Selfoss: Golden Circle Rafting Tour

The Selfoss: Golden Circle Rafting Tour offers a unique blend of adventure, natural beauty, and relaxation in Iceland’s famous Golden Circle area. For 3 to 8 hours, you’ll explore the Gullfoss canyon created by the Hvítá River, guided by trained professionals who cater to all rafting levels. The tour begins at the river base in Drumboddsstaðir, easily found with signs for Capitalize Arctic Rafting, and includes all necessary equipment like a wetsuit and life jacket to keep you warm and safe.

This guided trip provides a perfect mix of serene canyon views and exciting rapids, waves, and even cliff jumps. It’s a great choice for those wanting to experience Icelandic nature from a different perspective, with no previous rafting experience required. After the water adventure, many participants enjoy unwinding in a Finnish sauna and hot tub, and there’s a river restaurant to grab food or drinks. The entire experience is designed to be fun, safe, and memorable—although participants should be aware of weather-dependent cancellations and the need for suitable clothing.

Key Points

• Guided rafting experience on the Hvítá River, with all levels of expertise welcome
• 7-kilometer route through Gullfoss canyon and Brúarhlöð canyon
• Includes cliff jumping for an adrenaline rush, conditions permitting
• Wetsuits and safety gear provided to ensure comfort and safety
• Post-rafting relaxation options include a Finnish sauna, hot tub, and river restaurant
• Tours last from 3 to 8 hours, with flexible start times

You can check availability for your dates here:

Selfoss: Golden Circle Rafting Tour — An Adventure in Iceland’s Scenic Heart

This rafting tour from Selfoss takes you into the heart of the Golden Circle, offering a chance to see some of Iceland’s most striking natural sights from the water. The Hvítá River carves a stunning canyon that is best appreciated from a boat, giving access to views that aren’t visible from land. The route spans 7 kilometers, taking you past the Gullfoss waterfall and Brúarhlöð canyon—both spectacular sights seen from a unique vantage point.

The tour provides all necessary gear, including a wetsuit to guard against the cold and a life jacket for safety. The trained guides are experienced in managing groups at all levels, ensuring everyone feels comfortable whether it’s their first time rafting or they’re seasoned paddlers. The cliff jump, although weather- and conditions-dependent, offers a memorable thrill for those seeking an extra adrenaline boost. After paddling, many participants enjoy relaxing in a Finnish sauna and hot tub, adding a touch of comfort to the day.

Meeting Point and Logistics in Selfoss

The meeting point is at the river base in Drumboddsstaðir, marked by Capitalize Arctic Rafting signs. Guests are asked to arrive 15 minutes early for check-in, ensuring a smooth start. The tour includes optional pickup, but travelers should be ready 30 minutes before the scheduled start time if they opt for transportation. The coordinates for the base are 64.22888946533203, -20.285499572753906.

The tour’s flexible duration between 3 and 8 hours allows for a customized experience—whether visitors want a quick thrill or a longer exploration of the river and surrounding nature. The live tour guides speak English and Icelandic, providing informative commentary and safety instructions throughout.

What the Rafting Route Covers

During the 7-kilometer paddle, you’ll pass notable sites like Gullfoss waterfall, a powerful cascade that’s best viewed from the water, and the Brúarhlöð canyon, which offers dramatic cliffs and lush scenery. The guides ensure everyone gets close enough to appreciate these natural wonders without compromising safety.

The river’s waves and rapids range from gentle stretches perfect for relaxing to more energetic sections that get your heart pounding. The cliff jump is a highlight, but it remains subject to weather and safety conditions on the day of the trip. Many participants note that the mix of calm canyons and exciting rapids keeps the trip engaging without feeling overwhelming.

Safety and Equipment for Icelandic Weather

Given Iceland’s variable weather, the tour supplies wetsuits and thermal pants, and recommends bringing warm wool or fleece sweaters, wool socks, and a bathing suit for the river and sauna. Cotton clothing is discouraged because it doesn’t retain warmth if wet. The safety gear, including life jackets, is handled by trained guides, who also provide instructions and support throughout the trip.

Participants should be aware that alcohol and drugs are not permitted, and the tour may be canceled for safety reasons if weather conditions are unsuitable. Non-swimmers and pregnant women are not eligible for the tour, which is suitable for children 8 years and older.

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Post-Rafting Relaxation and Dining Options

After the paddling adventure, many find the Finnish sauna and hot tub particularly rejuvenating, especially after getting cold in the river. The River restaurant nearby offers the chance to enjoy local food and beverages, with options to order a cold drink or a hearty meal. Many reviews highlight the cozy atmosphere and friendly staff, making the entire experience feel welcoming and well-rounded.

Guides and Customer Service

The guides are praised for their friendly and knowledgeable approach. One named guide, Arjun, is noted for making the experience enjoyable and safe, ensuring everyone has a great time. The team’s responsiveness to requests and their professionalism stand out, as many reviews mention how much they appreciated the attentive service and the comfortable setup beforehand.

Comparing This Tour to Other Iceland Experiences

Along With the rafting, the provider offers a variety of related experiences, including lava tunnels, glacier hikes, natural baths, and zip-line adventures. These options can complement a broader trip to Iceland, especially if interested in outdoor activities beyond rafting.

Limitations and Considerations

While the tour is highly rated and offers a thrilling experience, it is weather-dependent. Rain and wind can lead to cancellations or rescheduling for safety. The cliff jump feature is not guaranteed every day, and participants should be prepared for varying conditions on the water.

This experience is best suited for active individuals who enjoy outdoor adventures, are comfortable in water, and are equipped with warm clothing. Children under 8, pregnant women, and non-swimmers are not recommended.

Why This Tour Stands Out in Iceland

What makes the Selfoss Golden Circle Rafting Tour especially appealing is the chance to see Iceland’s renowned natural sights from the river, with guides taking guests through an adventure-filled route that includes both scenery and excitement. The combination of adrenaline, scenic views, and post-activity relaxation creates a well-balanced day that appeals to both thrill-seekers and nature lovers.

The professional guides, clean safety equipment, and beautiful surroundings make this trip a reliable choice for visitors eager for an active outdoor experience in Iceland. The flexible timing and easy logistics further add to its appeal, making it accessible for a variety of schedules.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour caters to all levels of rafting experience, with trained guides managing the group and providing safety instructions.

What should I wear for the rafting?
Bring a warm wool or fleece sweater, thermal pants, wool socks, and a bathing suit. The tour supplies a wetsuit and life jacket.

Can I participate in cliff jumping?
Cliff jumping is offered but subject to weather and safety conditions on the day of the tour.

How long does the tour last?
The duration varies from 3 to 8 hours, depending on your chosen start time and the specific options you select.

Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is at the river base in Drumboddsstaðir, marked with Capitalize Arctic Rafting signs. Coordinates are 64.22888946533203, -20.285499572753906.

Are meals or drinks included?
Post-rafting, you can enjoy food and drinks at the River restaurant, where you can order a cold beverage or a meal.

Is alcohol allowed during the tour?
No, alcohol and drugs are not permitted during the activity for safety reasons.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour may be canceled for safety reasons if weather conditions are unsuitable, with the possibility of rescheduling or full refunds.

Can children join this tour?
Children under 8 years are not allowed, but older children and teenagers are welcome, provided they meet the safety requirements.

Is transportation provided?
Transport is optional; guests should be ready 30 minutes before the start if they choose the pickup service.

How do I book or pay?
You can reserve now and pay later to keep your plans flexible, with full refunds available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

This Selfoss: Golden Circle Rafting Tour combines the best of Icelandic nature, adventure, and relaxation, making it an excellent choice for those ready to experience the country’s wild beauty from a new perspective.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby