Guided Sit on Top Kayak Tour

Taking a kayak trip down the Svartá River near Akureyri offers a peaceful way to see Iceland’s natural beauty from a fresh perspective. While we haven’t personally paddled this exact route, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions make it clear this tour is a standout experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

What we love about this tour is its accessibility—anyone can participate, no matter your kayaking experience. The chance to spot local wildlife, especially Icelandic horses, is another highlight, along with the option to relax afterward in soothing hot tubs. However, a quick consideration is that this activity heavily relies on good weather, so flexibility with your plans might be necessary.

This tour is ideal for families, first-time kayakers, or those simply wanting a gentle outdoor adventure. If you’re craving scenic views combined with a laid-back paddle, this experience ticks all the boxes, offering a blend of gentle excitement and relaxing downtime.

Key Points

• Accessible for all skill levels with professional guides explaining everything
• Excellent value at $79 USD per person, including equipment and post-activity relaxation
• Wildlife spotting, especially Icelandic horses, adds a special touch
• Beautiful mountain views and peaceful scenery in North Iceland
• Post-tour hot tub and pool provide a relaxing end to your day
• Weather-dependent activity—check forecast before booking

Overview of the Guided Sit-On-Top Kayak Tour

This two-hour guided kayaking adventure on the Svartá River offers a peaceful paddle through North Iceland’s stunning landscape. The tour is suitable for anyone, regardless of kayaking experience, as guides are there to assist and ensure safety. The straightforward, open-top kayaks give you an unobstructed view of the surroundings, making this a relaxing yet engaging way to explore Iceland’s wilderness.

Starting from Bakkaflöt, near Varmahlíð, the activity typically begins at 6:00 pm, perfect for those wanting to wind down after a day of exploring Iceland’s highlights. The experience is capped at 15 travelers, ensuring an intimate setting where guides can give personalized attention.

The Experience Breakdown

The River and Scenic Landscape

Paddling down the Svartá River, you’ll drift past mountain vistas and lush greenery, framed by Iceland’s rugged terrain. The gentle current makes it easy for beginners to enjoy the ride, yet there’s enough movement to keep it interesting. The river’s tranquil waters allow you to focus on the surroundings, spotting birds, fish, and perhaps the iconic Icelandic horse grazing nearby.

Wildlife Encounters

One of the most praised aspects of this tour is the opportunity to see local wildlife. As Anna_B noted in her review, “It is much more than admiring the river, you become part of it.” Icelandic horses are a particular highlight—they outnumber people in this region, and if you’re lucky, they’ll take a break from their grazing to follow you along the riverbank. This personal touch adds a memorable, almost surreal element to the experience.

The Guides: Knowledgeable and Attentive

Guides like Norris receive high praise for their friendly, informative approach. They explain everything clearly, check on each paddler regularly, and ensure safety throughout. This makes the activity accessible, especially for those with minimal kayaking experience. As one review mentions, “you don’t need much experience in kayaking because Norris explains everything and checks all the time how everyone is doing,” which reassures beginners.

Post-Activity Relaxation

After the paddling concludes, the tour includes access to hot tubs and a small swimming pool. This offers a perfect way to unwind muscles tired from paddling and enjoy the surrounding scenery from a different vantage point. The comfort of a warm soak after an active adventure is a thoughtful addition that elevates the overall value.

What to Expect on the Day

Meeting Point and Timing

The tour begins at Bakkaflöt at 6:00 pm, with a clear departure time that appeals to those wanting a late afternoon or early evening outing. Most travelers find this timing ideal for combining with other daytime activities or relaxing in the evening.

Equipment and Safety

All equipment, including open-top kayaks and safety gear, is provided—meaning you only need to bring your swimsuit, towel, and thermal underwear if you want extra warmth. The guides are vigilant about safety and provide instructions, so even complete novices can feel confident.

Group Size and Atmosphere

Limited to 15 participants, the tour maintains an intimate, friendly vibe. This smaller size allows guides to offer personalized assistance, making it perfect for families or couples looking for a relaxed experience.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

The combination of scenic paddling, wildlife encounters, and post-trip relaxation makes this experience stand out. The cost of $79 per person is quite reasonable considering the inclusions—equipment, safety gear, and access to hot tubs. We find the value to be excellent, especially given the personal attention from guides and the chance to enjoy Iceland’s natural beauty without requiring advanced kayaking skills.

The tour’s timing and group size appeal to travelers seeking a laid-back adventure in the Icelandic outdoors. Plus, the opportunity to relax in warm pools after the paddle adds a satisfying finish to what is already a well-rounded activity.

The Experience in a Nutshell

In essence, this kayaking trip combines easy accessibility, stunning scenery, wildlife viewing, and relaxing amenities. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned paddler, you’ll find this tour enjoyable and rewarding. The guides’ expertise and friendly approach are a definite plus, making the experience feel safe and personal.

The peaceful river route offers not only fantastic views of North Iceland’s mountains and sky but also a chance to see the region’s famed horses. The opportunity to kick back afterward in hot tubs makes it a perfect choice for those looking to balance activity with relaxation.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for families, outdoor novices, or anyone wanting a gentle introduction to Iceland’s wilderness. The ease of paddling, combined with spectacular scenery and wildlife, makes it accessible and enjoyable for all ages. If you’re after a relaxing outdoor activity that’s in tune with Iceland’s natural rhythm, this paddle will hit the spot.

It’s also ideal for travelers with limited time in Akureyri or those wanting an evening activity that combines adventure with comfort. The post-activity hot tubs are a genuine highlight, especially after a day of sightseeing.

Final Thoughts

This guided sit-on-top kayak tour offers an authentic taste of North Iceland’s natural charm. The expert guides, scenic river route, and wildlife sightings provide a balanced experience of adventure and tranquility. Its affordability, small group size, and relaxing amenities make it a worthwhile addition to any Iceland itinerary.

If you’re seeking a low-stress activity that immerses you in Iceland’s landscapes without a steep learning curve, this trip is likely to meet and exceed your expectations. It’s a fantastic option for families, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone wanting to see Iceland from a different angle—all while enjoying a touch of comfort afterward.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, it is. The guides explain everything thoroughly, and the open-top kayaks are easy to handle, making it perfect for first-timers.

What should I bring?
Bring a swimsuit, towel, and thermal underwear if you want extra warmth. The tour provides all safety equipment and paddling gear.

What is the weather like, and how does it affect the tour?
The activity is weather-dependent. If the weather turns poor, the tour can be canceled or rescheduled, and you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I participate if I have no kayaking experience?
Absolutely. Many reviews mention first-time kayakers enjoying the trip, thanks to the helpful guides and simple equipment.

What is included in the price?
All equipment, safety gear, and access to hot tubs and a small swimming pool after the activity are included.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour caps at 15 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

What are the start and end points?
The activity begins and ends at Bakkaflöt, near Varmahlíð, with a convenient meeting time at 6:00 pm.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 2 hours, giving ample time to enjoy the scenery and wildlife without feeling rushed.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but specific age restrictions aren’t mentioned. Contact the provider if traveling with young children.

How do I book this tour?
You can book in advance online, with most bookings made around 42 days ahead on average.

This kayaking tour is a smart choice for anyone looking to combine Iceland’s scenic outdoors with a relaxed, approachable activity. It’s a chance to enjoy the landscapes and animals that make North Iceland so special—plus, the warm pools afterward are the cherry on top.