Extreme River Rafting
Tour Description
Tour Highlights
Navigate one of Europe’s most challenging and scenic waterways on this Grade 4+ river rafting tour. Key highlights include a 16-kilometer journey through the deep East Glacial canyon, where you will encounter powerful rapids such as "The Green Room" and "Alarm Clock." The tour offers a unique perspective on North Iceland’s volcanic geology and, depending on river conditions, the opportunity for cliff jumping into the glacial water. All necessary technical gear, including high-quality wetsuits, is provided for your safety.
This excursion is designed for those seeking a high-intensity rafting experience in North Iceland. The East Glacial River (Austari-Jökulsá) is consistently ranked as one of the top rafting rivers in Europe due to its consistent Class 4+ rapids and remote canyon scenery.
The tour begins at our boathouse base, located near the town of Varmahlíð (approximately 3.5 hours from Reykjavík). Upon arrival, guests are fitted with professional-grade safety equipment. We provide thick wetsuits, life jackets, and helmets. Please note that we use wetsuits instead of dry suits to ensure maximum mobility and safety in the turbulent conditions of a glacial river.
After gearing up, a short transfer takes the group to the East Valley. Before entering the water, our international guides provide a comprehensive safety briefing and paddling instructions. The rafting trip covers 16 kilometers of river, passing through a sheer-walled canyon accessible only by boat. You will navigate a series of technical rapids that require teamwork and active participation.
Along the route, the group may stop for a break to appreciate the canyon’s geology or participate in optional cliff jumping if water levels permit. This tour is physically demanding and is best suited for those in good health who are comfortable in moving water. It is a practical choice for travelers looking for a genuine wilderness adventure in the northern highlands of Iceland.
Bakkaflöt (north Iceland)
All Year
4-5 Hours
Not Included
Hard
Highlight Of The Tour
Frequently Asked Questions
• Swimsuit • Long sleeved fleece • Towel • Thermals (optional - no cotton)
Bakkaflöt River Rafting tours are located in Skagafjörður, North Iceland, 12 km from Varmahlíð. It is around an hour’s drive from the capital of the North, Akureyri.
18 years and older
At the start of your trip, the trip leader will ask you to sign a liability release waiver. We will also ask you 2 important questions.
1. Can you swim?
2. Do you have any medical conditions we need to be aware of?
Please answer these questions honestly. We can still take non- swimmers rafting for the West River but it’s nice to know so we can help you a little more. We can also give you a free lesson on the river if you wish.
Please advise us of any medical conditions that you may have no matter how trivial they are.
This is so that we are able to help you in a more efficient manner should you have any problems on the river. We are also able to take the medication in a waterproof box should you need it during your trip. Bakkaflöt will not take pregnant ladies rafting due to the risk involved with adventure sports.
✓ All tours can be cancelled up to 24 hours from the departure time by sending a written email to info@troll.is. You will receive a full refund except the 3% card fee. All cancellations requested less than 24 hours from the departure time are non refundable. ✓ In the case of cancellation of the tour by the operator because of extreme weather, road conditions, or other factors, we will assist you with rebooking to another date or booking other activities when possible or provide a full refund.