Half-Day Vatnajokull Glacier Small Group Tour from Skaftafell
Active
4h
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
Half-Day Vatnajokull Glacier Small Group Tour from Skaftafell
What's included
Helmets, Harness, Crampons & Ice Axe
Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
You want to hike further into the glacier than most of the other tours do. You are hoping to get close to the ice fall of Falljökull, outlet glacier of Vatnajökull (the largest glacier in Europe). You wish to have a breathtaking view on the crevasses. This is tour is made for you than! We will drive you all the way to the glacier, teach you how to put on crampons and how to use an ice axe and then we will guide you through the labyrint of crevasses, moulins and water streams of the glacier. We are not gonna rush our way to the ice fall, so you will have time to get used to walking on crampons. We will do many stops on the way to explain all about how glaciers are formed, about their history and also a little bit about the area of Skaftafell and Örævi. Of course the guide will assist you with taking many photos from this adventure.
What's not included
Weather dependent clothing
Hiking boots
Small backpack with extra clothing layers, bottle of water and small snacks
Sunglasses
Available languages
Guide guide
CS
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
23 reviews
5★
22
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
125 reviews
5★
122
4★
3
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
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 minute prior to starting time.
Bring weather dependent clothing.
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
