You might be wondering, “Where can we find the Atlantic puffins?” The answer is on Skomer Island, one of the small gems off the coast of Pembrokeshire in South Wales. The island is tiny, just 3 km², made mostly of volcanic rock and surrounded by shaded inlets, offshore rocks, and sheltered bays. Skomer is a nature reserve managed by the Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales and is open to the public from April to October, with access limited to only 250 people per day. These restrictions are essential to protect the island’s incredible wildlife. Today, it is possible to book in advance, but when I visited, the famous rule of “first come, first served” applied. My friend, my inseparable camera, and I arrived at Lockley Lodge on a beautiful July morning around 6:30… and incredibly, there were already about fifty people ahead of us! After an exciting wait, we were assigned a boat departing at 10:30 with a return scheduled for 15:30. The crossing takes about fifteen minutes, and even from the boat, you are mesmerized: hundreds of birds fly above our heads, while tiny black-and-white specks animate the island’s surface. Upon arrival, after climbing more than 80 steps from where the boat dropped us off, we were welcomed by volunteers who explained some important rules. The most crucial one? Stay on the marked paths, as the nests are close to the cliff edges and the ground could give way, damaging the eggs. In my opinion, the best time to observe the Atlantic puffins is from May to mid-July, when nesting activity is at its peak and the spectacle is truly unforgettable.

After the guide’s explanation, we started walking along the marked trail. The island offers many breathtaking viewpoints, but the one I highly recommend not to miss is “The Wick.” Here, the Atlantic puffins come incredibly close, walking just a few centimeters from you, completely unafraid. For me, as a photography enthusiast, it was a magical moment: being able to observe and capture these little birds up close is a truly unique experience. With the bright colors of their beaks, their swift movements, and the liveliness of their behavior, every shot becomes special. Walking among the puffins at The Wick is an unforgettable memory—a rare, up-close encounter with nature that few have the privilege to experience.

The hours on the island flew by as we walked along the trails, immersed in this true natural paradise. I had the opportunity to take dozens of photos, capturing every detail of the breathtaking landscapes and the fascinating behaviors of the Atlantic puffins. Before heading back, we were also lucky enough to spot grey seals, adding another unforgettable spectacle to the experience. Every corner of the island, every coastal view, and every encounter with wildlife made us feel part of a world far removed from the everyday hustle. When it was time to leave, saying goodbye was bittersweet, but the memories and emotions from this excursion will remain unforgettable. A unique, extraordinary, and, I would say, magical experience, capable of offering moments of pure wonder and a deep connection with nature.