Description
Summary
Description
Get ready for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure on this 8-hour Katla Glacier dead ice mapping expedition in South Iceland. Walk across a rarely studied glacier outlet with expert guides and collect real climate data while surrounded by dramatic ice and volcanic landscapes.
This private expedition in Iceland is designed for curious travelers and science enthusiasts. With a certified glacier guide and quality gear included, you can enjoy the thrill of hiking across the ice without the hassle of organizing logistics or equipment.
Your journey begins at the village of Vik on the South Coast of Iceland. Here, you'll meet your expert guide, who will lead a safety briefing and provide an overview of the day's goals.
From Vik, your group will head toward the Katla Geopark, home to volcanic landscapes, glacier rivers, and ancient geological formations. Your main destination is the edge of the Katla Glacier.
No prior experience is required to join this expedition. Your guide will introduce you to the tools of the day: drones, GPS units, and ground cameras used to map the landscape. You’ll learn how to track and measure dead ice, which are large blocks that have broken off from the main glacier and no longer move with its flow.
As you move across the terrain, you’ll witness firsthand how Iceland’s glaciers are changing. You'll map retreating glacier ice and contribute to climate research in one of Iceland’s least-studied regions. You’ll see exposed layers of volcanic ash and ice that tell the story of past eruptions.
In addition to data collection, you’ll observe key visual markers of glacial retreat across Katla Glacier and the Myrdalsjokull Ice Cap. These include meltwater channels, isolated ice blocks, and shifting sediment layers.
You’ll also document changes in surface color, structure, and surrounding terrain for later analysis. The contrasting layers of ash and ice help track eruption timelines and insulation effects on dead ice.
At the end of the tour, you’ll receive a personalized Citizen Scientist Certificate from Katla Geopark. Your recorded data will be processed by the research team and reviewed for accuracy.
A few weeks later, you’ll receive a digital report with your results. You’ll also be named in an official Katla Geopark research summary and receive future study updates by email.
Due to the scientific nature of this tour, group size is limited to allow for focused guidance and hands-on experience. Each participant works closely with the guide to ensure accurate data collection.
Weather and glacier conditions may affect the route or research focus. Alternative mapping sites or observation points may be used to maintain safety.
Don’t miss out on this rare opportunity to take part in real glacier research on the 8-hour Katla Glacier Dead Ice Mapping Expedition. Check availability now by choosing a date.
