Orcas, also called killer whales, are the largest members of the dolphin family. In Iceland, they are known mainly for feeding on herring, and they gather where herring overwinter from roughly November to May.
What orcas are
Orcas, also called killer whales, are the largest members of the dolphin family. They grow to roughly 7 to 9.7 metres long and can weigh up to about 6 tonnes.
How to recognise an orca
They are easily recognised by their black-and-white markings.
Orcas and herring in Iceland
Around Iceland, orcas are known mainly for feeding on herring.
Where and when orcas gather
Orcas follow the herring, so they gather where the fish overwinter, such as the fjords of the Snaefellsnes peninsula, around the town of Grundarfjordur. Herring winter in these fjords from roughly November to May, keeping orcas nearby.
Seeing orcas on a whale tour
You can compare whale watching tours.
Prepare your kit
The Iceland Packing List can help you pack for the weather and the time outdoors involved in Orcas in Iceland: where they gather.
