
Glacier Hikes & Treks in Iceland
Glacier hiking is one of the most popular outdoor adventures in Iceland, offering a rare chance to walk on ancient ice shaped by volcanoes, time, and weather. These hikes are typically done on the country’s many outlet glaciers—especially Sólheimajökull in the south and Falljökull near Skaftafell—where guided tours make it safe and accessible for most fitness levels.
All necessary gear like crampons and helmets is provided, and no prior experience is needed. Just wear warm, waterproof layers and sturdy hiking boots, and prepare to explore a surreal landscape of crevasses, ice ridges, and deep blue formations you won’t see anywhere else.
Top Rated Glacier Hikes in Iceland
Vatnajökull is Iceland's largest glacier and frankly, it acts like it. With sprawling ice tongues, jagged crevasses, and blue ice caves that look Photoshopped, it's the ultimate destination for glacier treks and guided glacier excursions.
Whether you're aiming for an easy-going glacier walk or an adrenaline-pumping climb, Vatnajökull has a route for every comfort level. Bonus: it's about a 5-hour drive from Reykjavík along the South Coast, with scenery so absurdly beautiful, you won't even notice your legs going numb.
For an option with a shorter drive from Reykjavík, a glacier hike on Sólheimajökull is only a 2.5 hour drive from the capital.
Sólheimajökull Hiking Tours
(Approx. 2.5 hours from Reykjavík)
Sólheimajökull is the rock 'n roll glacier of the South Coast—volcanic, dramatic, and constantly changing. Just west of Vík, this glacier hike hot spot is a favorite for short but surreal glacier excursions, offering everything from beginner-friendly walks to more technical treks.
Perfect if you're short on time, long on curiosity, and up for trading paved roads for ice ridges. Many tours leave right from the glacier parking area, so you can be on the ice faster than you can say "crevasse."
Get a chance to experience a world completely covered with ice.
Join this unforgettable tour to see and experience the world’s rarest natural wonder - Iceland’s majestic glacier.
Glaciers formed during our previous ice ages, when temperatures dropped worldwide. Nowadays only a few countries in the world can enjoy the stunning glaciers - including Iceland.
Sólheimajökull is a beautiful outlet, which is the most accessible glacier from Reykjavík.
It is also known for being the Glacier of Fire & Ice, because of all the ashes covering and mixing up with ice from the previous volcanic eruptions. Underneath the glacier lies an active volcano Katla, which erupted last time in 1918.
It is believed that Katla should erupt within the next few decades, therefore completely melting the ice. However volcanoes are highly monitored in Iceland, making it absolutely safe to travel in the area, hike on a glacier, and explore the wild ice caves.
Join this spectacular tour, and get a chance to hike on a real glacier!
Tie your hiking boots and put on your adventure hat because Sólheimajökull glacier will blow your mind. You'll feel like you have landed on the moon walking on ice and volcanic ash. We'll provide you with ice axes and basic ice climbing techniques for you to climb up as you rise from the ice wall of a glacier crevasse.
Spend your afternoon hiking & ice climbing on one of Iceland’s most iconic glaciers!
This unforgettable adventure will test your strength skills, as you’ll be climbing an ice wall on the 4th largest glacier in Iceland. This activity is for enthusiasts, who would like to explore the Icelandic glaciers to the fullest.
Overview
Sólheimajökull is one of the most visited glaciers in Iceland by ice climbing enthusiasts & professionals, as it offers spectacular ice walls, in a super location – just a few hours away from Reykjavík.
This fun activity will definitely leave you with tons of adrenaline & unforgettable experiences.
This is a comprehensive glacier tour, where you’ll learn about these massive natural phenomena from your guide and be provided with all the necessary equipment to get some exercise in full comfort and safety.
This tour is for anyone looking to experience one of the natural wonders of the earth.
Tie your hiking boots and put on your adventure hat because Sólheimajökull glacier will blow your mind. You'll feel like you have landed on the moon walking on ice and volcanic ash. We'll provide you with ice axes and basic ice climbing techniques for you to climb up as you rise from the ice wall of a glacier crevasse.
Spend your afternoon hiking & ice climbing on one of Iceland’s most iconic glaciers on this private tour!
This unforgettable adventure will test your strength skills, as you’ll climb an ice wall on the 4th largest glacier in Iceland. This activity is for enthusiasts who would like to explore the Icelandic glaciers to the fullest.
Overview
Sólheimajökull is one of the most visited glaciers in Iceland by ice climbing enthusiasts & professionals, as it offers spectacular ice walls, in a super location – just a few hours away from Reykjavík.
This fun activity will leave you with tons of adrenaline & unforgettable experiences.
Skaftafell (Falljökull & Virkisjökull) Glacier Hikes
(Approx. 4.5 hours from Reykjavík)
Tucked inside Vatnajökull National Park, Skaftafell serves up prime glacier hiking real estate. Falljökull is the "falling glacier," known for its dynamic formations and epic icefalls, while Virkisjökull delivers sweeping views and quieter trails.
Most hikes here are moderate and accessible, but don't mistake that for boring. These glaciers are pure theater—cracking ice, sculpted seracs, and a front-row seat to climate change in real time (yay?).
Explore the unique ice formations of Vatnajökull, Europe's largest glacier, on a guided walk. This tour offers a direct experience with a constantly changing landscape. You will see deep crevasses, vertical shafts known as moulins, and potentially an ice cave. Your guide will also point out rare features like glacier mice, a type of moss found on the ice. This hike provides an opportunity to witness the immense scale of the glacier and its uniquely carved landscapes up close.
Join a guided glacier hike on Falljökull, an outlet glacier of Vatnajökull National Park. The tour begins at our comfortable meeting point in Hof, located very close to the glacier. Our indoor facility is cozy and offers free parking, which allows you to avoid the parking fees charged at the Skaftafell Visitor Centre. Please arrive 20 minutes before departure to meet your highly qualified English glacier guide. All essential safety gear is provided, including a helmet, crampons, harness, and ice axe.
After a short ride on the "Tröll Bus," you will walk a short distance to the edge of the glacier. Your guide will demonstrate how to use the equipment and how to safely walk on the ice. During the walk, you'll observe how the receding ice has shaped the surrounding landscape, noting visible marks on the bedrock and a lagoon formed by meltwater.
The tour guarantees 1 hour and 30 minutes on the ice, with an additional 10-minute shuttle ride each way. The remaining time is allocated for a safety briefing and a 20-minute walk on a gravel path to the glacier tongue. Your guide will provide information about the glacier's geology and its impact on the Icelandic environment. This tour is designed to be an educational experience, offering a factual look at a natural phenomenon.
This hike is suitable for most individuals with a reasonable fitness level. Participants should wear warm, layered clothing and sturdy footwear.After returning to the meeting point, enjoy a complimentary hot drink (coffee/hot chocolate) and a candy bar.
Are you ready to turn into an adventurous "Ice-cave-Explorer Troll" 🧌 ?
Come join our Tröll Expeditions team on an extraordinary full day journey to the majestic Katla Ice Cave and the most iconic locations along the South Coast of Iceland!
The Katla Ice Cave Day Tour from Reykjavik is a 12-hour excursion available throughout the whole year, perfect for those who are looking forward to exploring a stunning ice-cave, asides from visiting the South Coast most popular sightseeing locations; this is also a great opportunity to take a seat on a super-jeep and experience a fun ride towards the ice cave, by crossing unique moony landscapes through the wild Icelandic nature.
This tour includes the comfort of being picked up from Reykjavik from an experienced driver guide in a minibus, which not only prevents you from the hassle of driving yourself towards the unknown, but also assures you a small group excursion for a more intimate and unforgettable experience.
Our knowledgeable Troll-guides will pick you up from your selected pick up location in Reykjavik capital area, and will share with you interesting stories, while leading you towards the highlight of this full day adventure: the magnificent Katla ice cave, located near the town of Vik. Along the way to Vik, you will stop at the most popular must-see places on the South Coast of Iceland: the fabulous Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, the magnificent Skogafoss waterfall, and the remarkably beautiful Black Sand Beach. Once in Vik, you will meet our professional glacier guides and join them on a super-jeep ride to reach the Katla ice cave. They will make sure you get the most out of this once-in-lifetime ice cave exploration: first, they will take care of your safety by providing you with all the necessary glacier equipment to access the cave; second, they will share with you engaging stories regarding the Katla ice cave formation and its surroundings; last, they will ensure the most genuine and memorable time of your vacation in Iceland! Your journey will end in the evening: our driver guide will drop you off at your preferred drop off location in Reykjavik capital area.
Don't miss out on the opportunity to turn into a Troll and witness this wonder of our Icelandic Nature: book the Katla Volcano Ice Cave Day Tour with Troll Expeditions now!
Embark on a long hiking adventure on Falljökull, an outlet of Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier. This tour is an opportunity to explore deep into the ice and witness magnificent features. The higher elevation provides panoramic views over Skaftafell National Park, known for its spectacular scenery featured in major movies and TV shows such as such as James Bond, Interstellar, Batman, and Game of Thrones. This extended experience allows you approximately 3 hours on the ice itself for a truly immersive and unforgettable exploration.
Join our advanced guided hike on Falljökull ("The Falling Glacier") in Skaftafell National Park, Southeast Iceland. This 5-hour tour is designed for guests with a good fitness level who want a longer, more detailed, and demanding adventure on the ice.
Why choose this 5-hour tour? This option is for the adventurous traveler with more time, as it includes extra time on the ice, grants access to wilder terrain, and provides a deeper insight into the glacier’s unique features compared to shorter tours.
The tour begins at our comfortable meeting point in Hof, located very close to the glacier. Our indoor facility is cozy and offers free parking, which allows you to avoid the parking fees charged at the Skaftafell Visitor Centre. Please arrive 20 minutes before departure to meet your highly qualified English glacier guide. All essential safety gear is provided, including a helmet, crampons, harness, and ice axe.
The total tour time includes a guaranteed 3 hours of hiking on the glacier, a 10-minute shuttle ride each way on the “Tröll Bus,” and approximately 20 minutes for the walk on a gravel path to the glacier’s edge, which covers the safety briefing time. Your guide will demonstrate how to safely use the equipment and walk on the ice.
As you hike your guide will explain the geology of Falljökull. You will encounter dramatic ice formations like deep cracks (crevasses) and vertical shafts (moulins). In winter, you may even look into small ice tunnels. From the highest point, you will get to observe, panoramic views of the Skaftafell National Park. Your guide will provide a factual and educational overview of how glaciers are formed, discuss safety, and explain the current impacts of global warming. After returning to the meeting point, enjoy a complimentary hot drink (coffee/hot chocolate) and a candy bar.
Embark on a long hiking adventure on Falljökull, an outlet of Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier. This tour is an opportunity to explore deep into the ice and witness magnificent features. The higher elevation provides panoramic views over Skaftafell National Park, known for its spectacular scenery featured in major movies and TV shows such as such as James Bond, Interstellar, Batman, and Game of Thrones. This extended experience allows you approximately 4 hours on the ice itself for a truly immersive and unforgettable exploration.
Join our advanced guided hike on Falljökull ("The Falling Glacier") in Skaftafell National Park, Southeast Iceland. This 6-hour tour is designed for guests with a good fitness level who want a longer, more detailed, and demanding adventure on the ice.
Why choose this 6-hour tour? This option is for the adventurous traveler with more time, as it includes extra time on the ice, grants access to wilder terrain, and provides a deeper insight into the glacier’s unique features compared to shorter tours.
The tour begins at our comfortable meeting point in Hof, located very close to the glacier. Our indoor facility is cozy and offers free parking, which allows you to avoid the parking fees charged at the Skaftafell Visitor Centre. Please arrive 20 minutes before departure to meet your highly qualified English glacier guide. All essential safety gear is provided, including a helmet, crampons, harness, and ice axe.
The total tour time includes a guaranteed 4 hours of hiking on the glacier, a 10-minute shuttle ride each way on the “Tröll Bus,” and approximately 20 minutes for the walk on a gravel path to the glacier’s edge, which covers the safety briefing time. Your guide will demonstrate how to safely use the equipment and walk on the ice.
As you hike your guide will explain the geology of Falljökull. You will encounter dramatic ice formations like deep cracks (crevasses) and vertical shafts (moulins). In winter, you may even look into small ice tunnels. From the highest point, you will get to observe, panoramic views of the Skaftafell National Park. Your guide will provide a factual and educational overview of how glaciers are formed, discuss safety, and explain the current impacts of global warming. After returning to the meeting point, enjoy a complimentary hot drink (coffee/hot chocolate) and a candy bar.
Come on this comprehensive ice climbing and glacier hiking tour, perfect for those seeking that extra bit of thrill. The only thing you need to bring is patience and endurance to climb to the top of a glacial ice wall on Vatnajökull, Europe's largest glacier. Your glacier guide will introduce you to the basics of ice climbing and much more!
Breiðamerkurjökull Glacier Walks
(Approx. 5 hours from Reykjavík)
Not far from Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Breiðamerkurjökull is your portal to Iceland's bluer-than-blue ice caves and shimmering glacier hikes.
Glacier walks here often involve a super jeep ride to the base, followed by an easy-to-moderate trek across undulating ice landscapes that belong in a fantasy novel. If you've ever wanted to feel small, powerful, and incredibly photogenic all at once—this is the spot.
Set out on a 3-hour guided glacier hike on Breiðamerkurjökull, an outlet glacier of Vatnajökull. The glacier is known for its ice caves. As the ice caves are closed over the summer, this tour will take you on a hunt for moulins and ice canyons on the glacier.
Starting with a Super Jeep ride through the rugged terrain leading up to the edge of Vatnajökull, this outlet glacier offers a unique gateway to Iceland’s frozen wilderness. Designed for explorers of all skill levels, this tour combines captivating glacial landscapes with expert guidance and eco-friendly practices. Traverse shimmering blue ice, explore hidden crevasses, and witness the raw power of Iceland’s glaciers.
With morning and afternoon departures, this compact yet immersive experience offers an unforgettable opportunity to connect with Iceland's natural beauty while prioritizing safety and sustainability. Book your tour now and create memories that will last forever!
Step into a breathtaking world of ice and wonder on this Crystal Blue Ice Cave Tour. Travel across rugged terrain in a specially designed vehicle, explore the mesmerizing blue ice formations of Europe’s largest glacier Vatnajökull, and capture unforgettable photos inside a natural crystal blue ice cave. Led by trusted expert English guides, this adventure is safe, thrilling, and perfect for experiencing one of Iceland’s most iconic winter wonders
If our own Crystal Ice Cave tour is fully booked, don’t worry! we’ve partnered with a top-rated local operator to bring you the exact same experience, guided by highly skilled English glacier experts. We have carefully selected and vetted this partner tour to ensure it meets our strict standards for safety, quality, and unforgettable experiences. You will still get to explore one of Iceland’s most famous winter attractions: the stunning Crystal Blue Ice Cave inside the mighty Vatnajökull glacier.
Your adventure begins with a Super Jeep ride, designed to handle Iceland’s rough terrain. This thrilling drive takes you from the meeting point to the edge of the glacier while your guide shares insights about the area’s geology and history. Once there, you’ll be equipped with all the necessary safety gear, including crampons and helmets. After a short walk, you’ll step inside the Crystal Blue Ice Cave, where the walls of ancient blue ice surround you in a magical, shimmering world. These caves naturally change and reshape constantly, as Mother Nature designs.
This tour is available only during the winter months, when the ice caves are stable and safe to explore. It is suitable for most travelers with a good fitness level able to hike on gravel path for about 20 minutes, and on an icy and even surface (on crampons) for about 15 minutes. Also, requires warm clothing, waterproof layers, and sturdy boots. Don’t miss this chance to witness the raw beauty of Iceland’s glaciers up close. Even if our original tour is sold out, this exceptional partner tour guarantees you won’t miss one of Iceland’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders. Book your spot today and make memories that will last a lifetime!
South Coast Glacier Hikes from Reykjavík
(Approx. 5 hours from Reykjavík)
Not far from Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Breiðamerkurjökull is your portal to Iceland's bluer-than-blue ice caves and shimmering glacier hikes.
Glacier walks here often involve a super jeep ride to the base, followed by an easy-to-moderate trek across undulating ice landscapes that belong in a fantasy novel. If you've ever wanted to feel small, powerful, and incredibly photogenic all at once—this is the spot.
Explore the beautiful South Coast of Iceland, and hike on one of Iceland’s last remaining glaciers during this unforgettable 12-hour adventure trip in the South of Iceland.
Join an expedition to the South Coast & hike on the Sólheimajökull glacier. You'll visit Seljalandsfoss waterfall, the majestic Skogafoss, the mighty waves of Reynisfjara beach, also known as The Black Sand Beach, and walk on top of Sólheimajökull.
Combo Glacier Tours: Hike + Kayak = One Icy Power Move
Glacier hiking in Iceland is cool. Doing it and kayaking across a glacial lagoon? Now that’s downright legendary.
These combo glacier excursions aren’t for the indecisive—they’re for the wildly ambitious. Perfect for adventurers who want to trek across ancient ice sheets and paddle through iceberg-studded lagoons in a single day. Whether you're slicing through Heinaberg’s serene waters or combining Jökulsárlón kayaking with a dramatic Vatnajökull glacier walk, these tours serve double the frozen spectacle with zero filler.
Each tour blends glacier trekking with kayak adventures, all under the guidance of certified experts and with the surreal landscapes of Vatnajökull National Park as your backdrop.
These aren't just tours—they're ice-cold flexes for your travel journal.
Two thrilling glacier adventures, one unforgettable day. This 6-hour combo tour takes you deep into the wild, icy heart of Iceland’s southeastern coast. Paddle through the serene, iceberg-filled waters of Heinaberg Glacier Lagoon, far from the crowds, and then explore the ever-changing landscapes of Breiðamerkurjökull Glacier, an outlet of Europe’s largest ice cap, Vatnajökull. Led by certified guides and packed with breathtaking scenery, this full-day combo tour lets you experience Iceland’s glaciers from both water and ice.
❄️ Two tours, one booking. One epic day.
Book now and experience two of Iceland’s most breathtaking activities in one epic journey!
Discover the stunning contrasts of Iceland’s icy wilderness with this unforgettable full-day combo tour in Vatnajökull National Park. Your day begins with a peaceful yet exhilarating kayaking tour on Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where you'll paddle through a magical world of floating icebergs under towering glacier cliffs. After a short break, you'll shift gears for an adventurous glacier hike on Breiðamerkurjökull, where deep crevasses, blue ice formations, and surreal terrain await.
This combo is ideal for active nature lovers looking to maximize their day by combining two of Iceland’s most iconic experiences into one seamless, guided adventure—on water and on ice. Both tours are led by certified glacier and kayaking guides and include all necessary safety equipment. Participants should be in good physical condition and ready for an immersive experience in one of the most remote and beautiful regions of the country
This combo tour includes two separate departures
09:30 AM begins with Kayak before going on a Glacier hike
10:00 AM begins with Glacier hike before going on a Kayak tour
Both depart from Troll.is Glacier Lagoon, Jökulsárlón, 781 Iceland. Please plan accordingly and arrive at least 20 minutes early to ensure a smooth check-in.
Double the thrill, double the memory—book your glacier adventure combo today!
Embark on a full-day combo tour that takes you deep into the wild beauty of Southeast Iceland with two unforgettable glacier experiences. You can either start your day paddling through the surreal iceberg-dotted waters of Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon on a guided kayaking adventure. Then, lace up your hiking boots and set out for an exhilarating glacier hike in the heart of Skaftafell Nature Reserve, where you'll explore the frozen landscape of an outlet glacier from Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest ice cap.
This adventure is split into two separate tours, each led by certified glacier and kayaking guides, with all safety gear and instructions provided. Travel between the two locations is self-drive, giving you time to enjoy the scenery along Iceland’s stunning South Coast.
You’ll select which adventure to begin with.
If you start with kayaking, meet our guides at Troll.is Glacier Lagoon in Jökulsárlón 20 minutes before departure at 10:00 am and make sure to reach Troll.is - Skatafell 20 minutes before departure time set at 2:00 pm
If you start with the glacier hike, head to Troll.is Skaftafell 20 minutes before departure time set at 09:00 AM and make sure to reach Troll.is Glacier Lagoon 20 minutes before depature time set at 1:30 PM (Exact locations are easily found by searching “Troll.is Glacier Lagoon” or “Troll.is Skaftafell” on Google Maps.)
Experience two epic adventures in one day. Book now and experience two of Iceland’s most breathtaking activities in one epic journey!
Troll.is Glacier Hike Meeting Points
We keep things simple: meet, gear up, hike out, and get wowed. Here's where the adventure begins:
- Sólheimajökull Parking Lot – Easy to access, right off Route 1
- Tröll Skaftafell meeting point in Hof – This is the closest meeting point of any operator to the Falljökull glacier.
- Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Parking – For Breiðamerkurjökull tours.
Always double-check your confirmation email for the precise time and place—glaciers wait for no one.
Must-See Glaciers in Iceland
You came for the cold—stay for the geological melodrama. Iceland’s glaciers aren’t just icy masses; they’re characters in an epic saga written by time, volcanoes, and absurd weather. Here are the frozen giants worth getting to know (preferably with waterproof boots on):
Sólheimajökull (~2.5 hrs from Reykjavík)
The rebellious offspring of volcanoes and glaciers. Sits next to Katla, so you know it's got attitude. Constantly shifting, always photogenic, and an easy detour off Route 1—this one’s as dramatic as it is accessible.
Falljökull - (~4.5 hrs from Reykjavík - Skaftafell area)
The "falling glacier" that lives up to the name with cascading icefalls straight from your most epic National Geographic dreams. It's active, it's loud, and it doesn’t care if you're ready for it.
Virkisjökull (Next door to Falljökull)
More reserved than its flashy sibling, but packs the same glacial charm. Ideal for quieter hikes with fewer crowds and big glacier energy.
Breiðamerkurjökull (~5 hrs from Reykjavík)
The gateway to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and those surreal blue ice caves that look Photoshopped (but aren’t). If you’ve ever wanted to feel like a tiny ant inside a glowing ice cathedral, this is it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Got questions? You’re not alone. Glacier hiking in Iceland is epic—but it’s also, well, on a glacier. Here’s everything you need to know before strapping on the crampons and channeling your inner Arctic explorer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes—as long as you're with a certified guide and don’t attempt any solo heroics. The ice may be pretty, but it's also unpredictable. Troll.is tours include all safety gear and seasoned pros.
Nope. Most hikes are beginner-friendly. You bring enthusiasm; we bring crampons.
Layer up! Think thermal base, insulating mid, waterproof outer. Gloves, hat, and sturdy hiking boots are a must. We'll handle the helmets, harnesses, and "don't fall into that" warnings.
Most hikes are rated easy to moderate, but you should be comfortable walking on uneven, icy terrain for 2–3 hours. It’s a trek, not a stroll.
Troll.is provides crampons, helmets, harnesses, and ice axes. You bring your adventurous spirit and decent boots.
Glacier hikes run year-round. Summer brings milder weather and easier conditions; winter adds a layer of drama (and sometimes actual snowfall on your face).
Tours can operate in light snow or rain, but high winds or storms may cause cancellations. Safety first—glacier tantrums are not to be messed with.
Yes, but age limits depend on the tour. Many allow children 8+ with adult supervision.
Sometimes! Some winter glacier walks include access to ice caves, especially near Breiðamerkurjökull. Check the tour details for specifics.
Facilities are usually available at meeting points but not on the glacier. Plan your coffee intake accordingly.
Got More Questions?
Our team of Iceland experts is just a message away. Whether you’re curious about tour details, weather prep, or which adventure suits you best, we’re here to help. Chat with us or Contact our support team and let’s plan your perfect Iceland experience.
Troll.is: 24/7 Service...almost
You can call us just about anytime. Our customer service team works around the clock. You can reach us by phone anytime, except from 10 pm and 6 am on Saturday and Sunday nights, Icelandic time. Contact info@troll.is or call us at +354 519 4455 and our dedicated team will help you out.