East Iceland , Iceland

Snowmobile tour on Vatnajökull

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(110 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Joining this subarctic adventure and driving a snowmobile over Europe’s biggest glacier, will be one of the most exciting experiences you will ever participate in.

Along with an exciting adventure, you will also experience an unbelievable view over the glacier.

About halfway through the tour, we’ll stop and you can take pictures and peacefully enjoy the scenery.
Our guides are informative and entertaining and will tell you facts about the area and the glacier.
A valid driver’s license is required to operate the snowmobile.
Participants combined weight on one snowmobile MUST be 180kg / 390lbs or less. If your combined weight exceeds 180kg / 390lbs you need to book single snowmobiles.
The standard version of our snowmobile tour has two persons riding on one snowmobile.
However, if you are travelling solo or in an odd number group 1, 3, 5, etc., you need to book at least one solo rider.
Additional cost for 1 x solo rider is 10.000 ISK - paid at the base camp

Available options

Snowmobile tour on Vatnajökull

What's included

Wind and waterproof insulated overalls

Bandanas / Neck warmers

Gloves

Air-conditioned vehicle

Helmets

Guide

Detailed itinerary

You will sit and enjoy while our driver takes you to about 1000 meters up in the mountains where the view over Iceland’s highest peaks will take your breath away, all awhile we are driving on Vatnajökull, the biggest glacier in Europe.

Stop 2

Join us for a sensational snowmobile journey on Vatnajökull glacier, feel your adrenaline rise as you power up a snowmobile and explore the secret trails of the great ice wilderness in Europe. Iceland´s highest peaks and some great volcanoes are shrouded beneath this icecap - creating scenery that is totally epic.

Our experienced guide shares a wealth of fascinating information during the tour about the glaciers and the icefields and their impact on our environment while he takes you back down to Base Camp.

What's not included

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

27 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

83 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

A valid driver’s license is required to operate the snowmobile.

Participants combined weight on one snowmobile MUST be 180kg / 390lbs or less. If your combined weight exceeds 180kg / 390lbs you need to book single snowmobiles. The standard version of our snowmobile tour has two persons riding on one snowmobile.

The standard version of our snowmobile tour has two persons riding on one snowmobile. However, if you are travelling solo or in an odd number group 1, 3, 5, etc., you need to book at least one solo rider. Additional cost for 1 x solo rider is 10.000 ISK - paid at the base camp

Meeting point

You are required to be at the meeting point on time, arriving 30 min before the scheduled departure time.
Unfortunately we cannot wait for late arrivals and hence, arriving late will result in an automatic cancellation of the booking and a full forfeiture of the booking fee.

Important notes

We meet at our base camp by Hotel Smyrlabjörg, 46 km west of the town of Höfn and 34 km east of Jökulsárlón. It is right by Highway.
Please note that our meeting point is not at the Hotel, it's a base camp just beside Hotel Smyrlabjörg
You are required to be at the meeting point on time, arriving 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time.
Unfortunately, we cannot wait for late arrivals and hence, arriving late will result in an automatic cancellation of the booking and full forfeiture of the booking fee.
Departure times
The departure time for the morning tour is 9:30
So arrival time for the morning tour is 9:00
The departure time for the afternoon tour is 14:00
So arrival time for the afternoon tour is 13:30

Note: that we provide warm, wind, and waterproof overalls, helmets, gloves (if you don't have a pair on you), and a facemask.
NOTE: We do not provide or rent out boots for the snowmobile tour. Wear good hiking shoes, boots, or any other footwear that doesn't get wet quickly.
For further information call us at +354 478 1517 / +354 867 0493 or send us an email at info@glacierjourney.is
When taking a tour with us – it is good to be located somewhere close to the area.
If you have a morning tour with us – it’s best to stay somewhere in the area the night before.
If you have an afternoon tour with us – it’s best to stay somewhere in the area the night after.
The accommodation we recommend: Hótel Smyrlabjörg https://smyrlabjorg.is
Thank you for booking your experience with Glacier Journey, we can't wait to meet you.

About East Iceland

East Iceland is a region of stunning natural beauty, known for its dramatic landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and unique folklore. It offers a mix of rugged coastline, lush valleys, and majestic mountains, making it a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Top Attractions

Seyðisfjörður

A picturesque village known for its colorful buildings, artistic community, and dramatic fjord setting. It's a gateway to the Highlands and offers a unique cultural experience.

Cultural/Scenic Half to full day Free to Moderate

Dettifoss

One of Europe's most powerful waterfalls, located in Vatnajökull National Park. It's a spectacular sight and a popular spot for hiking and photography.

Nature Full day Free

Stöðvarfjörður

A small village known for its unique sculptures and the Icelandic Sea Monster Museum. It offers a glimpse into Icelandic folklore and creativity.

Cultural/Scenic Half day Moderate

Must-Try Local Dishes

Lamb Soup

A hearty soup made with tender lamb, root vegetables, and herbs. It's a traditional Icelandic dish often served in bread bowls.

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat

Fermented Shark

A traditional Icelandic delicacy made from fermented shark. It has a strong, acquired taste and is often served with a shot of brennivín (Icelandic schnapps).

Snack/Appertizer Contains fish, high in sodium

Skyr

A thick, creamy, and protein-rich dairy product similar to yogurt. It's often served with berries or honey and is a staple of Icelandic cuisine.

Dessert/Snack Dairy product, can be vegetarian if no animal rennet is used

Popular Activities

Hiking Glacier tours Ice caving White-water rafting Soaking in hot springs Visiting spas Scenic drives Visiting museums

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the summer season, offering the warmest weather and longest daylight hours. It's ideal for hiking, exploring waterfalls, and enjoying the region's natural beauty. The weather is generally mild, and the roads are accessible.

8°C to 15°C 46°F to 59°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Icelandic
Widely spoken: English, Danish, Norwegian, German
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Icelandic Króna (ISK)

Time Zone

GMT+0

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

East Iceland is a very safe destination with low crime rates. The main safety concerns are related to the natural environment, such as weather conditions, road safety, and outdoor activities.

Important Precautions:

• Be prepared for changing weather conditions
• Drive carefully, especially in winter
• Respect wildlife and natural environments

Getting there

By air

Egilsstaðir Airport • 2 km from city center

By bus

Egilsstaðir, Seyðisfjörður

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are available but infrequent. They are a good option for those without a car, but schedules should be checked in advance.

Taxis

Available • Apps: No widely used apps

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

Egilsstaðir Reyðarfjörður

Day trips

Vatnajökull National Park

100 km from Egilsstaðir • Full day

Home to Europe's largest glacier, Vatnajökull National Park offers stunning landscapes, ice caves, and hiking trails. It's a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Lake Mývatn

150 km from Egilsstaðir • Full day

A geothermal wonderland with lava formations, hot springs, and a rich birdlife. The area is also known for its historical sites and unique landscapes.

Festivals

Fiskidagar • Mid-June Reyðarfjörður Winter Festival • February

Pro tips

Rent a car for flexibility and to explore the region's remote areas
Be prepared for changing weather conditions, even in summer
Try local specialties like lamb soup, fermented shark, and skyr
Visit the Icelandic Sea Monster Museum in Stöðvarfjörður for a unique cultural experience
Explore the artistic community in Seyðisfjörður, with its colorful buildings and local galleries