Glacier Adventure - 4.5-hour Skaftafell Glacier Hike
An adventurous exploration of a fascinating outlet glacier in Vatnajökull National Park. Go beyond the average Glacier Hike.
Tour code: SKF22
Experience More Of The Glacier's Beauty On A Longer Glacier Hike
Enjoy four hours exploring an icy wonderland that extends from the mighty Vatnajökull, the largest glacier in Europe. On this Glacier Walk, you will go farther onto the ice field than on the typical glacier tour. The labyrinth of ever-changing formations on this frozen giant is best navigated with an expert guide who knows the lay of the land. Your epic adventure starts with meeting your certified and experienced glacier guide in Skaftafell.
After getting fitted with the required glacier gear we provide, like an ice axe and crampons, your guide will lead you onto the glacier. As you traverse zones of different glacial formations, you will notice the diverse colours of ice surrounding you.
Intense hues of blue, white, ash-covered, and crystal clear ice become more prominent as you travel farther. The panoramic view of the glacier, the surrounding peaks, and the unique experience of glacier ice under your feet will leave lasting memories.
*The Skaftafell parking lot fee is not included in the tour price.
Tour Overview
- Meeting Point
- Skaftafell Base (20 min. prior to departure)
- Group Size
- Up to 8 per guide
- On the ice
- ~3.5 hrs
- Language
- English
- Minimum age
- 14 years
- Duration
- 4.5 hours
- Difficulty
- Moderate
Customer Reviews
We did a 4 hour glacieradventure hike with Àgúst last week. The tour is a well oiled machine for getting participants outfitted and ready for the hike. This where Àgúst took over. He clearly loved what he did. He educated as we hiked the glacier. We had a great time, learned how to hike a glacier with crampons/ ice axe and came back with awesome pictures and memories despite the rainy weather. Next time I will sign up for the even longer tour.
Tour Highlights
Included
- Experienced and qualified guide
- Glacier gear
- Safety equipment
Not included
- Rain gear
- Hiking boots
- Warm clothing
- Snacks
Optional extras
- Rain gear (jacket or pants)
- Hiking boots
Tour Map and Itinerary
Click map for detailed itineraryGlacier Adventure - 4.5-hour Skaftafell Glacier Hike
Day Tour
After meeting your professional glacier guide in Skaftafell at our Base, you will be provided with an ice axe, harness and crampons.
While glaciers are fun places to explore, precaution must be taken when walking on them
Your guide will give you a short safety briefing before you step on the icy landscape.
During the tour, you will traverse a field of crevasses and ice sculptures. A truly once in a lifetime activity.
Directions
Driving time
From Reykjavík: 5 hrs
From Vík: 2.5 hrs
From Höfn: 1.5 - 2 hrs
GPS point for Skaftafell
N 64.016217
W 16.966664
Our Welcome Centre in Skaftafell is located in the heart of the camping site, right next to the service centre.
The park is by the end of road no. 998 that branches off the main road no. 1
Please be there 20 min before the departure of your tour.
Join the Adventure!
Subscribe to our newsletter for exclusive tour updates, expert tips, and inspiration for your next Icelandic adventure with Icelandic Mountain Guides.
Practical Information
Why do I need to arrive 20 minutes before departure time?
Before we head to the glacier for the tour we need to get everyone fitted with the equipment, crampons and harnesses. The crampons need to be adjusted to each persons shoe size so it is important that people arrive 20 minutes before so everyone is ready at the departure time.
What is the address of the meeting place?
There are no official addresses on our meeting points but you can see directions and GPS points if you click the map above.
What is the difference between Sólheimajökull and Skaftafell?
Sólheimajökull and Skaftafell are two different locations in Iceland, each having its own unique characteristics and attractions.
Sólheimajökull is a glacier tongue that extends from the mighty Mýrdalsjökull glacier, Iceland's 4th largest ice cap. It is located on the south coast of Iceland between the volcanoes Katla and Eyjafjallajökull. The area is renowned for its beauty and is perfect destination for glacier hiking and ice climbing due to its easily accessible location and terrain. We offer a variety of tours at Sólheimajökull, which are especially suited for families and those seeking a more relaxed experience.
Skaftafell is a nature reserve located in the Vatnajökull National Park in the south-east of Iceland. It is a green oasis nestled under the white expanse of Vatnajökull, Europe's largest glacier. Skaftafell is a hiker's paradise, with trails leading to stunning attractions and picturesque glacial tongues.
Skaftafell's glaciers are known for their rugged terrain and fantastic views. The tours we operate here are particularly designed for those with an adventurous spirit. If you're a keen hiker or climber, you'll find the challenging landscapes of Skaftafell incredibly rewarding.
How long in advance do I need to book?
We always recommend to book as soon as you are ready especially if you have a strict travel schedule or a large group. It is easy to change or cancel 24 hours before departure by emailing us (info@mountainguides.is). Tours can also be purchased the day of as long as there are spaces available.
Is it possible to join a glacier hike while pregnant?
Your safety is our highest priority. Our guides are highly experienced in leading glacier hikes and will assess conditions on the day of your tour. Because glacier terrain and Icelandic weather can change quickly, participation during pregnancy will be decided by the guide on site, taking real-time conditions into account to ensure the safety and well-being of all participants.
