Why go snowmobiling in Iceland?
Over a tenth of Iceland’s surface is covered in snow and ice all year round. From expansive ice caps to towering white peaks, it’s a snowy world waiting to be explored.
That’s why one of the best ways to experience the Land of Fire and Ice is on the back of a snowmobile. Wrap up warm, rev up your engine, and zoom off across the snow. Snowmobiling in Iceland is an experience you can’t miss while you’re here.
Even if you’ve never tried it before, you’ll find it to be a breeze. Put one hand on the accelerator and another on the brake, and you’ll be exploring the wonders of Iceland in no time.
There are many Iceland snowmobile tours to choose from, across the most scenic parts of the country. The most popular take place on one of two glaciers, Langjökull or Mýrdalsjökull, both conveniently located from the capital city, Reykjavík.
Langjökull Glacier: a Snowmobiler's Dream Near the Golden Circle
Known as “long glacier” because of its great length, Langjökull is actually Iceland’s second largest ice cap. Aside from its jaw-dropping glacial views, this icy desert is just a stone’s throw from the Golden Circle, Iceland’s most famous itinerary. If you’re looking to combine Iceland snowmobiling with a sightseeing day out, this could be your best option.
Unique Snowmobile Adventures in Iceland
Riding atop Iceland's fourth-largest glacier, you'll experience unparalleled panoramic views while feeling the exhilaration of gliding over vast icy expanses, all with the backdrop of a majestic, active volcano. It's an unforgettable Icelandic adventure that truly stands out.
FAQ:
You can go snowmobiling in Iceland even in the summer. The ice caps have snow on them all year round and they’re a great place to visit in any season. We run snowmobiling tours throughout the year.
There is no weight limit for riding on a snowmobile. In fact, on most snowmobile tours, you’ll likely be riding with two people per vehicle.
However, you will need to be of a reasonable level of fitness to take part in the tours. And you’ll need to be able to fit into the gear we provide.
December is a great time for Iceland snowmobile tours. While up on the glaciers there’s snow in Iceland year round, December is one of the best months for fresh powder. Take a snowmobile tour to see Iceland at its wintry best.
Be aware that the winter months in Iceland have quite volatile weather. That means that we may have to rearrange snowmobile tours at short notice.
Snowmobiles are available to hire in Reykjavík as part of a guided tour. However, you won’t be able to rent snowmobiles to drive them around by yourself.
The simple reason for that is that snowmobiling poses plenty of risks, particularly if you don’t know the local landscape and have never driven before.
Snowmobiling is possible throughout the year in Iceland. That’s because the ice caps have permanent snow. Go snowmobiling and get a taste of winter, even in Iceland’s summer!
While we provide insulated suits, helmets, gloves, and balaclavas for added warmth, we recommend wearing warm, layered clothing underneath, especially if you tend to feel cold easily.
While we provide comprehensive snowmobile gear, you're welcome to bring your gear if you prefer. However, please ensure that your gear meets safety standards and is appropriate for snowmobiling.
Yes, you can bring a small backpack with essential items. However, it's recommended to keep it securely fastened to prevent any interference while operating the snowmobile. This is especially convenient for carrying snacks, water, and other necessities to keep you refreshed during the adventure.
Imagine racing across an icy desert with the wind in your hair, while exploring the secrets and surprises of the wilderness. On a snowmobiling tour in Iceland, you can do exactly that.
Is it worth it? Definitely! For many, it’s the highlight of their trip to Iceland. Ask yourself this: how often do you get to drive a snowmobile at home?
Explore our tours to find an experience you’ll remember forever.
It’s perfectly safe to ride snowmobiles on glaciers as part of a tour.
Glaciers are harsh and volatile landscapes, with frequently changing conditions. We don’t recommend you visit them without a guide no matter whether you travel on foot, skis, or snowmobile.
That said, with a guide, they’re perfectly safe. Your guide will show you the best and most secure areas to visit and ensure you have the skills and equipment to stay safe out in the elements.
The snowmobiling tour includes stops at notable points of interest, allowing you to marvel at the surroundings and take a breather from the exhilarating ride.
No prior snowmobiling experience is required. The tour is designed to accommodate participants of all skill levels. Our experienced guides will provide a brief safety overview and basic instructions before the adventure begins. A valid driver's license is needed to operate a snowmobile.
Yes, all provided balaclavas are thoroughly cleaned and sanitized after each use to ensure your comfort and hygiene.
Yes, you can go snowmobiling in Iceland in September. While this is probably the period of the year with the lowest snow coverage, Iceland has areas of permanent snow year-round. That means that you can go snowmobiling whenever you visit Iceland.
Two of the best places to go snowmobiling in Iceland are Langjökull and Mýrdalsjökull. These are two of Iceland’s largest ice caps, with the most reliable snow throughout the year.
The second largest ice cap in Iceland, Langjökull can be very easily reached from Reykjavík. It’s just a short distance from the Golden Circle too, making it really convenient if you want to add snowmobiling to your sightseeing tour.
Mýrdalsjökull is at the heart of the south coast, next to the village of Vík. While it’s not as large as Langjökull, it’s just as spectacular.
There aren’t many specific things that you’ll need to bring with you when you go snowmobiling.
A valid driving licence is perhaps the most important, because we’ll need to see that you can drive before your ride. Warm clothes and your camera are otherwise all you’ll need to remember.
We’ll equip you with everything else you need for your trip, including a helmet and any safety equipment you need for the snow.
Your priority while snowmobiling will be to stay warm, particularly in winter. We’ll provide overalls, a helmet, and goggles. But warm layers, a warm, windproof, and waterproof jacket, and gloves and warm socks will all be a must.
You can go on a snowmobiling tour in Iceland throughout the year. Iceland’s ice caps are white and snowy all year round and can give you a taste of Iceland’s winter landscapes even in the summer. Head up to Langjökull and Mýrdalsjökull and you’ll find a thrilling world to explore.
We run snowmobile tours daily. Just be aware that, if the weather is bad—particularly during winter—we may have to cancel these at short notice. You will be heading to some of the wildest landscapes on Earth, after all!
Snowmobiles can go incredibly fast, with some reaching up to 100 kilometres (160 m/h), or more. However, you won’t be going this fast yourself. Instead, expect to reach speeds of about 70 km/h (43 m/h).