East Glacial River Extreme Rafting

If you’re looking to add some serious adventure to your Iceland trip, the East Glacial River Extreme Rafting might just be the experience you need. We haven’t personally taken this trip, but from what’s shared by travelers and the detailed info available, it’s clear this tour packs a punch for thrill-seekers and outdoor lovers alike. It combines the raw power of Iceland’s glacial waters with expert guidance, hearty local food, and the chance to unwind in hot tubs afterward.

What we really love about this tour is its reputation for exciting rapids and professional guides—the kind of experience that feels both safe and adrenaline-fueled. Plus, the inclusion of traditional Icelandic meat soup and a relaxing soak in hot tubs makes it a well-rounded day.

On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that this experience is strictly for adults (minimum age 18), so it’s not suitable for families with kids. Also, the physical activity involved means you should be comfortable with cold water and some cliff jumping if water levels permit.

Overall, if you’re after a full-throttle, adventure-filled day on Iceland’s wild rivers, this trip seems perfect. It’s especially suited for those who thrive on excitement, enjoy being in nature, and appreciate the safety that a professional guide brings to such an intense activity.

Key Points

• Thrilling whitewater rafting on one of Europe’s most exciting rivers
• All equipment provided including wetsuits, dry tops, helmets, and buoyancy aids
• Includes hearty Icelandic meat soup to warm up after the adventure
• Relaxing hot tubs available at the end for unwinding
• Safety and guidance are clearly prioritized, with professional guides leading the trip
• Suitable for adults comfortable with physical activity and cold water

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

An Adrenaline Rush on Iceland’s Most Exciting River

The East Glacial River has a reputation for being one of the most thrilling in Europe. Spanning 16 km of wild, glacial waters, it features rapids like Alarm Clock, Commitment, Screaming Lady, and the famous Green Room. These rapid names hint at the level of excitement you can expect—fast, loud, and adrenaline-pumping.

The fact that this river is renowned for its action and challenge means you’re likely to get wet, loud, and exhilarated. The trip is designed to give you a true taste of Iceland’s untamed waters, making it a highlight for those who want to push their boundaries or simply revel in the outdoors.

Professional and Friendly Guides

Reviewers often mention the guides, which is reassuring for those new to rafting or wary of safety. Comments like “our guide Bikran did an absolutely fantastic job” and “very helpful guides,” tell you that you’ll be in capable hands. Guides lead the safety briefings, provide all the necessary equipment, and keep the group on track—allowing you to focus on enjoying the ride.

What the Experience Looks Like

Your day begins at a boathouse where guides will fit you with wetsuits, dry tops, helmets, and other gear. All you really need to bring is your swimsuit, a warm fleece or sweater, and a towel—pretty straightforward, especially if you’re used to outdoor adventures. Once suited up, you’ll travel into the East valley to start the rafting.

The actual river trip covers about 16 km and lasts several hours, with plenty of exciting rapids and likely some cliff jumping options depending on water levels. If you’re into extra thrills, this is your moment—some guides even facilitate cliff jumps for those eager to add a bit more excitement.

More Great Tours Nearby

Relaxing End to an Action-Packed Day

After the adrenaline rush, you’ll be greeted with a warm bowl of traditional Icelandic meat soup—a perfect way to warm up and refuel. The journey back to base is quick, and then you can unwind in the hot tubs, which many reviewers find to be a delightful way to relax tired muscles and reflect on the day’s adventures.

The Practical Details

Pricing and Value

At $229 per person, this trip isn’t exactly cheap, but considering the duration of about five hours, the quality of guides, all equipment, and included food and relaxation, it offers good value. It’s a full day’s activity designed for thrill enthusiasts who want more than just sightseeing.

Duration and Timing

The activity lasts around five hours—so planning your day around this is straightforward. Check availability for the specific start times, as they vary, but most trips run during daylight hours, giving you ample time for other activities afterward.

Meeting Point and End Location

The trip begins at Bakkaflöt, 560 Varmahlíð, and ends back there—making it convenient if you’re staying nearby or exploring that region. Transportation is included in the sense that guides will meet you, but be sure to arrive prepared and on time.

Is It Suitable for Everyone?

This tour is designed for adults over 18, and given the nature of the activity, participants should be comfortable with water and physical exertion. While not explicitly labeled as family-friendly, the focus on adrenaline and safety suggests it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures and aren’t afraid of getting wet and possibly jumping off cliffs.

Final Thoughts

If your goal is to experience one of Iceland’s most exciting rivers and push yourself just a little beyond your comfort zone, East Glacial River Extreme Rafting offers a compelling package. The combination of thrilling rapids, friendly guides, hearty local food, and relaxing hot tubs makes it a memorable day out.

For those who thrive on adventure, love being in nature, and don’t mind cold water, this trip could become one of your trip’s highlights. Just make sure you’re prepared for some physical activity and are okay with the possibility of cliff jumping if water levels allow.

FAQs

Do I need any prior rafting experience?
No, guides will give a safety briefing and provide all necessary equipment. It’s suitable for first-timers as long as you’re comfortable with water and active pursuits.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimsuit, a towel, and a warm fleece or sweater. All technical gear like wetsuits, dry tops, helmets, and buoyancy aids are provided.

Is this activity suitable for children?
No, you must be at least 18 years old to participate, so it’s not designed for families with children.

How long is the rafting trip?
The entire experience lasts about five hours, including transportation, safety briefing, the river trip, and post-ride relaxation.

What’s included in the price?
The trip includes all necessary safety equipment and gear, a traditional Icelandic meat soup, and access to hot tubs after the trip.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans shift.

What is the water level like?
Water levels vary, which can affect the presence of cliff jumping opportunities and the intensity of rapids.

Is this a safe activity?
Yes, safety is a priority with professional guides, proper equipment, and safety briefings, but remember it is an adventure sport with inherent risks.

How crowded does it get?
The reviews suggest the guides are friendly and attentive, and group sizes are manageable, ensuring you get personalized attention.

Who would enjoy this the most?
Thrill-seekers, outdoor enthusiasts, and those eager to experience Iceland’s wild waters will find this tour especially rewarding.

If you’re after a day of wild fun on Iceland’s rivers and like the idea of combining adventure with some relaxing moments, this rafting trip hits most marks. It’s a great way to feel truly immersed in Iceland’s rugged outdoors and come away with stories to tell.

You can check availability for your dates here: