Glacier Snowmobiling from Reykjavik

Glacier Snowmobiling from Reykjavik: An Adventure on Iceland’s Largest Glacier

If you’re craving a day of adventure and spectacular scenery, this snowmobiling tour on Langjokull Glacier offers just that. Starting from Reykjavik, you’ll hop into a Super Jeep and set off on a roughly eight-hour journey that combines comfortable transport, guided expertise, and a wild ride across Iceland’s second-largest glacier. With a cost of about $330 per person, it’s not just a thrill but also a chance to see volcanic craters, mountain ranges, and glaciers that look straight out of a postcard.

One of the things we love about this tour is how smoothly it runs — from pickup in Reykjavik to the gear provided for snowmobiling, everything is designed for ease and safety. The second highlight is the guides, who are friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to share their love of Iceland’s landscape. We also appreciate that the gear is included; you don’t have to worry about cold weather gear, which adds a layer of comfort to the adventure.

A possible consideration is the long drive to and from the glacier, which can take around 2.5 hours each way. For some, that’s a lot of time in a van, especially if you’re short on time or sensitive to long transfers. However, for those who want to maximize glacier time and enjoy the Icelandic scenery en route, this is a minor trade-off.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, want a unique experience on a glacier, and don’t mind the winter weather. It’s especially popular with cruise passengers or those with a day in Reykjavik looking for a bucket-list adventure. Beginners are welcome, thanks to the friendly guides and comprehensive safety instructions, making this accessible even if you’ve never handled a snowmobile before.

Key Points

• Stunning views of glaciers, volcanic craters, and mountain ranges.
• Expert guides provide clear instructions and friendly support.
• Full gear is included, ensuring warmth and safety.
• Long drive to the glacier is worth it for the scenery, but can be tiring.
• Flexible options for lunch—bring your own or buy at stops.
• Ideal for those seeking adventure and impressive landscapes.

A Deep Dive into the Snowmobiling Experience

When considering a snowmobiling trip in Iceland, it’s important to understand what makes this particular tour stand out. Starting with the itinerary, you’ll be picked up in Reykjavik and transported in a Super Jeep through some of Iceland’s most scenic landscapes. The drive itself is part of the experience — expect views of rugged volcanic terrain, steaming geothermal areas, and snow-capped mountains, which set the stage for the glacier adventure ahead.

Arriving at the glacier base camp, you’ll be fitted with all necessary safety gear — snow suits, goggles, gloves, a balaclava, and helmets. The equipment is well-maintained, and guides are attentive to ensuring everyone is comfortable before heading out. This focus on safety and comfort is a recurring theme in reviews, with many travelers noting their guides went above and beyond, even sharing their own goggles when needed.

The snowmobile ride itself lasts around an hour, but the experience is anything but brief. We loved the way guides follow the best routes to showcase the glacier’s volcanic craters and panoramic vistas. The terrain is varied and exciting, with plenty of opportunities for beginners to get a feel for riding, thanks to clear instructions and support from guides like John and Thomas, who are praised for their friendliness and expertise.

Views from the glacier are breathtaking — vast snowfields, jagged volcanic craters, and distant mountains make for a landscape that feels both wild and pristine. Some reviews mention the eye-popping scenery of Eiríksjökull and Hofsjökull glaciers, along with the striking Kerlingafjöll mountain range, seen from the slopes of Langjokull.

One reviewer shared, “Once there, it was a lot of fun. Harder than I thought it would be to maneuver, but still a lot of fun,” which highlights that while the activity is accessible, it still requires some coordination. The guides’ thorough instructions help mitigate any nerves about handling the snowmobiles.

Transportation and Timing

The long transfer from Reykjavik — approximately 2.5 hours each way — is an aspect to consider. The drive offers a beautiful journey through Iceland’s diverse landscapes, and many travelers find it part of the adventure. As one reviewer noted, “The scenery never fails to blow me away.” However, if you’re short on time or prefer shorter transfers, this might feel a bit lengthy.

The tour generally starts at 10:00 am, giving you plenty of daylight hours for your adventure. The group size is limited to 16 people, which keeps things intimate and manageable, allowing guides to give personalized attention.

Food and Additional Costs

Lunch isn’t included, so plan to bring a packed lunch or purchase something during the stops. There’s a convenience stop where you can buy food and drinks, and many reviewers enjoyed the local cuisine and snacks, noting the stops are well-organized. Alternatively, some mention stopping at an ice cream place — a delightful treat after the adrenaline rush.

The Guide and Customer Support

Reviews emphasize friendly, knowledgeable guides who make the experience memorable. Many travelers mention their guides by name, praising their helpfulness and local insights. One noted guide even shared his own goggles when needed, illustrating the personal touch that makes this tour special.

However, a few reviews point out logistical hiccups, such as booking confirmation issues or last-minute cancellations. It’s advisable to double-check your reservation and stay in contact with the tour provider, especially if you’re coordinating with other travel plans.

Value for Money

At $330, this tour offers a full day of adventure with transport, gear, and expert guiding included. Reviews consistently mention that the scenery and experience outweigh the cost, especially given the quality of guides and equipment.

The safety and comfort provided, combined with the breathtaking scenery, justify the expense for many travelers. Plus, the opportunity to drive a snowmobile on a glacier is a unique experience that’s hard to find elsewhere, making it a worthwhile splurge for adventure lovers.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This snowmobiling trip is perfect if you want a thrilling outdoor activity that combines adventure, scenic beauty, and expert guidance. It’s suitable for most travelers over age 8, including beginners, thanks to the friendly instructions and supportive guides. If you’re traveling with family, friends, or as part of a cruise and looking for a memorable outdoor experience in Iceland’s stunning landscape, this tour will deliver.

However, if long transfers or cold weather aren’t your thing, or if you prefer shorter outings, you might want to explore other options. Also, if flexibility with scheduling is critical, confirm your booking well in advance to avoid surprises.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, pickup from Reykjavik is included, making it convenient to start your adventure without worrying about transportation.

How long does the entire tour last?
The full experience runs about 8 hours, including transfers, glacier time, and breaks.

What gear is provided?
All necessary snowmobiling gear — snow suits, goggles, gloves, a balaclava, and a helmet — are included to keep you warm and safe.

Can beginners participate?
Absolutely. Many reviews mention first-timers successfully handling the snowmobiles with guidance and instructions provided on-site.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch isn’t included. You can bring your own or purchase food during the stops.

What are the main sights I’ll see?
Expect views of volcanic craters, glaciers like Eiríksjökull and Hofsjökull, and the Kerlingafjöll mountain range from the glacier slopes.

Are children allowed?
Children under 8 are not suitable for this tour. It’s designed for older children and adults.

What is the group size?
Limited to 16 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

What if the weather cancels the tour?
In cases of poor weather, the tour can be canceled for safety, with a full refund or rescheduling options available.

Final Thoughts

This glacier snowmobiling tour from Reykjavik offers genuine excitement paired with some of Iceland’s most stunning natural sights. From the professional guides to the full gear provided, every detail is aimed at making your day safe, comfortable, and unforgettable. The drive to the glacier, while long, is part of the adventure — revealing Iceland’s diverse and dramatic landscape.

If you’re an adventure seeker wanting a once-in-a-lifetime experience that combines adrenaline with awe-inspiring scenery, this tour is a strong choice. The friendly guides and well-organized logistics mean you’ll spend your day feeling looked after and eager to share your story back home.

While the long transfer might be a drawback for some, those who love scenic drives and outdoor activities will find it well worth the effort. It’s especially ideal for cruise travelers or anyone wanting a memorable highlight during their Iceland trip.

In essence, this tour delivers a captivating mix of Iceland’s rugged beauty and thrilling snowmobiling — perfect for anyone craving a breathtaking outdoor adventure in the land of fire and ice.