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This Hornvík hiking day tour takes you by boat from Ísafjörður into Hornstrandir, Iceland's remote northernmost nature reserve, for a challenging hike around the Hornbjarg bird cliffs.
Hornstrandir was abandoned by its last residents in the 1950s and has no roads, so the only way in is on foot from a nearby fjord or by boat. This tour takes the boat option, sailing from Ísafjörður for two to three hours before you set off on foot.
The hike itself is rated challenging: around 7 km with close to 500 m of climbing, following the edge of Hornbjarg, cliffs that rise about 400 m straight out of the sea and hold huge numbers of nesting seabirds in summer. Because there have never been land predators on this part of Hornstrandir, Arctic foxes here are unusually easy to spot and often show little fear of people.
Because it's a long day with real elevation gain on rough terrain, you need a reasonable level of fitness and proper hiking gear. Weather in Hornstrandir can change fast even in summer, and the reserve is only accessible from around June to September. Bring your own food and snacks, and make sure you have personal travel insurance, since this is genuinely remote ground with no rescue infrastructure nearby.
This is rated challenging, with about 7 km of hiking and close to 500 m of climbing on rough terrain, so a good level of fitness matters.
By boat from Ísafjörður, since there are no roads into the reserve. The crossing takes about 2–3 hours each way.
There's a good chance. Foxes on this part of Hornstrandir have no natural predators and are often unusually easy to see.
No, bring your own food, snacks and water for the day.
16 years old, given the length and difficulty of the hike.
Hiking in Hornstrandir felt like stepping back in time. No roads, no crowds — just pure Icelandic nature. The silence was powerful, broken only by the sound of birds and the sea. It’s not an easy place to reach, but that’s exactly what makes it so special. If you want to feel the raw spirit of Iceland, this is the tour.
Lucy B.I’ve hiked in many places around the world, but Hornstrandir took my breath away. From the moment we stepped off the boat, it felt like we had entered a completely untouched wilderness. The cliffs, seabirds, and wide-open views of Hornvik are hard to put into words. The hike was challenging at times but always rewarding. Our guide made sure everyone felt safe and comfortable, and shared fascinating details about the history and wildlife. This tour alone made my trip to the Westfjords unforgettable.
Sam N.Amazing guide, stunning scenery, and the perfect way to experience the untouched nature of Iceland. Highly recommended!
Kristin O.One of the most beautiful hikes I’ve ever done. The views of Hornvik Bay were unforgettable, and the peace of Hornstrandir made it feel like another world.
Jan M.We joined this hike as a family with two teenagers, and it was an incredible adventure. The boat ride over set the tone, and once we started walking, every corner revealed a new dramatic view. Our guide was patient and knowledgeable, telling stories about the wildlife and history of the area. Truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience!
Jessica
Hornstrandir HikeFrom 63,100 ISK
Isafjordur Kayaking TourFrom 34,600 ISK
Isafjordur Whale WatchingFrom 14,600 ISK
