I went to Iceland and became a ‘twitcher’, Ariana Grande’s latest obsession
I went to Iceland and became a ‘twitcher’, Ariana Grande’s latest obsession
I went to Iceland and became - When I was asked to journey to a remote rock in the Atlantic Ocean, then hop onto a ferry to an even smaller isle, I was skeptical. Yet, given the surge in interest for birdwatching among UK travelers—over 55% expressing a desire to try it on their next trip—and Ariana Grande’s recent enthusiasm for the activity, I decided to dive into the experience. Birdwatching, it turned out, was far more than I had imagined.
Iceland, often dubbed the “Land of Fire and Ice,” has become a surprising hotspot for avian enthusiasts. The puffin, Iceland’s unofficial mascot, is the centerpiece of this fascination. With GetYourGuide now offering excursions to their nesting grounds on Vestmannaeyjar, I boarded a three-hour flight from London to explore the country’s natural wonders. The journey was an unexpected gateway to a world where nature’s rhythm takes center stage.
The eruption that changed everything
Memories of the 2010 Eyjafjallajökull eruption still linger, a time when flights were grounded and travelers were stranded. For many, that event remains a vivid reminder of nature’s unpredictability. However, the chaos it caused ultimately benefited Iceland’s tourism industry. Before the eruption, Reykjavík International Airport saw about 500,000 visitors annually. Today, that number has surged to over 2 million, transforming the nation into a bustling hub of activity.
This influx has brought about remarkable changes. Hotels now line the streets, transportation is more reliable, and the airport has been modernized to accommodate the growing demand. Visitors, once treated as occasional guests, are now embraced as integral to the island’s identity. The shift is palpable, with the landscape itself seemingly designed to welcome tourists.
Into the wild: A puffin and volcano tour
My first encounter with Iceland’s avian charm began with a journey toward the southern coast. The route, a winding highway that cuts through the island, offered glimpses of geothermal activity—steam rising from the earth like a breath of life. It’s a surreal sight, where the air hums with the promise of renewable energy, a testament to Iceland’s commitment to sustainability.
We arrived at the port, where the ferry awaited, and the anticipation was electric. Though the Icelandic language might seem like a chaotic keyboard dance to English speakers, the locals’ fluency in English makes communication effortless. The tour included a stop at “the loneliest house in the world,” a poignant reminder of human resilience in nature’s vastness.
After a 45-minute crossing, we reached the southern tip of the island. Here, the Stórhöfði lookout provided a panoramic view of the puffins, their wings flickering like tiny sails against the wind. The sight of a million pairs nesting in burrows was mesmerizing, a spectacle that felt more like a scene from a documentary than a real-life experience.
Why Iceland’s birds captivate us
Birdwatching, often associated with retirees and nature lovers, has become a modern trend. Ariana Grande’s endorsement highlights how this activity has evolved into a cultural phenomenon. Bjørn Penk, a lifelong birder, explains the shift:
“Post-pandemic, something shifted in how people want to spend their time: slowly, outdoors, with their attention pointed at something real and unpredictable… In an age of relentless distraction, paying attention to birds turns out to be practice in paying attention, full stop.”
His words resonate, especially in a world where screens dominate our focus.
For those uneasy with birds, Iceland’s tourist-friendly infrastructure offers reassurance. The country, rebuilt for visitors after the 2010 eruption, caters to all tastes. From guided quad bike tours to exploring the remnants of a US Navy plane wreck—where all crew members miraculously survived—the options are as diverse as the landscapes themselves.
The wreck, now a symbol of Iceland’s resilience, is a surreal highlight. It’s the backdrop for Justin Bieber’s music video and a reminder of the island’s dramatic history. Meanwhile, the south coast’s waterfalls provide a different kind of thrill, their cascading waters offering a refreshing contrast to the dry, rocky terrain. The tour encourages visitors to walk behind the falls for an unforgettable view, drenching in the raw beauty of nature.
More than a pastime: A connection with the wild
Watching the puffins interact—darting, diving, and disappearing into their burrows—felt like observing a symphony of survival. Their monogamous nature adds a layer of poignancy, a reminder of loyalty in a fast-paced world. The experience was immersive, with each moment revealing the delicate balance of Iceland’s ecosystem.
As the day unfolded, the mix of volcanic landscapes and thriving wildlife painted a vivid picture of the island’s dual identity. From the geothermal areas to the puffin colonies, Iceland offers a unique blend of adventure and tranquility. The quad bike tour, while initially a novelty, became essential for navigating the rugged terrain, uncovering hidden history along the way.
By the end of the journey, I realized that birdwatching is not just an activity—it’s a way of being present. The puffins’ erratic movements and the island’s unpredictable weather demanded full attention, a stark contrast to the mindless scrolling of daily life. In Iceland, even the most mundane moments carry a sense of wonder.
For travelers seeking escape from the heat of summer, Iceland’s cooler climate and natural allure are a draw. With the UK and much of Europe battling record heatwaves, the island’s offerings feel like a breath of fresh air. The combination of volcanic activity, geothermal wonders, and the charismatic puffin has turned this Nordic nation into a must-visit destination for those craving connection with the wild.
Whether you’re a seasoned twitcher or a curious novice, Iceland’s birdwatching scene is worth exploring. The country’s transformation from a quiet outpost to a thriving tourist hub has made it easier than ever to immerse yourself in its natural beauty. As the sun set over the southern coast, I felt a newfound appreciation for the simple joys of observation and the power of nature to rekindle our sense of awe.
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Despite the challenges posed by the eruption, Iceland’s tourism sector has thrived. The numbers flowing through Reykjavík International Airport speak volumes, proving that even the most disruptive events can spark unexpected opportunities. For those willing to embrace the journey, the island’s unique blend of adventure and serenity offers an experience unlike any other.