White-water rafting in rapids on Hvítá River, Iceland
  • 12 hours
  • Small Group
  • From Reykjavík

Golden Circle & River Rafting

The classic Golden Circle route finished with a thrilling white-water rafting adventure on the glacial Hvítá River.

Duration12 hours
PickupReykjavik
Travel StyleSmall Group
DifficultyModerate

Overview

Enjoy a full-day adventure combining Iceland’s most famous sightseeing route with an exciting river rafting experience. The day starts with pickup from a designated location in Reykjavík.

The first stop is Þingvellir National Park, where you can walk between tectonic plates and explore one of Iceland’s most important historical and geological sites. From there, the journey continues to the Geysir Geothermal Area, where Strokkur erupts regularly amid steaming geothermal landscapes. A lunch break is scheduled along the route before visiting the impressive Gullfoss, one of Iceland’s most powerful waterfalls.

In the afternoon, the tour shifts from sightseeing to adventure with river rafting on the Hvítá River. After receiving safety instructions and equipment, you will navigate glacial waters and scenic canyon landscapes on a guided rafting trip suitable for both beginners and experienced participants. Following the rafting experience, the tour returns to Reykjavík in the evening.

This tour offers a perfect combination of natural wonders, outdoor adventure, and unforgettable Icelandic scenery in one well-balanced day.

Highlights

  • Þingvellir National Park
  • Geysir Geothermal Area
  • Gullfoss Waterfall
  • Hvítá River Rafting

Itinerary

Pickup is made from a designated location in Reykjavík to begin your day on the Golden Circle.

The tour begins at Þingvellir National Park, where you can walk through dramatic rift valleys formed by the movement of tectonic plates. This historic site is also the birthplace of Iceland’s parliament and offers impressive views of lava fields, cliffs, and clear spring water.

Next, visit the Geysir Geothermal Area, where bubbling hot springs and steaming vents demonstrate Iceland’s powerful geothermal forces. The famous Strokkur geyser erupts regularly, sending hot water high into the air and creating a memorable natural spectacle.

Continue to Gullfoss Waterfall, one of Iceland’s most impressive natural attractions. Here, the Hvítá River cascades in two stages into a rugged canyon, creating mist, roaring water, and breathtaking viewpoints.

The final stop is an exciting river rafting adventure on the Hvítá River. After receiving safety instructions and equipment, you will navigate glacial waters and scenic canyon landscapes on a guided rafting trip suitable for both beginners and experienced participants. This thrilling activity provides the perfect end to an adventurous day in Iceland.

After the rafting adventure, drop-off is back at your pickup location in Reykjavík, concluding a full day of sightseeing and outdoor adventure around the Golden Circle.

  • Pick-up & drop-off in Reykjavik
  • Transportation
  • English Speaking Guide
  • Expert Rafting Guide
  • All River Rafting Equipment
  • Access to sauna and hot tub
  • Warm, layered clothing
  • Waterproof outerwear
  • Swimsuit, towel and change of clothes
  • Hiking boots are recommended
  • Camera or smartphone

Route map

Frequently Asked Questions

Pickup and drop-off are included from selected locations in Reykjavík. Due to city center restrictions, some pickups take place at nearby designated bus stops. Pickup is between 08:30 AM and 09:00 AM. Please make sure to be on time, as the driver cannot wait for late arrivals.

Meals and drinks are not included in this tour. A lunch stop is scheduled where participants can purchase food and beverages, and additional food and drinks are also available at the river rafting location.

No previous rafting experience is required. Full instructions and safety guidance are provided before the activity, making the tour suitable for beginners.

Rafting gear: wetsuit, life jacket, neoprene shoes, helmet, and paddle is provided for each participant.

Ratio for this tour is 1:10 per guide.

Children from 11 years old can join this tour as long as they are physically fit or do not have any medical conditions that prevent them from participating.

This tour is currently operated in English only.

More than 24 hours’ notice: full refund.
Less than 24 hours’ notice: no refund.

Yes. The itinerary and timings shown are estimates and may vary depending on weather, road conditions, traffic, pickup times, and the pace of the group.

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