Westman Islands: Pompeii of the North

$189 per person

Westman Islands:  Pompei of the North

$189 per person

Departs at 8am/10 hours
Jul 1 - Sep 15, 2010:  Tue, Thu, Sat
AH/36

The volcano carved Westman Islands are a true wonder of nature.  The youngest island (Surtsey) has been around for 47 years while the oldest one is almost 40,000 years old.  In 1973, a volcanic eruption covered parts of the main island of Heimaey, and even today one can still see lava submerged buildings.

The tour takes you from Reykjavik to the new pier at Bakkafjara for a 20 minute ferry ride to the Westman Islands.  Once there, you'll be met by a local guide for a bus tour around the main island of Heimaey. Enjoy puffin viewing  (May - Aug) in Storhofdi before walking up to a volcanic crater that erupted only a few years ago.  Explore the flora of a new lava field.  After lunch (not included) join a boat cruise where you can enjoy many maritime wonders:  colorful ocean caves, millions of seabirds and,  during the summer, occasional groups of whales.  You'll even hear instrumental music in the natural echo of Klettshellir cave.  Return to Reykajvik by ferry and bus.Back