RESPECT NATURE AND WILDLIFE IN THE FAROE ISLANDS

When exploring the Faroese outdoors, it’s important to tread lightly and respect the environment. Birds and other wildlife are sensitive to human presence; even small actions can affect their safety and habitats. 

Following simple guidelines can help protect the landscape, wildlife, and traditions that make the Faroe Islands special while still enjoying their beauty.

Image of a flower, with a stunning ocean backdrop of The Faroe Islands. Taken by Harriet Olafsdóttir av Gørðum / @byolafsdottir

About the Faroese Flora & Fauna
Hiking in the Faroe Islands, nature and beautiful landscapes.

Hiking in the Faroe Islands

General Guidelines

  • Minimise disturbance: Walk only on designated paths to protect sheep, wildlife, and the natural environment.
  • Respect cairns: Never build, remove, or add stones to cairns — they are carefully built over time and serve as important landmarks helping hikers navigate.

Follow Drone Regulations

Drones must not be flown within 150 metres of a village, town, or city, within 150 metres of main roads, or within 5 kilometres of Vágar Airport.

Beyond these legal restrictions, please remember that drones disturb the fragile peace of nature. Birds are particularly sensitive to drones — they may abandon their nests if disturbed, and sometimes never return. Since seabirds nest all over the Faroe Islands, it might be best to leave your drone at home. The silence, the birds, and the views are all better enjoyed without it.

Read Also: Drones
  • Camp responsibly: Camping is only permitted at designated campsites.
  • Leave no trace: Do not pick plants, stones, eggs, or chicks.
  • Respect shepherds at work: If locals are herding near you, hide immediately so the sheep don’t notice you. If necessary, lie down and stay completely still. Disturbing the process can cause serious problems for both sheep and shepherds.

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Go Birdwatching

Birdwatching Guidelines

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  • Keep your distance from nests: If birds call loudly, fly overhead, or dive towards you, you are too close to their nest. Do not search for the nest or the young. Your presence stresses the parents and reduces their time feeding their chicks or keeping eggs warm. Move away immediately, or observe quietly from a safe distance.
  • Leave chicks alone: It is normal for young birds to wander away from the nest. Even if no adults are visible, the parents are nearby. Do not touch or move the chicks—leave the area so the parents can return. Exception: Puffin chicks that fall into streams or land away from the sea may be gently helped back towards the ocean.
  • Travel quietly: Keep your voice down when walking in nature to avoid disturbing wildlife.
  • Leave no trace: Take your rubbish with you. It is also customary to pick up loose sheep wool, which can tangle around birds’ feet and cause fatal injuries, especially for oystercatchers.
  • Respect breeding cliffs: From 1 May to 1 September, never sail closer than 200 metres from sea cliffs, where seabirds nest.
Guide to visit Mykines

Many birdwatchers visit Mykines when visiting the Faroe Islands; please read the guidelines for visiting Mykines here. 

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