Snowmobiling in Iceland happens on glaciers including Langjokull and Myrdalsjokull, and it runs year-round, weather permitting. On Langjokull, access is from the Gullfoss and Geysir area on the Golden Circle route or from the Husafell area in west Iceland. On the South Coast, tours run on top of Myrdalsjokull, which covers close to 600 square kilometres.

What glacier snowmobiling in Iceland is like

Glacier snowmobiling in Iceland is done as a guided activity. Tours are guided by experienced, licensed glacier snowmobiling guides.

Before departure, guides give a safety briefing and driving instruction. No prior experience is needed. Once the tour starts, guides lead the group across the glacier and handle safety procedures throughout.

Where you can go: Langjokull and Myrdalsjokull

Langjokull is where snowmobiling is done in Iceland's second-largest glacier. It is reached from the Gullfoss and Geysir area on the Golden Circle route. Langjokull tours also depart from the Husafell area in west Iceland.

On the South Coast, tours run on top of Myrdalsjokull, the ice cap over the Katla volcano. Myrdalsjokull is one of Iceland's largest ice caps, covering close to 600 square kilometres.

What is provided and what to wear

Operators usually provide a thermal overall or snowsuit, helmet, gloves, and goggles. A balaclava is commonly supplied along with the overalls and helmet.

Boots vary by operator. Some provide boots, while others ask you to bring warm waterproof hiking boots.

Under the outer gear, warm thermal or fleece layers are recommended.

Driving rules, licence, and sharing a snowmobile

A valid driver's licence is normally required to drive your own snowmobile.

Two people can share one snowmobile.

Seasons, weather, and reaching the glacier base

Snowmobiling runs year-round on the glaciers, weather permitting.

Before the ride starts, you reach the glacier base by super-jeep or glacier truck. Conditions and closures can change, so check safetravel.is and road.is before travelling.

How to choose and book a glacier snowmobiling tour

Tour listings differ by glacier area and by what gear is included, especially boots. The access point also varies: a Langjökull snowmobiling tour may depart from the Golden Circle side or the Husafell area, while South Coast trips run on Myrdalsjokull.

For current tour options, inclusions, and booking details, see ice cave tours.

Plan for changing conditions

Iceland road conditions provides the current road information to check before a trip that includes Snowmobiling in Iceland: Glacier Basics.