east-iceland · Iceland
Papey Island
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.
Did You Know?
- ✔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
Why Visit
Visit one of Iceland's most historically significant and remote islands, home to tens of thousands of puffins.
Did You Know?
The old Papey church from 1807 is Iceland's oldest surviving wooden church, still standing on the island.
The Elves of the Eastern Fjords
The steep mountains and narrow fjords of East Iceland are considered one of the most enchanted regions of the country. Local tradition holds that entire communities of elves (álfar) live inside the mountains, with their own towns, churches, and social structures mirroring human society. Fishermen in eastern fjord villages have long reported seeing lights in the mountainsides on dark winter nights — the windows of elf houses, they say. Some families maintain that their ancestors had regular contact with the elf-folk, trading goods and sharing knowledge. The belief is so persistent that construction projects in the region still sometimes account for known elf dwellings.
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.