Description
Summary
Description
Join a small-group Katla Glacier citizen science expedition and help map dead ice near Vik, contributing real data to ongoing research on one of Iceland's most active volcanic glaciers. This hands-on scientific fieldwork suits curious travelers, families with kids age 7 and up, and anyone who wants their trip to leave a lasting mark beyond photos.
This 6.5-hour tour in Iceland connects you directly with Katla Geopark's research team. Every measurement taken during the day is included in an official research report. The tour includes a professional, English-speaking driver-guide, round-trip transportation from Vik, and all scientific and glacier safety equipment, so nothing needs to be arranged in advance.
The expedition begins with pickup in Vik and a stop at Kotlusetur Visitor Center, where the guide gives an educational background brief on Katla Volcano and Myrdalsjokull Glacier. Guides are trained in the geopark's research methods and explain how the volcano's heat and meltwater have shaped the glacier's ever-changing edges.
From Kotlusetur, a 4x4 vehicle carries the group across South Iceland's volcanic landscape to the glacier outlet. Dead ice, meaning glacier ice that has separated from the main ice cap and stopped flowing, forms unpredictable patches here. Its slow retreat offers a rare, visible record of the glacier's response to geothermal activity below.
Working alongside the guide, participants record the location, thickness, and condition of dead ice patches using GPS units and basic field tools. The task is simple to learn but genuinely useful, turning an ordinary glacier walk into a contribution scientists can act on.
Collected data feeds directly into Katla Geopark's long-term glacier monitoring. Participants receive an official Citizen Scientist Certificate along with a processed summary report by email once the results are compiled. Names are credited in the geopark's published research report, and participants may receive updates as the data is put to use.
This easy tour welcomes participants age 7 and older and requires no prior hiking or scientific experience. Depending on glacier and weather conditions on the day, the guide may shift the focus between dead ice mapping and glacier edge mapping before the drop-off back in Vik.
Take part in genuine glacier research in Iceland on this small-group Katla Glacier citizen science expedition. Check availability now by choosing a date.
