Kayaking Tours
Paddle through breathtaking fjords and glacial lagoons on the best-rated kayaking tours in Iceland.
Kayaking tours are a perfect way to spend a day in Iceland and create memories that last a lifetime. They provide a unique way to experience the country and witness some of its most beautiful sights. Suitable for both novice and experienced paddlers, kayaking day tours are available for every type of adventure seeker.
On an Iceland kayaking trip, you’ll paddle through glorious glacier lagoons and peaceful fjords. Soak in panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers while carefully maneuvering through natural ice sculptures. There are very few places in the world where you can kayak in such a spectacular environment!
Dreaming of rowing your way through Iceland? Book your kayaking tour now!
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Why Choose Kayaking in Iceland?
Kayak tours in Iceland are a unique way to connect with the country’s nature. Rowing across serene waters and admiring the view of nearby glaciers is nothing short of majestic. Nature’s monuments like the Jökulsárlón and Vatnajökull glaciers can leave an everlasting impression to remember for a lifetime. When going past them, you realize how magical nature truly is, and this experience doesn’t compare to anything else.
Of course, Iceland is home to more than just breathtaking glaciers. On one of our partners’ kayaking tours, you’ll also have the chance to witness other unique landscapes. These include the beautiful town of Ísafjörður, the mesmerizing Jökulsárlón, and the charming village of Stokkseyri. A journey on a kayak gives access to unforgettable views you can’t miss when visiting the land of ice and fire.
An Iceland kayak adventure is a brilliant way to connect with the country’s nature. Icelandic waters are inhabited by playful animals like seals, dolphins, porpoises, and even whales. If you’re lucky, you might be able to witness some of these creatures taking a swim. Alongside these animals, you’ll have the chance to see local seabirds, such as puffins, Arctic terns, Northern fulmars, or guillemots.
Kayaking in Iceland is an activity that’s accessible to everyone. Our partners have tours for seasoned professionals and those who have never seen the watercraft. Iceland kayak tours are also a sustainable way to see the country's magnificent sights. For this reason, this adventure is perfect for eco-conscious travelers who want to explore Iceland’s raw beauty while minimizing environmental impact.
When is the Best Time to Kayak in Iceland?
Unlike some other activities, kayaking in Iceland is only available during the summer. Iceland is blessed with mild weather, calm waters, and extended daylight hours during this season. The average summer temperature in Iceland reaches 10-13°C (50-55°F). Thanks to this, visitors in Iceland can go glacier lagoon kayaking safely. Incredible places such as Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Hvítá River, and the Westfjords will leave everlasting memories.
Kayaking Iceland during the winter season is unavailable due to unsafe conditions. Freezing temperatures, strong winds, and heavy snowfall can make it not only uncomfortable but dangerous as well. In addition, shorter daylight hours and frequent fog can increase the risk of accidents. Our partners have kayaking tours only from May to October. If you want to explore Iceland’s waters during winter, boat tours are available all year round.
Best Places to Kayak in Iceland
Hvítá River
Located in the highlands of Iceland, Hvítá River is one of the most popular kayaking destinations in the country. It begins at the Hvítárvatn glacier lake on Langjökull glacier and flows for 40 kilometers (25 miles). Then, it drops down into a narrow gorge at Gullfoss waterfall. The name Hvítá, meaning "the White River," refers to its roaring white waters, which you will surely witness on this journey.
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
If there’s one place everyone should kayak through, it’s the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. It’s full of grand sights, impressing visitors with its sheer size, giant icebergs, and vast mountainsides. The backdrop to this magnificent scene is the glacial peaks of Vatnajökull and Breiðamerkurjökull, enhancing its beauty even further. Jökulsárlón’s waters are also full of adorable seals you can meet during your kayaking trip.
Vestfirðir
Vestfirðir, or the Westfjords, is a remote region in northwestern Iceland. Unlike other locations, its appeal is not its famous attractions but its tranquil atmosphere and pristine nature. Visitors to Vestfirðir are blown away by its dramatic landscapes of deep fjords lined with sharp cliffs, lush green valleys, and bubbling geothermal pools. These serene views are what every kayaker should see on their trip to Iceland.
Sólheimajökull Glacier
Another popular destination for glacier kayaking in Iceland is the Sólheimajökull Glacier. Located between the Katla and Eyjafjallajökull volcanoes, it’s a monument to the country’s stunning natural beauty. On this incredible tour, visitors glide across the crystal-clear waters of the lagoon and admire its breathtaking views. Kayaking beneath it will give you a profound new insight into the majesty and power of Mother Nature.
Heinabergslón Glacier Lagoon
Kayaking on the Heinabergslón Glacier Lagoon is a fantastic opportunity to seize while exploring Iceland. It was formed due to the retreat of Heinabergsjökull and is a thrilling location for kayaking amongst the icebergs. Heinabergslón’s grandeur welcomes visitors into its serenity, making visitors feel like they’re a part of its scenery. The glacier lagoon is also secluded, meaning the tours take place far away from crowds.
Experience Iceland from the Water
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What to Bring on a Kayaking Tour?
It’s essential to be well prepared for adventures such as Iceland kayak tours. Most importantly, you will need to bring warm clothing on your trip. This includes a warm jacket, pants, hiking boots, and waterproof gloves. Make sure the clothing you wear is waterproof. It’s also essential to avoid clothing made from cotton. Instead, bundle up with clothing made from wool, polyester, nylon, or other thermal materials.
Our partners also advise bringing sunglasses and sunscreen on kayaking tours. This is because the sunlight and glare from ice and water can be sharp, hindering your sight. Having a waterproof bag for other things you intend to have on your kayak is also important. You don’t want your smartphone or camera to get wet! We also recommend bringing a change of clothing, just in case.
