Snowmobile Tour on Vatnajökull Glacier — Smyrlabjörg Glacier Ride
Power through Europe’s largest ice cap on a driven snowmobile ride from Smyrlabjörg. This 3‑hour Vatnajökull tour mixes high‑speed glacier travel with on‑terrain geology and practical safety briefings.
The Experience
Before You Go
Wear waterproof boots
Boots aren’t provided — bring insulated, waterproof hiking boots to keep feet warm and dry.
Bring a driver’s license
A valid driver’s license is required to operate a snowmobile; bring original ID to the base camp.
Pack a small daypack
Carry water, snacks, and a camera with a secure strap — pockets can freeze and drops are final on ice.
Arrive 30 minutes early
Check in at the base camp by Hotel Smyrlabjörg 30 minutes before departure; late arrivals may forfeit the booking.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Stop at the 1,000‑meter viewpoint on the ice for a quieter panorama away from Ring Road viewpoints
- •Combine the tour with a sunrise visit to Jökulsárlón lagoon for seal sightings and floating ice before or after your ride
Wildlife
- •Seals at Jökulsárlón and nearby lagoons
- •Arctic fox sightings on coastal stretches and heathland
Conservation Note
Vatnajökull is sensitive to climate change and human impact; stay on guided routes, avoid disturbing ice features, and follow guide instructions to minimize footprint.
Vatnajökull sits atop active volcanic deposits; eruptions under the ice have shaped the glacier’s crevassed surface and formed subglacial melt features.
Photographer's Notes
- • 1,000‑meter mountain viewpoint on the glacier
- • Edge of the icefield near the base camp
- • Roadside pullouts between Smyrlabjörg and Jökulsárlón
What to Bring
Waterproof hiking bootsEssential
Keeps feet dry and provides ankle support — boots are not supplied.
Thermal base layersEssential
Traps warmth and helps regulate body temperature between stops.
Goggles or sunglassesEssential
Protects eyes from wind, glare, and ice particles on bright days.
Small insulated daypack
Carries water, snacks, spare gloves, and a camera securely.
Common Questions
Do I need a driver’s license to ride?
Yes — operators require a valid driver’s license to operate a snowmobile; bring it to check-in.
Are boots provided?
No — warm overalls, helmets, gloves, and neck warmers are included, but boots are not; bring waterproof footwear.
What are the weight limits?
Combined weight on one snowmobile must not exceed 180 kg (390 lbs); heavier guests must book single machines.
Can tours be cancelled for weather?
Yes — tours may be cancelled due to unsafe weather or insufficient travelers; full refunds are available if cancelled 24+ hours prior.
Is this suitable for beginners?
Yes — tours are suitable for beginners with a short safety briefing and guided routes, but basic physical mobility and cold tolerance are required.
Where is the meeting point?
Meet at the operator’s base camp beside Hotel Smyrlabjörg, 46 km west of Höfn and 34 km east of Jökulsárlón — arrive 30 minutes before departure.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
3 hours
Location
Höfn, Austurland
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Basic to moderate fitness; must be able to stand and brace on a moving snowmobile and tolerate cold for several hours.
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