Kayaking near Akureyri: Svartá River guided paddle

Two hours drifting down a river where horses outnumber people

Guided kayaking on the Svartá River near Akureyri takes you down a gentle waterway through Skagafjörður fjord in a sit-on-top kayak, with a live English-speaking guide, all safety gear and equipment included. The river winds through mountain views and local wildlife habitat. If conditions allow, you may spot horses grazing on the banks. A guide helps you choose a starting point suited to your comfort level, from a few splashes to a relaxing drift. After paddling, you have access to hot tubs and a small swimming pool.

The experience

The Svartá River flows through one of North Iceland's most distinctive landscapes: a region where horses genuinely outnumber people. You'll paddle an open-top kayak down this gentle current for around two hours, moving at whatever pace suits you. The guide picks a starting point that matches your appetite (whether you want active paddling or a quieter float), and stays with you throughout. All equipment and safety gear come with the booking.

The river itself is the draw. It meanders through Skagafjörður fjord surrounded by north Iceland mountain views, and the water is calm enough for anyone at any skill level. You will get wet due to the kayak's open design, so expect splashes rather than immersion. The real possibility of seeing horses on the banks (animals that genuinely outnumber the human population in this corner of Iceland) gives the paddle a lived-in quality most river trips don't have.

After you finish paddling, the booking includes access to hot tubs and a small swimming pool, a practical touch in Iceland's climate. The activity is weather dependent, so conditions on the day will shape how the paddle feels. An air-conditioned vehicle is part of the arrangement, handling transport to and from the river.

What’s included

• All kayaking equipment and safety gear.
• a live English-speaking guide for the full paddle.
• air-conditioned vehicle transport.
• access to hot tubs and a small swimming pool after the activity.

Before you book

Days and timesNext departure: 13 Jun 2027

Book up to5h before

AgesAdult (12 to 70 years) · Under 12: can't be included in the booking

GroupUp to 15

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 6 days ago

Good to know

Easy physical levelNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditionsNot for back problems

Operated by Bakkaflot

Is this one for you?The paddle takes about two hours on calm water with a guide choosing your starting point, so it suits anyone looking for a gentle float rather than an athletic push. Sit-on-top kayaks mean you'll get wet, so come ready for splashes and water contact, not a dry ride.

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Top questions

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What's the Svartá River like to paddle on?

The Svartá River is a gentle waterway that winds through Skagafjörður fjord with mountain views and local wildlife around you. It's calm enough for paddlers of any skill level, and your guide helps you pick a starting point that matches whether you want active paddling or a relaxing drift down the current.

Will I actually see horses on the river?

Horses are common in this part of North Iceland (it's the only region where they outnumber people), so there's a genuine chance you'll spot them grazing on the banks. If they're in the mood, they may even follow you for a stretch, though nothing is guaranteed.

How wet do you get in a sit-on-top kayak?

You will get wet due to the open-top design, so expect splashes and water contact. It's not immersion, but it's not a dry ride either. Bring a swimsuit and thermal underwear if you're sensitive to cold water.

What happens after the paddle?

After kayaking, you have access to hot tubs and a small swimming pool included with the booking. An air-conditioned vehicle handles transport to and from the river.

Is there an age requirement for this kayaking?

The minimum age is 12 years old. Children younger than 12 can join if accompanied by a parent or guardian. Let the operator know when you book if you're bringing anyone under 12.

What should I bring or wear?

Bring a swimsuit, thermal underwear, and a towel. All kayaking equipment and safety gear are provided. The activity is weather dependent, so dress for conditions on the day.