Skaftafell Glacier Hike - Small Group Adventure (Easy)
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
This small group glacier experience on one of Vatnajokull's outlet glaciers is an unforgettable adventure. Accompanied by a certified glacier guide, explore all that this moving glacier has to offer. While enjoying the panoramic view of Vatnajokull Glacier and Skaftafell National Park your guide will be sharing interesting and informative information about the formation of glaciers. This adventure is perfect for those looking for easy hike on a glacier.
Available options
From Skaftafell National Park
What's included
Guided glacier tour
Small group guarantee
Certified glacier guide
Specialized glacier gear
What's not included
Food & drinks
Hiking boots with ankle support are mandatory for this adventure (available to rent)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.7
57 reviews
5★
46
4★
7
3★
2
2★
2
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.6
117 reviews
5★
95
4★
9
3★
4
2★
4
1★
5
Important information
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
This tour is rated as easy, but guests should be prepared to walk about ~3km (1.8 miles) total over uneven terrain.
Minimum age of 8, and minimum shoe size of EUR 35.
Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support are mandatory for this adventure. Rentals are available for a fee if required.
Please note that our specialized glacier crampons are only available for shoe sizes 35-50 EU. Those with a shoe size beyond these are unfortunately unable to participate.
Meeting point
Departure Point: Arctic Adventures Booking Hut in Skaftafell National Park (next to the Visitor Center).
Directions: Skaftafell 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
• Departure Point: Arctic Adventures Booking Hut in Skaftafell National Park (next to the Visitor Center).
• Directions: Skaftafell 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.
• Please note that the weather in Iceland can change quickly, so late cancellations are therefore at times unavoidable. When that happens an e-mail is sent out to inform our customers so please, especially if the weather doesn't look promising, check your e-mail the night before your tour as well as in the morning of your tour departure.
• Our tours leave promptly at the departure time and no refund will be provided if you are late.
• It is very important to be properly dressed for this tour with layers to stay warm. Bring with you waterproof clothing, hat, gloves and good hiking boots. At our booking house in Skafafell we rent out waterproof clothing and hiking boots for a small fee. We recommend that you bring with you a water bottle and food/snacks.
• We provide all safety gear. Please note that our specialized glacier crampons are only available for shoe size 35 EU and larger. Those with a smaller shoe size are unfortunately unable to participate.
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
