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Arctic Rafting - A splash of fun With its dramatic landscape and famous nature experiences, Iceland has long been a must-visit for travellers seeking thrills and adventure. Whale watching and glacial explorations are perhaps the most famous, but some activities take the thrill even closer to nature. All at once, Arctic Rafting offers magnificent views and adrenaline-inducing adventures. By Celina Tran
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Photos: Jan Dancak
Iceland is home to captivating mountain ranges, breathtaking glaciers, and, of course, plenty of water. In fact, the country is both culturally and geographically defined by its waterways, with fishing, whale watching, and boat tourism as vital industries. The significance of water does, however, not end with that. Tinna Sigurðardótti, owner and CEO of Arctic Rafting, explains that the nation’s rivers provide a little-known but fantastic opportunity to get to know not only your friends and family but also Iceland and all its beautiful sights. “It’s a wonderful way of enjoying amazing scenery that can only be explored 64
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Issue 162
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January 2024
from the water,” she says. “We offer river rafting and kayak rides down the beautiful glacial river Hvítá, ‘the White River’. It’s hours of being completely immersed in the Icelandic glaciers and nature.”
It might sound intimidating with the quick rapids and high-energy experience, but Hvítá river is for everyone, with the river being rated on an easy to medium level for rafting. “It’s a great way to spend time or build relations with those you care about, but it’s also just a great escape from reality,” says Tinnar. After the rafting, guests are welcomed to Artic Rafting’s stunning property where they can kick back, relax in the hot tub or sauna, or grab a meal and drink, with even more culinary experiences coming as the team looks forward to opening an a la carte restaurant. The adventure of a lifetime The history of rafting on the Hvítá river dates back to 1983, when a couple, Villa and Bassi, bought a book about river rafting and decided to learn for themselves. Quick learners, they soon began to operate tours for Icelanders - and later tourists - under the name, Bátafólkið, meaning “The Boat People”.