Guided Sit on Top Kayak Tour

If you’re dreaming of a gentle adventure that combines the outdoors with a touch of Icelandic charm, then this guided sit on top kayak tour in Akureyri might just be what you’re looking for. While I haven’t personally paddled this route, reviews and detailed descriptions make it clear that it offers a peaceful, scenic experience suitable for a variety of travelers.

What really caught our eye is the combination of stunning North Iceland landscapes with wildlife spotting—especially horses—and the friendly, knowledgeable guide who makes everyone feel comfortable. Plus, the inclusion of a relaxing dip in hot tubs afterward adds a nice finishing touch to the outing. However, one thing to keep in mind is that this tour is relatively short—just about two hours—so if you’re craving a lengthy paddling adventure, this might feel more like a scenic float.

This experience is well-suited for anyone seeking a beginner-friendly, nature-focused activity. Families, casual paddlers, or those simply wanting to take in Iceland’s landscapes without much effort will find this tour appealing. If you’re after a relaxed way to connect with the outdoors and enjoy some local wildlife—especially Icelandic horses—then this kayaking trip could be a highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• Gentle, beginner-friendly kayaking makes this accessible for all skill levels.
• You’ll enjoy scenic views of North Iceland’s mountains and river landscapes.
• The tour provides all necessary equipment and safety gear, so no worries if you’re new to kayaking.
• Wildlife sightings, particularly of Icelandic horses, add a special touch.
• The experience ends with access to hot tubs and a small swimming pool—perfect for unwinding.
• Flexible starting points allow for different types of paddling experiences, from relaxing floats to playful splashes.

A Practical Overview of the Kayak Adventure

This two-hour guided kayak trip takes you down the Svartá River, which meanders through tranquil Icelandic scenery. This part of North Iceland is renowned for its open landscapes, mountain views, and, notably, its abundance of horses—an Icelandic specialty. The tour’s setting in Skagafjörður fjord means you’ll be surrounded by peaceful waters and stunning vistas, making it ideal for unwinding and soaking in the natural beauty.

Since this is a guided tour with a knowledgeable guide, you’ll have someone checking that everyone is comfortable and explaining what you see along the way. According to reviews, Norris, the guide, is particularly appreciated for his clear instructions and constant attention to safety and comfort. This makes the tour accessible to those with little to no kayaking experience, which is a big plus if you’re traveling with friends or family who might be new to water sports.

What to Expect During the Tour

The tour begins at the meeting point in Bakkaflöt, with a group of up to 15 people, making it intimate enough to feel personalized. Once equipped with the provided open-top kayak and safety gear, you’ll set off on a leisurely paddle along the gentle Svartá River.

The scenery is the star here. Expect to see mountain ranges framing your view and to possibly spot some of the local wildlife. The highlight for many is the chance to see Icelandic horses, which outnumber people in this part of the country. If luck is on your side, these horses might leave their grazing and follow you for a bit—a charming reminder of Iceland’s close-knit relationship with its animals.

The Experience: More Than Just Paddling

While the actual paddling is relaxed (with options for a longer, playful splash or a shorter, more peaceful drift), what makes this tour stand out is the guidance. Many reviews praise the expertise and friendliness of the guides. As Anna_B describes, “It is much more than admiring the river, you become a part of it,” thanks to the attentive explanation and constant check-ins by the guide Norris.

After your time on the water, you’ll enjoy access to hot tubs and a small swimming pool, which is a wonderful way to relax muscles and enjoy the post-paddle glow. Just remember to bring your swimsuit, towel, and thermal underwear if you plan to maximize your comfort.

Booking, Pricing, and Practicalities

At $79 per person, this kayak tour offers fair value, especially considering the included safety equipment, guiding, and post-activity relaxation. The tour is usually booked around 42 days in advance, indicating good popularity, and the maximum group size of 15 helps keep things personal and manageable.

Start time is typically at 6:00 pm, which is perfect if you want to enjoy the late Icelandic light and avoid the midday crowds. The tour involves a mobile ticket, giving you flexibility and easy access.

You’ll need to bring a swimsuit, towel, and thermal underwear, which are not included. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with confirmation received at booking, and is canceled for bad weather—full refunds are available if the weather doesn’t cooperate.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys light outdoor activities, scenic views, and wildlife sightings without the physical challenge of strenuous paddling**, this is a great pick. Families with children who are comfortable around water will find this particularly friendly, though it’s not explicitly marketed as family-specific. The guide’s attentiveness makes it suitable for those who want reassurance while exploring Iceland’s waters.

This tour is also a wonderful choice if you want to combine gentle adventure with relaxation, especially after a day of sightseeing. The hot tubs and swimming pool provide a cozy, warm end to your water-based adventure.

Final Thoughts

This guided sit on top kayak tour offers a relaxing, scenic exploration of North Iceland’s landscapes and wildlife, with the added bonus of warm baths to unwind afterward. It’s particularly suited for those who want a low-pressure, beginner-friendly experience that emphasizes nature and peaceful paddling over adrenaline.

The combination of excellent guides, wildlife sightings (notably horses), and the opportunity to relax in hot tubs makes it a well-rounded, memorable activity. It’s not an intense or lengthy expedition, but it excels at providing a gentle, immersive way to appreciate Iceland’s natural beauty.

If you’re looking for an activity that’s approachable, visually rewarding, and includes some well-deserved relaxation, this kayak trip is worth considering. It’s best for those who value comfort, scenery, and wildlife, and who prefer a flexible, laid-back outdoor experience.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is designed to be accessible for paddlers of all skill levels. The guide explains everything clearly and checks on your comfort throughout.

What should I bring with me?
Bring a swimsuit, towel, and thermal underwear. The tour provides all equipment and safety gear, so just dress for the weather and your comfort.

Can I book this tour in advance?
Yes, it’s typically booked around 42 days in advance, and confirmation is received at the time of booking.

What time does the tour start?
Most tours start at 6:00 pm, making it easy to fit into your Iceland itinerary.

What’s included in the price?
All kayaking equipment, safety gear, and access to hot tubs and a small swimming pool afterward are included.

How long is the tour?
The paddling portion lasts about 2 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

Is transportation included?
The meeting point is at Bakkaflöt, where the activity begins and ends; transportation details are not specified but typically you meet directly at the site.

What kind of wildlife might I see?
You’re most likely to see local wildlife, especially Icelandic horses, which are plentiful in this area.

Is the activity physically demanding?
No, the gentle nature of the river and open-top kayaks make it suitable for most people, including those with limited kayaking experience.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour will be canceled if the weather is poor, and you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This guided kayaking trip offers a lovely way to connect with Iceland’s natural side without requiring intense effort. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a wildlife enthusiast, or simply after a peaceful scenic experience, it’s worth considering for your Iceland trip.