east-iceland · Iceland
Papey Island
Papey is a small island off the east coast of Iceland, accessible by boat from Djúpivogur. It may have been inhabited by Irish monks before Norse settlement and today hosts one of Iceland's largest concentrations of puffins alongside a historic 19th-century lighthouse.
About Papey Island
Papey is a small island off the east coast of Iceland, accessible by boat from Djúpivogur. It may have been inhabited by Irish monks before Norse settlement and today hosts one of Iceland's largest concentrations of puffins alongside a historic 19th-century lighthouse.
History & Background
Boat tours typically last around three hours and include a landing on the island, allowing visitors to walk among the puffin colonies and visit the historic Papey lighthouse, built in 1922. Eider ducks, Arctic terns, and various seabirds also nest on the island. Papey was one of Iceland's last permanently inhabited islands, with the final year-round residents leaving in 1966 after centuries of habitation. The ruins of old farmsteads and a small church from 1807 — Iceland's oldest wooden church — remain on the island as reminders of its long human history.
Key Facts
- ✔Accessible by summer boat from Djúpivogur
- ✔'Papar' — possibly settled by Irish monks before 874
- ✔One of Iceland's largest puffin colonies
- ✔Oldest wooden church in Iceland (1807)
- ✔Last permanent residents left 1966
Tours Near Papey Island
Best-rated Iceland experiences — book with free cancellation
Private Silfra Snorkeling 6 p. group - Meet on Location - with Underwater Photos
From $899
Book Now
Private Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon 2 Day Tour & Glacier Hike
From $7240
Book Now
Private 2-Day Glacier Lagoon, Ice Cave and Northern Lights
From $7400
Book NowAbout Papey Island
Papey lies about 10 kilometres off the southeast coast of Iceland, accessible by summer boat tours from Djúpivogur. The island measures approximately 2 km across and rises to about 58 metres at its highest point. Boat tours typically last around three hours and include a landing on the island, allowing visitors to walk among the puffin colonies and visit the historic Papey lighthouse, built in 1922. Eider ducks, Arctic terns, and various seabirds also nest on the island. Papey was one of Iceland's last permanently inhabited islands, with the final year-round residents leaving in 1966 after centuries of habitation. The ruins of old farmsteads and a small church from 1807 — Iceland's oldest wooden church — remain on the island as reminders of its long human history.
Reykjavík All In One Food Tour - Eat, Drink & Explore with Locals
From $207.66
Book Now
Reykjavik Private Northern Lights Tour with Pro Photographer
From $1649.4
Book Now
Glacier Adventure at Sólheimajökull Private Tour
From $385.65
Book NowHistory & Background
Boat tours typically last around three hours and include a landing on the island, allowing visitors to walk among the puffin colonies and visit the historic Papey lighthouse, built in 1922. Eider ducks, Arctic terns, and various seabirds also nest on the island. Papey was one of Iceland's last permanently inhabited islands, with the final year-round residents leaving in 1966 after centuries of habitation. The ruins of old farmsteads and a small church from 1807 — Iceland's oldest wooden church — remain on the island as reminders of its long human history.
Reykjanes Peninsula Private Day Tour - up to 9 passengers
From $2500
Book Now
2 hour Round Trip in Vestmannaeyjar on a RIB Boat
From $243.26
Book Now
Iceland: Diamond Beach Glacier Lagoon Black Sand Beach 冰岛冰河湖中文一日团
From $229.9
Book NowStory & Folklore
The name Papey — 'Monk's Island' — suggests that Irish or Scottish monks may have settled here before the Norse arrived in Iceland in the 9th century. Historical records mention finding Christian crosses and other monk's artefacts on the island. Today Papey is uninhabited but for a lighthouse keeper's assistant in summer, and the island hosts one of Iceland's largest puffin colonies — tens of thousands of birds nesting in the grassy clifftops during summer months.
Private Aurora Hunt in Iceland with Professional Photos
From $1699
Book Now
Private Iceland Tour - Hidden Gems & Local Experience
From $2300
Book Now
Full Day Golden Circle - Guided Tour
From $2163.35
Book NowVisitor Information
Best Time
Summer (June-August) offers 24-hour daylight; winter for Northern Lights
Duration
1-2 hours
Access
Accessible by car on paved or gravel roads. Some require short hikes.
Why Visit
Visit one of Iceland's most historically significant and remote islands, home to tens of thousands of puffins.
Hidden Gems Nearby
Off-Peak Visit
Visit Papey Island during shoulder season (May or September) for a perfect balance of access and solitude.
You'll experience the site without summer crowds while still having good weather and daylight.
Local Flora
Look for the native Icelandic plants growing in the area — Arctic thyme, moss campion, and various lichens.
These resilient plants have adapted to survive harsh conditions and add subtle beauty to the landscape.
Changing Light
Papey Island looks dramatically different depending on the time of day and weather conditions.
Cloud shadows, rain showers, and low-angle sunlight can transform the landscape within minutes — Iceland's famous "four seasons in one day."
Practical Information
Best Time
Summer (June-August) offers 24-hour daylight; winter for Northern Lights
Duration
1-2 hours
Access
Accessible by car on paved or gravel roads. Some require short hikes.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to visit?▾
Summer (June-August) offers the best weather and longest daylight hours. However, each season offers unique beauty.
Is this place wheelchair accessible?▾
Accessibility varies by location. Major tourist sites often have paved paths, while more remote areas may require hiking.
Do I need to book in advance?▾
Most natural attractions in Iceland are open access and free. No booking is needed unless it involves a guided tour.