Snowmobiling on Eyjafjallajökull

Experiencing Iceland from Above: Snowmobiling on Eyjafjallajökull

If you’re looking for a way to see Iceland’s South Coast from a whole new perspective, snowmobiling on Eyjafjallajökull offers a memorable blend of adrenaline, ice-capped scenery, and expert guidance. This tour takes you up on the glacier itself, giving you a chance to ride a luxury snowmobile and enjoy sweeping views that can include the Westman Islands, the south coast, and even parts of the highlands—weather and season permitting.

I’ve heard from travelers that two things really stand out about this experience: the knowledgeable guides, like Iggy, who add a personal touch with their professionalism and friendliness, and the breathtaking vistas that are quite simply hard to beat. What’s not so perfect? The variable duration depending on the season might mean a longer or shorter ride than you expect, which can influence your planning. Still, many find the overall value excellent, especially given the safety and comfort provided.

One interesting detail I picked up from reviews is how the outer layers and safety gear (like helmets, balaclavas, and snowsuits) make all the difference in staying warm and comfortable, even in the coldest months. I also appreciate that the tour avoids sharing sleds with strangers, making the ride more intimate and safer for everyone.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Unique glacier perspective: Riding on top of Eyjafjallajökull offers a view few get from below, making this a distinctive highlight.
• Expert guides: Guides like Iggy are praised for making the trip fun, safe, and informative.
• Flexible seasons: The tour adjusts for seasons, with shorter winter rides due to easier access to snow.
• High safety standards: Provided gear, safety instructions, and small group sizes ensure peace of mind.
• Scenic stops: The tour includes scenic viewpoints where you can snap photos of pristine snow and volcanic landscapes.
• Transportation in a Super Jeep: The drive up to the glacier in a modified Super Jeep is an adventure in itself.
• Duration and value: Ranging from about 2 to 4 hours depending on the time of year, offering good value for a memorable experience.
• No sharing sleds: The experience is private, with one snowmobile per two people, enhancing safety and fun.
• Age restrictions: Children as young as 6 may participate, making it family-friendly.

The Real Deal: Snowmobiling on Eyjafjallajökull

If you’re planning a trip to Iceland’s South Coast, this snowmobiling tour is a fantastic way to add a touch of adventure to your itinerary. Starting from the Brú base camp, just five minutes down from Seljalandsfoss, the tour begins with a brief safety overview. After dressing in snowsuits, helmets, and balaclavas, you’ll head out in a Super Jeep driven by a knowledgeable guide—often someone like Iggy—who’s happy to answer questions and share insights about the landscape.

The drive itself is a highlight. It’s not just transportation; it’s a scenic journey up the slopes of Eyjafjallajökull, a dormant volcano and glacier with a story that’s part of Iceland’s fascinating volcanic history. The drive takes about 35 minutes each way, during which the guide ensures everyone stays safe and comfortable. If you’re lucky with the weather, you’ll get expansive views of the Westman Islands, the entire south coast, and even parts of the highlands. These vistas make the trip worth every krona.

Once at the glacier base, the excitement begins. The snowmobile ride itself lasts about an hour, but total time varies with the season. In winter, snow is easier to access, so the tour lasts around 2 hours. In summer, you might need to drive higher to find snow, extending the overall experience up to 4 hours. This variability means you should check availability and seasonality when planning.

The actual snowmobiling is often described as exhilarating yet manageable, even for first-timers. Many reviewers, like L, appreciated the safe environment and the personal attention from guides. L mentioned how their guide answered all questions and ensured everyone stayed together, making it both fun and safe.

Post-ride, the tour concludes with another scenic drive back to the base, often with stops at viewpoints for photos or a quick rest. The outfit provided—insulated coveralls, helmets, and balaclavas—are crucial to staying warm, especially considering the Icelandic winter chill. For footwear, sturdy hiking shoes are a must, as open-toed shoes or sandals aren’t permitted.

How the Itinerary Comes Together

Starting at Brú Base Camp, you’ll meet your guide and get fitted out. The first 35-minute drive in the Super Jeep takes you to the glacier’s edge, where you’ll get a briefing on safety and riding techniques. Then, the main event: a roughly hour-long snowmobile ride on top of the glacier. During this time, you’ll feel the thrill of racing over snow and ice, with panoramic views unfolding around you.

Afterward, the guide often pauses at scenic viewpoints—perfect for photos or just soaking in the quiet majesty of Iceland’s icy wilderness. The return trip mirrors the ascent, with another 35-minute drive back to the base camp, completing a well-paced, thoroughly enjoyable adventure.

The total tour length varies seasonally—about 2 hours in winter, up to 4 hours in summer—making it flexible depending on your schedule and interests. The experience is designed to be accessible for first-time riders and families, with a focus on safety and fun.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a nature lover who craves a physical thrill, this snowmobiling adventure offers a rare vantage point and an adrenaline boost. It’s especially great if you appreciate guided experiences with friendly, professional guides like Iggy, who make safety and fun their priorities. Families with children over 6 will find this a safe and exciting activity, provided they’re comfortable with winter gear and outdoor adventure.

In terms of value, at $250 per person, it’s a solid investment given the scenic drive, the guided expertise, and the unique opportunity to ride on a glacier. Keep in mind that the experience includes all safety gear and a guided service—extra costs like hiking shoes are your responsibility.

Price and Logistics: What to Know

While $250 per person might sound steep, it covers a full three-hour experience, including transportation, safety gear, and the snowmobile ride. The small group setting ensures a more personalized and safe environment. It’s worth booking in advance, especially during peak seasons, since availability can be limited. The option to reserve now and pay later offers flexibility—an advantage if your travel plans are still fluid.

The meeting point at Southcoast Adventure’s Brú Base Camp is easy to find, just off Road 249, and the activity ends back at the same location. The key logistical point: dress warmly and bring sturdy hiking shoes, as they aren’t included.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For those seeking a once-in-a-lifetime view of Iceland’s iconic glacier, snowmobiling on Eyjafjallajökull is tough to beat. It combines scenic beauty, adrenaline, and expert guidance into one package, providing a safe, fun, and highly memorable experience. The scenic drive in the Super Jeep adds an extra layer of adventure, and the panoramic views—if the weather cooperates—are spectacular.

This tour is best suited for adventure-minded travelers who want to see Iceland from above and aren’t squeamish about cold outdoor activity. It’s perfect for first-timers, families, or anyone craving a unique, active way to explore the ice and volcanic landscapes.

If you appreciate guides who make safety and fun a priority, and you don’t mind the price for a well-organized, scenic adventure, this tour will likely be a highlight of your trip.

FAQ

What is the starting location for this tour?
The tour begins at Southcoast Adventure’s Brú Base Camp, located just off Road 249, about five minutes down from Seljalandsfoss.

How long does the snowmobiling part last?
The snowmobiling itself is about 1 hour, but total tour time varies from about 2 hours in winter to up to 4 hours in summer, including transportation and scenic stops.

Do I need special clothing?
Yes, you should wear warm outdoor clothing, including long-sleeved shirts, waterproof shoes, and hiking boots. The tour provides insulated coveralls, helmets, and balaclavas for safety and warmth.

Is the experience suitable for children?
Yes, children as young as 6 can participate, but they must be comfortable in cold weather and outdoor gear. Safety guidance will be provided.

Are the rides shared with strangers?
No, each sled is for two people, and the tour does not share rides with strangers, ensuring a more personal experience.

What should I bring with me?
Bring your driver’s license or ID, sturdy hiking shoes, and weather-appropriate clothes. Backpack and open-toed shoes are not allowed.

Can I pay later or cancel?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the tour.

What is the guide’s language?
Guides speak English and Icelandic, and reviews praise guides like Iggy for their professionalism and friendliness.

How much does this tour cost?
The price is $250 per person, which includes safety gear, guided service, and transportation. It offers good value considering the scenery and experience.

In essence, snowmobiling on Eyjafjallajökull offers a dynamic blend of Icelandic landscapes, outdoor adventure, and guided safety. It’s a chance to see the glacier from a perspective few visitors experience, making it a must-do for adventure seekers and scenery lovers alike.