Skaftafell Glacier Hike and Ice Climbing Adventure
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
Discover the exhilarating world of ice climbing in Skaftafell, set within the stunning Vatnajökull National Park. This adventure takes you on a glacier hike where you can marvel at mesmerizing ice formations, including deep crevasses and water cauldrons. With an expert experienced guide, you’ll receive safety instructions and gear, including crampons and ice axes, before embarking on a journey over the glacier's blue ice. Perfect for adventurous travelers aged 14 and above, this tour promises a small group experience, ensuring personalized attention and ample time to enjoy the thrill of climbing.
- Duration: 4.5 hours with 3 hours on the ice
- Small group sizes of 2 to 6 per guide for personalized experiences
- All necessary glacier gear provided, including crampons and ice axes
- Suitable for ages 14 and above with moderate difficulty level
Available options
Skaftafell Glacier Hike and Ice Climbing Adventure
What's included
Safety equipment
Experienced and qualified guide
Coffee & Tee
Glacier gear
Use of toilet facilities at our Basecamp
What's not included
Lunch
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
1 reviews
5★
1
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Meeting point
The meeting point is at the Icelandic Mountain Guides Base Camp, located next to the visitor centre. Please be there 20 minutes before departure.
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
