If you’re on the hunt for a truly unforgettable adventure in Iceland, this whitewater rafting tour on the East Glacial River might just be your perfect match. We haven’t personally tried it, but after digging into the details and reviews from past adventurers, it’s clear this experience packs a punch—combining adrenaline, stunning scenery, and top-notch safety.
What makes this tour stand out? First, the full drysuit setup keeps you warm and dry in the icy waters—huge for comfort and confidence. Second, the certified guides are seasoned experts who prioritize safety without sacrificing fun. And third, the grade IV rapids promise a thrill that serious whitewater enthusiasts and first-timers alike will appreciate.
One thing to consider is that this tour is quite physically active and requires some prep, like bringing warm layers and socks. But if you’re ready for a day of wild fun amid Iceland’s rugged landscape, this trip is ideal—whether you’re a thrill-seeker or just want a taste of Iceland’s extreme landscapes.
Good To Know
- Full Drysuit Comfort: Stay warm and dry in top-quality drysuits designed for icy waters.
- Expert Guidance: Experienced guides and safety kayakers lead every step, ensuring safe fun.
- Stunning Canyon Views: Raft through a dramatic glacial canyon with breathtaking scenery.
- Grade IV Rapids: Conquer some of Europe’s most exciting whitewater rapids.
- Inclusive Equipment & Transport: All gear provided, with transport between the base and river included.
- Suitable for Various Levels: No previous experience needed, making it accessible for most adventurous spirits.
An In-Depth Look at the Experience
Find more activities and experiences we've covered in Varmahlid.
Location & Accessibility
The adventure kicks off at Viking Rafting in Varmahlíð, a remote yet easily reachable base in North Iceland. The meeting point is straightforward, but expect a 45-minute bus/coach ride from the base to the river, offering a chance to soak in more of Iceland’s rugged highlands.
The Itinerary Breakdown
The tour spends about 6 hours total, blending safety, adventure, and relaxation. After a brief 15-minute safety briefing, you’ll hop on a coach for approximately 45 minutes to reach the river.
Once there, a 30-minute safety briefing sets expectations and prepares you for what’s ahead. Here, guides emphasize safety measures and answer any questions—crucial for first-timers or nervous paddlers.
The core of the day is the rafting itself, with two main sections:
- First hour on the Easterly Glacier River introduces you to the environment and sets the tone for the more challenging parts.
- A 20-minute break gives everyone a chance to relax, hydrate, and take photos of the stunning canyon walls.
- The second rafting session lasts around 1.5 hours, tackling the most intense grade IV rapids. Comments from previous participants highlight how exhilarating and well-guided this part is, with many describing guides as fun, experienced, and attentive to safety—”Hunter was hilarious and fun but super safety conscious,” one review states.
What to Expect on the Water
Expect to paddle through a dramatic glacial canyon, swirling in icy waters that are kept manageable thanks to premium drysuits. These suits are a highlight—reviewers note that they allow you to focus on the excitement rather than discomfort or cold.
The rapids, rated grade IV, deliver adrenaline rushes with big waves, crashing water, and plenty of spray, but with guides controlling the pace and safety. Many reviewers have called the guides “brilliant,” praising their experience and humor, which makes the often intense ride feel safe and fun.
More Great Thing To Do NearbySafety & Equipment
All necessary rafting gear is included—dry suits, PFDs, helmets, booties, and gloves. The drysuit gear is especially valued, as it ensures comfort in the icy waters, allowing you to enjoy the thrill without shivering.
Guides and safety kayakers are IRF-certified, emphasizing professionalism and safety. They’re trained to lead even nervous paddlers confidently through the rapids, which is reflected in how reviewers like Madeline from Belgium called it the “top 1” experience of their trip.
Transport & Convenience
The tour includes all transportation between the base and the river, making logistics one less thing to worry about. Participants have mentioned that the pickup and drop-off options aren’t included, but the central meeting point is easy to find, and the overall schedule is well-paced.
Food & Refreshments
While this particular tour doesn’t include food, Riverside refreshments are provided during breaks, giving you the energy boost needed for the river. Many reviewers appreciated the “delicious snack” and “lunch afterward,” especially when combined with an adrenaline-fueled day.
What Previous Participants Say
The feedback is overwhelmingly positive, with a perfect 5-star rating based on 13 reviews. Several reviews highlight the professionalism and friendliness of guides like Hunter and Harry. For example, one reviewer from Estonia loved “this experience” because of the “brilliant” guide, while another from the US lauded the safety-conscious attitude of the team and hilarious guides.
The mix of adrenaline and scenic beauty is often mentioned, with one guest describing the river as “epic,” and others noting how the stunning canyon scenery and powerful icy waters made for a memorable day.
Value for Money
At $247 per person, this tour offers a full day of high-intensity adventure, professional guidance, and top-tier equipment. Given the quality of the guides, the safety standards, and the unique scenery, most would find it a good value—especially considering the adrenaline rush and the once-in-a-lifetime beauty of the Icelandic wilderness.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This experience is perfect for adventure lovers who want a full-day adrenaline fix amid Iceland’s stunning landscapes. It’s suitable for beginners and experienced paddlers alike, thanks to expert guides and safety measures.
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunity to raft through a dramatic glacial canyon, while thrill-seekers will find the grade IV rapids satisfy their craving for excitement.
If you’re traveling with friends, family, or even solo and want a fun, active outing that combines scenery, adrenaline, and expert guidance, this tour is a top pick.
The Sum Up
The North Iceland whitewater rafting tour in a drysuit offers an exceptional mix of adventure, safety, and scenery. The full drysuit setup ensures comfort, even in icy waters, and the guides’ professionalism helps ramp up the fun while minimizing risks. The spectacular canyon views and grade IV rapids make it a highlight for anyone looking to experience Iceland’s wild side in a big way.
For those craving an adrenaline-packed day with reliable guides and beautiful surroundings, this tour hits all the right notes. It provides real value with all equipment, transport, and expert guidance included, making it a hassle-free way to tick off a major bucket-list adventure. Whether you’re new to whitewater or a seasoned paddler, you’ll find this experience both challenging and rewarding.
In short, this tour is best suited for thrill-seekers, nature lovers, and anyone wanting a memorable, action-filled day in Iceland’s rugged landscape.
FAQ
Is previous experience necessary for this rafting tour?
No, this tour is suitable for beginners as well as experienced paddlers. Guides lead the group safely through the rapids, regardless of skill level.
What should I bring with me?
You should bring warm clothing, socks, and dry clothes for after the river. Thermal underwear, fleece tops, wool or fleece pants, and thick socks are recommended to stay warm before and after the activity.
Is the tour suitable for children or teenagers?
While not explicitly stated, the emphasis on safety and the presence of professional guides suggests it’s suitable for most ages, provided participants are physically capable and comfortable with water activities.
What does the tour include?
All rafting equipment—drysuit, PFD, helmet, booties, gloves—as well as transportation between the base and the river, and refreshments during breaks.
How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 6 hours, including safety briefings, transportation, rafting, and breaks.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift unexpectedly.
This full-day whitewater adventure on the East Glacial River in North Iceland delivers thrill, scenery, and safety in one package. Whether you’re chasing adrenaline or just want to see some of Iceland’s rawest landscapes, it’s an experience that promises stories you’ll want to tell for years.
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