A Geological Wonder Like No Other: Elephant Rock in Iceland
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Sometimes, when we are outdoors, our mind plays little tricks on us and sees things in other elements. It’s quite common to observe a cloud and see the shape of an animal or object. That happens sometimes with trees, mountains, or rocks. It’s something we’ve done since we were little, a game that we have continued playing throughout our lives. Well, there’s a place in Iceland where this happens, but imagination plays little role in this case.
Off the coast of South Iceland, there’s an archipelago called the Westman Islands. Like many other places in the country, it was shaped by volcanic activity, creating astonishing formations. One especially captivating wonder is Elephant Rock. This gigantic rock formation, sculpted by nature over millennia, remarkably resembles an elephant drinking water from the sea.
In this travel guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Elephant Rock, from how to get there to what to see and do nearby. Come with us to discover this natural wonder hidden in the Atlantic Ocean.
Key Takeaways
- Elephant Rock is a formation that resembles this animal, with its trunk dipping into the sea.
- It’s located in the Westman Islands, an archipelago off the south coast of Iceland.
- The islands can be accessed by ferry.
What's Elephant Rock?
Elephant Rock, known locally as Halldórsskora, is a stunning rock formation located on Heimaey Island, the largest of the Westman Islands (Vestmannaeyjar). It gets its name due to its striking resemblance to an elephant's head and trunk, carved naturally into the side of a cliff by volcanic activity and erosion over thousands of years. It’s almost impossible not to see the animal; you can almost imagine the "elephant" coming to life, its trunk dipping into the Atlantic Ocean as if it were drinking from the sea.
The name Halldórsskora loosely translates to “Halldór’s Cliff,” but the elephant association is far more common among both locals and tourists. It's a classic example of pareidolia—the human tendency to see familiar shapes in natural formations. The texture of the rock, formed by volcanic basalt, adds to the illusion as it might resemble the skin of an elephant.
Where's Elephant Rock and How to Get There?
As we were saying before, Elephant Rock is located on Heimaey Island, which is part of the Westman Islands archipelago, situated off the southern coast of Iceland. The Westman Islands are 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) from Iceland’s mainland, and they can be easily accessed by ferry. The ferry departs from Landeyjahöfn, a port located on Iceland’s southern coast.
The best way to get there is by car. Renting your own vehicle will allow you to move around Iceland at your own pace. It’s quite easy to get to Landeyjahöfn from Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital. Take Route 1 (also known as the Ring Road) heading east out of the city. After approximately 90 minutes, you will reach the town of Hvolsvöllur. Continue for about 15 minutes until you reach the exit for Route 254. You’ll see a sign indicating Vestmannaeyjar, which is the Icelandic name of the Westman Islands. Drive for another 10 minutes until you reach the harbor.
In total, the drive from Reykjavik to Landeyjahöfn takes about 2 hours. The ferry ride is approximately 30-40 minutes, offering stunning views of the Westman Islands as you approach Heimaey. The ferry runs frequently during the summer months, but schedules can be affected by weather conditions, so it’s a good idea to check before departing.
The ferry arrives in Vestmannaeyjabær, the main city in the islands. Elephant Rock is quite close to the city, on the west coast. The best way to get up close and see the formation in full display is by taking a boat tour around the island. These boat tours are widely available and are a fantastic way to explore the island’s coastline, caves, and other geological features.
The Westman Islands
The Westman Islands - or Vestmannaeyjar - are a group of 15 islands and about 30 small islets formed by volcanic activity, with Heimaey being the largest and only inhabited island. The archipelago is famous for its dramatic landscapes, birdlife (including puffins), and rich history.
The islands were formed by volcanic eruptions, with the most recent one occurring on Heimaey in 1973. The eruption of the Eldfell volcano caused significant damage, forcing the entire population to evacuate. Lava flows covered much of the town, but most of it was rebuilt after.
The Westman Islands are also a paradise for birdwatchers. They are home to the largest puffin colony in the world, and from May to August, you can see these adorable birds in large numbers.
What to See and Do Near Elephant Rock?
Elephant Rock is one of the main attractions on Heimaey Island, but there’s plenty more to see and do nearby.
Eldfell Volcano
It’s possible to hike all the way up to the Eldfell volcano, the site of the 1973 eruption. The climb is relatively easy and rewards hikers with panoramic views of the island and the ocean. There are fantastic photo opportunities from there.
Puffin Watching
The cliffs around Heimaey are home to thousands of puffins, especially during the summer months. In fact, the Westman Islands host the largest puffin colony in the world. Many tours are operating to see these animals, but you can also spot them while you're walking near the nesting areas.
Heimaklettur
This is the highest point on Heimaey and offers fantastic views of the Westman Islands and the mainland. The climb is steep, but the vistas make it well worth the effort.
Beluga Whale Sanctuary
Heimaey Island is home to the world's first beluga whale sanctuary. This place provides a safe environment for beluga whales that have been rescued from captivity. You can visit the sanctuary and learn about these friendly and cute creatures, and the efforts made to protect them.
Whale Watching
In addition to visiting the beluga sanctuary, you can embark on whale-watching tours from Heimaey. These tours offer the chance to see various species of whales, including humpbacks, minke whales, and orcas. Whale watching is particularly popular during the summer months, and seeing these giants of the ocean in their natural habitat is an unforgettable experience.
Sea Caves and Boat Tours
There are a good number of sea caves along the coast of Heimaey. The most famous of them all is Klettshellir Cave, known for its surprising acoustics. A boat tour around the island is the best way to explore these caves, including close-up views of Elephant Rock.
The Weather at Elephant Rock
The weather in the Westman Islands is highly influenced by its location on the North Atlantic Ocean. Like in most of Iceland, the weather is unpredictable and can change instantly. This archipelago is not as cold as some other parts of the main islands but is exposed to rain and wind.
Spring (April and May)
Spring is a transitional season in Iceland, with temperatures slowly rising from the winter cold. Expect highs between 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F). Rain and wind are common, so waterproof clothing is a must. The days get longer with the passing of the weeks, offering more time to explore. It's also a great season to enjoy fewer crowds.
Summer (June to August)
Summer is the best time to visit Elephant Rock, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F). The days are long, with nearly 24 hours of daylight by the end of June, providing much time to explore. The weather is generally mild, but wind and rain can still appear unexpectedly. This is also puffin season, so it’s the ideal time to see these charming animals nesting in the cliffs.
Autumn (September and October)
The conditions in this season are quite similar to the ones in spring but going in the opposite direction. Temperatures again move between 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F), and the daylight hours get shorter. The weather becomes more unpredictable, with increased rainfall and wind, but the landscapes take on beautiful fall colors. It’s a quieter time to visit.
Winter (November to March)
Winter brings cold, windy, and sometimes snowy conditions, with temperatures hovering around 0°C (32°F). The days are short, with only a few hours of daylight in December and January. While the weather can be challenging, the island is peaceful, and if you’re lucky, you might even be able to witness the famous Northern Lights.
Temperature in Elephant Rock by season
| Seasons | Temperature in ºF | Temperature in ºC |
| Spring (April and May) | 41°F to 50°F | 5°C to 10°C |
| Summer (June to August) | 50°F to 59°F | 10°C to 15°C |
| Autumn (September and October) | 41°F to 50°F | 5°C to 10°C |
| Winter (November to March) | Around 32°F | Around 0°C |
Travel Tips
- Book in Advance: The ferry to Heimaey can fill up quickly, especially during the summer months. Booking your ferry tickets in advance will save you time and prevent any potential setback from happening.
- Bring a Camera: The landscapes around Elephant Rock and the Westman Islands are nothing short of spectacular. You’ll want to capture the dramatic cliffs, puffin colonies, and, of course, the iconic Elephant Rock.
- Wear Sturdy Footwear: The terrain around the cliffs and hiking trails can be rugged and slippery. A good pair of hiking boots with good grip will keep your feet comfortable and safe.
- Check the Weather: Iceland’s weather can change rapidly. Always check the forecast before heading out, and be prepared for sudden rain or wind. The Icelandic Met Office is a reliable source.
- Boat Tours: If you plan to see Elephant Rock up close, taking a boat tour is the best way to see the formation in all its glory. Most tours also include stops at other geological formations, caves, and puffin-watching sites.
- Respect Nature: Iceland’s landscapes are fragile. Stick to marked paths, avoid disturbing wildlife, and always follow the “leave no trace” principle.
Conclusion
Iceland is a country that often leaves visitors speechless. The collection of natural wonders this country has is almost endless. There’s a bit of everything here: volcanoes, lava fields, waterfalls, geothermal areas, and glaciers. And there’s even a rock that looks like an elephant dipping its trunk into the sea. This formation is a must-see for all travelers exploring Iceland's hidden gems.
Seeing Elephant Rock is not only a treat by itself, but there are also plenty of things to do and see nearby that will make your visit even more spectacular.
Frequently Asked Questions About Elephant Rock
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