River rafting in West Iceland is one of those experiences that stays with you for life: glacial rivers, dramatic canyons, and that perfect mix of adrenaline and pure, wild nature. Whether you’re staying at Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður, Stykkishólmur Inn on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, or Ísafjörður Inn in the Westfjords, you’re never far from some of Iceland’s most exciting rafting opportunities. But before you grab a paddle, it’s worth knowing how to stay safe on the water.
Below are essential river rafting safety tips, along with how Ourhotels.is can help you plan a safe, memorable adventure.
River rafting safety starts before you get on the water
The most important safety decisions happen long before you sit in the raft.
• Choose a reputable tour operator
Always book with licensed, experienced rafting companies that operate within Icelandic safety regulations. Look for guides with swift-water rescue training and strong local knowledge of the river’s conditions. If you’re staying at Hvítá Inn, Stykkishólmur Inn, or Ísafjörður Inn, the staff can recommend trusted local partners and help you compare options.
• Pick the right difficulty level
Rivers are graded by difficulty (Class I–VI). Beginners and families usually enjoy Class II–III, which offer fun waves and splashes without extreme technical challenges. If you’re unsure which level suits you, ask your guide or the reception at your Ourhotels.is accommodation—they can help match your experience and comfort level to the right tour.
• Check the weather and river conditions
Iceland’s weather changes quickly, and that affects river levels, water temperature, and visibility. Before you book, and again before you go, check the forecast. Local guides will make the final call on whether it’s safe to run the river, but it helps to be aware. Staff at Hvítá Inn, Stykkishólmur Inn, and Ísafjörður Inn can provide up-to-date local weather information and help you adjust your plans if needed.
Wear the right gear—and wear it correctly
Proper equipment is your first line of defense on the river.
• Helmet and life jacket (PFD)
Never get into a raft without a certified helmet and a properly fitted personal flotation device. Your guide will provide them, but it’s your responsibility to wear them correctly and keep them fastened at all times. Ask for help if anything feels loose or uncomfortable.
• Wetsuit or drysuit
Icelandic rivers are cold, often fed by glaciers. A wetsuit or drysuit is essential to help maintain body temperature if you fall in. Most tour operators include these in the price. Make sure your suit fits snugly but still allows you to move freely.
• Appropriate clothing underneath
Wear moisture-wicking base layers (wool or synthetic) under your suit. Avoid cotton—it stays wet and cold. Bring warm socks (preferably wool) and a change of clothes to leave in the tour company’s vehicle or at your hotel.
• Secure footwear
Closed-toe water shoes or sturdy sandals with straps are ideal. Avoid flip-flops or anything that can slip off easily. If you’re unsure what to bring, ask at your Ourhotels.is reception when you check in; they can give you a simple packing list based on the tour you’ve booked.
Listen to your guide—and follow instructions
Your guide is your safety leader on the river.
• Pay attention to the safety briefing
Before you launch, your guide will explain paddling commands, how to sit in the raft, what to do if you fall in, and how rescues work. This is not the time to zone out or chat. If anything is unclear, ask questions before you get on the water.
• Learn and remember the basic commands
Common commands include “forward paddle,” “back paddle,” “stop,” and “get down.” React quickly and in unison with your team. Good communication and fast responses are key to staying upright and in control.
• Respect the guide’s judgment
If your guide decides to skip a rapid, change the route, or even cancel due to conditions, it’s for safety reasons. Icelandic rivers can change rapidly with rain, snowmelt, and wind. Trust their experience.
Know what to do if you fall in
Falling into the river can be startling, but it doesn’t have to be dangerous if you know what to do.
• Stay calm and keep breathing
The cold water can trigger a gasp reflex. Focus on steady breathing and remember that your life jacket is designed to keep you afloat.
• Float on your back, feet downstream
If you’re in fast-moving water, lie on your back with your feet pointing downstream and your toes up. This helps you see where you’re going and protects your legs from rocks.
• Hold onto your paddle if you can
If it’s safe, keep your paddle with you—it makes it easier for the guide to pull you back in. But if holding the paddle makes it harder to swim or stay calm, let it go. Your safety comes first.
• Listen for instructions and look for the raft
Your guide will shout directions or signal where to swim. Aim for the raft or an eddy (a calmer area of water near the riverbank). Never stand up in fast, shallow water, as your foot could get trapped between rocks.
Stay warm and protect your health
Cold water and cool air temperatures mean you need to think about more than just the rapids.
• Watch for signs of hypothermia
Shivering, numbness, confusion, and slurred speech can be signs of hypothermia. If you or someone in your group feels unusually cold or disoriented, tell your guide immediately.
• Hydrate and eat well
Even in cold weather, rafting is physical. Drink water before and after your trip, and eat a good meal. If you’re staying at Hvítá Inn, Stykkishólmur Inn, or Ísafjörður Inn, plan your rafting around a hearty breakfast or dinner so you’re fueled and ready.
• Protect your skin and eyes
Even on cloudy days, UV reflection from water can be strong. Use waterproof sunscreen and consider wearing sunglasses with a secure strap.
Be honest about your abilities and health
Your safety—and the safety of the group—depends on accurate information.
• Share medical conditions
If you have heart issues, asthma, recent injuries, or other medical conditions, let the tour operator know in advance. They can advise whether the trip is suitable or suggest a gentler option.
• Don’t underestimate the river
Even “easy” sections can be challenging if you’re nervous, not a strong swimmer, or new to outdoor activities. It’s better to start with a milder trip and work your way up than to jump into something too advanced.
• Avoid alcohol and drugs
Never raft under the influence. It impairs judgment, slows reaction time, and increases risk for everyone in the boat.
How Ourhotels.is helps you raft safely in West Iceland
Staying with Ourhotels.is puts you in the heart of some of Iceland’s best rafting regions, with local support to keep your adventure safe and smooth.
• Hvítá Inn – Borgarfjörður (near Borgarnes)
The Hvítá river is one of Iceland’s classic rafting destinations, known for its beautiful canyon scenery and fun, accessible rapids. From Hvítá Inn, you’re perfectly placed to join guided tours on this river. The staff can help you:
– Choose a reputable rafting company
– Arrange transport to and from the river
– Check weather and river conditions
– Plan your day so you can warm up afterward with a hot shower, a meal, and a relaxing evening
• Stykkishólmur Inn – Snæfellsnes Peninsula
While Stykkishólmur is better known for its islands and coastal views, it’s also a great base for exploring nearby rivers and adventure activities. From Stykkishólmur Inn, you can:
– Get recommendations for trusted rafting operators in West Iceland
– Combine rafting with other activities like sea tours, hiking, or visiting Snæfellsjökull National Park
– Return to a cozy, comfortable room after a day on the water and road
• Ísafjörður Inn – Westfjords
The Westfjords are wilder and more remote, with dramatic landscapes and fewer crowds. While rafting options here may be more limited and seasonal, Ísafjörður Inn is an excellent base for:
– Getting up-to-date local advice on which adventure tours are running safely
– Planning multi-day itineraries that combine rafting (where available) with kayaking, hiking, or fjord exploration
– Enjoying a quiet, restorative stay after intense outdoor days
Plan your rafting adventure with confidence
River rafting in West Iceland can be both thrilling and safe when you prepare properly, listen to your guides, and respect the power of the water. By staying at Hvítá Inn, Stykkishólmur Inn, or Ísafjörður Inn through Ourhotels.is, you gain not only a comfortable place to rest, but also local knowledge and support to help you choose the right tour and stay safe from start to finish.
When you’re ready to plan your trip, explore Ourhotels.is, pick your base in West Iceland, and let the rivers—and the experts—do the rest.
