Varmahlid is a fantastic destination for travelers eager to experience Iceland’s natural wonders in an active way. Unlike more typical sightseeing trips, this area offers adrenaline-filled adventures like whitewater rafting and scenic horseback rides. We especially love the family rafting trip in drysuits, which combines safety, fun, and accessibility for all ages. Plus, the North Iceland whitewater rafting promises high-octane thrills in Europe’s wildest waters. For those craving a more relaxed, yet equally memorable experience, the Viking horse riding tour delivers a chance to explore North Iceland’s beautiful scenery on horseback.
In this list, you’ll find a mix of adventure-packed whitewater rafting excursions — including a 3.5-hour family-friendly trip and a full-day, more intense adventure — alongside a vintage Viking-style horseback tour. Each offers something special for different kinds of travelers, whether you’re with kids, thrill-seekers, or nature lovers. Check out the detailed options below to decide which experience best suits your vacation plans.
1. Top-Rated Family Adventure | Rafting in Drysuits
At number 1, this family-friendly rafting trip offers a safe and exciting way to introduce kids and non-swimmers to Iceland’s rushing rivers. For just $172 per person, you get 3.5 hours of fun in the Northeastern Region. The trip begins with a safety briefing from your highly qualified guide, ensuring everyone is comfortable before heading out. The adventure includes a scenic bus ride, expert instruction, and an hour and a half of actual rafting, making it suitable even for young adventurers.
What sets this tour apart is its emphasis on safety and fun for the whole family. It’s rated 5/5 by 22 reviews, with many mentioning how the guides make everyone feel at ease while satisfying their craving for adrenaline. The drysuits are a highlight, keeping everyone warm and dry in Iceland’s chilly waters, which means you won’t be sacrificing comfort for excitement. This trip is perfect if you’re traveling with children or prefer a less intense introduction to Iceland’s whitewater.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for families or first-time rafters who want a safe, well-organized experience that guarantees plenty of smiles and a sense of achievement.
2. North Iceland: Europe’s Wildest Rafting in DRYSUIT
At number 2, this full-day whitewater rafting adventure takes you through the Easterly Glacier River, one of Europe’s most formidable rapids. For $247 per person, you get approximately 6 hours of high-energy paddling guided by certified experts. The trip kicks off with a safety briefing at Viking Rafting, followed by a scenic 45-minute coach ride to the river, where your adrenaline will really kick in.
What makes this tour stand out is its combination of thrilling Grade IV rapids and a full drysuit experience. You’ll paddle through a stunning glacial canyon, feeling both the rush of the water and the awe of Iceland’s icy landscapes. The itinerary includes two rafting sessions—each about an hour and a half—separated by a 20-minute break, giving you time to catch your breath before diving back in. Guests consistently praise the professional guides’ expertise and the exhilarating nature of the rapids.
While this tour is more physically demanding than the family option, it’s ideal for thrill-seekers who want to conquer one of Europe’s best rafting rivers. The price reflects the full-day experience, including proper gear and expert guidance.
Bottom Line: Perfect for adventure lovers ready to tackle serious rapids in comfort, with the added thrill of glacial scenery. Suitable for those with some rafting experience or good fitness levels.
3. Varmahlid: Viking Horse Riding Tour
At number 3, this horseback riding tour offers a quieter, yet equally memorable, way to explore North Iceland. For about 1.5 hours, you’ll ride through the river Svarta and along a hillside to Reykjafoss waterfall. The tour costs varies depending on availability, but it provides an intimate experience in Iceland’s stunning landscape.
What makes this ride special is the opportunity to experience the unique gait of the Icelandic horse—called the tölt—which offers a smooth, comfortable ride even over uneven terrain. The guide at Hestasport is praised for their personal approach, making even those without prior riding experience feel safe and confident. The tour gets you up close to nature, with beautiful views of mountains, the river, and the waterfall.
Guests love the small group size and personalized service, often describing the experience as “amazing” and mentioning how well-trained the horses are. The scenery is breathtaking, ideal for photos and peaceful reflection after the more adrenaline-filled adventures. It’s suited for families, solo travelers, or anyone looking to enjoy Iceland’s landscape from a different perspective.
Bottom Line: A relaxing, scenic ride in a small group that’s perfect for horse lovers or those who prefer a gentle, nature-focused experience.
How to Choose
When deciding between these options, think about your interests and physical readiness. The rafting trips are a natural choice for thrill-seekers or families with kids, especially the Top-Rated Family Adventure, which balances excitement with safety. If you’re after a real adrenaline rush and a full-day challenge, the North Iceland whitewater rafting is unmatched for its intensity and scenic beauty. For a more laid-back, scenic experience, the Viking horse riding tour offers tranquility and beautiful landscapes without the splashes.
Consider your budget and time constraints as well. The family rafting adventure is under $200 and lasts just over three hours, making it easy to fit into a busy schedule. The full-day rafting trip provides a more intense experience but requires a half-day commitment. The horseback tour is shorter but offers a different kind of connection to Icelandic nature.
Booking early is recommended, especially for the popular rafting trips, which often fill up during peak season. Check the availability for your travel dates and consider combining a couple of options if your schedule allows.
To sum it up, Varmahlid offers a diverse set of tours that cater to adventure lovers, families, and those seeking serene landscapes. The family rafting trip provides a safe introduction to whitewater, while the full-day rafting satisfies the thrill-seeker. Meanwhile, the horse riding tour offers a peaceful and authentic way to experience North Iceland’s beauty. No matter which you choose, these experiences will enrich your Iceland trip with memories you’ll talk about for years. Be sure to book early and prepare for an unforgettable adventure.