Iceland has many beautiful landscapes and interesting wildlife, making it a great place for outdoor activities. One option is hunting, which is a traditional and regulated sport here.

If you’re a tourist, you can participate in hunting in Iceland, but there are some rules you need to follow.

In this guide, we’ll look at important details about hunting in Iceland for visitors. We will cover the hunting seasons, the need for experienced guides, and the legal requirements.

Hunting Regulations in Iceland

Hunting in Iceland is highly regulated to ensure conservation and sustainability. Each species has specific hunting laws to maintain ecological balance.

To hunt legally, tourists must adhere to these regulations, which cover permits, seasons, and methods. Strict compliance is mandatory.

The Environment Agency of Iceland oversees hunting activities, you also need to apply for hunting card. They provide detailed guidelines for prospective hunters, ensuring all legal requirements are met before embarking on a hunting trip. You are NOT ALLOWDED to bring your hunting gun into Iceland.

Required Permits and Licenses for Tourists

Tourists who want to hunt in Iceland need to get the right permits and licenses before their trip. These are not available when you arrive, so it’s important to plan ahead.

Non-residents must hunt with a licensed Icelandic guide. This helps to follow local laws. It is important to work closely with a knowledgeable guide.

To get permits and licenses, tourists should:

  • Reach out to a licensed hunting guide in Iceland.
  • Arrange permits through the Environment Agency of Iceland.
the En­vir­on­ment Agency of Ice­land oversees the hunting license in Iceland
you can hunt in License under straight limitation

Popular Hunting Seasons and Species

Hunting seasons in Iceland are tailored to species and regions. Regulations ensure responsible hunting to preserve wildlife. Guided hunts offer insights into targeted species during legal periods.

Popular species and seasons include:

  • Reindeer: Limited season in late summer, only from 1 Aug to 1 Sep.
  • Puffins: Traditional hunting with specified regulations, seasons only from 15 to 25 April.
  • Geese and ducks: Autumn seasons vary by area.

Reindeer Hunting in Iceland

Reindeer hunting in East Iceland requires a special permit due to its popularity. The reindeer hunting season starts typically starts in late summer.

Strict quotas maintain population balance. Hiring experienced guides enhances the experience and ensures adherence to regulations.

Puffin Hunting Regulations

Puffin hunting, a traditional Icelandic activity, follows specific rules to protect the species. It remains highly regulated.

Only allowed in certain areas, hunters must respect set quotas. Engaging a local guide is vital for a lawful experience.

wild reindeer in Iceland is spotted usually in East Iceland
see puffins in iceland summer

The Role of Experienced Guides in Icelandic Hunting

Experienced guides play a crucial role in ensuring a safe hunting experience. They offer valuable knowledge about local wildlife and regulations.

For non-residents, hunting with a licensed Icelandic guide is mandatory. This ensures compliance with strict hunting laws.

Guides also enhance the hunting experience by sharing insights into local traditions. Their expertise makes the trip both enjoyable and educational.

Renting a Car for Hunting Expeditions

Renting a car is a practical option for reaching remote hunting areas. Hertz Iceland offers vehicles suited for rugged terrains.

Choose a vehicle that matches your needs and the area’s conditions. Be ready for varied weather and road challenges.

Plan your travel route in advance. This ensures a smooth journey and timely arrival at your hunting destination.

the view of driving Iceland autumn roads
Reykjanesviti was constructed in 1908 to replace an older lighthouse

Ethical Hunting and Conservation in Iceland

Ethical hunting in Iceland plays a key role in responsibly managing wildlife populations. This is vital for preserving species and their natural environments.

Hunters must adhere to regulations established by the authorities. These guidelines maintain a balance between wildlife protection and permitting hunting.

Respecting nature and employing ethical hunting methods is crucial. Ethical hunting enhances biodiversity and respects local heritage and customs.

Best rental car for Iceland road trip all year

Rent a Kia Sorento PHEV in Iceland

Kia Sorento Plug-in Hybrid or similar | Automatic | 4×4

SFDI | Group: O6 (SFDI)

  • 5 Seats
  • Automatic
  • Airconditioning
  • 5 Doors
  • 4 Large Luggage
  • Hybrid

This vehicle is NOT allowed in the highlands F-roads. NOTE: Allowed on-road no.35 and 550. You must be 23 years of age to drive this vehicle.

Additional Features
  • 4 Wheel Drive
  • 38 C02 g/km
  • Adjustable Steering
  • Cruise Control
  • Electronic Stability Control
  • ABS
  • Bluetooth
  • USB
  • Power Steering
  • Power Windows
  • Remote Locking
4wd land rover defender hire in iceland

Land Rover Defender | Automatic | 4×4

PFAN | Group: G6 (PFAN)

  • 5 Seats
  • Automatic
  • Airconditioning
  • 5 Doors
  • 3 Large Luggage
  • Petrol or Diesel

Suitable for highlands, Please read the Terms & Conditions. You must be 25 years of age to drive this vehicle.

Additional Features
  • 4 Wheel Drive
  • 234 C02 g/km
  • Adjustable Steering
  • Cruise Control
  • Electronic Stability Control
  • ABS
  • Bluetooth
  • USB
  • Power Steering
  • Power Windows
  • Remote Locking
  • Airbags
  • Fog Lamps
KIA Sportage or similar| automatic | 4x4

KIA Sportage or similar | Automatic | 4×4

IFAR | Group: O (IFAR)

  • 5 Seats
  • Automatic
  • Airconditioning
  • 5 Doors
  • 3 Large Luggage
  • Petrol or Diesel

Suitable for the highlands. Please read Terms & Conditions. You must be 23 years of age to drive this vehicle.

Additional Features
  • 4 Wheel Drive
  • 156 C02 g/km
  • Adjustable Steering
  • Cruise Control
  • Electronic Stability Control
  • ABS
  • Bluetooth
  • USB
  • Power Steering
  • Power Windows
  • Remote Locking
  • Airbags
Land cruiser 5 seater rental in Iceland

5 seats Toyota Land Cruiser or similar| Automatic | 4×4

FFAR | Group: I (FFAR)

  • 5 Seats
  • Automatic
  • Airconditioning
  • 5 Doors
  • 5 Large Luggage
  • Petrol or Diesel

Suitable for the highlands. Please read Terms & Conditions. You must be 23 years of age to drive this vehicle.

Additional Features
  • 4 Wheel Drive
  • 251 C02 g/km
  • Adjustable Steering
  • Cruise Control
  • Electronic Stability Control
  • ABS
  • Bluetooth
  • USB
  • Power Steering
  • Power Windows
  • Remote Locking
  • Airbags
Rent a Kia Sorento PHEV in Iceland

KIA Sorento or similar | Automatic | 4×4

SFAN | Group: O2 (SFAN)

  • 5 Seats
  • Automatic
  • Airconditioning
  • 5 Doors
  • 4 Large Luggage
  • Petrol or Diesel

Suitable for the highlands. Please read Terms & Conditions. You must be 23 years of age to drive this vehicle.

Additional Features
  • 4 Wheel Drive
  • 164 C02 g/km
  • Adjustable Steering
  • Cruise Control
  • Electronic Stability Control
  • ABS
  • Bluetooth
  • USB
  • Power Steering
  • Power Windows
  • Remote Locking
  • Airbags
rent a hyundai Tucson in Iceland

Hyundai Tucson Plug-in Hybrid or similar | Automatic | 4×4

IFAI | Group: N3 (IFAI)

  • 5 Seats
  • Automatic
  • Airconditioning
  • 5 Doors
  • 3 Large Luggage
  • Hybrid

This vehicle is NOT allowed in the highlands F-roads. NOTE: Allowed on roads no.35 and 550. You must be 23 years of age to drive this vehicle.

Additional Features
  • 4 Wheel Drive
  • 46 C02 g/km
  • Adjustable Steering
  • Cruise Control
  • Electronic Stability Control
  • ABS
  • Bluetooth
  • USB
  • Power Steering
  • Power Windows
  • Remote Locking
  • Airbags