A Guide to Latrabjarg Cliffs in Westfjords
Latrabjarg Cliffs are one of the must-visit places in Iceland's Westfjords, thanks to wonderful views, bird-watching opportunities, and puffins. Our travel guide includes tips on when is the best time to visit Latrabjarg to see puffins, how to get there, and where to stay.
We are standing high above the sea on Latrabjarg Cliffs while enjoying the epic scenery enhanced by the midnight sun.
The light is soft as the sun slowly sets behind the low-hanging clouds on the horizon. Or does it?
The midnight sun phenomenon gives us plenty of time to explore Iceland in the summer months.
We are still south of the Arctic Circle, so the sun eventually hides behind the horizon, but only for a short time.
The wind finally stopped blowing after several days, and we could not believe we had reached the Westernmost point of Europe.
It's not completely silent here.
Latrabjarg is on one of the largest bird cliffs in the world.
It is estimated that around a million birds nest here in the summer, and even though we have no intention to count how many species and birds are here, we can sense it is a lot.
Far more than we've ever seen before. And far louder than we've heard before.
And what is even better?
Once we get off the car, we spot a large colony of puffins, the main reason why we decided to undergo such a long journey.
Latrabjarg Cliffs
But one thing after another. Have you ever heard of Latrabjarg Cliffs?
We have to admit that we'd never heard of this location before until we started planning our trip to Iceland.
It is quite surprising when we now know it is one of the most beautiful locations in the country and among the best places to see puffins in Iceland.
Sure, it is remote. Yes, it is in Westfjords, which is a destination not that many travelers include in their Iceland itinerary.
It gets pretty windy up there. The road is not paved, and it takes hours to get there.
Still, if we should inspire you to visit one of the best places in Iceland's Westfjords, we can't fail to mention Latrabjarg Cliffs.
Visiting Latrabjarg Sea Cliffs, which are 14 kilometers long and up to 441 meters high, is a truly ultimate adventure.
Expect majestic cliffs, amazing bird colonies, a peaceful atmosphere, and epic sea views.
But is it so even out of the season when all the photogenic puffins are gone? Let's find out.
Here's everything you should know about Latrabjarg before you go.
When is the Best Time to Visit Latrabjarg Cliffs
If you are interested in bird watching, the best time to visit Latrabjarg cliffs is between May and mid-August.
Puffins and other bird species nest here during the summer.
Summer Nesting Season
To increase your chances, we would plan your visit between mid-May and the beginning of August as each year birds can arrive a bit later or leave the place a bit earlier.
Seeing Latrabjarg in the nesting season is really impressive, and we are not afraid to say it is one of the best experiences you can get in Iceland.
So now comes a question of whether it is worth it to visit Latrabjarg when puffins, razorbills, arctic terns, and others are gone.
Off-Season
Are Latrabjarg Cliffs worth visiting in the off-season? Well, we would say yes, if you have time.
The cliffs are breathtaking, and the whole drive is incredibly scenic, especially if you luck out with the weather.
Therefore, we think it is worth visiting Latrabjarg even in the off-season.
On the other hand, you should know that without birds and the intention to hike along the cliffs at least for a while, Latrabjarg might not be worth the effort and time.
Simply put, there is not much to see and do on a rainy day outside the nesting season in Latrabjarg, especially if you don't want to hike.
And Iceland's scenery is incredible everywhere, so you must set your expectations right and discuss your priorities before setting off.
Make sure to read our guide on the best time to visit Iceland.
Winter
The only time when it is not recommended to travel to Latrabjarg is the winter.
Winter is quite a long period here in Westfjords. In general, it lasts from October till the end of March or mid-April. October is usually the first month when the first snowfall can arrive.
The roads might be impassable for several days during the wintertime.
Local authorities work hard to make the main roads encircling the peninsula passable year-round, but keep in mind that an unpaved side road connects Latrabjarg.
Even though a few farms are along the way, it's not recommended to drive there.
In fact, you should reconsider whether visiting Westfjords in winter is a good idea at all.
Places such as Snaefellsnes Peninsula, Golden Circle, or Reykjanes Peninsula might be a better alternative.
If you decide to do so, a 4WD car is a must, plus you should be a well-experienced driver in challenging winter conditions.
Time of the Day
When it comes to the best time of the day to visit Latrabjarg, it is usually early in the morning or later in the evening, in case you want to see the birds as they usually are hunting during the day.
We arrived in Latrabjarg quite late, around 9 PM, and the soft light together with the nesting birds created an amazing atmosphere.
If you travel outside the nesting season, we would say it does not matter that much. Just make sure to arrive here during the daylight hours.
Moreover, the site is really remote, so you do not have to worry about crowds. Hopefully, it is going to stay this way.
Entrance Fee
There is no entrance fee to Latrabjarg Cliffs. That's great news for everyone visiting Iceland on a budget.
How to Get to Latrabjarg
Despite its remoteness, and despite the fact not that many travelers make it to Westfjords, Latrabjarg Cliffs are one of the most visited places in the area.
Car or Campervan
Without any doubt, the best way to get to Latrabjarg cliffs is by rental car or campervan as there is no public transport.
The directions are very straightforward, as only one road goes to Latrabjarg.
Well, road.
It is a gravel road, and given the fact that the very day we wanted to visit Latrabjarg, we had to use our spare tire, we did not feel that comfortable driving there.
But in the end, we made it, and you should too if you drive carefully.
Directions
Follow the paved road 62, and then, 14 kilometers before you reach Patreksfjordur (when traveling clockwise the Westfjords), there is a turnoff to an unpaved road 612.
From here, follow the road to its very end.
It is 46 kilometers from the junction to the Latrabjarg parking lot, and it will take you over an hour to get there.
Compared to easily accessible places such as Seljalandsfoss or Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach on the Ring Road, getting to Latrabjarg takes time.
On the way to Latrabjarg, you will see a beached shipwreck BA 64, and you can also take a short detour to the Red Sand Beach.
Drive carefully, as the road to the cliffs is not paved. During the summer, a 2WD car is enough to reach Latrabjarg.
We had a small 2WD campervan, and it was fine.
As we've already mentioned earlier in this post, when the conditions change during the winter, you will need a proper 4WD.
Or change your plans and visit a more accessible place instead.
We did not notice any fuel station along road 612, so it is better to have your tank full before you set off.
Parking
There is free parking at Latrabjarg Cliffs.
Public Transport
As mentioned above, you can't get to Latrabjarg by bus.
Tours
A handful of tour agencies are offering a trip to Latrabjarg cliffs. The easiest way is to arrange a tour in Patreksfjordur, a nearby town.
Another approach is to book a multi-day tour, including Westfjords.
If you don't feel comfortable driving around the entire country yourself, consider reserving this well-rated 12-Day Iceland Grand Tour.
How Much Time Do I Need for Latrabjarg Cliffs
There is no way around it. Visiting Latrabjarg cliffs is quite time-consuming.
The drive to Latrabjarg will take you at least an hour from the turnoff. In reality, it's usually a bit more, depending on how often you stop to take photos.
How much time you need to spend on the location is highly individual.
We visited Latrabjarg in the nesting season and spent there approximately an hour and a half. We did not hike that far along the cliffs, though.
That's why, when creating your Westfjords itinerary, allow yourself at least three to four hours for Latrabjarg Cliffs.
Visiting Latrabjarg Cliffs
So what can you expect from visiting Latrabjarg cliffs and what are the best things to do there?
History
We left our car in the designated parking lot and walked toward the lighthouse.
There are also some informative panels, and you can read about the area and its significance. Don't miss it.
It was quite interesting to learn more about the local egg hunters who literally found here heaven on earth. Well, it was a different story for the birds.
Fortunately, egg and bird hunting is nowadays banned, at least during the nesting season.
By the way, egg-hunting was not the safest job, as many died because the cliffs were dangerous.
Puffins
We could see a clearly visible path along the cliffs, so we set off. The cliff's edge was roped off, so stay behind the barrier.
It did not take long, and we saw our first puffins nesting on the edge of the cliff.
We had already seen them at Borgarfjordur Eystri and Dyrholaey Peninsula a few days ago when traveling Iceland's East Fjords and South Coast, but our excitement was almost the same.
Puffins sit high on the cliffs on the grassy areas, and from time to time, they go hunting.
Watching the puffins in the wild is an incredible experience, even for non-birders.
Bird-Watching
Except for puffins, Latrabjarg Cliffs are a nesting area for white-tailed eagles, gannets, guillemots, and many others.
Right after puffins, the most interesting species we saw were razorbills, very photogenic black-white birds.
Our jaw dropped when we saw the sheer amount of birds here.
Simply put, Latrabjarg Cliffs is one of the best places in Iceland for bird-watching.
Hiking Trail
To be honest, even if it wasn't for the birds, we could continue on and on.
As the steep cliffs seemed out of this world, and as we could still see the trail sneaking in front of us, it was hard to decide when it was time to return to the car.
The trail along the cliffs is 14 kilometers long, so hiking is definitely one of the top things to do in Latrabjarg Cliffs.
Although we think it is enough to walk, let's say three or four kilometers, and then come back, as the views eventually get repetitive.
The advantage is that the further you go, the fewer people you will meet on the trail.
Where to Stay
Latrabjarg is really off the beaten path destination, so the accommodation along the way is quite scarce.
There are a few guesthouses along the way. However, they are either open only during the high season or booked out early for their unique location.
The closest town to Latrabjarg is Patreksfjordur. The town has grocery stores, fuel stations, restaurants, and a decent selection of hotels.
We've handpicked the best accommodation you can consider before or after visiting the Latrabjarg cliffs.
Orlygshofn | Hotel Latrabjarg - This guesthouse is kind of in the middle of nowhere, but we believe you appreciate it. It is actually on the way to the cliffs, so it is for those of you who want to get there either early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Rooms are cozy and newly renovated.
Patreksfjordur | Guesthouse Stekkabol - This lovely guesthouse offers immaculate rooms, some of them with sea views, for a very reasonable price. If you travel on a budget, you should make your reservation as soon as possible.
Patreksfjordur | Fosshotel Westfjords - Amazing location overlooking the fjord, modern rooms, great staff, and perfect services that are expected from this chain, Fosshotel Westfjords is a top pick in Patreksfjordur.
Camping | In case you you're camping in Iceland, there is a free and a very basic Latrabjarg Campsite (there is basically just a toilet) only a couple of kilometers before you reach the cliffs (it is signposted). It is prohibited to sleep on the official parking lot.
What to Pack
It all depends on what season you travel around Westfjords, but there are a few things you should consider before you go.
First of all, the odds of experiencing a windless day in Latrabjarg are pretty low.
Therefore, you should always have your windbreaker ready, and the same goes for a rain jacket.
Even if you do not plan on going too far, the weather in Iceland can change literally in a minute.
The rest depends on you. Nevertheless, here are some tips on what to pack for Iceland.
The trail leading along the cliffs is pretty narrow, and there are sometimes holes in it, so we recommend you hiking boots.
Runners should be fine if you just want to see puffins close the parking lot.
As Latrabjarg cliffs are a photographer's dream, especially during the bird season, we recommend you pack a mirrorless camera with bird-eye autofocus and a proper telephoto lens.
Some of the birds were really close to the trail, but many species were flying around.
Plus, you should always be considerate and keep your distance between animals and yourself.
If photography is not your thing, you might still consider bringing binoculars.
Staying Safe
Latrabjarg, like the rest of Westfjords and Iceland in general, is a completely safe destination if you follow the few basic rules.
First of all, you should know there are literally no barriers along the cliffs, just a few signs pointing out that a person can fall off the cliff and a low-hanging rope.
That's why you should be super careful when walking in Latrabjarg. Stick to the path, and do not go too close to the edge.
This is especially important for families with kids or for keen photographers who tend to focus on their target and not on the place where they step.
It is also necessary to be aware of strong wind gusts in the area.
Once again, hiking close to the edge of the cliff in high winds can be dangerous as the stronger wind gusts can throw your balance off.
Stay safe.
Travel Insurance
We never leave home without travel insurance that was designed to cover our expenses if something goes wrong during the trip.
Travel insurance protects against theft, flight delays, injury, illness, cancellations, and much more.
World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers to cover their trip essentials, including sports and adventure activities.
SafetyWing is affordable travel insurance for backpackers, long-term travelers, and digital nomads.
Travel smarter and safer!
Travel Resources
Here you can find links to all the travel resources we use and which you might find helpful when planning your next holiday.
Accommodation: When looking for accommodation, we usually search hotels via Booking.com or Hostelworld.
Tours: Although we love to travel independently, some places are better to visit with a guided tour.
We prefer GetYourGuide for its easy-to-use interface and solid reputation. Another great alternative is Viator.
Rental Cars: When going on a road trip, we always use Rentalcars.com, a reliable site for booking a rental car in advance.
Flight Tickets: When looking for flight tickets, you can search Skyscanner to find the best price.
Travel Insurance: World Nomads and SafetyWing cover against risks of travel.
