
River Rafting on the Golden Circle
Traveler rating
4.9/5
Based on 145 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is River Rafting on the Golden Circle worth booking?
River Rafting on the Golden Circle is a 3-hour experience in Reykjavik, Iceland, from €111 per person. It scores 78 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 4.9/5 rating across 145 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 78 / 100
- Rating
- 4.9/5 (145)
- Duration
- 3 hours
- From
- €111 per person
River rafting on a glacial river. Fun outdoor activity for the whole family. River rafting in the middle of the beautiful Icelandic nature.
What you get
About this experience
River rafting on a glacial river. Fun outdoor activity for the whole family. River rafting in the middle of the beautiful Icelandic nature.
What's included
Included
- All rafting gear included
Not included
- Towel
- Dinner
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Reykjavik
All of our rafting tours begin from Drumbó river base ( a.k.a our headquarters) and there we get geared up for rafting and river trips. Drumbó is 98 kilometers from Reykjavík, about 1.5 hours in a car. You can find us on Google maps by searching for “Drumboddsstaðir - River Base”
Hotel pickup
Pickup is available for selected locations. Pickup begins about 120 minutes before departure.
Ends at
All of our rafting tours begin from Drumbó river base ( a.k.a our headquarters) and there we get geared up for rafting and river trips. Drumbó is 98 kilometers from Reykjavík, about 1.5 hours in a car. You can find us on Google maps by searching for “Drumboddsstaðir - River Base”
Options you can book
River Rafting in South Iceland
Pick up from Reykjavík
Pick up Pickup included
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 30 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Arctic Rafting
Know before you go
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Photos





What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 145 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
6 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
3 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Food and drink
3 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Good for families
2 mentionsReviewers traveling with kids report it landed well with their group.
Traveler reviews
145 verified traveler reviews for River Rafting on the Golden Circle. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
this was my favorite tour...
this was my favorite tour of my trip and I did many tours in Iceland. The drive to the base camp is pretty long so be prepared for that. The activity itself was pretty fun and I believe her name is Georgie, the manager. She was very chill. After the rafting, I had a great time in the sauna with a beer and a meal. Overall I recommend this tour to anyone who is visiting!
via Viator
Good fun
You go through some rapids in the river and get a bit wet. Staff provide all of the necessary gear - wetsuits, helmet and life jacket. You have the option of doing a cliff jump
via Viator
Little bit of adventure little bit of serenity
We loved this tour. It was a mix of adrenaline and beautiful scenery. It does get cold, but it’s worth it. The hot tubs at the end were awesome to relax in. The only weird thing is they offer you a drink post the experience - just note - these are not complimentary. The food service was closed the day we were there which was strange. Really great tour and great facilities. If you enjoy adventure I recommend this company.
via Tripadvisor
Excellent fun
Fantastic experience! Zac our instructor was absolutely amazing - experienced, kind funny and super helpful. Facilities were clean and all staff were helpful. A must do if you have an active family and are visiting Iceland !
via Tripadvisor
Great Experience
I had the most amazing time at Arctic Rafting today. Our guide Gerogia, was so knowledgeable and professional. She made sure that everyone was properly aware of safety protocols and everyone was having a fun amazing time. She knew I was scared/apprehensive going on the tour due to some bad experiences in the USA, and she made sure I was comfortable. I am on the heavy set side and they had equipment to suit my size which was reassuring. I went with my husband and 11 year daughter and they had a blast! Thank you Geroria and team for the great time today.
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 3 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- €111 to €202
- Hotel pickup
- Available for selected locations
- Booked in 30 days
- 51
- Verdict
- Strongly Recommended
Why this scores 78
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
River Rafting on the Golden Circle: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Reykjavik.
How much does River Rafting on the Golden Circle cost?
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Prices start at €111 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Reykjavik usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does River Rafting on the Golden Circle take?
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Plan for about 3 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Reykjavik is not rushed.
Is River Rafting on the Golden Circle worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 78 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.9/5 across 145 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Reykjavik, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule River Rafting on the Golden Circle?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is River Rafting on the Golden Circle suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 3-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book River Rafting on the Golden Circle?
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Around 51 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Reykjavik can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Reykjavik and add a light layer if any part of the 3-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does River Rafting on the Golden Circle start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Reykjavik within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Reykjavik?
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On Outty we rank every Reykjavik experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Reykjavik Food Walk - Local Foodie Adventure in Iceland, Silfra Snorkeling Between Continents Photos Included- Self Drive, Small-Group Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon with Ticket & Kerid Crater. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Reykjavik?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Reykjavik?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in River Rafting on the Golden Circle?
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Included: All rafting gear included. Not included: Towel; and Dinner. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does River Rafting on the Golden Circle include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered, or you can meet at the start point instead from 61 listed pickup locations in and around Reykjavik. Be ready about 120 minutes before the start time.
What languages is River Rafting on the Golden Circle offered in?
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It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for River Rafting on the Golden Circle?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is River Rafting on the Golden Circle wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Not recommended for pregnant travelers. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to River Rafting on the Golden Circle if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about River Rafting on the Golden Circle?
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Across 145 reviews averaging 4.9 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, food and drink. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
What booking options are available for River Rafting on the Golden Circle?
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There are 2 options to choose from, including River Rafting in South Iceland, Pick up from Reykjavík. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
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