffs
25+ speciesEurope's largest bird cliff. Puffins at arm's reach.
Westman Islands
35+ speciesMassive puffin colony and Eleonora's Falcon records.
Snaefellsnes Peninsula
40+ speciesWhite-tailed Eagles, seabirds, and scenic coastal birding.
Best Time to Visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Highlighted months indicate peak birding conditions based on weather, breeding activity, and species availability.
Travel Tips
June and July offer peak puffin activity and 24-hour daylight.
Weather changes fast. Pack waterproofs and warm layers regardless of forecast.
Rent a 4WD for interior roads (F-roads) where Gyrfalcon territory begins.
Respect seabird nesting areas. Cliffs are unstable and birds are easily flushed.
From the Community
Recent sightings shared by Birdr members in this region.
Sat on the cliff edge at 11pm in full daylight. Puffins landing with beaks full of fish less than an arm's length away. Utterly magical.
White morph hunting over the lava fields. Largest falcon in the world and impossibly fast. Chased a Rock Ptarmigan for 200m before giving up.
Pair bobbing in whitewater rapids like it was nothing. The male's slate-blue and chestnut pattern is art. Iceland's rivers are the best place on Earth for this species.
Quick Facts
Total Species
85+
Endemic Species
0
Skill Level
BeginnerPeak Season
Jun, Jul, Aug
Region
Europe
Key Species