Imagine cruising across a vast, icy wilderness on a snowmobile, surrounded by towering peaks and shimmering glaciers—sounds exhilarating, right? While we haven’t personally strapped on the gear (yet), this highly-rated snowmobile tour on Vatnajökull promises an unforgettable experience in Iceland’s East.
What we love about it? The expert guides who share fascinating insights, the breathtaking scenery that makes every second worth it, and the all-inclusive equipment that keeps things simple. One thing to consider is that the tour can be quite cold, especially if you’re not layered properly.
This adventure suits those craving a combination of adrenaline and nature, particularly travelers who enjoy guided outdoor activities with a touch of rugged beauty. If you’re after epic views and don’t mind bundling up, this tour could be your icy highlight in Iceland.
Key Points
- Stunning Scenery: The views of Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier, are genuinely spectacular.
- Expert Guides: Guides like Stephan and others are praised for their knowledge and friendliness.
- All Gear Provided: Waterproof overalls, helmets, gloves, and bandanas are included, making it easy to pack light.
- Short but Sweet: The tour lasts about 3 hours, with a mix of driving, sightseeing, and photo stops.
- Value for Money: At around $239, it offers a comprehensive experience with multiple scenic stops.
- Limited Group Size: Max 22 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.
What Makes This Tour Stand Out
This Vatnajökull snowmobile tour isn’t just about speeding over ice; it offers a layered experience that combines adventure, scenic beauty, and educational insights. The 3-hour duration is perfect for those wanting a solid, memorable ride without feeling rushed or overextended.
The tour starts with a jeep drive up to about 1000 meters, where you’ll soak in jaw-dropping views of Iceland’s highest peaks. This initial stop at Skalafellsjökull is a highlight—standing on the edge of Vatnajökull, watching the snow-capped summits, and feeling the vast silence of the glacier is a moment of pure awe. Reviewers like Clara praised the “gorgeous views” and described it as feeling like snowmobiling “in the sky above the clouds.”
Next, you’ll join a sensational snowmobile ride across Vatnajökull, Europe’s biggest ice cap. This is where your adrenaline kicks in, especially if you follow the guide’s encouragement to speed up. The scenery here is described as “epic,” with views of Iceland’s highest peaks and volcanoes concealed beneath the ice—really, it feels like you’re on another planet.
The last part of the journey takes you to Jöklasel, where your guide shares insights about glaciers and their environmental impact. Many reviews, like Angelina_O’s, rave about the “absolutely beautiful” scenery and the knowledgeability of guides. The combination of scenic stops and informative commentary makes the whole trip more meaningful.
Looking for more options in East Iceland? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
The Itinerary in Detail
Stop 1: Skalafellsjökull
Your adventure begins with a scenic drive in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. The jeep takes you 50 minutes up into the mountains, where you’ll reach around 1000 meters elevation. This part of the tour is less about adrenaline and more about setting the scene—standing amidst rugged peaks and glaciers, with panoramic views that are unforgettable. Reviewers often mention how this initial stop is a perfect photo opportunity, with some describing it as “breath-taking.”
Stop 2: Vatnajökull Glacier
Here, you’ll get your first real taste of the ice. Strapping into your waterproof overalls, helmet, and gloves, you’ll hit the snowmobiles—either solo or double-up depending on your preference and weight. The one-hour ride across Vatnajökull feels like entering an icy wonderland, with guides guiding you along secret trails. Many travelers comment that the scenery is “incredible”, especially on sunny days when the ice and snow reflect the light.
Guests like Michael_C describe the experience as “super fun” with “incredible views”. You can choose to drive at your own pace or follow your guide, who will encourage you to go faster if you’re comfortable. This part of the tour is designed to give you a feel for the scale and beauty of the glacier, with many reviewers noting how quiet and expansive the landscape feels.
Stop 3: Jöklasel and Return
After the exhilarating ride, you’ll descend back to base camp, passing through more glacier scenery. Your guide, like Roopa_V, shares fascinating details about glaciers and their impact on the environment—adding an educational element to the adventure. The 50-minute return drive is a relaxing way to reflect on the experience and capture some last photos.
Practical Considerations
Equipment and Comfort
The gear provided—waterproof overalls, helmets, gloves, and bandanas—are appreciated by travelers for making the cold manageable. Reviewers mention that layers are recommended under the suits, particularly for gloves and jackets, as it can get quite cold, especially on windy days like some experienced. Snowmobile handles with heaters, as noted by Arjun_V, are a nice touch.
Group Size and Flexibility
With a maximum of 22 travelers, the tour offers a good balance between intimacy and social atmosphere. The tours tend to be booked around 57 days in advance, reflecting good interest and demand. The group size allows guides to give proper guidance, making it suitable for those new to snowmobiling or looking for a safe experience.
Cost and Value
At around $239 per person, this tour is quite competitive given the inclusiveness—gear, transportation, guides, and multiple scenic stops. Compared to the value of the experience—seeing Vatnajökull, learning about glaciers, and the thrill of snowmobiling—it offers good value, especially for adventure lovers.
Timing and Duration
The 3-hour duration feels well-paced, allowing enough time for travel, riding, and sightseeing without fatigue. However, some reviews indicated that the actual snowmobiling portion was shorter than expected. If you’re seeking a longer ride, it might be worth checking if you need to book as a solo rider, which costs a bit extra but extends your time on the snow.
Authentic Traveler Insights
Guides like Stephan and others are frequently highlighted for their knowledge and friendliness. Reviewers appreciated their ability to balance safety with fun, encouraging speed while ensuring everyone followed the trail. Angelina_O says her guide “let us speed up but also made sure we were following each other,” which adds a personalized touch.
Many travelers also comment on the stunning natural scenery—some describe it as “like snowmobiling in the sky,” while others mention the calm serenity of the glacier. Its vastness and quiet majesty make it clear why this is a bucket-list experience for many.
Convincing reviews about the good organization and professional equipment suggest that the tour runs smoothly, even on days with unpredictable weather. The free cancellation policy provides peace of mind, allowing changes if weather conditions are unfavorable—an important consideration in Iceland’s often capricious climate.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This snowmobile tour is perfect for adventure enthusiasts who love scenic landscapes, nature lovers eager to learn about glaciers, and those seeking a thrilling yet well-organized experience. It’s suited for beginners, as guides provide instruction, but should be avoided if you’re uncomfortable with cold or snow driving.
Since the experience includes guided commentary, it’s also great for travelers who want a mix of adventure and education. The inclusion of all gear and transportation simplifies planning, making it accessible for most.
This Vatnajökull snowmobile experience offers a well-balanced mix of adrenaline, scenic beauty, and educational insights, all wrapped up in a convenient, all-inclusive package. The guides’ friendliness and knowledge, paired with the jaw-dropping views of Europe’s largest glacier, make it a standout activity for anyone visiting East Iceland.
It’s particularly valuable for those who want a full, rewarding adventure without the hassle of organizing gear or transportation. The relatively short duration makes it suitable for a day of exploration without feeling overwhelming.
While the cold can be intense and the ride somewhat short for some, the overall experience delivers exceptional value and authentic thrill—a true highlight for lovers of nature and adventure.
What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a snowmobile, helmet, waterproof overalls, gloves, and bandanas, making it easy to stay warm and dry while exploring.
Do I need a driver’s license?
Yes, a valid driver’s license is required to operate the snowmobile, even if you’re riding double.
What is the maximum weight for snowmobile riders?
The combined weight of two riders on one snowmobile must be 180kg (about 390 lbs) or less. If over, you’ll need to book a solo ride for an additional fee.
How long is the snowmobile ride?
The actual snowmobiling portion lasts about an hour, with additional time for transportation and stops.
Can I cancel if the weather is poor?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.
Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, guides provide instructions and guidance, making it accessible for first-timers, as long as you’re comfortable with cold weather and snow.
What should I wear?
Layering is recommended underneath the waterproof gear—think warm jackets, gloves, and possibly a thermal base layer for extra comfort.
Embark on this icy adventure if you’re eager to see one of Iceland’s most impressive natural wonders in a fun, guided, and safe way. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or simply want to capture unforgettable photos, the Vatnajökull snowmobile tour is bound to leave a lasting impression.