River rafting day trip on the Jökulsá Vestari (West Glacier River) in North Iceland.
River difficulty 2+ out of 5 possible – Easy / Family Adventure
Nothing creates bonds and deepens friendships like family adventure vacations. Discovering the glacier river history, as well as the excitement of white water rafting will provide both fun and learning for the whole family. The river guides at Arctic Rafting understand the importance of creating a memorable family adventure for kids, teenagers and adults who want to share an unforgettable, fun-filled adventure.
Our river rafting tour on the West Glacier River, through its towering and magical canyon, is one of our most scenic and fun trips. We start with putting on all the necessary equipment to deal with the river in our base camp at Hafgrímsstaðir, about 15 km from Varmahlíð village in North Iceland. From our base we only need to drive for about 15 minutes into the Vesturdalur valley where our adventure starts with going through basic river rafting instructions and safety guidelines.
From there we set off, sailing our way through the valley's majestic landscapes before drifting deep into the stunning West Glacier River canyon. Between stretches of rapids, you will find yourself sipping steaming hot cocoa made from natural spring water that bubbles right up from the riverbank! You may well have the opportunity to face your fears, jumping off a cliff into the river, get caught up in a friendly water fight, or simply kick back and allow the scenery to blow you away as you float down the meandering waters of the gorge.
Details:
Price: 7.990 ISK per person.
From the Hafgrímsstaðir rafting base camp in Skagafjörður:
Sundays - Fridays at 9:00.
Saturdays at 10:00 and 14:00.
From Varmahlíð Town in Skagafjörður:
30 minutes before Hafgrímsstaðir departure.
Guaranteed departures for minimum 2 persons from 15th of May to the 31st of August
Guaranteed departures for minimum 4 persons from 1st September – 10th of September.
Distance from Reykjavik: 294 km, 3,5 hour drive or 4,5 hours by bus.
Duration of trip: 3-4 hours (1-2 hours on the river).
Minimum: 2 persons from the 15th of May to the 31st of August. 4 persons from 1st of September-10th of September. Maximum: 70 persons.
Age limit: 12 years, if accompanied by a parent.
Click here to get directions on how to get to Hafgrímsstaðir Base Camp
Bring with you:
Dress as you are going on a cold mountain trip! as glacier rivers can be cold...
* very warm clothing to wear under the raft gear, expect anything you wear / bring to get wet
* bring only wool, fleece and thermals, NO COTTON!
* base layer pants and sweater
* warm fleece / wool sweater
* warm pants
* Thick warm socks (winter wool socks or hiking socks)
* towel and bathing suit
Extras:
Waterproof Camera: 2.500 ISK
Disclaimer:
All river rafting trips are undertaken on the responsibility of its participants. Arctic Adventures does not assume any responsibility for accidents that are caused by its customers or can be traced to there own actions. Participants have to sign a waiver before undertaking all trips stating that they realize that all outdoor activities carry an inherit risk.