Top Activities in Iceland for Adrenaline Junkies

Thrilling Adventures in the Snow and Ice of Iceland 

Iceland’s winters are majestic. Snow and ice provide the perfect landscape for exhilarating activities. Popular routes such as the Golden Circle offer a chance for winter outings in places like Thingvellir National Park and Langjokull Glacier.

Snowmobiling in Iceland

Photo from Snowmobile Tour on Langjokull Glacier with Transfer from Gullfoss Waterfall

Don’t worry if you’ve never been snowmobiling. Book a tour and let experienced guides take you through the process step by step. They’ll also provide all the necessary safety equipment, including helmets, gloves, and overalls.

Snowmobiles are easy to maneuver, allowing you to glide over snowy landscapes and glaciers. Most snowmobiling tours in Iceland operate on top of glaciers, so in addition to the action on the snowmobile, you'll also have stunning views over the surrounding area.

You must be at least 18 years old and have a full international driver’s license to operate a snowmobile. Children aged six and over can ride as passengers.

Check out these top snowmobiling tours:

• Snowmobile Tour on Myrdalsjokull Glacier in Iceland — Join this exciting tour opportunity to the top of the majestic Myrdalsjokull Glacier for adrenaline-fuelled snowmobiling action.

• Snowmobiling & Super Jeep Tour on Vatnajokull Glacier — Come along on a thrilling snowmobile adventure on the ice of Vatnajokull Glacier, the largest glacier in Europe.

• Golden Circle & Snowmobiling Tour from Reykjavik — Explore Iceland’s iconic Golden Circle, marvel at Thingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss, then race across Langjokull Glacier on a thrilling one-hour snowmobile ride.

• Snowmobile Tour on Langjokull Glacier from Gullfoss Waterfall — Ride a snowmobile across the vast snowy expanse of Langjokull Glacier after meeting your guide at Gullfoss.

Ice Climbing and Glacier Hiking in Iceland

Photo from South Coast Minibus Tour with Glacier Hike & Transfer from Reykjavik

Traverse creaking glacial landscapes, dark crevasses, towering frozen walls, and intricate ice sculptures. Ice climbing and glacier hiking combine the basics of both activities into one incredible excursion.

• See also: Glacier Hiking in Iceland

Exploring glaciers independently is strictly prohibited in Iceland due to the inherent dangers. Traveling with certified guides is much safer and more enjoyable. They’ll provide information on the glacier and all the necessary equipment, including helmets, crampons, and ice poles.

Minimum age requirements vary by tour operator. Generally, teenagers from 14 to 16 can try ice climbing, and children must be at least 10 to try glacier hiking.

Check out these ice climbing and glacier hiking tours:

• Beginner-Friendly Glacier Walk in Skaftafell on Vatnajokull Glacier — Hike on an outlet of the Vatnajokull Glacier in Iceland on this 2-hour tour.
• Skaftafell Ice Climbing & Glacier Hike — Experience the wild with this exhilarating glacier hike and ice climbing tour on an outlet of the vast Vatnajokull Glacier.
• 2.5-Hour Easy Glacier Hike & Sightseeing Discovery Tour on Solheimajokull — Join a guided glacier hike on Solheimajokull in South Iceland to explore crevasses, ice formations, and sinkholes while learning about glacial geology from expert guides — no experience needed.

Ice Caving in Iceland

Ice cave tours are a unique and otherworldly activity. Ice caves generally form at the beginning of the winter, meaning that glacier operators spend the warmer months searching for and exploring new caves for the upcoming season.

Ice caves feature dazzling blue interiors, intricate ice sculptures, and amazing photographic opportunities. Guided tours outfit you with all the necessary gear, including helmets and crampons. Experts provide brief lessons on how to walk on the ice before entering the cave.

Glacier caves fill with water when the temperature is above freezing. That’s why they’re usually only accessible during the peak of winter. You must go with a guide who’s familiar with the ice cave to ensure your safety.

If ice caving is on your bucket list, the most incredible experience of this winter is the western and eastern ice caves. They’re only accessible with an exclusive ice-cave tour of the Vatnajokull Glacier.

The western and eastern ice caves are equally amazing, offering a unique and unforgettable experience. The western ice cave enchants with its vivid blue walls that sparkle like crystal, while the eastern ice cave impresses with its enormous size and striking formations.

If you're visiting Iceland outside of winter and don't want to miss out, visit Katla Ice Cave. Or visit the ice cave in the Langjokull Glacier. This man-made attraction is accessible year-round.

Dog Sledding in Iceland

Photo from Meet on Location 45-Minute Dog Sledding Tour Near Reykjavik

There aren’t many places in the world that offer dog sledding. In Iceland, you can experience it year-round. Winter is the best time to try traditional dog sledding in snow fields.

Summer sledding is also an option, primarily using wheeled carts on grassy fields.

Tours operate all over the country, especially on the South Coast and North Iceland.

Check out these top-rated dog sledding tours:

• Dog Sledding Tour Near Reykjavik — Available year-round, discover Iceland's stunning landscapes while zooming across the ice in this 1.5-hour dog sledding tour

• Dog Sledding Tour in Myvatn — Available in winter, shoot across the snow-covered Icelandic countryside behind a team of Siberian Huskies.

Families love this fun activity. Depending on the tour, kids as young as four years old can go on the dog sleds. You’ll get plenty of time to fuss over the friendly dogs while traveling through beautiful landscapes in style.

Exciting Water Activities in Iceland

Visiting Iceland in the summer offers a variety of activities — some relaxing, others heart-thumping. The country’s rivers, waterfalls, and coastlines await with open arms. 

Scuba Diving in Iceland

Photo from Guided 1 Hour Drysuit Diving Tour in Silfra with Hot Drinks with Transfer from Reykjavik

The most popular scuba site in Iceland is Silfra Fissure. This dive site is in Iceland’s only UNESCO World Heritage site, Thingvellir National Park. You must be a certified open-water diver with dry-suit experience to dive here. 

The water in Silfra Fissure is so clear that visibility sometimes exceeds 328 feet (100 meters). Water temperatures are cold year-round, staying between 39° and 25°F (2° and -4°C). But it never freezes thanks to a gentle underlying current in the fissure. 

To make it even more remarkable, scuba diving in Silfra Fissure puts you directly between the North American and the Eurasian tectonic plates, making it one of the rarest and most memorable diving experiences in the world. 

Although Silfra Fissure is the most popular scuba spot in Iceland, diving in the North Atlantic Sea or in a geothermal hot spring is also possible. 

Plan your scuba diving experience with these top-rated diving tours:

• Dry Suit Diving Tour at Silfra — Explore one of the best diving sites in the world, Silfra Fissure.

• Guided 6-Hour Drysuit Diving Tour in Silfra — Dive between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates in the crystal-clear waters of Silfra Fissure with included transfer from Reykjavik.

• PADI Dry Suit Diver Course — Earn your PADI Dry Suit Diver certification through a full-day course in Iceland that includes pool training, two open-water dives, and expert instruction to prepare you for cold-water scuba adventures worldwide.

Snorkeling in Iceland

Photo from 3 in 1 Bundled Discount Activity Tours with Volcano Exploration, Snorkeling & Glacier Hiking

If you don’t have a scuba diving qualification, you can still experience the dazzling blue majesty of Silfra Fissure with a dry-suit snorkeling tour.

Unlike scuba diving, the only breathing apparatus you need is a snorkel, which your tour operator will provide. They’ll also outfit you with fins, neoprene hoods and gloves, a dry suit, and a mask. 

Wearing a dry suit while snorkeling keeps you buoyant at the surface. Giving you the sensation that you’re flying over a sweeping, underwater canyon.

In both snorkeling and scuba diving tours, you’ll experience all areas of the Silfra Fissure, including the mesmerizing and dramatic Silfra Cathedral, and the “Real Blue Lagoon,” an area of charming sandy shallows. 

Top-Rated Snorkeling Tours:

• Wetsuit Silfra Snorkeling with Underwater Photos — Snorkel at the UNESCO World Heritage Site, an out-of-this-world adventure inside a hidden natural wonder. 

• Wetsuit Snorkeling in Silfra — Join an incredible wetsuit snorkelling tour in one of the most fascinating locations imaginable, between continents.

River Rafting in Iceland

Photo from Extreme 5-Hour Rafting Tour on the East Glacial River with Transfer from Varmahlid

River rafting in Iceland is an amazing experience, though the rivers in Iceland aren’t as dramatic as those in Nepal or mainland Europe. But they’re tumultuous enough to challenge even the most experienced river rafters. 

The country has easy rivers (Grade 2) and tougher rivers (Grade 4+), meaning you can choose the rafting adventure that fits your skill level.

If you’re visiting South Iceland, try your hand at rafting on the Hvita River. If you’re in North Iceland, the Jokulsa Austari Glacier River (East Glacier River) and the Vestari Jokulsa Glacier River (West Glacial River) are good options. 

River rafting tours typically run from May/June to September. Check out these top-rated options:

• 3-Hour River Rafting Tour — Enjoy an exciting rafting tour on the Vestari Jokulsa river in North Iceland. 

• 6-Hour Whitewater River Rafting Tour — Come along on an adventure on the East Jokulsa River, also known as 'The Beast of the East'.

• 8-Hour Rafting Tour on the Hvita River from Reykjavik — Experience the thrill of river rafting on Iceland’s Hvita River with expert guides, stunning canyon views, and a relaxing sauna afterward—all with convenient round-trip transfer from Reykjavik.

Canoeing and Kayaking in Iceland

Photo from Relaxing 2 Hour Kayak Fishing Adventure by Mt. Kirkjufell

After rafting on the Hvita River, slow things down with a casual canoeing or kayaking trip. This makes for a fantastic afternoon of sightseeing, physical activity, and, undoubtedly, getting a little wet.

Many choose canoeing instead of river rafting to enjoy smaller group sizes and a more personalized experience. Some people just want to avoid the rough rapids.

The minimum age for canoeing and kayaking tours depends on the tour operator. If you’re looking for a leisurely activity, opt for canoeing with a partner to share the work.

• Kayaking in Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon — Immerse yourself in the icebergs at the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon.

• 4-Day Kayaking Tour in Hornstrandir — Extend your adventure and discover the beauty of Hornstrandir Natural Reserve.

• Guided 2-Hour Kayaking Tour under Mt. Kirkjufell — Paddle along the stunning coastline of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula on a guided kayaking tour with views of iconic Mount Kirkjufell. 

• 2.5-Hour Guided Kayaking Tour on Solheimajokull Glacier Lagoon — Get away from the crowds and kayak among the icebergs of the Solheimajokull Glacier Lagoon on this beginner-friendly small-group adventure.

Fishing in Iceland

Photo from Relaxing 9 Hour River Fishing Tour for Sea Trout, Char & Salmon with Transfer from Reykjavik

Fishing is embedded in Iceland’s history, culture, and economy. It’s also a favorite pastime among Icelanders. Let's put it this way: if an Icelander can't help you catch a fish, no one can.

You can choose from several fishing tours from April to September. The most common types of fish are arctic char, salmon, and brown trout. It’s possible to fish in Iceland's lakes, rivers, or the ocean.

If you plan on bringing fishing gear into Iceland, you must sanitize it beforehand. You can do this for a small fee at Keflavik International Airport.

• 3-Hour Sea Fishing Tour — Embark on a sea fishing adventure from Reykjavik’s harbor.

• Relaxing 9-Hour River Fishing Tour — Catch sea trout and other river fish on this tour of the Varma River.

Surfing in Iceland

It may surprise you that it’s possible to go surfing in Iceland. Hardcore surfers enjoy the North Atlantic swells and beginners can give it a go for something new and exciting during their stay.

Big waves and ice-cold water scare many away. However, Icelandic surfing presents unique benefits, such as incredible surroundings, endurance training, and fantastic surf breaks.

The best time to surf in Iceland is between October and March, when most of the country gets battered by rain, storms, and strong winds. High winds mean strong waves along the coastlines, creating a more challenging experience.

Most surfing in Iceland takes place off the moon-like landscapes of the Reykjanes Peninsula, which is also home to such attractions as Kleifarvatn Lake and the Bridge Between the Continents.

Exhilarating Ways to Explore the Land

Do you prefer the solid ground beneath your feet to ice and water? Iceland offers activities for those who have a need for speed and those who like to take it easy. 

ATV or Buggy Excursions

Photo from Thrilling 2 Hour ATV Ride on South Coast to the DC Plane Wreck with Transfer from Myrdalsjokull

ATV and buggy rides are another fun way to explore the Icelandic countryside, presenting a burst of adrenaline balanced with some beautiful natural surroundings. ATV and buggy tours take designated trails that don’t harm the fragile Icelandic ecosystem. 

ATVs seat you in a forward-leaning position, from where you control the throttle and brakes from the handlebars. A buggy seats you in a sitting position and utilizes a steering wheel and pedals. Both vehicles are quite capable of reaching speeds exceeding 50 miles (80 kilometers) per hour. It's up to you how fast you go.

This land activity suits all skill levels. Make sure to wear warm underlayers and bring an international driver’s license. Those without a license can still ride as a passenger. 

Check out these top-rated ATV and buggy tours:

• ATV Buggy Ride to the DC Plane Wreck — Join us on this exciting ATV/Quad bike adventure down to the DC3 Plane Wreck.

• 2-Hour ATV Tour in the Mountains—Enjoy the spectacular nature surrounding Reykjavik with this thrilling, two-hour ATV tour, which includes pick-up and drop-off.

Mountain Biking in Iceland

Photo from Exciting 2-3 hour Small-Group E-Mountain Bike Ride on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Cyclists have long found Iceland to be particularly suited to the sport. The roads are long, scenic, and carry little traffic. You can also access most of the major attractions from the Ring Road.

This allows you to mix your cycling with sightseeing. If you want a challenge, pick a multi-day route and bring your bike over in the summertime. Remember to pack warm clothes, food, and camping gear.

There are a variety of mountain biking tours you can take. Here are some of our favorites:

• Biking Tour in the Westfjords — Set off on a cycling adventure around the capital of the Westfjords, Isafjordur.

• 2-3 hour Small-Group E-Mountain Bike Ride on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula — Explore the spectacular landscape around the Snaefellsnes Peninsula on an e-mountain bike when you book this exciting day tour, for up to four people. 

Hiking and Trekking in Iceland

Hiking may not sound like an extreme sport at first, but it is in Iceland. Many people go on multi-day excursions, carrying food, tents, sleeping bags, and extra clothes. They traverse a variety of landscapes, including glaciers, deserts, and volcanoes.
 

The diverse geography makes hiking a popular sport in Iceland. Trekking in the country is a real pleasure, and there are plenty of hiking trails to choose from. The Highlands, particularly the Landmannalaugar Region, are a popular spot. 

The most popular route is the Laugavegur Trek, between Landmannalaugar and Thorsmork Valley. This hike is 34 miles (55 kilometers) long. There are also plenty of shorter, guided hikes around the country.

Hiking tours offer a great way to experience hiking in Iceland with an experienced guide:

• Guided Afternoon or Evening Hike Tour to the Reykjanes Volcano Area — See the newly formed lava field from the recent volcanic eruption.

• 1.5-Hour Hiking & Puffin Watching Tour on Iceland's South Coast — Escape into nature with this wildlife-focused hiking tour in the South of Iceland.

Horseback Riding in Iceland 

Icelandic horses are known for being friendly, curious, and having five unique gaits. Their muscular bodies withstand the harsh Icelandic elements year-round, the result of generations of concentrated breeding.

Another unique quality of Icelandic horses is their size. While stout, they’re quite small (the size of a pony), making them perfect for younger riders and beginners.

You can choose from all sorts of horseback riding tours across the country.

• Horse Riding Tour — Saddle up for a unique adventure as you discover the breathtaking volcanic landscape outside Reykjavik on horseback.

• Horse Riding Tour on the Black Sand Beach from Vik — Explore one of Iceland's iconic South Coast black sand beaches on an unforgettable one-hour horseback riding tour.

Volcano Tours in Iceland

Photo from Inside the Volcano Thrihnukagigur Tour with Transfer from Reykjavik

Volcano tours provide fascinating insight into Iceland's geothermally active landscape and present one of the more unique opportunities on earth—being inside a volcano.

Although volcanoes are infinitely more exciting when they’re erupting, the tour inside Thrihnukagigur Volcano is still an impressive caving tour. Don’t worry, you won't see any flowing magma. Instead, you’ll witness a dazzling caldera of colorful inner rock faces.

• See more: Volcanoes in Iceland
• Also, discover the Top 7 Volcanic Experiences in Iceland

Multiple volcanic eruptions have occurred since 2021 close to Grindavik and on the Reykjanes Peninsula. Most occurred in the Sundhnukagigar Volcano System, which first erupted in December 2023.

The previous eruptions at Fagradalsfjall Volcano in 2021 and 2022 and Litli-Hrutur Mountain in July 2023 attracted tourists, who could see both volcanoes from a hiking path. However, the proximity of Sundhnukagigar Volcano to Grindavik, along with ongoing seismic activity, forced the closure of the area. 

Currently, the only way to see the aftermath of the Reykjanes Peninsula and Sundhnukagigar Volcano eruptions is with a volcano helicopter tour, where you'll get an unforgettable aerial view of the area's different eruption sites.

Authorities regularly estimate the safety of the area, and opening it for hikers is possible. Make sure to check SafeTravel for updates. If the area is open, you'll likely be able to do the hike by yourself, but it's highly recommended that you take a guided volcano tour.

Take to the Air 

The best way to understand the scope of the country’s vast geography is from the sky. Fortunately, there are several electrifying Iceland activities that get you off the ground. 

Ziplining in Iceland

Iceland’s topography was built for ziplining. Hills, canyons, cliffs, rivers, and glaciers set the stage for heart-thumping experiences. 

What makes ziplining in Iceland so unique is that it gives you a chance to connect with nature. Guided tours require you to hike across dazzling terrain before taking your ride. 

Most ziplining tours are in South Iceland. If you’re staying in Reykjavik and want a rousing escape from the city, book a ziplining adventure and test your bravery. 

• Glacier Hiking and Ziplining from the Glacier Lagoon — This icy five-hour tour takes you to the impressive Vatnajokkull region.

• Ziplining and Hiking Tour in Vik — Coast over the charming countryside on four unique ziplines. 

• Mega Ziplining Adventure in Hveragerdi — Experience Iceland’s longest and fastest zipline on this picturesque tour. 

• Winter Zipline and Glacier Adventure — Take a ride in a 4x4 vehicle, enjoy an exciting glacier hike, and zipline over frozen landscapes. 

Expert tour guides provide all the ziplining equipment you need. Make sure you check age restrictions if your children want to participate.

Heli-skiing and Heli-snowboarding in Iceland 

Nothing says “extreme” like combining helicopters and snow sports. Heli-skiing and Heli-snowboarding allow you to reach the summit of a mountain quickly and make your way down to the coastlines of the Atlantic. 

This intense Iceland activity is only for the most skilled skiers and snowboarders. It’s also one of the priciest, but let’s face it, when did something so spectacular come cheap?

Nothing beats the feeling of skiing or snowboarding down a steep hill with fresh powder. Being the only one on the slope adds to the experience. Not to mention the breathtaking views all the way up and down. 

Experience the ultimate winter thrill with this multi-day heliskiing adventure in North Iceland, where you'll soar by helicopter to untouched mountain peaks near Siglufjordur and Olafsfjordur and carve fresh tracks through pristine powder.

Helicopter Tours

Not a skier? You can also experience traditional helicopter tours in Iceland. This is one of the most exciting, rewarding, and easiest methods of seeing the country's major natural attractions.

Helicopter tours depart from Reykjavik Airport and travel to a number of destinations. See the mountains of the Reykjanes Peninsula, the beautiful South Coast, and even the central Highlands. 

• Helicopter Tour to Reykjavik Summit — Take to the skies with this exhilarating and breathtaking helicopter tour over Reykjavik and the nearby mountains.

• Helicopter Tour of Amazing Geothermal Sights — Enjoy Iceland’s fascinating geothermal sights from the sky with this unique and exhilarating helicopter tour.

Paragliding and Skydiving in Iceland

Photo from Exhilarating 1 Hour Paragliding Tour & Tandem Flight over Vik

Only the most serious adrenaline junkies seek out paragliding and skydiving. Both are available in Iceland.

Paragliding is a great way to enjoy scenic views while feeling the freedom of a bird. You can take a tandem paragliding tour in South Iceland from May to September.

Skydiving is also possible in the summer. Beginners start with Accelerated Freefall (AFF) courses and tandem jumps. If you're a licensed jumper, it's fairly cheap to purchase a jump here. 

10 FAQs About Adventure Activities in Iceland

We've compiled the most frequently asked questions to help you prepare for your thrilling experience. Here's what you need to know:

1. When is the best time for adventure activities in Iceland?

Summer is best for hiking, river rafting, and paragliding. Winter is perfect for ice caves, northern lights, snowmobiling, and dog sledding. Activities like glacier hiking, scuba diving, and super jeep tours run year-round.

2. Is it safe to do extreme activities in Iceland?

Yes. Iceland has strict safety regulations, and certified guides lead most activities. Always book with reputable tour operators and follow safety instructions.

3. Do I need to book adventure tours in advance?

Yes, especially in peak season (June to August and December to February). Popular tours like ice caving and glacier hiking sell out fast.

4. Is bungee jumping available in Iceland?

Bungee jumping is not currently offered in Iceland, but the country is full of thrilling alternatives for adrenaline junkies.

5. What’s the best adventure activity for families with kids?

Family-friendly activities include glacier hiking, whale-watching tours, horseback riding, lava cave exploring, and ATV tours. 

6. Do I need travel insurance for adventure activities?

Yes, it’s highly recommended. Iceland is safe, but the weather and activities can be unpredictable. Make sure your insurance covers adventure sports like glacier hiking, snowmobiling, and diving.

7. Can I go wild camping in Iceland?

Camping is allowed, but rules have changed. You can’t camp anywhere you want anymore — only at designated campsites.

8. Can I drive to adventure sites, or do I need a tour?

Many famous sites are accessible by rental car on Golden Circle Tours and South Coast Tours. You need a guided tour or a 4x4 vehicle for glaciers, ice caves, and highland adventures. 

9. Can I drink water from streams in Iceland?

Yes. Iceland’s glacier and mountain water are some of the cleanest in the world. Avoid drinking from areas near farms or geothermal zones, as some water contains sulfur. 

10. Do I need bug spray in Iceland?

There are no mosquitoes in Iceland. However, midges (tiny flies) are common near lakes and wetlands in the summer. Bring insect repellent for places like Lake Myvatn. 

Ignite Your Inner Explorer

There's something here for everyone who craves a bit of adventure, whether you're a seasoned pro or just looking to try something new with the family. So, pack your sense of adventure and get ready to step outside your comfort zone. Iceland's waiting to show you what you're truly capable of. You won't regret it.

What extreme Iceland activities are you preparing to try on your trip? What will you be doing next time you're in Iceland? Comment below to let us know which one you’re planning to try.