Látrabjarg: Guidelines for the Nature Reserve and How to get there

Látrabjarg, located at the westernmost point of Iceland in the stunning Westfjords, is not just a cliff — it's one of Europe's largest bird cliffs and an awe-inspiring natural wonder. Stretching for 14 kilometers and towering up to 441 meters high, this massive cliff is home to millions of seabirds, including puffins, razorbills, and guillemots. For bird lovers and adventurers alike, it’s an unforgettable destination. However this unique environment is fragile, and visitors need to follow some important rules to help preserve its natural beauty and wildlife. If you’re planning a trip to Látrabjarg, here’s what you need to know:

14.04.2025

Látrabjarg was designated as a nature reserve in March 2021. The purpose of the protection is to preserve the unique ecosystem of Látrabjarg and the bird habitats, while maintaining the natural condition of the area and its landscape. Furthermore, the aim of the protection is to safeguard the cultural heritage and history of the area, in accordance with the provisions of the Cultural Heritage Act No. 80/2012.

The nature reserve covers approximately 37 km² and includes both land and marine protection areas.

Respect Nature and the Wildlife

Látrabjarg's towering cliffs are not just a sight to behold — they are home to countless birds, including some endangered species. To protect both the birds and yourself, always respect the safety barriers. These fences are there to prevent accidents due to cliff collapses, and to safeguard the birds during nesting season. Do not venture beyond the barriers, no matter how tempting a closer look might be.

Birdwatching Etiquette

Birdwatching at Látrabjarg is a unique experience, but it’s crucial to be mindful of the birds. Be considerate and avoid disturbing them. When taking photos, use a zoom lens rather than getting too close. Do not point selfie sticks at birds sitting at the top of cliffs, as this can cause unnecessary stress to the animals.

Drone and Aircraft Regulations

To minimize disturbance to the wildlife, flying drones or any unmanned aerial vehicles is prohibited unless you have special permission from the Environmental Agency of Iceland. Similarly, landing helicopters or other manned aircraft within the protected area is also forbidden without special authorization.

Stay on Marked Paths & Leave No Trace

To minimize damage to the delicate vegetation and the nesting grounds, stick to the designated walking paths. This helps protect the ecosystem while allowing you to enjoy the natural surroundings without causing harm. One of the most important principles when visiting Látrabjarg is to leave no trace. Take all your trash with you, including cigarette butts, food waste, and toilet paper. Properly dispose of it at the nearest waste collection point to help keep this area pristine for future visitors and the wildlife that inhabits it.

Hiking and Equipment Guidelines

If you're hiking at Látrabjarg, the use of walking sticks is generally not allowed, unless you need them for medical reasons, such as for the elderly or disabled. This is to help protect the fragile ground and prevent unnecessary wear on the environment.

Biking Rules

If you're exploring the area by bike, please note that bicycles are only permitted on roads and marked trails. Off-road biking can cause damage to the natural landscape, so it’s important to respect this rule.

Prohibited Activities

Some activities are strictly forbidden at Látrabjarg to protect the environment and ensure visitor safety. These include:

Abseiling (rappelling) from the cliffs.
Driving off-road or on unmarked trails, which can cause irreversible damage to the landscape.
Camping and overnight stays are not allowed in the area. If you're looking for a place to stay overnight, the nearest campsite is in Breiðavík.

Pets

During the bird nesting season, which runs from May 15 to September 15, pets are not allowed within the protected area. Outside of this time, pets are permitted but must be kept on a leash, and owners are required to clean up after them.

Fire and Cooking
Due to the high fire risk and the fragile nature of the environment, all use of fire is prohibited at Látrabjarg. If you need to cook or heat food, you can only do so at the designated cooking area located at Brunnar.

Plan Your Visit to Látrabjarg

To reach Látrabjarg, start by turning onto Road 62 near Hotel Flókalundur. Follow it for about 40 minutes, then turn left onto Road 612. This gravel road is rather narrow, so take your time and drive carefully. Continue for approximately an hour, and you’ll arrive at the Látrabjarg Cliffs.

On your way to and from Látrabjarg, there are many worthwhile stop like Flókalaug natural pool, Garðar BA 64 ship, Breiðavík, Rauðisandur beach and more.

The cliffs offer unparalleled opportunities for birdwatching and photography, and while it might be tempting to get up close and personal with nature, the best way to enjoy Látrabjarg is to appreciate it from a respectful distance. Leave the area as pristine as you found it.

With the above guidelines in mind, your visit to Látrabjarg will not only be unforgettable, but you'll also be helping to protect one of Iceland's most precious natural treasures.