Gullfoss Waterfall is one of Iceland’s most iconic sights — a powerful cascade that draws travelers from around the world. But beyond admiring the thundering water, the surrounding area offers some truly memorable adventure tours. We especially like the snowmobile ride across Langjökull Glacier, which combines exhilarating scenery with a chance to see Iceland’s second-largest ice cap up close. For those who prefer a guided expedition into icy depths, the Ice Cave and Glacier Tour in Glacier Monster Truck offers a hearty, panoramic adventure.
In this guide, we’ll explore these two top tours, revealing what makes each one special, how they compare, and who each is best suited for. Whether you’re after high-speed snowmobiling or a rugged trip into an ice cave, you’ll find options that match your style and interests.
Below, we’ll give you a quick overview of the types of tours — from snowmobiling to ice caves — available in this area, with links to each experience.
1. From Gullfoss: Langjökull Glacier Snowmobile Tour
At number one on our list is the Langjökull Glacier Snowmobile Tour, a four-hour adventure that includes a one-hour snowmobile ride on Iceland’s second-largest ice cap. Starting from Gullfoss, the tour takes you through breathtaking highland scenery, with a safety briefing at the Mountaineers Geldingafell Basecamp before hitting the snow.
What sets this tour apart is the chance to speed across endless snowfields and marvel at the glacier’s icy surface. Friendly guides share insights into Iceland’s glacial landscapes, making the experience both thrilling and educational. The snowmobile itself is easy to operate, with instructors helping those new to riding. The reviews are fantastic, with many describing it as “an unforgettable experience” and “the highlight of their trip.”
The tour is well-organized, with scenic drives and free time at the basecamp for photos and relaxation. It’s perfect for adventure seekers who want a hands-on experience with Iceland’s icy wilderness. The price of $225 per person reflects a good value for the unique thrill and scenery involved.
Bottom Line: If you crave excitement and want to see glaciers from a truly up-close perspective, this snowmobile tour offers a fun, well-managed outing that’s suitable for most fitness levels.
2. Gullfoss: Ice Cave and Glacier Tour in Glacier Monster Truck
Next on our list, at number two, is the Ice Cave and Glacier Tour in Glacier Monster Truck. This four-hour expedition takes you aboard the oversized Red Monster Glacier Trucks for an off-road journey to Langjökull. Unlike the snowmobile, this tour emphasizes exploration of the glacier’s interior and rugged landscapes.
Once there, you’ll explore an artificially created ice cave, which offers a rare glimpse into the glacier’s blue-ice formations. Local guides share fascinating facts about glaciers, and the tour includes scenic drives with plenty of photo stops. The adventure is as much about the scenery as it is about learning, with guides eager to tell stories and explain Iceland’s glacial history.
Priced at $170 per person, this tour balances comfort with a rugged, hands-on experience. Although weather can affect the availability of the ice cave, the guides are flexible, providing alternatives like golf or sledding if necessary. Guests often praise the fun ride in the monster trucks and the spectacular views, even if the cave isn’t accessible due to weather.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a combination of off-road adventure, glacier exploration, and storytelling. It’s a bit less physically demanding than snowmobiling but equally memorable.
How to Choose Between These Top Gullfoss Tours
Choosing between a snowmobile ride and a glacier exploration in a monster truck depends on your interests and comfort level. Snowmobiling offers a thrilling, high-speed way to experience the glacier’s surface directly, making it perfect for those who love adrenaline and hands-on activities. On the other hand, the monster truck tour provides a more relaxed but equally impressive view of the glacier’s interior and surrounding terrain, suitable for those who prefer less physical activity but still want an immersive experience.
When considering budget, the snowmobile tour is slightly more expensive at $225, but it includes a full hour on the snowmobile. The ice cave and truck tour at $170 offers a different kind of adventure, focusing on scenic exploration and glacier features.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak summer months when these tours fill quickly. Think about your preferred activity style — whether you want the thrill of snowmobiling or the curiosity of exploring icy caves — and pick the tour that most excites you.
Final Thoughts
Both tours around Gullfoss showcase Iceland’s remarkable glacial terrain, but they cater to different tastes. The snowmobile tour provides a high-adrenaline ride across icy landscapes, perfect for adventure lovers. Meanwhile, the glacier monster truck and ice cave experience offers a rugged, scenic exploration that combines fun and learning.
For travelers with limited time, either option delivers a memorable experience that complements the stunning views of Gullfoss. If you’re after pure excitement, go for the snowmobile; if you prefer an immersive, scenic ride, the ice cave tour is your best bet.
Remember to book early and check weather conditions, especially for the ice cave, to ensure your Iceland adventure is as spectacular as it promises to be. Whichever you choose, you’re sure to leave with incredible stories and unforgettable memories of Iceland’s icy wilderness.
