What happened during the 1973 Heimaey eruption?

On January 23, 1973, a volcanic fissure opened on Heimaey without warning. Eldfell volcano erupted for five months, burying over 400 buildings in lava and ash. The entire population of roughly 5,300 was evacuated overnight by fishing boats. Remarkably, only one person died (from toxic gas). Seawater was pumped onto advancing lava to slow its flow and save the harbour.

Can I hike Eldfell volcano on Heimaey?

Yes. Eldfell is an easy 20–30 minute hike from the town centre. The trail ascends the red-and-black cinder cone to the 220m summit, where the ground is still warm in places. Views from the top span the entire archipelago and Iceland's south coast.

Where can I see puffins on Heimaey?

The best puffin viewing is at Stórhöfði headland on the southern tip of Heimaey, one of the windiest places in Europe. Puffins nest in burrows along the cliffs from mid-April to mid-August. Keep a respectful distance and stay on marked paths.

How long should I spend on Heimaey?

A full day is enough for the main highlights, but an overnight stay lets you enjoy the evening light, the quieter atmosphere after the last ferry departs, and early-morning puffin viewing. Two nights is ideal for boat tours and unhurried exploration.

Heimaey Island Iceland: 1973 Eruption, Puffins & Visitor Guide

The largest and only inhabited Westman Island, where a vibrant fishing town coexists with a volcano that nearly buried it in 1973 and millions of nesting puffins.

Updated February 1, 2026By the Iceland.org Travel Team

Location

Westman Islands, South Iceland

One of Europe's largest puffin colonies nests here each summer.

Heimaey is an island of contrasts: a colourful harbour town nestled between two volcanoes, where fishing boats bob beside lava fields less than 55 years old. The 1973 eruption of Eldfell is one of Iceland's most dramatic modern events, and the island's recovery is a remarkable story of resilience. In summer, the cliffs come alive with Atlantic puffins, and the island's compact size makes it easy to explore on foot.

Safety + sourcing

Last updated: 2026-02-01

This guide is for trip planning, not emergency guidance. Conditions in Iceland can change quickly—always check official alerts and road conditions before you drive or hike.

Sources to check

SafeTravel

Population

~4,500

Heimaey is the only permanently inhabited island in the Westman Islands archipelago.

Eruption

1973

Eldfell erupted on January 23, 1973, burying 400 buildings and nearly closing the harbour.

Puffin Season

Apr–Aug

Millions of Atlantic puffins nest on the island's cliffs from mid-April through mid-August.

What to Expect

Eldfell Volcano Hike

A short but rewarding hike up the 1973 eruption cone. The ground is still warm beneath your feet in places, and the summit panorama is outstanding.

Eldheimar Museum

Walk through a house excavated from the 1973 ash and learn the story of the night 5,300 people were evacuated by fishing boats.

Puffin Watching at Stórhöfði

The southern headland is one of Europe's windiest spots and one of the best places on Earth to see puffins up close in summer.

Harbour & Town

A charming fishing harbour surrounded by colourful buildings, excellent seafood restaurants, and the Sagnheimar Folk Museum.

Sea Cave Boat Tours

Zodiac tours explore dramatic sea caves, elephant-shaped rock arches, and nesting bird cliffs around the archipelago.

Sprangan Cliff Swing

A local tradition where islanders swing on ropes from cliff faces to collect eggs and herbs — now a tourist attraction and cultural spectacle.

Getting There

The Herjólfur ferry sails from Landeyjahöfn to Heimaey in about 35 minutes, with multiple departures daily in summer. Landeyjahöfn is about 130 km east of Reykjavík. In winter or heavy seas, the ferry sails from Þorlákshöfn (about 3 hours). Domestic flights from Reykjavík take roughly 25 minutes. Cars can be brought on the ferry, but the island is small enough to explore on foot or by bicycle.

Best Time to Visit

Summer (June to August) is the best time. Puffins are present from mid-April through mid-August, all tours and restaurants are open, and the weather is mildest. The Þjóðhátíð festival on the first weekend of August transforms the island with music and bonfires. Shoulder months (May and September) are quieter but pleasant. Winter visits are possible but tours are limited and ferry disruptions more frequent.

Planning help

Heimaey FAQs

Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.

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