Snowmobiling in Iceland

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Have I mentioned that I’m not a fan of the cold? That being said, snowmobiling in Iceland is an extreme sport that I couldn’t say no to! We booked a snowmobile tour with Arcanum Adventure Tours and we were off to explore the Mýrdalsjökull glacier.

The Mýrdalsjökull glacier, located in South Iceland, soars to almost 5,000 feet. The icecap of the glacier sits atop the active volcano Katla, one of the many active volcanoes in Iceland, which hasn’t erupted for more than 100 years. Getting to the meeting point of the tour gave us a small taste of what we could expect as we drove up and up and up the mountain.

We arrived at the meeting point and were bundled up in the warmest, coziest ski suits you could imagine! In addition to the ski suits, we were provided with gloves and helmets and goggles and by the time we were all dressed, not an inch of skin was exposed! After a briefing about what to expect on the tour, we were loaded into a truck and taken further up the mountain to where the snowmobiles awaited us!

Going into this tour, I had never driven a snowmobile before and honestly, it’s surprisingly easy! There’s gas and brakes and steering and that’s it! After a learn-to-drive lesson and safety instructions, we were off! Note that you must be a licensed driver over the age of 17 to take this tour.

And just like that, we were off! It was truly like nothing I’ve ever experienced. It was a nearly perfect bluebird day (until it wasn’t) and it was blue sky and snow and rock formations as far as the eye could see. It felt like we were the only people left in the world as our guide took us around the landscape, making fresh tracks where no one had been before. Then, in the blink of an eye, a snow squall swept in, making the conditions near whiteout. It was honestly hard to see the horizon and see where the land ended and the sky began. In this moment I was incredibly grateful to our guide as I knew that without him, we would be lost on the ice cap, never to be seen again! It was thrilling with a side of slightly terrifying. And as quickly as the snow started, it passed and the sky cleared.

The whole experience lasted about two and a half hours from the time we arrived at the meeting point to the time we returned to our car. Plan for at least a half day for this excursion as getting up and down the mountain to the meeting point will take longer than you expect! We were happy to have snacks in our car because we were definitely hungry after the tour and it was a while before we got down the mountain and were able to get a real meal.

Planning a Snowmobiling Tour

Planning a snowmobiling tour in Iceland requires some preparation to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Here are some key things to consider:

First and foremost, choose a reputable tour operator. Look for a company with extensive experience in leading snowmobiling tours in Iceland and a solid safety record. This will give you peace of mind knowing that you’re in good hands.

Next, always check the weather before heading out. Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable, and snowmobiling tours can be affected by sudden changes. Keeping an eye on the forecast will help you prepare for any conditions you might encounter.

Dressing warmly is crucial. Snowmobiling can be a cold and windy activity, so make sure to wear layers and bring warm clothing. Good hiking shoes are also essential, as you’ll need sturdy footwear for the snowy terrain.

Don’t forget to bring any necessary gear recommended by your tour operator. This might include gloves, helmets, and goggles. Meeting at the designated meeting point, usually the snowmobiling base camp, is also important. Arriving on time ensures that you won’t miss any important safety briefings or instructions.

By following these tips, you’ll be well-prepared for an unforgettable snowmobiling adventure in Iceland!

Popular Snowmobiling Destinations

Iceland has several popular snowmobiling destinations, each offering a unique experience. Here are some of the most popular spots to consider:

Langjökull Glacier: As Iceland’s second-largest glacier, Langjökull is a favorite among snowmobiling enthusiasts. The glacier boasts stunning scenery and thrilling riding trails that will leave you in awe. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a beginner, Langjökull offers an unforgettable experience.

Vatnajökull Glacier: Known as Europe’s largest glacier, Vatnajökull is a must-visit destination for anyone passionate about snowmobiling. The glacier’s breathtaking scenery and diverse riding trails make it a top choice for adventurers. Exploring Vatnajökull on a snowmobile is an experience like no other.

Mýrdalsjökull Glacier: Located in southern Iceland, Mýrdalsjökull is another popular destination for snowmobiling tours. The glacier is renowned for its stunning landscapes and exciting riding trails. With the active volcano Katla lying beneath its ice cap, Mýrdalsjökull offers a unique and thrilling adventure.

Each of these destinations provides a different perspective on Iceland’s incredible natural beauty. No matter which glacier you choose to explore, you’re in for an exhilarating ride through some of the most stunning scenery on the planet.

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