In this behind-the-scenes guide, we answer the most common questions about our Puffins of Grímsey Island photography holiday that takes place every summer in either June or July.
This remarkable journey showcases the very best of Iceland – puffins, auks, Arctic terns, plus sea cliffs, wildflowers, long daylight hours. Every element of our Puffins of Grímsey Island photography holiday is crafted for photographers – small groups, single occupancy accommodation, excellent local logistics & experienced guidance from the NaturesLens team ensure you can focus on creating stunning images in some of Iceland’s most photogenic settings.
Where is Grímsey Island?
Grímsey Island lies about 40 kilometres north of Iceland’s mainland, crossing the Arctic Circle itself. This tiny island is home to only around 60 residents but hosts thousands of seabirds during the summer months. It’s reached by a short flight from Akureyri or a scenic ferry journey from Dalvík, offering a true sense of remoteness & wild North Atlantic charm. The island’s location provides near-constant daylight in July, perfect for long photography sessions under the midnight sun.
What are the conditions like?
Cool & breezy – layers essential for long hours outdoors. Expect comfortable temperatures with fresh sea air & changing light that lasts almost around the clock.
What camera gear do I need?
- 16-35mm – for seascapes, cliff edges & contextual puffin scenes
- 70-200mm – for puffin portraits & close wildlife behaviour
- 100-400mm – for birds in flight & isolating individuals on the cliffs
- tripod – for stability during long-exposure or evening sessions
Bring spare cards, lens cloths for sea spray & a waterproof cover for your camera. The wind can change quickly, so balance stability with mobility.
Where do we stay?
We stay in a cosy island guesthouse offering single rooms & close proximity to the puffin colonies, meals are taken in the island’s restaurant, which serves hearty local food. The location of the guesthouse makes it ideal for recharging batteries, downloading images & enjoying the midnight sun.
Are we guaranteed to see wildlife?
Guaranteed – puffins nest on the island cliffs in abundance, with countless individuals within metres of the photographers. Arctic terns & auks are also reliably present throughout the season.
Is the wildlife approachable?
Wild yet remarkably tolerant of careful photographers. Puffins return to their burrows throughout the day & can be approached quietly for frame-filling portraits without disturbance.
What else can we photograph?
Rugged coastal landscapes, wildflower meadows, seabird colonies, fishing villages & moody skies that change by the minute. The light is magical for creative long-exposure work.
Will we have fun?
We always aim to make our trips sociable & supportive – small groups share editing tips, laughter & stories in the evenings. Photography is serious but the pace is relaxed, with plenty of time to enjoy the location.
Ready to plan your Puffins of Grímsey Island photography holiday?
Join NaturesLens for a focused, small-group experience built around the very best of Iceland’s bird photography. Expect dedicated time with puffins, auks, Arctic terns, plus single-occupancy rooms, seamless logistics & experienced guidance.
- See dates, inclusions & availability: Puffins of Grímsey Island photography holiday
- Explore more options: our Iceland wildlife photography holidays
- Behind the scenes & FAQs: this guide offers packing tips, gear suggestions & insight into daily flow