Kirkjufell Kayaking Tour: Paddle with Seals & Mountain Views

Kayak by Kirkjufell mountain, meet seals and sip warm drinks

You’ll paddle along Iceland’s wild coastline with a local guide, circle Mt. Kirkjufell from all sides, spot curious seals up close, and warm up with a hot drink after kayaking. Expect cold air on your cheeks and new stories to tell—plus photos your friends might actually envy.

What’s included

Your day includes all kayaking equipment—dry suit, gloves, shoes—and guidance from an experienced local who shares stories as you paddle around Mt. Kirkjufell. Afterward you’ll warm up with a hot drink before heading back out into Iceland’s wild weather.

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Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Kayak along Icelandic coastline

• Meet guide at departure point
• Begin kayaking near Mt. Kirkjufell
• Stop at scenic photo locations
• Observe and meet curious seals
• Enjoy views of Mt. Kirkjufell from sea
• Return to starting point

The Experience

Paddle dips into the water before I even realize how clear it is—like glass, but colder. Our guide, Sigrún, hands out dry suits and jokes about Icelandic summers (“sometimes they last an hour”). I can smell the salt and something faintly earthy from the shore. The mountain—Kirkjufell—looks unreal up close, not just that postcard shape you see everywhere. At first I’m nervous about tipping over, but Sigrún keeps an eye on us, calling out little stories about the area. She points to a seal bobbing nearby; it stares right back like we’re the odd ones here.

We stop paddling for a minute and just float. It’s quiet except for someone’s paddle knocking against their kayak (okay, mine). There’s this moment where the clouds shift and Kirkjufell gets this weird glow—I almost drop my phone trying to get a picture. The tour circles around so you see the mountain from every side; I didn’t expect it to look different at each angle. My hands are freezing in spite of the gloves, but honestly, I don’t care much because I’m grinning like an idiot most of the time.

Back on shore there’s hot chocolate waiting (which tastes way better than usual when your face is numb). Everyone’s comparing photos—Sigrún laughs at my attempt to pronounce “Kirkjufell” properly (I still can’t). It’s only two hours but it feels longer in a good way—maybe because of all that fresh air or maybe just how strange and beautiful everything is out here. I keep thinking about that seal watching us glide by.

Top questions

How long is the Kirkjufell kayaking tour?

The tour lasts 2 hours total, with about 70 minutes spent on the sea.

Is kayaking by Kirkjufell suitable for beginners?

Yes, it’s suitable for all physical fitness levels and includes a full safety demonstration.

Are guides included on this kayaking trip?

Yes, an experienced local guide leads the tour.

What equipment is provided for the kayaking tour?

The tour includes kayak, life vest, dry-suit, under-suit, shoes, and gloves.

Will I see wildlife during this tour?

You may encounter curious seals along the route near Mt. Kirkjufell.

Is there any refreshment included after kayaking?

A warm refreshment is served after returning to shore.

Can I reach the starting point by public transport?

Yes, public transportation options are available nearby.