Extreme River Rafting in North Iceland
Feel free to contact us
Description
Big-water adrenaline: This is the one for thrill-seekers, a full-on glacial river run with powerful Class IV+ white-water and a canyon that keeps the pressure on from start to finish.
Famous rapids, real commitment: You’ll paddle a dramatic stretch packed with legendary sections like Alarm Clock, Commitment, Screaming Lady, and Green Room, a true “hold on and paddle” experience in North Iceland.
All gear, pro guides: Before you hit the river, your expert guides dial in technique, teamwork and safety, then kit you out with a wetsuit/dry top, helmet, buoyancy aid, and rafting boots.
Into the East Valley: Once you’re ready, you’ll transfer to the put-in point where the glacial river is at its wildest, then it’s game on.
Optional cliff jump: If water levels and conditions allow, you can add an extra hit of adrenaline with an optional cliff jump stop.
Warm refuel: At the take-out, the support team meets you and you’ll get something warm before heading back.
Hot tubs victory lap: Finish the session the Icelandic way, soak in hot tubs and reset in the showers back at base camp.
What is included
- Professional rafting guides and full safety briefing
- Wetsuit/dry top, helmet, buoyancy aid (life jacket) and rafting boots
- Transfers to and from the river from the base camp
- Lunch/refreshments at the take-out (as provided on the day)
- Access to hot tubs and showers at the base after rafting
What do I need to bring
- Swimsuit (for under the gear and for the hot tubs)
- Warm long-sleeve fleece or sweater (for after the river)
- Towel
- Wool socks or hiking socks
- Optional: thermal base layer (avoid cotton)
- Optional: sunscreen (yes, Iceland can surprise you)
Good to know
- Minimum age: 18 years.
- Max weight: up to 110 kg per participant.
- You should be confident in the water and in good physical condition for an extreme rafting experience.
- You may be asked to sign a liability waiver and confirm swimming ability/medical conditions before departure.
- This tour is weather- and river-condition dependent, and the route/extra stops can vary.
- Bring a swimsuit, warm top, and towel for the hot tubs after rafting.
Get directions
Highlights
- Class IV+ white-water rafting on a powerful glacial river
- 16 km canyon run with famous rapids and big-water thrills
- Top-quality safety gear provided (wetsuits/dry tops, helmets, life jackets, boots)
- Optional cliff jump stop when conditions allow
- Hot tubs and showers back at base camp in Varmahlíð
Extreme River Rafting FAQ
How long does the tour take?
The total experience is usually around 4.5 hours, including gearing up, transfers, rafting time, and the return to base.
Do I need rafting experience?
No prior rafting experience is typically required, but you should be fit for an intense activity and comfortable following guide instructions in fast-moving water.
What’s the minimum age?
This extreme rafting tour is for adults only, with a minimum age of 18 years.
What should I wear?
Bring a swimsuit to wear under the rafting gear, plus a warm long-sleeve layer and a towel for after the river and the hot tubs.
Is the cliff jump guaranteed?
No, it’s optional and only happens if water levels and safety conditions allow on the day.
Where do we meet?
Meet at Bakkaflöt – River Rafting in Iceland in Varmahlíð. From there, the team takes you to the river put-in.