Glacier Hike from Skaftafell - Extra Small Group
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
• Certified guides
Our guides have certification from AIMG (Association of Icelandic Mountain Guides).
• Small groups
The group size for our trips never exceeds 8 people.
• 4x4 drive
We will drive you all the way to the glacier. That means more time we can spend on ice.
• Evening departure (June - August)
If you want to avoid the crowds join us for our evening tour and enjoy the complete silence.
Available options
Glacier Hike from Skaftafell - Extra Small Group
What's included
Helmets, Harness, Crampons & Ice Axe
Detailed itinerary
1
If you have never seen a glacier before and you would like to experience these stunning ice giants a little bit closer, come to the breathtaking area of Skaftafell. Skaftafell is located in Vatnajökull national park, the filming location of movies like Batman Begins, Interstellar and the Game of Thrones series. To maximize the time spent on ice, we drive all the way to the terminus of Falljökull glacier in our 4×4 truck. Before you step on to the ice you will learn the proper way to put on and use the provided glacier gear. We aim to spend around one and a half hour on the ice, exploring moulins, crevasses and more other-wordly formations. Along the way your guide will share ineresting facts about these formations and the origins of the glacier as well as interesting local stories.
What's not included
Weather dependent clothing
Hiking boots (Minimum size needed for our crampons is size 34 EUR)
Sunglasses
Backpack with extra clothing layers, bottle of water and small snacks.
Available languages
Guide guide
CS
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
87 reviews
5★
85
4★
2
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0
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Tripadvisor
5.0
386 reviews
5★
381
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Important information
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
The meeting point is at Skaftafell Terminal Tour Center (Skaftafell Airport).
Skaftafell Terminal Tour Center is OUTSIDE of the National Park.
Please arrive 10 minutes prior to starting time.
Bring clothing according to weather.
About Skaftafell
Skaftafell is a stunning region in East Iceland, known for its dramatic landscapes, glaciers, and waterfalls. It was once a national park and is now part of Vatnajökull National Park, offering some of the most breathtaking natural wonders in Iceland.
Top Attractions
Vatnajökull Glacier
One of the largest glaciers in Europe, offering stunning ice caves and glacier hikes.
Nature
Half day to full day
Moderate to Expensive
Svartifoss Waterfall
A beautiful waterfall with basalt columns, known for its unique geological features.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free
Skaftafellsjökull Glacier
A prominent glacier tongue of Vatnajökull, offering guided glacier hikes and ice climbing.
Nature
Half day to full day
Moderate to Expensive
Must-Try Local Dishes
Lamb Soup
A hearty soup made with Icelandic lamb, vegetables, and herbs.
Dinner
Contains meat, gluten-free options available.
Skyr
A traditional Icelandic yogurt-like dairy product.
Dessert
Dairy, can be vegan if made with plant-based milk.
Popular Activities
Glacier hiking
Ice climbing
Hiking
Scenic drives
Photography
Visiting the visitor center
Boat tours on Jökulsárlón
Northern Lights viewing
Best Time to Visit
June to August
This is the best time to visit Skaftafell for hiking and outdoor activities, with long daylight hours and relatively mild weather.
8°C to 15°C
46°F to 59°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Icelandic
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Icelandic Króna (ISK)
Time Zone
GMT+0
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Skaftafell is generally safe, but the natural environment can be hazardous. Always be prepared for changing weather conditions.
Important Precautions:
- • Be prepared for sudden weather changes.
- • Stay on marked trails.
- • Avoid risky activities without proper guidance.
Getting there
By bus
Reykjavik
Getting around
Taxis
Available • Apps:
Rentals
Car, Bike
Neighborhoods
Skaftafell Visitor Center
Day trips
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
40 km (25 miles) • Half day
A stunning glacial lagoon with icebergs floating in a serene lake.
Diamond Beach
40 km (25 miles) • Half day
A black sand beach where icebergs from Jökulsárlón wash ashore, resembling diamonds.
Festivals
Northern Lights Festival • Winter months
Pro tips
- Book guided tours in advance, especially during peak season.
- Dress in layers and be prepared for sudden weather changes.
- Carry a good map and GPS device, as cell service can be spotty.
- Visit the visitor center for up-to-date information and trail conditions.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning landscapes.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
