Exhilarating 7-Hour Private Zipline, Ice Caving, and Ice Climbing Adventure from Hofn
Description
Summary
Description
Experience one of Iceland's most thrilling winter adventures in this private zipline, ice caving, and ice climbing tour of the country's largest glacier. This seven-hour escapade takes you to the Vatnajokull glacier, where you can enjoy Iceland's breathtaking landscapes in an adrenaline-pumping fashion.
The action kicks off when you meet with your guide at the glacier lagoon parking lot in the Vatnajokull National Park in Hofn. Your guide is no ordinary one, as he's a certified glacier guide who will brief you on the basics of glacier climbing and ice caving. You'll also ride a 4x4 vehicle that will take you from the parking lot to the foot of the Vatnajokull glacier.
With a surface area of around 3,127 square miles (8,100 square kilometers), the Vatnajokull glacier covers about eight percent of Iceland's land mass. This is also the main reason why the glacier continues to attract travelers, especially those who are visiting Iceland for the first time.
During the drive, the guide will discuss the glacier's rich history as you enjoy the scenic views. Once you reach the parking lot near the Vatnajokull glacier, you'll be given safety reminders and all the equipment necessary for the tour.
The safety and climbing gear you'll wear include crampons, a harness, and an ice axe. You'll also be given a helmet with a headlamp and a pair of hiking boots, if you opted to rent one.
After you're all geared up, your hike toward the glacier's edge begins. The walk takes about 30 minutes. However, it is relatively easy as the route involves a generally flat and slightly rocky path. In addition, the guide will adjust the pace of the hike according to your preference.
As you reach the glacier's edge, you'll see a massive cavern called the crystal ice cave. The cave features a river beneath it, and its shape, size, and location change every year due to the ice's constant melting. In turn, visitors are assured of a unique experience for every visit.
After exploring the crystal ice cave, you'll begin your hike toward the Breidamerkurjokull glacier for the glacier zipline. Along the hike, you'll encounter deep glacial holes called moulins, showcasing various fascinating formations. It is across these moulins where the zipline adventure takes place.
With the captivating sights in your surroundings, the guide will prepare you for your glacier zipline experience. Interestingly, this is the world's first and only glacier zipline adventure. Each zipline participant will get two jumps, which can increase if there's more time available.
As you wait for your turn, soak in the moment and feel the area's coldness. When it's time to make your epic jump on the zipline, enjoy the views below the moulins and strike a pose while breezing your way in midair.
After the thrilling zipline experience, it's time for the tour's final part: climbing the Breidamerkurjokull glacier. Before the climb, your guide will brief you on the activity. You'll be taught the proper climbing form, techniques, and how to use your climbing equipment.
If this is your first time climbing a glacier, the guide will take you to a spot with an easier slope. The Breidamerkurjokull glacier's surface features shimmering blues and whites, deep crevasses, and jagged ridges, carved by centuries of glacial movement.
Once you've learned the basics of ice climbing, your guide will give you a line that you will use to scale the icy wall. After conquering the Breidamerkurjokull glacier, you'll return to the parking lot and ride the 4x4 vehicle anew, taking you back to your original meeting point at the glacier lagoon parking lot.
During the ride, you can look back at your once-in-a-lifetime experience while witnessing the majestic landscapes of Southeast Iceland.
Grab this opportunity to get up close and personal with Iceland's largest glacier in this seven-hour private zipline, ice caving, and ice climbing adventure from Hofn. Check availability now by choosing a date.
Included
Map
Attractions
Activities
What to bring
Video
Similar tours
Download Iceland’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Iceland’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.