Family Rafting Day Trip from Hafgrímsstaðir: Grade 2 White Water Rafting on the West Glacial River

If you’re looking for a way to introduce your family to Iceland’s wild side without risking the thrill level of more intense rapids, this Family Rafting Day Trip might just be the perfect fit. This trip, run by Viking Rafting, offers a gentle but exhilarating 10 km descent of the West Glacial River, with plenty of opportunities for fun, learning, and making memories—all in about three and a half hours. From the moment we started reading reviews, it was clear that this tour is highly recommended, especially for families or first-time rafters.

What caught our eye? First, the balance of safety and adventure—guides are qualified and professional, ensuring everyone feels secure while having a blast. Second, the scenic setting—you’ll paddle through stunning Icelandic river landscapes, with the bonus of warm drinks and cliff jumps for those brave enough. But, on the flip side, this is a Grade 2 trip, so if you’re craving adrenaline, this might be a bit tame. Still, for those seeking a relaxed, family-friendly experience with a touch of thrill, it’s a strong choice.

This experience suits families with children from age 6 and up, adventurous groups wanting an easy introduction to white water, or even travelers looking to combine scenic nature with light activity. If you want a smooth, well-organized outing that keeps safety front and center, this tour offers plenty of value.

Key Points

• Family-friendly activity designed for all ages from 6+ years
• Grade 2 rapids ensure a gentle yet fun paddling experience
• Expert guides create a safe, friendly environment and provide insightful commentary
• Scenic route with breathtaking riverbank views and hot springs along the way
• Includes all gear — drysuit, helmet, PFD, gloves, and booties, so you’re well protected
• Good value—with positive reviews emphasizing the price-quality ratio

Exploring the Details of the Rafting Adventure

The Itinerary Breakdown

This tour begins at the Viking Rafting base in Hafgrímsstaðir, where the adventure kicks off with a friendly meet-and-greet with guides who are both professional and personable. You’ll get suited up in drysuits, which is vital because the waters are glacial but the tour ensures you stay warm and dry. This initial step sets a reassuring tone, especially for those new to rafting or nervous about cold water.

Once dressed, you’ll hop onto a bus that takes you a short ride to the river’s edge—an added convenience that keeps the logistics simple and stress-free. The put-in point on the West Glacial River offers views that are truly captivating, with rolling riverbanks and signs of geothermal activity like riverside hot springs.

Before you paddle, your guides will walk you through a clear safety briefing, demonstration, and quick training. Based on reviews like Nabeel’s, who described the guides as “awesome,” it’s evident that the guides are not only skilled but also engaging, making sure everyone, including first-timers, feels confident.

The descent lasts about 90 minutes, covering roughly 10 km of gentle rapids, which means there’s plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and get comfortable with paddling. The rapids are described as Grade 2, meaning they’re mostly smooth with some fun, slightly bumpy sections—perfect for a light adrenaline rush without the risk of getting thrown out or overwhelmed.

The Highlights Along the River

As you cruise along, you’ll soak in spectacular scenery—think lush green banks, volcanic formations, and distant glaciers. Many reviews mention the hot springs along the route, which you might find a fun, warming surprise. These geothermal features add a unique Icelandic touch to the experience, connecting you more deeply with the landscape.

The Exciting Finish & Extras

The tour wraps up with some memorable extras. Reviews rave about the cliff jump, which is about 5 meters (16 feet)—a perfect way to cap off the trip for thrill-seekers and brave kids alike. Afterward, you can enjoy a swim in the cold glacial waters, which many reviews praise as a fun, invigorating finale.

Refueling is part of the experience too. Back at the base, there’s a chance to relax and savor riverside refreshments, including hot drinks. Several reviews highlight the delicious food—particularly the Icelandic lamb barbecue—that follows the paddling, turning this into a full-day adventure.

What Reviewers Say

The reviews paint a bright picture of this trip. For example, Pepe from Spain shared that it was an “amazing experience” and noted even in rainy weather, it was highly recommended. Multiple reviewers mention the professionalism and friendliness of guides like Lucas, Roshan, Scotty, and Amy, emphasizing how they make the experience both fun and safe.

Families in particular loved that the trip is well-organized and suitable for children. One reviewer pointed out that teenagers and kids could sit at the front of the boat during rapids, which keeps everyone engaged and excited. The hot chocolate stop and cliff jump are often highlighted as fun, memorable moments, especially appreciated by those traveling with kids or just seeking a playful adventure.

The Practical Side: Logistics and Pricing

Pricing at $166.83 per person offers good value considering all the gear, guides, transportation, and hot drinks included. Viking Rafting’s focus on safety, comfort, and fun makes the cost worthwhile, especially given the positive reviews about the guides’ professionalism.

The tour lasts about 3.5 hours—roughly 1 hour of preparation, 1.5 hours on the river, and the rest for transfers, snacks, and optional activities like the cliff jump. Group sizes are capped at 60 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate, friendly, and manageable.

Considerations for Travelers

While most reviews praise the organization and safety, it’s worth noting that this is a Grade 2 trip, so it’s not suited for thrill-seekers looking for intense rapids or dangerous drops. Travelers should also be prepared for weather variability—warm clothing, layers, and waterproof gear are recommended since Iceland’s weather can shift unexpectedly.

If you’re traveling with kids, check the minimum age of 6 and consider their comfort with water activities. The experience is described as family-friendly but always assess your children’s confidence with water and cold temperatures.

The Sum Up

This Family Rafting Day Trip from Hafgrímsstaðir stands out as a balanced, well-organized adventure that combines scenic beauty, gentle rapids, and a touch of Icelandic thrill with safety front and center. It’s clear from the many positive reviews that guides are not only knowledgeable but also genuinely care about making sure everyone has a fun, memorable time.

For families, first-time rafters, or anyone wanting to experience Iceland’s river landscapes without the adrenaline overload, this trip offers a fantastic blend of gentle excitement and stunning scenery. The inclusion of hot drinks, optional cliff jumps, and the opportunity to swim in glacial waters makes it an engaging experience for all ages. Plus, with the added bonus of delicious local food afterward, it’s a complete adventure package.

If you value safety, great guides, and a scenic, relaxed rafting experience, this trip is a fantastic choice. Just be sure to dress appropriately, bring your waterproof camera, and prepare for an outing that’s fun, safe, and genuinely memorable.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the minimum age is 6 years old, and many reviews mention that it’s very family-friendly. Just ensure your kids are comfortable with water and weather conditions.

What should I wear on the trip?
You’ll be provided with drysuits, but it’s recommended to bring thermal underwear, fleece, wool socks, and a change of clothes for after. Waterproof camera and medications are optional but helpful.

How long does the entire trip last?
The experience is approximately 3 hours 30 minutes, including preparation, transfers, and the rafting itself.

Are the guides experienced?
Absolutely. All guides are qualified and professional, with many reviews emphasizing their friendliness, safety focus, and local knowledge.

What is included in the price?
All necessary rafting equipment—drysuit, helmet, PFD, gloves, booties—plus transportation between base and river, and hot drinks.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

Is this experience safe?
Yes. The guides prioritize safety with proper equipment, instructions, and supervision. It’s rated Grade 2, which is gentle but still fun.

What is the main highlight of this trip?
Most say it’s the combination of scenic views, friendly guides, and the memorable cliff jump—plus the feeling of paddling through Iceland’s wild rivers.

If you’re craving a safe, scenic, and genuinely fun adventure during your Iceland trip, this rafting tour hits all those marks.