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Kayaking and Biking Tour in the Westfjords from Ísafjörður

About 7 hoursGroup: Small groupEasy to moderateMeet on locationAge 12+24 May–19 September
5.0(1 review)

This Ísafjörður kayaking and biking tour combines two ways to see the Westfjords in one day: paddling the fjord by kayak, then mountain biking into the forest and hills of Tungudalur valley.

Ísafjörður harbourÍsafjarðardjúp fjordTungudalur valleyBuná river
  • Kayak about 6 km on the fjord below Ísafjörður's mountains
  • Mountain bike about 11 km into Tungudalur valley and its forest
  • Chance to see Arctic terns, eider ducks and seals from the kayak
  • All kayaking and biking gear included, with a professional guide
  • One full day combining both activities, running late May to mid-September

Your day, stop by stop

Click a stop for photos and practical tips.
1Meet at the base near the harbourMeet your guide at Mávagarður C, close to the Eastern Harbour.
2Kayaks below the mountainsideKayaking on the fjordPaddle about 6 km along Ísafjarðardjúp with your guide.
Kayaks below the mountainsideKayaker below a snow-streaked mountainGroup of kayaks on the fjord

An easy paddle close to shore, about 6 km and 2.5 hours along Ísafjarðardjúp with your guide, with a chance to see Arctic terns, eider ducks and seals along the way.

Time here · about 2.5 hoursDistance · about 6 km
3Mountain bikers on a forest trailMountain biking to TungudalurRide about 11 km past avalanche barriers into the forested valley.
Mountain bikers on a forest trailRider on a footbridge among the lupinsRider on a gravel track

The route, about 11 km and 2.5 hours, climbs gently past the town's avalanche defences before dropping into Tungudalur valley, following the Buná river through forest.

Time here · about 2.5 hoursDistance · about 11 km
4Return to ÍsafjörðurRide or paddle back to the base and return your gear.

About the Ísafjörður kayaking and biking tour

This tour splits the day between two activities: kayaking on the fjord that Ísafjörður sits on, and mountain biking into the valley behind the town. It is a good way to see the Westfjords landscape from the water and from the trail in the same day.

On the water you paddle about 6 km along the shoreline of Ísafjarðardjúp, with a chance to spot Arctic terns, eider ducks, cormorants, black guillemots and sometimes seals. On the bike you ride about 11 km, passing avalanche barriers on the mountainside before dropping into Tungudalur valley, riding through forest and along the Buná river.

The order of kayaking and biking can change depending on weather and group logistics, and the guide adjusts the route to the group's ability, so it suits people without much prior kayaking or biking experience. Westfjords weather changes quickly, so dress in layers and bring something waterproof even in summer.

Included

  • All kayaking gear
  • Mountain bike and helmet
  • Professional guide

Not included

  • Transport to Ísafjörður
  • Food and drinks

What to bring

  • Waterproof jacket and trousers
  • Warm layers
  • Sturdy shoes
  • Change of clothes

Good to know

  • Duration is about 7 hours in total
  • Minimum age 12
  • Runs from 24 May to 19 September
  • Meet at the base near the Eastern Harbour in Ísafjörður; departure is usually 9:30 AM
  • The order of kayaking and biking may change with conditions

Questions people ask

Do I need experience in kayaking or biking?

No, the guide adjusts the pace and route to the group, so this suits people without much prior experience.

Is there a minimum age?

Yes, the minimum age is 12.

What is included?

All kayaking gear, a mountain bike and helmet, and a professional guide.

When does this tour run?

From 24 May to 19 September.

Reviews

Reviews from travellers who took this tour. A local reads every review before it is shown.
5.0Based on 1 review
5 stars1
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1 star0
Fantastic time in Isafjordur

Had a blast on this tour in Isafjordur on our Ring Road drive in August 2024. We decided to spend a full day in Isafjordur (we were driving almost every day on our trip) and wanted to relax but still do something exciting. I am so happy that Heida recommended this tour to us. The guide we met was great and all four of us had a fantastic time.

Adam · December 2024
From27,900 ISKPer person

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