Location
Heimaey, Vestmannaeyjar
On the southern coast of the largest Westman Island.
Elephant Rock on Heimaey
A natural basalt formation on Heimaey island that looks like an elephant dipping its trunk into the North Atlantic.
Location
Vestmannaeyjar
Best seen from a boat tour around Heimaey.
Quick Answer
Elephant Rock is a natural basalt sea cliff on the south coast of Heimaey, the main island of the Vestmannaeyjar (Westman Islands) off Iceland's south coast. Weathered columnar basalt gives it the shape of an elephant dipping its trunk into the North Atlantic. It is best seen from the water on a boat tour around the island.
Elephant Rock (Halldórsskora, 63.4167°N, 20.2833°W) is a basalt cliff on the southern coast of Heimaey island in the Vestmannaeyjar (Westman Islands) that resembles an elephant dipping its trunk into the Atlantic. It is one of Iceland's most photographed natural formations. The rock is composed of grey basalt pillow lava, formed when lava erupted underwater during the island's volcanic creation. Centuries of wave erosion carved the trunk-like arch. The formation stands approximately 50 meters from sea level. Best views come from Ribsafari or Viking Tours boat trips circling the island (~7,000–10,000 ISK, 1–2 hours) or from the coastal walking path along the southern cliffs. Getting to Heimaey: take the Herjólfur ferry from Landeyjahöfn (35 min, ~1,800 ISK one-way per person, car ~5,200 ISK) or a 20-minute domestic flight from Reykjavík City Airport with Icelandair (from ~12,000 ISK). The Westman Islands are also known for the 1973 Eldfell eruption that nearly buried the town, Europe's largest puffin colony (~1 million nesting pairs, May–August), and the Þjóðhátíð festival (first weekend of August, 10,000+ attendees).
Sources and last reviewed
Last reviewed: 2026-03-03
Ferry schedules vary by season and weather. Check Herjólfur's website for current departures. In rough weather, ferries may be cancelled; consider flying as a backup.
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Best view
Boat tour
Circle the island for a head-on view of the elephant shape.
Getting there
Ferry or flight
35-minute ferry from Landeyjahöfn or 25-minute flight from Reykjavik.
How to Visit Elephant Rock
- Take the Herjólfur ferry from Landeyjahöfn (35 min, multiple daily)
- Or fly from Reykjavik domestic airport (25 min flight)
- Book a boat tour around Heimaey for the best viewing angle
- Alternatively, hike the coastal path on Heimaey's south side
- Allow at least a half-day; a full day lets you see more of the island
More to Do on Heimaey
- Puffin watching, with one of the world's largest colonies (May–August)
- Hike Eldfell volcano (erupted 1973, still warm underfoot)
- Visit Eldheimar museum about the 1973 eruption
- Explore sea caves and cliffs by boat
- Eat fresh seafood at local restaurants
Planning help
Elephant Rock FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.