Skaftafell Glacier Hike – Small Group Trek on Vatnajökull
Active
5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
A longer glacier hiking adventure with a certified glacier guide. Hike on Falljökull, one of the outlet glaciers of the mighty Vatnajokull glacier, - Icelands largest glacier! Your certified glacier guide will provide you with interesting information about the formation and history of the glacier.
Available options
From Skaftafell
Choose departure time below: : Meeting point: Skaftafell parking lot (Further details will be available on your voucher)
What's included
Certified Glacier Guide
Small Group Guarantee
Glacier Gear (Crampons, Ice Pick & Helmet)
Guided Glacier Hike
What's not included
Food & drink are not included. We reccommend bringing snacks, lunch, and water
Sturdy hiking boots are required for this tour (available to rent for a fee if needed)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.9
21 reviews
5★
19
4★
1
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.8
136 reviews
5★
123
4★
9
3★
2
2★
0
1★
2
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
Minimum age is 14 years old and minimum shoe size is 35 EU
Hiking boots with ankle support are mandatory (available to rent)
Please dress in layers and wear warm, waterproof clothing.
Note that waterproof pants, waterproof jacket and hiking boots can be rented at the meeting point for a small fee.
We provide all safety gear. Please note that our specialized glacier crampons are only available for shoe size 35-50 EU. Those with a different shoe size are unfortunately unable to participate.
This tour is rated as moderate. Guests should be prepared to hike ~8km over uneven terrain
Meeting point
The tour departs from the Arctic Adventures Booking Hut, located on the parking lot of Skaftafell National Park. Skaftafell National Park is located just off of the main ring road, on road #998. Skaftafell is approximately 4.5-5 hours east of Reykjavik and 1.5 hours west of Höfn.
Important notes
The tour departs from the Arctic Adventures Booking Hut, located on the parking lot of Skaftafell National Park. Skaftafell National Park is located just off of the main ring road, on road #998. Skaftafell is approximately 4.5-5 hours east of Reykjavik and 1.5 hours west of Höfn.
We look forward to our glacier hiking adventure together and sincerely hope that you will enjoy your experience with us!
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
