Description
Summary
Description
Discover Iceland’s untouched wilderness on a 7-hour Flaajokull Glacier hiking and kayaking tour in the Vatnajokull National Park. Paddle across a glacier lake, trek over blue ice, and uncover a hidden waterfall on an adventure made for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience in Iceland.
This adventure is only available from May to September, when summer brings longer days and calmer weather. During this time, the glacier lagoon opens up for kayaking, and the trails are easier to hike.
Unlike Iceland’s more famous glaciers, Flaajokull remains quiet and uncrowded. The setting creates a peaceful and personal experience where you can truly connect with the landscape. You can take your time without the rush of large groups or busy viewpoints.
Your adventure begins at Hotel Smyrlabjorg in South Iceland, an easy-to-find stop along the Ring Road and north of Jokulsarlon. Meet your English-speaking guide and gear up with crampons, helmets, paddles, a dry backpack, and warm outerwear for your glacier and kayaking adventure.
Before departure, your guide gives a clear safety briefing. Instruction is provided for every activity, making the tour suitable even for first-time kayakers and hikers.
Board a sturdy 4x4 vehicle for a 20-minute ride along a remote gravel track. Admire moss-covered hills and distant views of Vatnajokull Glacier while your guide shares stories about the region’s volcanic landscape and local life.
Next, a gentle 30-minute hike brings you to Bolstadafoss, a triple-drop waterfall plunging 330 feet (100 meters) down a cliff. The thundering water and mossy cliffs create a dramatic stop before the glacier lake.
At the shoreline, inflate lightweight packrafts and slip into your dry suit, PFD, and water shoes. Paddle for about 1–1.5 hours across calm water toward a wall of blue ice while icebergs drift nearby.
After kayaking, step onto Flaajokull Glacier for a guided hike lasting 3–4 hours. Flowing from the massive Vatnajokull Ice Cap, this outlet glacier features towering ice walls, deep crevasses, and hidden moulins shaped over centuries.
Throughout the hike, your guide explains the glacier’s movement and the visible effects of climate change. A short lunch break on the ice lets you take in the views of the glacier and nearby mountains.
During the hike, you carry the boats, dry suits, and paddles, about 15 lbs (7 kilograms) in total. The boat is a lightweight packraft, easy to carry and ideal for a long-distance hike. A moderate level of fitness is recommended to enjoy the day’s activity and the glacier’s uneven surface.
Traveling in a small group of up to six travelers means unhurried exploration and personal attention. You have time to photograph the ice formations, listen to local insight, and appreciate the quiet beauty of this remote region.
Discover one of Iceland’s secluded glaciers on this small-group Flaajokull Glacier hike and kayak tour. Check availability now by choosing a date.
