Iceland: East Glacial River Grade 4 Rafting & Drysuit Tour

Summary

Whitewater adrenaline in Iceland’s raw canyon wilderness

You’ll paddle through Iceland’s wildest whitewater with expert local guides, wrapped up snug in a full drysuit as you tackle Grade 4 rapids and drift through dramatic canyons. Expect riverside snacks, laughter (sometimes nervous), and moments where everything goes quiet except the river. If you want a real day trip from Akureyri that leaves your heart pounding — this is it.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I almost bailed when I saw the East Glacial River up close. It’s loud — like, you can feel it in your chest before you even get in. Our guide, Jón, just grinned and started handing out drysuits (which are way thicker than I expected). He told us not to worry about the cold — “You’ll be too busy paddling to notice,” he said. He was right, but I still double-checked my socks.

The first rapid hit harder than I thought possible. There’s this moment where you’re wedged between black canyon walls and all you can hear is water and shouting (some of it was me). The air actually smells clean — glacier clean? Not sure how else to say it. Jón kept yelling encouragement in both Icelandic and English, which made me laugh mid-paddle. My arms were jelly by halfway through but nobody seemed to care; we just floated and watched the cliffs go by for a bit.

After the last set of rapids, someone handed around hot chocolate that tasted like relief. My hands were shaking from adrenaline or cold or both — honestly couldn’t tell. We swapped stories with the guides while peeling off our gear (the gloves are weirdly hard to get off). There was this one guy from Akureyri who’d done it five times; he said it never gets old. I kind of believe him now.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Rafting on East Glacial River

• Arrive at East Glacial River Gorge
• Receive drysuit and safety gear
• Learn rafting basics from guides
• Raft through Grade 4/4+ rapids
• Enjoy deep canyon scenery
• Complete thrilling whitewater adventure

Top questions

Is prior rafting experience required for the East Glacial River tour?

No experience is needed; professional guides teach you everything on-site.

What equipment is provided for rafting in Iceland?

You get a full drysuit, helmet, gloves, booties, skull cap, PFD—everything needed for cold water rafting.

How do I get to the rafting base from Akureyri?

Transport from Akureyri is included if selected during booking; otherwise meet at the rafting base.

Are refreshments included on this day trip?

Yes—riverside snacks like hot chocolate are provided after rafting.

What’s the minimum age for this whitewater tour?

The minimum age is 18; younger travelers can contact organizers to discuss options.

Is this Grade 4 rafting trip suitable for beginners?

Yes—no prior experience is needed but moderate fitness helps.

What should I bring for rafting on the East Glacial River?

Bring thermal base layers, warm fleece or wool tops/pants, thick socks, spare clothes, medications if needed.

Can people with health conditions join this rafting adventure?

This tour isn’t recommended for those with spinal injuries, pregnancy, or poor cardiovascular health.

What’s included

Your day includes transport between Akureyri (if selected) and the river base, all necessary rafting equipment like a full drysuit with helmet and gloves, safety kayakers alongside qualified guides from the International Rafting Federation—and riverside refreshments after your run down Iceland’s wildest whitewater canyon.