Iceland Glacier Hike Guide
Iceland's glaciers are considered to be the most enchanting in the world. Glowing in pearly blues and silver, this phenomenon encompasses 11% of Iceland. There are many ways to get up close and personal with them, but by far the best way is by going on an Iceland glacier hike. So that you can get the most out of your tour, here are all the answers you need to your burning questions.
What are the best glaciers to hike on in Iceland?
Sólheimajökull glacier. Sandwiched between the Katla and Eyjafjallajökull volcanoes is the iconic Sólheimajökull glacier. Forming part of the stretching Mýrdalsjökull, this glacier is both easy to access and marvel at. Tours from Sólheimajokull.
Skaftafellsjökull glacier. The Skaftafellsjökull glacier is an outlet glacier of the larger Vatnajökull glacier, which is Iceland’s largest ice cap. Black sand and jewelled ice chunks are some of the highlights. As our base, it lies conveniently close to the Skaftafell visitor centre, and is surrounded by mountains.
Falljökull glacier. Also located in Skaftafell, the Falljokull glacier translates literally to ‘The Falling Glacier’. It rests on the sooty shores of the south coast, and is noted for its jagged, blue shape and hilly, white surface.
Top 3 Glacier hike tours in Skaftafell
Blue Ice Experience
Enjoy views of glacial ice sculptures and ice ridges as you go on this short, stunning glacier walk in Skaftafell.
Glacier Adventure
Traverse the ice fields of Falljökull as you attempt this challenging, four-hour ice walk, complete with stretching views.
Skaftafell Ice Cave & Glacier Walk
Start this tour by meandering through the ice plains of Skaftafellsjökull before visiting the deep, blue ice caves.
Is it safe to walk on a glacier?
Many people are surprised to learn that glaciers are an accessible part of the landscape in Iceland, making glacier hikes one of the most popular activities tourists can enjoy. They are easily reached off the highway, but it must be noted that it can be dangerous to venture out onto the glaciers by yourself. Luckily, if you have guidance from a trained professional, it is a perfectly safe experience, which is also guaranteed to be a lot of fun.
How do I get to a glacier hike from Reykjavik?
You can get transport from Reykjavík to go an a glacier hike on Sólheimajökull. Below you can see the different tours available.
Take a Walk on the Ice Side
This glacier tour gives you the chance to see the twists and turns of the Sólheimajökull. It includes a visit to the Plane Wreck as well as two scenic waterfalls.
Glacier Walk & Northern Lights
On this glacier hike, experience the wonders of Sólheimajökull glacier, and take in the shining lights of the Aurora Borealis.
South Shore, Glacier Walk & Ice Climbing
Venture along the sprawling south coast, and get up close and personal with the Sólheimajökull glacier by ice climbing.
Why go on a glacier hike in Iceland?
Imagine pure nature. The sound of Ice under you feet. The formations in the glaciers create a wonderland of ridges, ice sculptures and waterways. Going on a glacier hike tour in Iceland is unlike anything you have experienced. Check out the video and see what it is all about!
Where are glacier hike tours close to Reykjavik?
If you are making your own way to the site, you’ll be pleased to know that the Sólheimajökull glacier has a variety of glacier hike tours close to Reykjavik. As the closest glacier to Reykjavík, it is easily accessible, but still takes between 2 hours and 30 minutes and 3 hours to reach.Tours here vary in difficulty and length.
Top 4 Glacier Hikes on location on Sólheimajökull
The best family-friendly glacier hikes
Blue Ice Experience. As one of the easiest glacier walks, explorers can make the most of the Skaftafellsjökull glacier, with its natural ice sculptures and stunning scenery. Glacier Discovery. On this tour, families of all ages can come together to explore Iceland’s most famous glacier- Sólheimajökull.
What is the minimum age to go on a glacier hike tour?
The minimum age for both the Glacier Discovery on Sólheimajökull and the Blue Ice Experience in Skaftafell tours is 8 years old. This is because they are classed as easy glacier hikes. If you are hoping to go on a more difficult glacier walk, the minimum age requirement may be higher.
What are the best glacier hikes for beginners?
There are various ice hikes that are best for beginners, such as those on the Sólheimajökull, Skaftafellsjökull and Falljökull glaciers. For adult beginners, there are alternative options of these tours with ice climbing.
Glacier Discovery
This short but breath-taking glacier hike allows you to see the best of Iceland’s treasured Sólheimajökull glacier with ease.
Blue Ice Experience
As the name suggests, this adventure-filled tour is defined by the blue-tinged sights of the Skaftafell ice fields.
Skaftafell Ice Cave & Glacier Walk
Combine two magical marvels on this short tour, which includes a glacier walk at Skaftafell, and a tour through the winding ice caves.
What do I wear on a glacier hike?
Biting cold, powdery snow and slick ice always spring to mind whenever people think of glaciers, but Iceland’s infamous ever changing weather means it can be even harder to know what to wear. If you are struggling to decide, here are some golden essentials to bring with you:
Iceland’s weather is known for how rapidly it changes throughout the day, but glaciers are always much warmer in summer than people expect. Sometimes, you can even venture out onto the ice without a jacket, but you should always be prepared for sudden changes in weather conditions by bringing these essential items:
Waterproof ankle boots. Glaciers are made of one thing only: water, which means you should always pack some comfortable, waterproof or GORE-TEX ankle boots so you aren’t caught off guard by weather changes.
Thermal socks. Thin ankle socks won’t keep your toes toasty and warm, so bring some thick, thermal socks instead.
Warm underlayers. The first rule about visiting Iceland is dressing in layers. Thermal layers will keep frost at bay if you are having your glacier walk in winter, and they are also easy to peel off if you get warm on your summer glacier walk.
Your best waterproof coat. Iceland experiences high rainfall in summer, so bringing a waterproof coat is recommended. Make sure it has some light padding in that will keep you warm, but won’t weigh you down. There will be days where you don’t need it, but it’s never a good idea to leave it behind.
Hiking pants. If there is one item you should never wear on a glacier walk, it’s jeans. Instead, pack some flexible, breathable pants that will work with you as you move.
What equipment do I need on a glacier hike?
You don’t just need the right wardrobe when glacier hiking, but also the right equipment. Below is a list of items you need that will keep you safe and enhance your experience.
You’ll always need these specialist items:
Crampons
An ice axe
A harness
On more difficult tours, you might also need these items:
A helmet
A head lamp (only on certain winter tours)
This equipment will be provided to you, but any protective rain gear or hiking boots can be provided at an additional cost.
When is the best time of year to go on a glacier hike?
It is no secret that summer has more options for glacier walking where full and half day tours can be enjoyed. Some glacier walks still operate in winter, but don’t make the mistake of thinking it’s a worse choice. In fact, in winter there is more blue ice, ice tunnels and ice wells, as well as Glacier Hike with Ice Caves. Despite this, you can only go so far in winter, so summer also offers longer hikes and combo options, such as the ATV and Glacier Walk Combo and the Blue Ice Experience & Fjallsárlón Iceberg Lagoon.
How long is a glacier hike in Iceland?
Glacier hikes vary from tour to tour and can last anywhere from 2 to 7 hours. To get a better idea of how long each tour lasts, check out the various Glacier Walk options on the site. Generally speaking, those who have limited time may prefer a shorter glacier walk, while those hoping for an in-depth, challenging glimpse at the glaciers would benefit more from a longer tour.
Read MoreWhen is the best time of day to go on a glacier hike in Iceland?
There are certain times in the day which are optimal for glacier walking, but it differs depending on what season you are visiting in. Glacier hiking at midday is usually best, as the conditions will be clearer. In summer, enjoy glacier hikes throughout the day. We do not offer tours when it is too dark, but on the tours we do offer, the beginning of your tour may start at dawn, and the end at twilight. You’d be right in thinking this adds some extra charm to any tour.
Challenging glacier hikes
Full Day Glacier Adventure
Start your day on a glacier walk, before delving into twisting ice tunnels. Catch sight of natural ice sculptures along the way,
Hvannadalshnúkur - Iceland’s Highest Summit
After ascending to Iceland’s highest peak in one day, you can check this bucket worthy climb off your list.
Snæfellsjökull Summit Hike
This full-day tour offers far more than your usual glacier hikes do. As you hike to the top of Snæfellsjökull, take in silvery, sweeping views, over the Snæfellsness Peninsula.
Where to find us
Directions to our Glacier Hike bases in Skaftafell and by Sólheimajökull glacier in South Iceland.