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Adventure Activities Near Reykjavík

|May 2, 2018
Anthropologist, social media guru, Icelandic nature and food enthusiast.

Whether you’re on an extended stopover in Reykjavík or enjoying a city break, a holiday in the city doesn’t mean waving goodbye to your Icelandic adventure. Reykjavík is the perfect hub from which to explore the wildest, most untamed parts of Iceland. You’re only a short distance from your next adrenaline rush.


Whether you’re on an extended stopover in Reykjavík or simply enjoying a city break, a holiday in the city doesn’t mean waving goodbye to your Icelandic adventure.

Reykjavík is the perfect hub from which to explore the wildest, most untamed parts of Iceland.

From lava caving to speeds boats, you’re only a short distance from your next adrenaline rush.

Lava Caving Near Reykjavík

The land of ice and fire, Iceland’s volcanic history is clear to see no matter where you are in the country, from the Landmannalauger trail to The Great Geysir in Haukadalur. And Reykjavik is the perfect place to start your lava caving adventure with Raufarhólshellir lava tunnel tour just half hour away!

Lava caving gives visitors the opportunity to see Iceland from a completely different angle. Delve beneath the surface to discover the intricate tunnels and caves which were formed thousands of years ago.

On the tour, you’ll visit the Leidarendi and Gjabakkahellir lava caves, which give tourists the opportunity to explore the hidden world beneath the earth. The adventure begins when you reach the cave’s entrance and climb down to view the jagged rock formations, icicles (weather-permitting) and never-ending tunnels inside.

You don’t have to be an expert caver or climber to enjoy a great adventure activity. Book our Underworld Lava Caving Day Tour now to reserve your spot.

Ice Caving

Two and a half hours from Reykjavík, you’ll find Langjökull ice cave – a man-made cave found in Europe’s second largest glacier, Langjökull. The enormous glacier is one of Iceland’s most popular tourist attractions and is an awe-inspiring sight.

But hiding beneath the surface, you’ll find a magnificent ice cave. Famed for its jewel blue color and never-ending ice tunnels, the cave is a wonder to behold.

Thanks to Arctic Adventures’ Langjökull Super Truck and Ice Cave Tour, tourists staying the capital can easily visit the famous attraction. Riding in super jeeps, you’ll be picked up in Reykjavík before traveling to the top of the ice cap.

The steep climb is always fun and exciting! The jeeps can sometimes get stuck but don’t worry, your guides know exactly how to get free. Known as the ‘white glacier’, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the ice cap towards the surrounding high peaks.

Snorkel Between Two Tectonic Plates

Snorkeling in Silfra

Have the adventure of a lifetime while snorkeling between two tectonic plates with Arctic Adventures. Over millennia, the Silfra fissure was formed as the American and Eurasian plates separated at a rate of about 2cm each year.

Today, an underwater canyon and wonderful sub-aqua world exist, making it a haven for diving enthusiasts, who enjoy unparalleled visibility thanks to the water’s crystal-clear quality.

Water temperatures generally hover between 2°C and 4°C and while that may sound chilly, all divers will be properly insulated in an undersuit and dry suit. Whether you’re an experienced diver, novice or complete beginner, snorkelling the Silfra fissure is not to be missed!

Glacier Snowmobiling

With pick-up and drop-off from Reykjavík, snowmobiling across a glacier has never been easier. Get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and escape into Iceland’s vast wilderness by exploring Langjökull glacier, home to several volcano craters, mountain ranges and naturally, some of the most beautiful scenery in Iceland.

Such snowmobile adventures require no driving experience, as our expert guides will show you everything you need to know. All drivers will be provided with a snowmobile suit, balaclava, gloves and a helmet, however, we recommend bringing along warm thermals, socks and a waterproof layer.

Canyon Rafting

Hvítá river is found a short distance from Reykjavík and offers rafting fans the perfect combination of serene waters and adrenaline pumping rapids.

Rafting down the Hvítá river is a unique way to appreciate and enjoy Iceland’s nature and spectacular scenery. The river flows from the Langjökull glacier, Iceland’s second biggest glacier, before moving through Brúarhlöð canyon and feeding the famous Gullfoss waterfall.

In total, the tour lasts between 60 and 90 minutes. During this time, visitors will be able to get up close with some of Iceland’s most famous natural attractions and enjoy a thrilling boat tour.

Quad Biking

Riding full throttle through expansive and mountainous terrain is a sure-fire way to get your heart racing and blood pumping. Arctic Adventures’ quad biking tour takes place about 15 minutes from the city centre and is the ideal option for anyone who wants a great day out without the hassle of a long drive.  

On the tour, you’ll drive up Hafrafell mountain before reaching the summit and enjoying spectacular views over Reykjavík and Mount Esja. Typically this tour lasts one hour, but adrenaline junkies can choose to upgrade to our two-hour quad bike tour, the Mountain Cruiser, where you’ll explore rugged trails and lava fields.

Anyone interested in booking a quad bike tour should know that no experience is required. Our instructors will teach you everything you need to know.

Speed Boat Tour

Experience the sheer force of the Gullfoss waterfall from below while cruising down the Hvítá river on a high-powered speed boat tour. Jet through the imposing Gullfoss canyon and marvel at the impressive rock formations, steep cliffs, open deltas and white-water rapids.

Reaching top speeds, your heart will pump with exhilaration, as you feel the boat surge forward and manoeuvre through the canyon and open water.

Don’t worry, there’ll also be time to relax. After the tour, you can catch your breath at the Drumbó restaurant, enjoy a drink in the bar, or even take a sauna – bliss!

Learn more about Arctic Adventures’ wide range of day tours in Iceland.

Which tour do you think is the most exciting?

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