If you’re visiting Reykjavík and craving some adventure, you’ve got to try snowmobiling!
It’s one of the most thrilling ways to experience Iceland’s wild landscapes. And the best part? You can do it as a day or even a half-day tour from the city. Imagine zooming across a glacier, surrounded by endless white snowfields, with epic mountain views in every direction—it’s pure adrenaline and awe rolled into one unforgettable experience.
Most snowmobiling tours from Reykjavík take you to Langjökull, Iceland’s second-largest glacier. This massive ice cap is just a couple of hours from the city, making it the perfect destination for a quick escape into the highlands. The tours usually last around 4 to 8 hours, depending on the package you choose. Some are standalone snowmobiling trips, while others combine it with visits to nearby sights like Thingvellir National Park or Gullfoss waterfall for a full Golden Circle adventure.
No experience? No problem! The tours are beginner-friendly, and your guide will give you all the gear and safety instructions you need before hitting the ice. You’ll be driving powerful snowmobiles across pristine glaciers, with stops along the way to soak in the incredible scenery. Think vast white expanses stretching out forever, jagged peaks in the distance, and the occasional crevasse glowing a deep blue beneath the ice. On clear days, you’ll get panoramic views of Iceland’s highlands and maybe even spot a volcano or two.
Winter (November to April) is the best time for snowmobiling, with guaranteed snow and the most dramatic landscapes. That said, you can often join tours in summer too, thanks to the permanent ice caps on Langjökull. The summer experience is a bit different—you’ll be riding on top of ancient ice under a midnight sun, with milder temperatures but just as much adventure.
Tour operators provide everything you need, from warm overalls and helmets to gloves and balaclavas, so you just need to show up with sturdy shoes and a sense of adventure. Many tours offer tandem snowmobiles, so you can share the experience with a partner—or take turns driving if you’re up for it.
Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or just want to experience Iceland’s glaciers up close, snowmobiling from Reykjavík is an absolute must. It’s a chance to explore a world that feels completely untouched, where the only sound is the hum of your snowmobile and the crunch of ice beneath you.