Eyjafjallajökull Glacier: Snowmobile Tour with Local Guide

Summary

Snowmobiling on Eyjafjallajökull with views of volcano scars

You’ll ride a snowmobile across Eyjafjallajökull glacier with a local guide, stop at Goðasteinn for sweeping views of South Iceland and Westman Islands, and hear stories about the 2010 eruption. Warm gear and helmet are included—expect cold winds, big skies, and moments you’ll remember long after you’re back down.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the crunch — not just snow under boots, but that weird squeaky sound Icelandic snow makes when it’s really cold. We met our guide at Brúbasecamp (it’s just off Road 249, close to Seljalandsfoss waterfall — you can’t miss the spray if the wind’s right). He handed me this insulated suit that felt like wearing a sleeping bag, and I’m glad he did because the wind up there is no joke. My hands were already numb before we even started the engines.

I’d never been on a snowmobile before, so when our guide (his name was Jónas — he joked about his “volcano-proof” beard) explained the controls, I half-listened and half-watched clouds moving over Eyjafjallajökull. The ride itself? Fast in bursts, but mostly this steady hum as we climbed higher. There was this moment when he stopped us near Goðasteinn — apparently the highest point on Eyjafjallajökull — and pointed out where the 2010 eruption had changed everything. You could still smell something sharp in the air, almost metallic. I tried to picture what it must’ve looked like back then. Hard to imagine with all that white silence now.

We could see all the way to the Westman Islands — or at least Jónas said those dark shapes were them. He laughed when I squinted and asked if they ever get closer (they don’t). The light kept shifting; sometimes everything looked blueish, then suddenly gold for a minute. It’s strange how quiet it gets when everyone turns off their engines up there. Just wind and your own breath inside the helmet. I still think about that view sometimes — how small everything else felt from up there.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Snowmobiling on Eyjafjallajökull Glacier

• This tour begins at Brúbasecamp near Seljalandsfoss
• Explore Eyjafjallajökull Glacier
• View Westman Islands
• Visit Goðasteinn, highest point of Eyjafjallajökull
• Learn about 2010 Eyjafjallajökull eruption effects
• Bring warm outdoor clothing and hiking boots

Top questions

Where does the Eyjafjallajökull snowmobile tour start?

The tour begins at Brúbasecamp on Road 249, about 3km from Seljalandsfoss Waterfall.

Is special equipment provided for snowmobiling?

Yes, insulated coveralls, helmets, and balaclava face masks are provided.

Do I need previous experience to join this tour?

No experience is needed; it’s suitable for first-time riders.

What should I bring for the Eyjafjallajökull glacier tour?

You should bring warm outdoor clothing—waterproof jacket and trousers, warm hat or balaclava (provided if needed), gloves (also available), and sturdy hiking boots or shoes.

How high do we go during the tour?

The tour reaches Goðasteinn, which is 1666 meters high—the highest point of Eyjafjallajökull.

Are guides local experts?

Yes, tours are led by local guides familiar with Eyjafjallajökull and its history.

Is this day trip suitable for families?

The tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels; specialized infant seats are available.

What’s included

Your day includes guidance from a local expert who provides insulated coveralls to keep you warm on the glacier, along with a helmet and balaclava face mask for comfort during your snowmobile ride across Eyjafjallajökull.