Glacier Snowmobiling from Reykjavik

If you’re eyeing an epic winter adventure in Iceland, a snowmobiling trip onto Langjokull Glacier might be right up your alley. While I haven’t personally strapped into a snowmobile on this tour, I’ve gathered enough insights and honest feedback to give you a clear picture of what to expect. This kind of experience is perfect for those craving a mix of outdoor adrenaline, stunning scenery, and a taste of Iceland’s wild landscape.

What we genuinely love about this tour? First, it’s the expertise of the guides, who make the whole experience feel safe and fun, even for beginners. Second, the scenic views of glaciers, volcanic craters, and mountain ranges are absolutely breathtaking. But, there’s one thing to keep in mind — the long drive to the glacier can be tiring, especially if you’re not used to lengthy van rides. Still, if you’re looking for an adventure that combines adventure, beautiful landscapes, and a dash of thrill, this tour could be a great fit.

This tour tends to attract travelers who want a full-day, active experience and don’t mind taking a bit of time to get there. It’s well-suited for folks who enjoy outdoor activities, are comfortable in cold weather, and appreciate guided tours that include all the necessary gear. If you’re traveling with kids, note that the minimum age is 8, so it’s more suitable for families with older children or those without very young kids.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Equipment: Gear like snow suits, goggles, gloves, and helmets are provided, ensuring you stay warm and safe.
• Convenient Pickup: The tour includes pickup and drop-off from Reykjavik, making logistics hassle-free.
• Spectacular Scenery: Expect panoramic views of glaciers, volcanic craters, and mountain ranges—perfect for photos and awe.
• Guide-Led Experience: Knowledgeable guides help you navigate the snow and ensure safety, making it suitable for beginners.
• Longer Journey: The van ride to the glacier can take around 2.5 hours each way, which might be a consideration for some travelers.
• Flexible Options: You can bring your own lunch or purchase food at the stops, offering some flexibility.

What is the Experience Like?

From the moment you’re picked up in Reykjavik, this tour promises a well-organized day filled with scenic drives and snowy adventures. The trip kicks off with a comfortable ride in a Super Jeep through the icy Icelandic landscape. This vehicle is specially designed to handle the rugged terrain, offering both safety and a thrill in itself. The drive to Langjokull Glacier is part of the journey’s charm, with stunning views unfolding along the way.

Once you arrive at the glacier base camp, the real fun begins. You’ll be fitted with all the necessary gear—think snow suits, goggles, gloves, a balaclava, and a helmet—so you’re ready to face the cold without worry. The guides are experienced and friendly, providing thorough instructions before you hop onto the snowmobile.

You’ll typically ride for around one hour on Iceland’s second-largest glacier. During this time, you’ll cruise past volcanic craters, observe the vast, icy expanse, and get a sense of how vast and untouched the landscape really is. Several reviews mention how the guides are very helpful, especially for those new to snowmobiling. One guest appreciated that the guide was so friendly, even sharing personal goggles when they forgot theirs.

The views on the glacier are often described as out of this world. Several travelers recall the scenic vistas of Eiríksjökull, Hofsjökull, and the mountain ranges, making this a photographer’s dream. The landscape feels completely remote and pristine, and there’s a certain thrill to gliding across the snow with such expansive views around you.

The Guides and Safety

Most reviews highlight the guides as a major plus. They’re described as knowledgeable, friendly, and helpful. Their instruction ensures that even beginners feel comfortable operating the snowmobiles. Multiple reviews emphasize feeling very safe and well looked after — which is crucial when you’re handling machinery on a glacier.

The Equipment and Comfort

All the gear is provided, which simplifies packing and ensures you’re well protected from the cold. The snow suits are designed to keep you warm, and goggles help with the wind and snow. Travelers note that the gear is well-maintained, and guides are attentive to safety concerns.

Food and Stops

While lunch isn’t included in the price, there’s a stop where you can purchase food, or you can pack your own. Some reviews praise the food options available, mentioning that the restaurant stop was “10/10,” and one guest enjoyed ice cream during the trip. This flexibility adds to the overall value, especially for those wanting to customize their day.

The Long Drive — Worth It or Not?

The journey to the glacier involves about 2.5 hours each way in a Super Jeep. This is a significant chunk of the day, but most travelers find it worthwhile for the scenery and experience. Some mention that the long ride is scenic and adds to the adventure, while others find it a bit tiring, especially if you’re eager to get onto the snow.

What About the Cost?

At around $330 per person, this tour offers a lot: transportation, gear, guide service, and a solid hour of snowmobiling. Considering the full-day experience, the scenic value, and the safety measures, many consider it a fair price. The reviews also reflect satisfaction with the value — people felt they received a memorable experience, especially with guides who went above and beyond.

Potential Downsides

The most common complaint is the long travel time in the van, which can be draining if you prefer shorter transit. Plus, weather and road conditions can sometimes lead to cancellations, but the company’s policy is to offer rescheduling or refunds. There’s also a note that the experience isn’t suitable for children under 8, so families should plan accordingly.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This snowmobiling adventure is ideal for those who want a full-day, outdoor activity with scenic highlights and a guided, safe environment. It’s especially perfect if you’re comfortable in cold weather and enjoy being outdoors. If you’re traveling solo, as many reviews show, it’s a great way to meet like-minded travelers. Those with mobility concerns or very young children might want to look elsewhere, as the minimum age is 8.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For travelers craving a true taste of Iceland’s icy wilderness, this tour offers a solid mix of scenery, adventure, and comfort. The guides are praised for being friendly and helpful, making it easy even for beginners to enjoy snowmobiling. The views on Langjokull Glacier are unforgettable, and the equipment provided ensures you stay warm and safe.

While the long drive can be a point of fatigue, many see it as part of the adventure — a scenic journey through Iceland’s rugged landscape. The overall value seems fair, considering the gear, transportation, and guided experience, especially given the positive reviews from past travelers.

This tour suits those who want to combine sightseeing with a bit of adrenaline and aren’t too fussed about spending several hours in transit. If you’re okay with the duration, and excited about the idea of snowmobiling on a majestic glacier, this could be a highlight of your Iceland trip.

FAQs

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from Reykjavik are included, making it easier to enjoy the day without worrying about transportation.

How long is the snowmobiling segment?
You will ride the snowmobile for about one hour on Langjokull Glacier, giving you a good taste of the experience without it feeling rushed.

What gear is provided?
All necessary equipment like snow suits, goggles, gloves, a balaclava, and helmets are included, ensuring you stay warm and safe during the ride.

Will I be safe snowmobiling as a beginner?
Absolutely. The guides are experienced and friendly, providing detailed instructions for first-timers. Most reviews mention feeling comfortable and secure.

Are children allowed?
This tour is not suitable for children under 8 years old, so check if your kids meet the age requirement before booking.

What happens if the weather cancels the tour?
If weather conditions are poor, the tour might be canceled, and you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

If you’re after an adventurous, scenic experience on Iceland’s glaciers with excellent guides, this snowmobiling tour ticks many boxes. Just keep in mind the long trip to get there, and you’ll be well on your way to an unforgettable Arctic escapade.