What whales and wildlife might I see?

The tour targets whales, dolphins, and seabirds in Faxaflói Bay. Sightings are not guaranteed but the waters are known for marine activity during the May–October season.

How difficult is the whitewater rafting?

The 60–90 minute rafting descent on Hvítá River is described as thrilling but suitable for ages 11+. Exact difficulty level is not specified; wetsuits and safety equipment are provided.

Is hotel pickup really included?

Yes. Your hotel is included in the tour; pickups occur between 8:15–8:45 a.m. for the whale watching portion, and return transport from the rafting basecamp is included.

How much time is spent driving?

The rafting basecamp is ~100 km from Reykjavík, meaning approximately 2+ hours of travel time combined. This is separate from the 3 hours whale watching and 60–90 minutes of rafting.

What should I bring besides a bathing suit?

Bring a towel, waterproof bag for valuables, and comfortable shoes for transfers. Layers are recommended under your wetsuit, as glacial water is cold even in summer.

When is the best time to book?

The tour runs May through mid-October. Early in the season (May–June) and during shoulder months often offer the best balance of whale activity and weather stability.

1 / 6

Whales & White Water Rafting

(3)

Reykjavík, Iceland

RaftingWhale WatchingSightseeing Tours

Instant confirmationSecure checkoutNo hidden fees

About this activity

Combine two iconic Icelandic water adventures in a single day: three hours of whale watching in Faxaflói Bay followed by an exhilarating 60–90 minute whitewater rafting descent down the glacial Hvítá River in Gullfoss Canyon. This full-day combo maximises your time on the water while showcasing Iceland's dramatic wildlife and landscape.

This tour combines two true adventures on the water. After exploring the wonders of the whales and birds it it is time to set your adrenaline free - rafting down the glacial river Hvítá admiring its stunningly beautiful landscape.

Available: May - mid October
Duration: 10 hrs. approx.
Min age: 11 yrs.

Enjoy 3 hrs. at sea in the stunning Faxaflói bay searching for whales and other wildlife on our Classic Whale Watching tour. You will be picked up at your hotel by our shuttle bus between 8:15 and 8:45 for the whale watching tour starting at 9:00 from Reykjavík's Old Harbour. Travel the seas in search for whales, dolphins and birdlife while enjoying the incredible views on the horizon. After exploring the wonders of Faxaflói bay and the beautiful creatures that live there, Arctic Rafting bus will pick you up by our ticket office between 12:30-13:00.

You will be driven to Drumboddsstaðir rafting base camp which is about 100 km. from Reykjavík where the river rafting takes place in Gullfoss Canyon. The total duration of the rafting is around 60-90 min. The nature and scenery on the rafting trail is stunning and adds that something special to an otherwise exciting and thrilling ride. Once back at the basecamp you can relax in the sauna or hot tub before being driven back to your hotel by Arctic Rafting shuttle bus. Remember to bring a bathing suit and a towel!

Keep in mind that pickup is included on this combo tour. If you wish to self-drive, you need to make sure to be at the Old Harbour before 09:00 and at the rafting base before 15:00.

Please note that all participants have to sign a waiver before undertaking the rafting trip stating that they realise that the activity carries an inherent risk.

Highlights

✓3-hour whale and dolphin watching expedition in Faxaflói Bay from Reykjavík's Old Harbour
✓Whitewater rafting through Gullfoss Canyon on the glacial Hvítá River
✓Post-rafting sauna and hot tub facilities at the basecamp
✓Hotel pickup and drop-off included
✓Stunning views of glacial rivers and Icelandic wilderness

Insider tips

★Bring a waterproof bag for cameras and valuables during rafting; the rapids can be splashy.
★Wear layers under your wetsuit—even in summer, glacial meltwater is cold.
★Arrive early for whale watching; calmer morning seas often mean better sightings.
★The sauna and hot tub are perfect for warming up post-rafting; bring extra toiletries if needed.

Good to know

•Minimum age: 11 years old
•Bring a bathing suit and towel for the sauna/hot tub facilities
•Hotel pickup between 8:15–8:45 a.m.; whale watching departs 9:00 a.m. from Old Harbour
•Rafting basecamp is ~100 km from Reykjavík; plan for 2+ hours total travel time
•Wetsuits provided for rafting; comfortable shoes recommended for transfers

Who it's for

Adventure seekers wanting to pack two thrills into one dayWildlife enthusiasts keen on whale and birdwatchingFamilies with children 11 and olderNature lovers wanting dramatic Icelandic scenery without logistics hassle

Best time to visit

May through mid-October offers the best combination of whale activity and calm enough conditions for safe rafting. Early morning departures provide calmer seas and stronger wildlife viewing odds.