Akureyri: Zipline Tour

If you’re visiting Akureyri, the vibrant northern Icelandic town, and crave a unique way to see the landscape, the Zipline Tour over Glass River Canyon offers an exhilarating mix of scenery, adrenaline, and local charm. For just $90 per person, you spend about 1.5 hours soaring over the canyon, utilizing five different ziplines that vary in length and speed. Guided by knowledgeable locals, this activity combines light hiking with the thrill of flight, making it an experience you won’t forget.

What we love most about this tour is its accessibility and scenic appeal. First, it’s right in the heart of town, so you don’t need to venture far to reach a hidden natural gem beloved by locals but still relatively undiscovered by travelers. Second, the guides are praised for their professionalism, friendliness, and ability to make even nervous travelers feel safe and excited. We do want to mention a potential consideration: the tour involves hiking uneven terrain and is not suitable for everyone, especially small children under 8, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues. But for anyone looking for a fun, safe adventure with stunning views, this zipline will hit the spot.

This tour generally suits families, groups of friends, couples, and solo travelers eager to get a birds-eye perspective of Iceland’s lush canyon and river landscape. If you’re after a memorable outdoor activity that combines adventure with scenery, this is a perfect choice.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: You’ll zip across the canyon, catching sight of Iceland’s rugged beauty from above.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for kids over 8 and groups, with guides ensuring safety and fun.
• Accessible & Central: Located right in Akureyri, no long drives needed.
• Variety of Ziplines: Five different courses keep the experience exciting and dynamic.
• Light Hiking: Includes brief hikes to reach each zipline, adding a bit of physical activity.
• Expert Guides: Highly praised guides make all the difference, offering local insights and safety assurance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Akureyri Zipline Tour

The Location and Accessibility

The tour begins at a central spot in Akureyri, with clear signage (look for the Zipline Akureyri signs). This makes it ideal for travelers staying in town or arriving via cruise or other transportation. The easy access allows you to combine it with other local sights or simply enjoy a relaxing day in town beforehand.

The activity is designed for convenience, with a quick 2-3 minute hike from the meeting point to the first zipline. The guides will help you get geared up, making sure everything fits securely and safely before taking off. The meeting point is at the back of a parking area, which is straightforward to find.

What to Expect During the Tour

Once geared up, the adventure kicks off with the first zipline crossing the Glass River Canyon. The canyon is a natural yet relatively hidden spot that many locals cherish for its tranquil beauty—something you get to see from a refreshing perspective. The ziplines vary in length and speed, ensuring each one offers a different thrill. Some are longer and faster, while others are shorter, giving you a sense of variety and anticipation throughout.

The guides are enthusiastic and informative, offering insights into the local environment and safety procedures. One reviewer mentions, “Anita and Jon were amazing guides and instructors,” highlighting the importance of quality guidance. The guides’ expertise not only keeps safety at the forefront but also adds a layer of personal touch that transforms a simple activity into a memorable experience.

The Scenic Highlights

The views from the ziplines are a highlight, with travelers describing them as “breathtaking” and “amazing”. Because the ziplines cross over the river, you get stunning vistas of the canyon, water, and lush green surroundings. Several reviews mention how the guides took time to share local stories and facts, enriching the experience beyond just zipping from point A to B.

One traveler noted, “The scenery is stunning!” and another said, “Very scenic spots over parts of the river,” emphasizing how nature’s beauty is central to this activity. The combination of adrenaline and panoramic views makes each zipline feel like a small flight over Iceland’s wild landscape.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Light Hike and Final Return

After each zipline, there’s a brief hike—about 2 minutes—to reach the next platform. The entire series of five ziplines takes about 1 to 2 hours, depending on group size and how many stops you make. At the end of the final zipline, you’ll hike back to the starting point, which takes roughly 10 minutes.

At the conclusion, your guides will help you remove the gear and ensure you leave with safety and comfort in mind. This short trek back often offers a chance to catch your breath and reflect on the experience, with some even noting how fun and “hilarious” their guides were—adding a lighthearted touch to the adventure.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This is an activity for those who enjoy outdoor adventures but want something manageable and safe. It’s perfect for families (children over 8), groups of friends, or couples seeking a bit of thrill with beautiful scenery. Reviewers frequently mention how professional and personable the guides are, making even first-timers feel at ease.

However, if you’re pregnant, have mobility issues, or prefer less physical activity, this might not be suitable. The tour requires hiking in uneven terrain and some physical agility, so plan accordingly.

Value and Practicality

For $90, you get a well-organized adventure with five ziplines, safety gear, and guidance—a solid value considering the quality and scenery involved. The reviews consistently praise the friendly guides and the stunning views, making it clear that most participants feel the experience is worth the price.

The tour operates rain or shine, so dress accordingly—think weather-appropriate clothing, sturdy hiking shoes, and perhaps a rain jacket if the forecast suggests showers. The guides advise tying back long hair and being prepared for outdoor conditions.

Final Thoughts

This zipline experience in Akureyri offers a rare opportunity to see Iceland’s landscape from above, combining adventure, scenery, and local expertise in one package. The activity’s accessibility and the high praise for guides mean you’re in good hands, even if you’re new to zipping.

For those who love stunning landscapes, are comfortable with light hiking, and want a bit of adrenaline, this tour is a must-try. It works particularly well for families with older children, groups of friends, or solo travelers eager for an authentic outdoor experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children over 8 years old can participate. They must be accompanied by an adult, with a maximum of two children per adult.

How long does the tour last?
The activity typically takes between 1 and 2 hours, including all ziplines and the hike back to the base.

What should I wear?
Weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy hiking shoes are recommended. Long hair should be tied back, and avoid open-toed shoes or flip flops.

Is the activity safe?
Yes, guides provide a thorough safety briefing and gear up each participant, ensuring all safety standards are met.

What if it rains?
The tour operates in all weather conditions, so dress accordingly. Rain gear is advisable if rain is forecasted.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is transportation provided?
No, the activity starts at the designated meeting point in Akureyri. It’s easy to walk or drive there.

Is this suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, the tour requires hiking uneven terrain and is not suitable for those with mobility impairments.

What if I want to book later?
You can reserve now and pay later, giving you flexibility to fit it into your travel schedule.

Final Verdict

The Akureyri Zipline Tour provides a fantastic balance of adventure, scenic beauty, and local charm. With guides praised for their professionalism and friendliness, you’re likely to feel safe and well-informed throughout. Its central location makes it easy to integrate into a day exploring Akureyri, or as part of a broader Icelandic adventure.

This activity is best suited for travelers who want quick access to Iceland’s stunning canyon scenery with a dash of adrenaline. Families with older kids, groups of friends, or solo explorers looking for a memorable outdoor experience will find this tour both fun and worthwhile. Keep in mind the physical aspect of the hikes, but if you’re comfortable with that, expect a truly exhilarating adventure that captures Iceland’s wild spirit.

Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or simply eager to see the landscape from a new perspective, this zipline trip offers authentic fun that leaves you with fantastic stories and unforgettable views.

You can check availability for your dates here: