Iceland Snowmobiling Guide: Essential Tips & Insights

A Brief History of Snowmobiling

Photo from Wikimedia, Creative Commons, by Bombardier. No edits were made.

For those unfamiliar with northern climates—places like Minnesota, Finland, or British Columbia—snowmobiling may seem a puzzling concept. Yet, not too long ago, it was a mystery even to humanity as a whole. The Wright brothers achieved powered flight in 1903, but it would take another five years for anyone to devise a mechanical means of navigating the Arctic terrain.

That breakthrough came from French-Canadian inventor Joseph-Armand Bombardier, who began selling his seven-passenger B7 snowmobiles in the mid-1930s. These were formidable machines, more akin to steam locomotives than the sleek, agile snowmobiles we know today.

In the aftermath of World War II, Bombardier shifted gears, focusing on developing compact one and two-seat snowmobiles tailored for recreational use. Though initial sales were sluggish, by the time of his passing in the 1960s, thousands of units had found their way into the markets of North America.

Since then, recreational snowmobiling has blossomed into a colossal segment of winter sports, with trails dedicated to adventurers seeking to experience nature from a thrilling new vantage point. Across diverse climates and terrains—from the USA to Argentina—enthusiasts have embraced this exhilarating activity. Iceland, with its vast glaciers and pristine snowfields, offers a breathtaking environment ideal for both novices and seasoned riders alike.

Snowmobiling Culture in Iceland

Snowmobiling has quickly developed a lingo of its own, creating a rich, albeit quirky vocabulary that can confound newcomers.

Recreational snowmobiling typically embraces terms like trail riding, freestyle, and snowcross. On the more eccentric side, riders may also use expressions such as boondocking, grass drags, and ditch banging to describe their adventures.

A blend of snow and dirt is aptly termed snirt, while the enthusiasts themselves are often called Sled Heads. The vehicle, depending on whom you’re talking to, might be referred to as a ski-doo, mustard bucket, or even banana. And when a friend needs rescuing after a breakdown, it’s humorously dubbed Brokeback Riding. The jargon can feel overwhelming at first, but the rush of wind on your face and the sensation of gliding over snow need no translation. It strikes a balance between meditative serenity and sheer exhilaration—a blend so profound I might just coin the term medhilirating to capture it.

These guides are exceptional at introducing the basics of snowmobiling, covering everything from the machine’s controls to essential safety protocols. Don’t let any apprehensions hold you back; while powerful, the snowmobiles here are specifically designed for ease of use, especially for beginners. Remember: one hand for the brake and the other for the throttle. The rest will soon become intuitive.

Just be mindful not to get bucked! (That’s snowmobiling slang for taking an unexpected tumble, I assure you!) In Iceland, snowmobiles can be more powerful than those typically found elsewhere, capable of reaching speeds exceeding 70 km/h. Be prepared for the jolt as you pull the throttle; you’re in the driver’s seat of a formidable machine, after all!

While speed can be thrilling, excessive racing is neither advised nor rewarded. Naturally, it remains a thrilling endeavor, but finding a pace that suits your comfort is key. In the event of a white-out (a blizzard) on the mountain, guides will adjust the pace or may even cancel the tour. In extreme sports, respect for nature and fellow riders is paramount.

Riders often stress the importance of being ‘defensive drivers.’ This calls for a heightened awareness of potential dangers and a keen attentiveness to both the machine and the environment. Stay vigilant for:

• Thin ice
• Open bodies of water
• Oncoming snowmobiles
• Hidden obstacles
• Road crossings
• Unexpected turns and halts
• Other trail users
• Trees and branches
• Wildlife
• Bridges and approaches
• Incoming blizzards

Self-assurance and proper gear are two of the most crucial traits for any snowmobiler. Mastering these fundamentals unlocks a sense of real freedom, allowing you to fully appreciate the potential of both the snowmobile and the exhilarating sport itself. It’s no wonder that snowmobiling boasts such a massive global following today.

Snowmobiling Prerequisites & Equipment

As with any adventurous pursuit, having at least a basic understanding of the equipment used is highly recommended.

The snowmobiles in Iceland come in both one-seat and “2-up” configurations, allowing you to choose between taking the driver’s seat or riding as a passenger. To drive, one must be at least 18 years old and possess a valid international driver’s license, while passengers must be a minimum of six (though this can vary between operators, so checking with your tour provider is wise). Consumption of alcohol before embarking on a tour is strictly prohibited—drunk driving is the primary cause of snowmobiling fatalities.

In terms of attire, guides provide waterproof winter overalls (often a polyester onesie), thick gloves, a balaclava, and, of course, a helmet. Visitors should come prepared with warm clothing, sturdy hiking shoes, a camera, and a packed lunch—food amenities are nonexistent on the glaciers.

Where is the Best Place to Take a Snowmobiling Tour in Iceland?

With around eleven percent of its land cloaked in glaciers, Iceland provides a myriad of locations to embark on a snowmobiling adventure.

No matter which corner of the country you visit, thrilling rides await, framed by breathtaking natural beauty.

Snowmobiling at Langjokull

Langjokull—translating to “The Long Glacier”—is Iceland’s second-largest glacier, surpassed only by Vatnajokull. Spanning over 953 square kilometers across the highlands of West Iceland, Langjokull boasts an ice sheet that can reach thicknesses of up to 500 meters.

Buried beneath this vast expanse lie one or more volcanic calderas, remnants of an ancient volcano. Fortunately, the area surrounding Langjokull has been relatively quiet geologically, with only 32 eruptions in the past 10,000 years.

Yet, be prepared to be awestruck; riding across Langjokull can make you feel like a mere speck against its sweeping landscapes. Amid powdery slopes and icy ridges, snowmobilers zip along in a flurry of vibrant polyester, amidst an endless white horizon.

Getting to the snowmobiling base camp at Langjokull poses its own challenges, but a super jeep and qualified guides will transport you from Reykjavik or, often, Gullfoss waterfall, thanks to the glacier’s proximity to the popular Golden Circle route.

Many visitors choose to complement their snowmobiling experience at Langjökull with snorkeling excursions at Silfra Fissure in Thingvellir National Park or tours along the Golden Circle, which includes Gullfoss waterfall, Geysir, and Thingvellir.

Snowmobiling at Myrdalsjokull

Myrdalsjokull is Iceland’s southernmost glacier and the fourth largest, with a 250-meter-thick ice sheet that encloses the 10-kilometer-wide caldera of the Katla volcano.

Contrasting with the relatively calm activity around Langjokull, Katla maintains a reputation for being “very active,” erupting approximately every 13 to 95 years. Since 930 AD, there have been sixteen recorded eruptions, with the latest ones occurring in 1955, 1999, and 2011—thankfully without breaching the glacial surface.

Scientists closely monitor seismic activity around Katla, particularly in the wake of the Eyjafjallajökull eruption in 2010, which was captured in dramatic headlines worldwide. The former President of Iceland, Ólafur Grímsson, famously remarked that the Eyjafjallajökull eruption was merely “a mild rehearsal.” Concerns remain that it’s not a matter of if Katla will erupt, but rather when it will happen.

What could add more adrenaline to your snowmobiling outing than the knowledge that you’re traversing a glacier adjacent to such geological drama?

The experience begins at the Solheimakot farm base camp, where guides brief participants on essential information and provide all necessary gear. From there, adventurers hop into a super jeep for an ascent up the mountain. Once at the glacier, the snowmobiles await, and the real excitement begins.

Snowmobiling at Vatnajokull

Vatnajokull, known as Europe’s largest glacier, covers about eight percent of Iceland’s landmass, reaching depths of 1,000 meters in certain areas and hosting over thirty outlet glaciers. This colossal icecap conceals numerous active volcanoes, including Bardabunga, which last erupted in 2015 and could spring back to life at any moment.

Snowmobiling tours on Vatnajokull run from March to October, allowing explorers to marvel at its immense beauty and soar across its slopes throughout the summer months. This is particularly convenient for travelers exploring the ring road, with departure points situated strategically between the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon and Hofn.

Within this vast ice expanse, prepare to traverse untouched snowy plains, navigate dramatic ridges of ice and rock, and soak in stunning views across Iceland’s captivating landscapes.

Snowmobiling from Akureyri

For those venturing north, snowmobiling opportunities also exist from Akureyri, Iceland’s northernmost “city.” Here, rather than glaciers, riders traverse the rolling expanse of Sulumyrar—a grazing area perched 500 meters above sea level and close to Glerardalur canyon and Holmarnir (“The Holmar”).

The landscape here, blanketed in pristine snow, creates an inviting canvas for adventurous spirits. Sulumyrar’s flatter terrain enhances the opportunity to push both the snowmobile and your limits.

Smaller hills enable riders to experience the thrill of jumping the snowmobile—an exhilarating taste of the sport’s extreme potential. Akureyri itself is a delightful town to visit, one of Iceland’s lesser-known gems, boasting attractions like the Christmas House, beautiful botanical gardens, and the iconic Akureyrarkirkja church.

When the adrenaline begins to ebb, take a breather with whale watching or a short boat trip to the tiny Grimsey Island.

Snowmobiling on Trollaskagi

The renowned Trollaskagi—literally “Troll’s Peninsula”—offers another breathtaking snowmobiling destination in Iceland, well-known for full-day tours.

Famous for its backcountry skiing, this mountainous terrain between the fjords of Skagafjordur and Eyjafjordur offers thrilling challenges and stunning scenery, with Dalvik being the nearest town.

Springtime adventures provide the chance to ride beneath the midnight sun, while winter brings the magical aurora borealis to dance across the snow-laden landscapes.

An undeniable enchantment surrounds the area, filled with deep gorges, snow-draped valleys, and wide-open plains. With its rich ecology, geological wonders, and vibrant birdlife, the region creates an unforgettable snowmobiling experience.

Ready to be a trailblazer?

For aspiring snowmobilers, the options are nearly endless across Iceland. Yet, for many newcomers eager to dive into the adventure, glacier snowmobiling tours shine as the ultimate experience.

There’s no other way to embrace the thrill, the velocity, and the awe-inspiring beauty of Iceland’s rugged terrain quite like this.

So, whether you’re yearning for an adrenaline rush racing across glaciers, wishing to soak in panoramic views of Iceland’s icy wonderlands, or simply eager to try something new and exhilarating, snowmobiling in Iceland promises an unforgettable experience. Which glacier do you dream of exploring aboard a snowmobile?