The Skaftafell Glacier Hiking Tour | Easy & Safe Adventure on Europe’s Largest Ice Cap

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A couple wearing helmets and holding axes smile as they pose with a stunning glacial landscape behind them.
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Travel details

Dates
Time
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Travelers
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From: Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon, Öræfi, Iceland

Description

Summary

Tour starts
Skaftafell, Skaftafell, Iceland
Duration
3 hours
Difficulty
Easy
Languages
English
Available
All year
Minimum age
8 years old
3,123 reviews

Description

Join the best-rated glacier hiking tour in Skaftafell Nature Reserve, part of Iceland’s beautiful Vatnajokull National Park!

On this tour, you’ll hike on top of an outlet glacier of Vatnajokull, Europe’s largest glacier. It’s the perfect way to add action to your travel itinerary in Southeast Iceland.

You’ll meet your certified glacier hiking guide at a location near Skaftafell, just off the Ring Road. After gearing up with crampons, helmets, and ice axes, you'll take a short drive to the edge of the glacier. There, your guide will explain the basics of glacier safety and hiking technique before leading you onto the ice.

Your glacier hike in Skaftafell begins with a gradual ascent over the frozen landscape, where deep crevasses, jagged ice ridges, and brilliant blue formations reveal the glacier’s raw and ever-changing beauty. With every step, you'll learn more about Iceland’s geology and glaciology from your expert guide.

The contrast between the stark white glacier and the surrounding black sand plains creates an otherworldly backdrop, making Skaftafell one of the most photogenic hiking spots in Iceland. On clear days, you may even spot Hvannadalshnukur, Iceland’s highest peak, rising over the horizon.

Whether you’re visiting in summer or winter, this Skaftafell glacier hike is a rare chance to experience the icy wilderness of Vatnajokull up close. The terrain is beginner-friendly, making it an excellent option for active travelers seeking a safe and unforgettable adventure in Iceland.

Don’t miss your chance to explore one of Iceland’s most iconic glaciers. Check availability now by selecting your preferred date, and join us for the ultimate glacier hiking experience in Skaftafell on the south coast of Iceland!

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Included

All necessary safety gear: harness, helmet, crampons, and ice axe
Experienced English-speaking guide
Small group experience

Activities

Glacier Hiking
Sightseeing

Map

Attractions

Skaftafell
Vatnajokull Glacier
Falljökull Glacier
South Coast

How it works

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Secure your spot
Secure your spot instantly on Iceland’s most trusted travel marketplace. As soon as you reserve, we lock in your place to help you make the most of your trip. You’ll get the best price and a secure payment system that protects your information.
Receive instant confirmation
You’ll get your e-ticket and a detailed summary immediately after booking, including meeting points and schedules. Enjoy peace of mind and get exactly what you booked, or a money-back guarantee. No surprises, no hidden fees.
Get access to the VIP Club
Booking with us gives you access to the Guide to Iceland VIP Club, where you’ll enjoy priority service, special perks, and exclusive discounts for amazing savings on your trip at Iceland’s top restaurants, shops, and local favorites.
Explore with confidence
From the moment you arrive to the moment you leave, we’re here to take care of you. Whatever you need, whenever you need it, we’re just seconds away, 24/7, ready to help you make the most of your time in Iceland.
Secure your spot
Secure your spot instantly on Iceland’s most trusted travel marketplace. As soon as you reserve, we lock in your place to help you make the most of your trip. You’ll get the best price and a secure payment system that protects your information.
Receive instant confirmation
You’ll get your e-ticket and a detailed summary immediately after booking, including meeting points and schedules. Enjoy peace of mind and get exactly what you booked, or a money-back guarantee. No surprises, no hidden fees.
Get access to the VIP Club
Booking with us gives you access to the Guide to Iceland VIP Club, where you’ll enjoy priority service, special perks, and exclusive discounts for amazing savings on your trip at Iceland’s top restaurants, shops, and local favorites.
Explore with confidence
From the moment you arrive to the moment you leave, we’re here to take care of you. Whatever you need, whenever you need it, we’re just seconds away, 24/7, ready to help you make the most of your time in Iceland.

What to bring

Warm waterproof clothes
Sturdy hiking boots
Water and snacks

Good to know

This glacier hike is ideal for beginners and doesn’t require prior experience, but you should be in good overall physical condition to enjoy the adventure comfortably. The tour lasts about three hours, including gearing up and a short bus ride to the glacier, where you’ll spend roughly 1.5 hours walking on the ice with a guide.

To stay warm and dry, wear weather-appropriate outdoor clothing. Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support and hard soles are essential; you can include rental boots during the booking process if needed.

Food is not included, so bring snacks and a refillable water bottle to stay energized during the tour. There are restaurants and grocery options in nearby towns if you’re driving in before or after the activity.

The meeting point is west of Hofgardur in the village of Hof, roughly a 4.5-hour (210-mile / 340-km) drive east of Reykjavík. The closest towns are Kirkjubaejarklaustur (42 miles / 69 km west) and Hofn (80 miles / 130 km east).

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