This 6 day itinerary takes you to the North Western corner of Iceland on an exciting wilderness journey to explore the beautiful fjords of Jökulfirðir (Glacier Fjords), located in Hornstrandir Nature Reserve and Ísafjarðardjúp Bay. Both of these untouched areas of natural beauty are considered to offer some of the best sea kayaking and hiking opportunities in Iceland.
Often referred to as the 'Lost Fjords' due to their sheer remoteness and declared as a Nature Reserve in 1975, Hornstandir is a hidden gem, accessible only by boat (or kayak!). The vast area that the Nature Reserve covers is characterised by deep fjords, remote bays, towering cliffs and countless Siberian driftwood. Here you will witness some of the biggest bird cliffs in Europe and one of the largest sea fowl colonies in the world. Up to 50 species of breeding birds inhabit these areas, meanwhile there are also good chances for whale, seal and porpoises encounters and even the Arctic fox.
Approximately 260 species of flowering plants and ferns grow within the Nature Reserve, the majority of which are common in the west fjords, as well as a number of rare species too. For several decades now the reserve has been completely preserved from grazing, consequently, continuous growth of 300 - 400 metres can be reached. The area is prone to heavy snowfall and spends much of the summer months shedding snow cover, meaning that the vegetation here is extremely sensitive and should be approached with care.
For 6 days, you and your fellow group members will be very much self-reliant, immersed in nature and surrounded by natural beauty, your days spent kayaking and exploring by foot and your night spent sleeping under the stars in comfortable tents. This insightful wilderness adventure also provides access to wonderful mountainous terrain and valleys perfect for hiking.
Please note: previous kayaking experience is recommended for anyone considering this trip. The kayaking itinerary is very much dependent on weather conditions and the overall spirit and capability of the group, with the option sometimes to hike in place of kayaking.
Itinerary
6 Day Sample Itinerary
Please note that this itinerary is a brief overview of the trip and is subject to change depending on weather and other conditions.
You will meet your guide at 5pm on the evening before departure at Mávagarður C (grey building) for a briefing where you will also meet your fellow kayakers, answer any questions and make final preparations. This shouldn’t take longer than an hour. If you’re unable to be here the day before departure, then just let us know in advance and we’ll make sure that you have all the information you’ll need.
Day 1: Depart Ísafjörður
You will meet again at the base in Mávagarður C at 8am for last minute checks before departing from the harbour in Ísafjörður on the passenger ferry at 9am. Your destination is Hesteyri, which was the biggest settlement in Hornstrandir Nature Reserve. You pack your boats and after the safety briefing, you will take a short paddle into the fjord along the coast to the old whaling station that was operated by Norwegian whalers in the late 18th century. After a short break and photos, you will get going again for the journey to Kviar Lodge where you cross two fjords and experience numerous waterfalls that cascade off the towering cliffs above. You will make some beach landings along the way to stretch and enjoy the beautiful scenery. After arriving to Kvíar Lodge, you can get settled in the house and enjoy a relaxing sit in the sauna to soothe sore muscles. The farmhouse is the only house in the valley and was built in 1921 and was occupied by the same family until they moved away in 1948 seeking an easier life in Ísafjörður.
Paddling Distance: 18km
Day 2: Lónafjörður fjord
Today you will leave most of the gear in the farmhouse and go for a beautiful paddle into Lónafjörður fjord. It is argued by many that this is the most beautiful fjord in Iceland; totally unspoiled with no sign of human presence. The fjord is a haven for birds and a huge seal colony can be found in the small bay of Sópandi. You’ll follow the whole coastline and enjoy a long day of paddling with relaxing breaks along the route. Afterwards you will head back to the farmhouse for a rewarding sauna and a delicious dinner.
Paddling Distance: 17-20 km.
Day 3: Leirufjörður
After an easy morning you will take to your kayaks and head out across the bay to the West side of the fjord near Höfði. Here you will be able to witness Leirufjörður fjord with the elegant Drangajökull glacier in the distance. The name Leirufjörður (silty fjord) derives from the clay and silt coming from the glacial river of Drangajökull. You may have the option to land in the small cove of Kjós and take a hike up to the nearby headland to get a closer look at the glacier, or alternatively paddle into Leirufjörður and go for hike there towards the glacier. You will then paddle back to your cozy home in Kvíar before dinnertime after another great day out.
Paddling Distance: 15-18 km
Day 4: Grunnavík bay
Today you will depart Kvíar for the camping portion of the trip. You will ensure you have everything with you for the three days ahead. You start by crossing the Jökulfirðir Bay and then head along the shoreline towards Grunnavík bay. En-route is a nice rock arch that you can pass under at high tide. There is also a good chance to spot porpoises close to the shore, especially if the sea is calm. Time allowing, you may also have the opportunity to go for a beautiful climb to the top of Maríuhorn (356 m), that rewards you with spectacular views over the whole fjord system. You will set up camp near the beach and enjoy a good meal and well deserved sleep.
Paddling Distance: 15 km
Day 5: Ísafjarðardjúp Bay & Snæfjallaströnd
Today you head out of the Jökulfirðir glacial fjord system and into the big bay of Ísafjarðardjúp. You will pass many beautiful waterfalls on the way that people rarely experience since they are so inaccessible by foot. You will continue along the coast of Snæfjallaströnd and camp either in the beautiful cove in Ytraskarð (20 km) or near the breathtaking Möngufoss waterfall (24 km), all depending on conditions. Campfire on the beach and watch the beautiful sunset.
Paddling Distance: 20 - 24km
Day 6: Vigur island & Súðavík
Your first stop on the last full day of kayaking is the island of Æðey. The island is inhabited by one family during the summer months and is a nice place to stop, relax and enjoy life on the island. The waters around the island are covered with puffins and other sea birds. Literally!
After visiting the island, you will take a long crossing (9km) to the island of Vigur. On this crossing, you have chances of spotting humpbacks that reside in the bay during the summer months. So listen carefully for the blow!
While you do not land on Vigur, the birdlife is likewise amazing throughout this traverse. Puffins are found all over the island, often rafting in large numbers and leaping from rocky outcrops. Watch the puffins skip along the water’s surface as they entertain you during your final push to the small village of Súðavík! A car will pick you up, and you will then make the 20 minute drive back to Ísafjörður.
You will arrive back in town at approximately 4pm, in time for the afternoon flight for those flying back to Reykjavík.
Paddling Distance: 22km
Dates
We can arrange very economical domestic flights between Reykjavik and Ísafjörður (a 40 minute flight). Alternatively we can arrange for you to hire a car and take a leisurely drive (5 1/2 hour journey) and perhaps make some impromptu stop-offs at some points of interest along the way.
Included:
All food
Tents, cooking gear
Kayaking gear (boat, paddle, dry-suit top and bottoms, life jacket and dry bags)
Not included:
Travel to and from Ísafjörður, Iceland unless specifically mentioned in itinerary.
Food the first day until leaving on the trip
Personal medical insurance
Personal equipment
Sleeping bags and pads (available to rent)
Difficulty: Challenging / Demanding
