River rafting in Iceland is as cool as it gets

Magnús Jóhann Björnsson
03 Oct. 2018

River rafting in Iceland is a big thing. Over the years it has become increasingly popular and now, many tour operators have rafting tours Iceland visitors can join across the country. You can go river rafting from Reykjavík, up north and in east Iceland, to name a few areas. Luckily, Iceland is filled with glacial rivers, canyons, and fantastic scenery. Whether you'd like to go with your family and children on a relatively smooth ride—look for family rafting Iceland options—or get soaked in some heavy whitewater rafting Iceland is known for, you´ll find something that suits you.

Summary

• River rafting in Iceland is widely available across the country, offering everything from family-friendly floats to high-adrenaline whitewater amid stunning glacial rivers and canyons.
• Expert operators provide safety gear and guidance for the cold conditions.
• Popular combos include ATV+rafting and horse riding+rafting on the Hvítá (White) River, and self-drivers can easily reach tour meeting points.
• It’s a brag-worthy adventure with options to suit different comfort and thrill levels.

Yes, river rafting is as cool as it sounds

We say river rafting in Iceland is cool, literally and figuratively.

1. First of all, it's cool to have bragging rights. We don't like to throw around the most overused phrase in the history of Iceland travel blogs: "The experience of a lifetime." But, come on, it kind of is! You're river rafting. In Iceland. It doesn't get any cooler. Your friends will be jealous and secretly hate you.
2. Second of all, it's cold! Of course, you´ll get a proper suit to wear, but we can assure you that the glacial rivers are freezing cold. That being said, the river rafting tour operators in Iceland are very experienced, and they provide great gear and facilities. So, you´ll be safe and relatively warm. If you want to prepare see our guide on what to wear in Iceland. 

River rafting aaaand...

• If you like combo tours, we can recommend the ATV riding and rafting tour. You´ll ride a quad bike with a guide and then ride down the Hvítá River, classic hvita river rafting - whose name literally translates to "White River". Very appropriate.
• There's also the horse riding and rafting combo tour. It's also on the Hvítá River, but before rafting, you´ll get on a horse ride on an Icelandic horse.
• There are lots of other rafting tours available all over the country, so if you want to do something wild on your trip to Iceland, check them out as well. If you're planning to self-drive, car hire Iceland makes it easy to reach meeting points for guides and departures.

Most popular questions About River Rafting in Iceland

Question: Where in Iceland can I go river rafting?Short answer: River rafting is available across much of the country. You can join tours originating from the Reykjavík area, as well as locations up north and in east Iceland, with many operators running trips on glacial rivers that wind through scenic canyons.

Question: Is river rafting in Iceland suitable for families as well as thrill-seekers?Short answer: Absolutely! You'll find a range of options that cater to both family-friendly floats—perfect for those looking for a more leisurely experience (search for "family rafting Iceland")—and the intense whitewater adventures that Iceland is famous for. You can choose a tour that matches your comfort and adrenaline level.

Question: How cold are the rivers, and what about safety and gear?Short answer: The glacial rivers can be quite chilly, but rest assured, experienced operators provide proper suits, safety gear, and facilities. With their expert guidance, you'll be safe and relatively warm despite the cold temperatures of the water.

Question: What popular combo tours include rafting, and where do they take place?Short answer: Two popular combo tours that many enjoy are ATV + rafting and horse riding + rafting, both taking place on the Hvítá (White) River—often referred to as "classic Hvítá river rafting." You'll start with a quad bike ride or a horse ride on an Icelandic horse, followed by an exhilarating rafting experience on the beautiful river.

Question: Can I self-drive to rafting tours?Short answer: Yes! If you're renting a car, self-driving is a convenient option. It makes it easy to reach the meeting points for guides and departures.

There are so many things you can do with a rental car in Iceland. River rafting is just one of countless options. Here you can see the list of Iceland's best summer activities, including white river rafting.