Review of Varmahlíð: East Glacial River Whitewater Rafting
If you’re craving a genuine outdoor adventure that combines adrenaline with stunning scenery, the East Glacial River Whitewater Rafting near Varmahlíð might just be what you’re looking for. This six-hour excursion takes you through North Iceland’s most exhilarating rapids on the Easterly Glacier River, a route praised for its class 4 rapids and impressive canyon views. The experience promises a full day of whitewater thrills, guided by experienced professionals who excel at making safety and fun go hand in hand.
What I really appreciate about this tour is how it balances adventure and professionalism. One standout feature is the guides—particularly “Mark,” who gets glowing reviews for blending extensive experience with a sense of humor that keeps everyone relaxed. You’ll also love the variety of scenery, from deep canyon walls to pristine wilderness, making this more than just a wild ride; it’s a visual treat. On the flip side, if you’re not comfortable in cold weather or don’t enjoy water-based activities, this might not be your first choice. However, the safety equipment and briefing are designed to put even nervous first-timers at ease.
Key Points and Takeaways
- Spectacular Canyon Views: You’ll paddle through impressive deep canyons, providing more than just whitewater excitement—these scenic surroundings are a highlight.
- Experienced Guides: Guides like Mark and Hunter are praised for their professionalism, humor, and ability to keep everyone safe, regardless of experience level.
- World-Class Rapids: The tour tackles grade 4 rapids, providing a challenging and exhilarating experience for thrill-seekers.
- All Equipment Provided: You’ll be outfitted with drysuits, helmets, PFDs, gloves, and booties—gear that ensures safety and comfort in Iceland’s often cold waters.
- Flexible Booking & Refund Policy: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, with the added convenience of reserving now and paying later—ideal if your plans are still uncertain.
- Group-Size and Duration: The tour lasts about six hours, with manageable group sizes that allow plenty of individual attention and shared fun.
Exploring the Wild Heart of Iceland: The East Glacial River Rafting Experience
Iceland is known for its volcanic landscapes, waterfalls, and rugged wilderness, but for those craving a dose of adrenaline, a whitewater rafting trip on the Easterly Glacier River offers a completely different perspective. This river, famous for its grade 4 rapids, is considered one of the best in Europe, and it’s easy to see why from the moment you step into the raft. The tour combines thrilling whitewater, spectacular canyon scenery, and the professionalism of guides who know every twist and turn of the river.
What makes this experience stand out is how accessible it is to a range of travelers. While the rapids are intense enough to satisfy experienced rafters, the guides are adept at making newcomers feel comfortable. According to reviews, guides like Mark and Hunter bring a mix of expertise and humor that makes the day not only safe but genuinely fun. You might even feel like you’re floating down a private adventure movie set, surrounded by towering canyon walls and pristine wilderness.
The tour’s value is impressive. For $221 per person, you get six hours of adventure, all necessary equipment, and the guidance of seasoned professionals. The included gear—dry suits, helmets, gloves—ensures you’re protected from Iceland’s often chilly waters. The tour also includes riverside refreshments, so you can rehydrate and swap stories of your wildest rapid moment.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Varmahlid.
Walking Through The Itinerary: What to Expect
The trip begins at Viking Rafting’s base in Varmahlíð, where a safety briefing sets the tone. Our guide, whose calm confidence immediately puts everyone at ease, explains what’s ahead. The group then boards a bus or coach for about 45 minutes into the remote parts of the river system, adding an element of anticipation as you leave the more populated areas behind.
Once at the designated starting point, a second safety briefing (lasting roughly 30 minutes) fine-tunes everyone’s understanding of the safety protocols and what to do in different rapid scenarios. This preparation is crucial, especially because this stretch of river features some serious, world-class rapids.
The first raft session on the Easterly Glacier River lasts about an hour, giving you a taste of the power of the river and the stunning canyon walls. After a short 20-minute break—perfect for snacks or catching your breath—you’ll undertake a second, more extended raft session lasting around 1.5 hours. This part of the tour is where the real adrenaline kicks in, with bigger waves and more challenging rapids. The guides excel at navigating these waters and ensuring everyone stays safe and engaged.
Following the rafting, you board the bus again for about 20 minutes back to the base, where you can relax and enjoy the feeling of having conquered some of Iceland’s wildest rapids. The entire day wraps up back at Viking Rafting, leaving you with memories of a truly exhilarating adventure.
Who’s This Tour Perfect For?
If you’re an adrenaline junkie, this trip is a must. You’ll love the challenge of grade 4 rapids and the breathtaking canyon scenery. It’s also well-suited for those who appreciate professional guides—a few reviews highlight how guides like Mark and Hunter make the day both safe and fun, even for older participants like a 70-year-old who described the experience as “a blast.”
Travelers who enjoy learning about outdoor safety will appreciate the thorough briefings and quality gear. And for those with flexible schedules or who prefer to reserve in advance, the booking system offers pay later options and full refunds with 24-hour notice—a nice touch amid unpredictable plans.
However, this tour requires a basic level of physical fitness and comfort in water or cold weather, as Icelandic rivers tend to be chilly. It’s not suitable for travelers who are wary of water, discomfort in wetsuits, or those with medical conditions that could interfere with high-adrenaline activities.
The Value of This Adventure
Compared to other outdoor activities in Iceland, whitewater rafting on the East Glacial River provides a unique blend of thrills, scenery, and guided professionalism. For $221, you get a full day of activity, safety gear, and expert guidance, which many travelers find offers excellent value—particularly considering the quality of the rapids and the scenery.
The tours are designed to accommodate different experience levels, making it accessible yet challenging enough for seasoned rafters. Plus, the riverside refreshments and the chance to share the day with a small group or a family make this a memorable experience worth the price.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is ideal for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and groups or families looking for a safe yet thrilling activity. You’ll love the professional guides and the breathtaking canyon vistas, which turn a simple rafting trip into a true Icelandic highlight. It’s especially suitable if you want a full-day adventure that combines physical activity with spectacular scenery—a perfect way to break from more traditional sightseeing.
FAQ
Do I need previous rafting experience?
No, this tour is accessible to most people, and guides are experienced in helping first-timers feel safe.
What gear is included?
All essential equipment—drysuits, PFDs, helmets, gloves, and booties—are provided to keep you warm and protected.
How long does the trip last?
The entire experience is about six hours, including transfers, safety briefings, rafting, and breaks.
Is transportation included?
Transportation between the base and the river is part of the package. However, pickup and drop-off from your accommodation are not included.
What should I wear?
Bring warm clothing, preferably thermal underwear, fleece layers, wool socks, and dry clothes for afterward.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for spontaneous plans.
Who are the guides?
Guides like Mark and Hunter are seasoned professionals, praised for their extensive experience and good humor.
What is the minimum age?
While not explicitly stated, the reviews mention a 70-year-old having a great time, suggesting the tour accommodates a wide age range with proper safety precautions.
Is this suitable for families?
Yes, especially for families with older children or teenagers who meet the activity’s safety requirements. The small group sizes and professional guides make it an enjoyable shared experience.
In closing, if you’re after an authentic, adrenaline-pumping adventure in Iceland’s wild landscapes, the East Glacial River rafting trip offers an excellent balance of thrills and scenery. With experienced guides, top-notch equipment, and a carefully designed itinerary, it’s a day that will leave you with stories—and maybe a few wild rapid moments—that you’ll be recounting for years to come.