Jökulsárlón: Blue Ice Cave and a Long Glacier Hike
Active
6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This is a tour designed for travelers, who seek to step further than most and feel like real explorers. Combine an ice cave visit with an adventurous hike, as you venture deep into the glacier. You will visit blue ice caves and canyons, which most people don't go to. By hiking further we manage to stay away from the crowds. On this tour there is also plenty of time for photography without feeling rushed.
The tour starts with a 40 min 4x4 ride to the glacier. After arriving at the glacier's esge we gear up and set off for the glacier hike. Expect to spend 3 - 3,5 hours on the glacier and in the caves. If the conditions allow we try to visit more spectacular formations, such as ice canyons, crevasses and moulins. The tour ends with a similar drive back to the starting point. You will come back feeling like an accomplished adventurer!
Available options
Jökulsárlón: Blue Ice Cave and a Long Glacier Hike
What's included
All necessary glacier gear (harness, crampons, helmet) and headlamps
Detailed itinerary
1
An outlet of the largest Icelandic glacier Vatnajökull. You will see vast open ice-covered landscape with crevasses and moulins, as well as the highest peaks of Iceland in the distance.
2
A remote natural ice cave away from the main crowds. It's about 200 meters long and offers spectaculars shades of blue and shapes of ice which can't be found elsewhere
What's not included
Lunch is not provided, but there will be time to eat your own lunch on the ice.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
3 reviews
5★
3
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
42 reviews
5★
42
4★
0
3★
0
2★
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1★
0
Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
The total duration includes travel and hike time.
Meeting point
You will find a 4x4 minibus branded with Ice Walkers Tours logo at the main parking lot of the lagoon.
About Höfn
Höfn is a charming coastal town in southeastern Iceland, known for its stunning natural beauty and rich fishing heritage. It's a gateway to some of Iceland's most breathtaking landscapes, including the Vatnajökull National Park and the dramatic Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon.
Top Attractions
Vatnajökull National Park
This vast national park is home to Europe's largest glacier, Vatnajökull. It offers stunning landscapes, ice caves, and hiking trails.
Nature
Half day to full day
Moderate to Expensive (guided tours required for some areas)
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
A breathtaking glacial lagoon filled with floating icebergs, offering boat tours and stunning views.
Nature
Half day
Moderate to Expensive (boat tours available)
Höfn Harbor
The heart of Höfn, known for its fishing industry and lobster dining. A great place to experience local culture and cuisine.
Cultural
A few hours
Free to explore, moderate for dining
Must-Try Local Dishes
Lobster Soup
A creamy and rich soup made with fresh lobster, a specialty of Höfn.
Dinner
Contains seafood, may contain dairy
Plokkfiskur
A traditional Icelandic fish stew made with mashed fish, potatoes, and béchamel sauce.
Dinner
Contains fish, dairy, and gluten
Rye Bread
Dense and flavorful rye bread often served with butter and smoked fish.
Bread
Vegan option available (without butter)
Popular Activities
Glacier hiking
Ice caving
ATV tours
Northern Lights viewing
Spa visits
Coffee shop lounging
Local museums
Harbor exploration
Best Time to Visit
June to August
Summer offers the warmest temperatures and long daylight hours, perfect for exploring the outdoors. However, it's also the busiest time with more tourists and higher prices.
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
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Höfn is a safe town with low crime rates. The main safety concerns are related to weather and outdoor activities.
Important Precautions:
- • Be aware of changing weather conditions
- • Stay on marked trails when hiking
- • Drive carefully, especially in winter
Getting there
By air
- Egilsstaðir Airport • 80 km (50 miles)
By bus
Höfn Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are available for travel between towns but not within Höfn itself. Schedules are limited, so planning is essential.
Taxis
Available • Apps: None widely available
Rentals
Car, Bike
Neighborhoods
Höfn Town Center
Surrounding Natural Areas
Day trips
Skaftafell
80 km (50 miles) • Full day
A part of Vatnajökull National Park, offering stunning hiking trails and glacier views.
Fjallsárlón Glacier Lagoon
60 km (37 miles) • Half day
A smaller but equally stunning glacier lagoon near Höfn, offering boat tours and iceberg views.
Festivals
Höfn Lobster Festival • July
Pro tips
- Visit the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon early in the day to avoid crowds.
- Try the local lobster dishes at the harbor restaurants.
- Book guided tours in advance, especially for glacier hikes and ice caves.
- Dress in layers and be prepared for changing weather conditions.
- Check weather forecasts and road conditions before traveling, especially in winter.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
