If you’re dreaming of zooming across a glacier and stepping into an icy world carved out by nature itself, the Snowmobiling & Natural Ice Cave tour near Geysir might catch your eye. While we haven’t personally strapped into a snowmobile on this exact trip, we’ve researched this experience thoroughly to help you decide if it’s right for you.
What stands out immediately are the stunning landscapes you’ll see and the knowledgeable guides who lead the way. The thrill of racing across the Langjökull Glacier combined with exploring a natural ice cave offers a mix of adventure and awe. However, a couple of reviews mention issues with organization and group size, which are worth considering. This tour is ideal for adventure lovers, families with older children, and anyone eager to add a bit of icy excitement to their Iceland itinerary.
Key Points
- Spectacular scenery on the glacier and surrounding landscapes.
- Accessible for beginners with no prior snowmobile experience needed.
- Includes a visit to a natural ice cave, an extraordinary ice world formed by nature.
- Super jeep transfer offers a comfortable and scenic ride to the glacier.
- Group size is limited to 32 travelers, but some reviews cite organization issues.
- Pricing offers good value for a half-day adventure, including equipment and expert guides.
The Itinerary Breakdown
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in South Iceland.
Starting Point at Skjol Campground
You’ll meet your guides at Skjol Campground, situated conveniently on the famous Golden Circle route, between Geysir and Gullfoss. This location is perfect for travelers exploring the south Iceland highlights, providing easy access to the adventure without extra travel fuss.
The Scenic Superjeep Transfer
From the meeting point, you’ll hop into a Super jeep—a rugged, off-road vehicle designed for Iceland’s tough terrain. This part of the journey is often praised for its scenic drive. We love the way this transfer sets the tone, giving you a preview of the incredible Icelandic wilderness. It’s both comfortable and fun, with knowledgeable guides pointing out interesting sights along the way.
Arriving at the Glacier Base Camp
Once at the glacier, you’ll quickly gear up in the provided snowmobile suits, gloves, a balaclava, and a helmet—all essential to stay warm and safe. Our sources tell us guides are experienced and helpful, which can make a big difference for first-timers.
Snowmobiling on Langjökull Glacier
The highlight of the tour is the snowmobile ride—a chance to race across the snow and ice with a partner sharing the vehicle. The ride is about 5 hours in total, but the actual snowmobiling is roughly the core activity. Guides provide clear instructions, making this accessible even if you’ve never driven a snowmobile before.
One review from Jessica says, “Bonita experiencia en el glaciar,” highlighting the beauty of the glacier environment. The snowmobiling itself offers stunning views of the icy plains, with the shimmer of snow and the vastness of the glacier creating a truly memorable backdrop.
Exploring the Natural Ice Cave
After a short safety briefing and some photographs, you’ll venture into a natural ice cave. These caves are formed by the glacier itself and are a rare sight, full of shimmering blue ice and otherworldly formations. A review mentions that “la cueva es una cueva pequeña pero suma a la experiencia un extra bonito,” emphasizing it as a meaningful highlight.
Returning to Base Camp and Back to Skjol
Following your ice cave visit, you’ll return to the base camp, then transfer back to the starting point. The journey back offers more scenic views and an opportunity to discuss the glacier’s fascinating features with guides.
The Value of This Tour
For $319.02 per person, this experience packs a lot of value. It includes all necessary equipment, a super jeep transfer, guides, a snowmobile ride, and a visit to a natural ice cave—all in about five hours. Considering the uniqueness of the glacier environment and the activity’s adventurous spirit, many travelers find this to be a worthwhile investment.
However, some reviews mention organizational hiccups—such as waiting times or group congestion—which could affect smaller or more time-sensitive groups. Still, the guides’ knowledge and the spectacular scenery generally make up for these minor issues.
Who Will Enjoy This Experience?
This tour is best suited for adventure seekers who want to experience Iceland’s icy landscapes up close. It’s also suitable for families with children over 8 years old, thanks to the no prior experience requirement and manageable group size. If you love outdoor activities and are eager to see a glacier from a different perspective, this tour offers a memorable way to do so.
Practical Considerations
- Duration: Around 5 hours, including transfer and activity time.
- Meeting/Ending Point: Skjol Campground, Geysir area.
- Weather Dependency: The tour is weather-dependent; poor conditions can lead to cancellations or rescheduling.
- Group Size: Limited to 32 travelers, though some reviews note crowding at certain points.
- Children: Not suitable for children under 8.
- What’s Not Included: Lunch, so plan accordingly.
Authenticity and Experience
What we love about this experience is how it combines adventure with natural beauty. The guides’ expertise seems to be a strong point, enhancing safety and understanding. The scenic drive and the ice cave visit elevate the tour beyond just a snowmobile ride—they add educational and awe-inspiring moments.
The stunning vistas of the glacier and surrounding volcanic landscapes make it clear why this part of Iceland is a magnet for adventurers. The ice cave, even if small, offers a glimpse into a frozen world that few get to see firsthand.
Final Thoughts
This tour provides a solid introduction to Iceland’s glacier wilderness in a way that’s accessible and exciting. Its inclusion of a natural ice cave enhances the sense of discovery and gives you a tangible connection to the icy environment.
While organization may sometimes be a concern, the overall experience offers spectacular views and a genuine sense of adventure. It’s perfect for those craving a thrill, families with older children eager for a safe yet exhilarating activity, or anyone wanting to tick off a big icy adventure from their Iceland bucket list.
If you’re prepared for a half-day of snow, ice, and scenic drives, and you value expert guidance, this tour will likely leave you with unforgettable memories.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, but only for children aged 8 and older. Younger children may find the cold and activity challenging.
What should I wear?
You’ll be provided with snowmobile suits, gloves, a balaclava, and a helmet. It’s advisable to wear warm, layered clothing underneath for comfort.
How long is the snowmobile ride?
The snowmobile activity itself is part of a 5-hour experience. The exact time spent snowmobiling isn’t specified, but guides will give instructions beforehand.
Can I drive the snowmobile myself?
No, snowmobiles are shared. Each vehicle accommodates two persons, with instructions provided by guides.
Is the ice cave large or small?
According to reviews, the ice cave is small but adds a special touch to the overall experience.
What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, the tour limits groups to 32 travelers, which helps manage the experience and safety.
Do I need prior snowmobile experience?
No prior experience is necessary. Guides will give instructions and safety briefings before you start.
This snowmobiling adventure from Geysir blends adrenaline, stunning scenery, and a touch of icy magic. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a family wanting a memorable day in Iceland’s wilderness, it’s an experience worth considering.