If you’re searching for a unique way to experience Iceland’s rugged beauty without risking your neck on whitewater chaos, this family-friendly rafting trip in Varmahlid might just be your best option. Rated a perfect five out of five from 15 reviews, it’s clear this adventure hits the sweet spot for travelers of all ages. The trip is gentle enough for kids as young as six but still offers enough scenic drama—steam rising from riverside hot springs, twisting canyon walls, and the chance for a water fight—that even the most hesitant adventurers will find it memorable.
Two things I particularly like about this experience: First, the professional and friendly guides. Reviews highlight guides like Amy, who’s both smart and tough, making everyone feel safe and included. Second, the stunning landscape and hot springs along the river—that’s Iceland at its best: wild, beautiful, and a little magical. The only thing to consider is that if you’re craving pure adrenaline or big waves, this trip might not satisfy. It’s designed to be accessible and fun for families, not a whitewater thrill ride.
Ultimately, this rafting trip offers incredible value for its scope. It’s a three-and-a-half-hour experience that combines scenic beauty, gentle paddling, and expert guidance—at a price that many will find reasonable given the quality. It’s an authentic Iceland experience that’s safe, scenic, and perfect for creating family memories, even if your kids are new to water adventures.
Key points / Takeaways
- Family-Friendly & Safe: Suitable for children over 6, pregnant women, and those with heart issues are advised against it, but overall, it’s designed to be safe and enjoyable for most.
- Experienced Guides: Guides like Amy earn praise for their professionalism and ability to make everyone feel secure, even during optional moments like cliff jumping.
- Scenic & Relaxing: You’ll paddle through towering canyons, bubbling hot springs, and enjoy views that make Iceland’s wilderness feel accessible and spectacular.
- Gentle Rapids & Fun: Perfect for beginners or those who prefer a calmer ride—think of it as more of a scenic float with a splash of gentle rapids, not white-water chaos.
- All-Inclusive Equipment: Your gear—drysuits, helmets, gloves, life jackets—is provided, so you don’t need to pack a thing.
- Authentic Experience: Riverside hot cocoa, friendly water fights, and the chance to soak in Iceland’s natural runoff make it more than just a boat trip.
Setting the Scene at Viking Rafting Base
Your adventure begins at Viking Rafting, the local hub for this river journey. The location itself is straightforward to reach and equipped for safety and comfort. Once you arrive, expect a concise safety briefing that lasts about 15 minutes, where your guides will go over paddling instructions and safety protocols. This step is particularly reassuring for first-timers or nervous travelers. The guides are internationally certified and clearly skilled at both instructing and calming a mixed-age group. Many reviews mention guides like Amy, who balances professionalism with a friendly attitude, making sure everyone feels confident and ready.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Varmahlid.
The Scenic Drive to the River
After the briefing, you’ll hop aboard a bus or coach for a quick 20-minute ride through Iceland’s lush landscape. The journey itself offers an opportunity to take in the rural beauty, with glimpses of moss-covered rocks, volcanic terrain, and distant mountains. It’s a brief but pleasant transition from land to water, setting the tone for a relaxing yet exciting trip.
The River: The Heart of the Adventure
Upon reaching the river, the real fun begins. The Northeastern Region’s West Glacial River is known for its gentle rapids, making it excellent for families and beginners. The 1.5-hour rafting section takes you through a towering gorge with twists, turns, and the occasional playful splash. Expect a mix of fun water fights, jumping from rocks into the river (a highlight for many), and the chance to soak in natural hot springs along the way.
From reviews, it’s clear that the landscape is a highlight—steaming riverside hot springs, expansive canyon views, and the sense of being in a secluded Icelandic wilderness. One traveler named Sebastian shares how they felt very safe, even during optional cliff jumps from 4 meters—an activity that adds a dash of adrenaline without being over the top.
Riverside Refreshments & Relaxation
Throughout the trip, your guides will serve Riverside refreshments—hot cocoa that’s perfect after a splashy float or a dip in the glacial runoff. It’s a small but meaningful touch that enhances the experience, allowing everyone to relax and enjoy the scenery.
Return Trip & Reflection
After about 20 minutes back on the bus, you’ll return to Viking Rafting, feeling refreshed and with plenty of stories to tell. Many reviews mention how the whole day felt well-paced and expertly managed, with the safety briefings and guides making the adventure both fun and secure.
The trip offers all necessary rafting gear—dry suits, PFDs, helmets, booties, and gloves—so you can focus on the fun without worrying about packing or renting equipment elsewhere. Transportation is included between the base and the river, streamlining logistics. Riverside hot cocoa and water fights keep the mood light and social.
However, it’s worth noting that lunch or dinner are not included, so plan accordingly if you’re hungry after the trip. Bring a change of clothes, warm layers, socks, and thermal wear, especially because Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable. The tour is approximately 3.5 hours long, with starting times varying, so check availability when booking.
Who This Trip Is Best For
Families with children over 6 will find this a perfect introduction to Icelandic river adventures. Because of the gentle rapids and safety measures, even nervous paddlers or first-timers can enjoy it confidently. It’s also suitable for those who want to combine scenic beauty with a mild adventure, making it ideal for older travelers or groups with mixed ages.
It’s not suited for pregnant women, individuals with heart problems, or those under 6, but for everyone else, it’s a relaxed, scenic, and fun way to connect with Iceland’s natural landscape.
Given that all equipment, safety gear, transportation, and refreshments are included, the cost offers good value for a half-day adventure. The focus on safety and guides’ expertise means you’re paying for peace of mind as well as beautiful scenery. Booking in advance and reserving with the “pay later” option adds flexibility—particularly important for last-minute trip plans or changeable weather.
If you’re traveling with family, especially with kids over 6, this adventure provides a safe, scenic introduction to Iceland’s rivers. It’s perfect for beginners or those looking for a gentle yet immersive outdoor experience. Nature lovers will appreciate the views of the canyon and hot springs, while anyone wanting a hassle-free, professionally guided outing will find it well worth the expense.
While not a white-water thrill ride, it offers enough fun and stunning scenery to make it a highlight of a trip to Iceland. It’s an excellent choice for travelers wanting a memorable, authentic Icelandic experience without the adrenaline overload.
FAQ
Is this rafting trip suitable for children?
Yes, children over 6 years old are welcome. The trip is designed to be gentle and safe for families, with guides ensuring everyone feels comfortable.
What should I bring?
Bring warm clothing, a change of clothes, socks, and thermal layers. It’s also advisable to wear the provided equipment and dress in layers, as weather can change quickly.
Are meals included?
No, lunch or dinner are not included. The trip includes Riverside refreshments like hot cocoa, so plan to bring snacks or eat beforehand.
How long is the trip?
The total experience lasts about 3.5 hours, with approximately 1.5 hours on the river.
Is transportation provided?
Yes, transportation between Viking Rafting and the river is included.
Can pregnant women participate?
No, pregnant women are advised not to join this trip for safety reasons.
To sum it up, if your goal is a fun, scenic, and safe introduction to Iceland’s river wilderness—especially for families or first-timers—this rafting trip offers fantastic value. It combines professional guidance, relaxed rapids, and unforgettable views, making it an ideal way to enjoy Iceland’s natural beauty without the risk or expense of more extreme adventures.