Best Glacier tours in Iceland


🧊 Walk on Ancient Ice: Glacier Hiking Tours Available Year-Round

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Glacier Hiking Tours Iceland 2026: Complete Guide to Walking on Ice

🏔️ 4 Major Glaciers | ⏱️ 14 min read | 📅 Updated: January 2026 | 🧊 Year-Round Adventures

Experience the Thrill of Walking on Ancient Ice

Glacier hiking in Iceland is one of the most exhilarating adventures you can experience on Earth. Imagine strapping on crampons, gripping an ice axe, and walking across ice that’s hundreds — sometimes thousands — of years old. With approximately 11% of Iceland covered by glaciers, this small island nation offers some of the world’s most accessible and spectacular glacier experiences.

From the easily accessible Sólheimajökull glacier on the South Coast to the vast expanse of Vatnajökull (Europe’s largest glacier), Iceland’s ice caps offer adventures for all skill levels. Whether you’re a first-timer looking for an introductory walk or an experienced hiker seeking challenging terrain, there’s a glacier tour waiting for you.

Our glacier hiking tours are led by certified guides who know these frozen landscapes intimately. They’ll equip you with professional gear, teach you essential ice-walking techniques, and share fascinating insights about glacier formation, climate change, and Iceland’s volcanic geology. No prior experience is needed — just a sense of adventure and reasonable physical fitness.

Iceland’s Major Glaciers for Hiking

Iceland is home to several glaciers, each with unique characteristics. Here are the main glaciers where hiking tours operate:

BEST FOR BEGINNERS

🧊 Sólheimajökull Glacier

📍 South Coast | ⏱️ 2.5 hours from Reykjavik | 🎯 Beginner-Friendly

Sólheimajökull (“Sun Home Glacier”) is Iceland’s most popular glacier for hiking, and for good reason. This outlet glacier of Mýrdalsjökull is incredibly accessible — just 2.5 hours from Reykjavik on the scenic South Coast — making it perfect for day trips. The glacier sits between two famous volcanoes: Katla and Eyjafjallajökull.

Highlights: Dramatic ice formations, volcanic ash streaks creating black-and-white patterns, accessible terrain for beginners, moulins (vertical ice shafts), crevasses, and blue ice. Combine with South Coast waterfalls and black sand beaches for an unforgettable day.

EUROPE’S LARGEST GLACIER

🏔️ Vatnajökull & Skaftafell

📍 Southeast Iceland | ⏱️ 4.5 hours from Reykjavik | 🎯 All Levels

Vatnajökull is the largest glacier in Europe, covering approximately 8,100 square kilometers — about 8% of Iceland’s total land area. Within Vatnajökull National Park, the Skaftafell area offers multiple glacier hiking options on outlet glaciers like Falljökull and Svínafellsjökull. This is where you’ll find Iceland’s most dramatic glacier scenery.

Highlights: Vast ice landscapes, views of Iceland’s highest peak (Hvannadalshnúkur), deep crevasses, blue ice ridges, ice caves (winter), and fewer crowds than Sólheimajökull. Often combined with visits to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach on multi-day tours.

UNIQUE EXPERIENCE

❄️ Langjökull Glacier & Ice Tunnel

📍 West Iceland / Highlands | ⏱️ 2 hours from Reykjavik | 🎯 All Ages

Langjökull (“Long Glacier”) is Iceland’s second-largest glacier and offers a completely unique experience: walking inside the glacier through man-made ice tunnels. The “Into the Glacier” experience takes you 500 meters into the ice cap, where you’ll explore stunning blue ice chambers and tunnels.

Highlights: Man-made ice tunnel (world’s largest), monster truck rides on the glacier, snowmobile tours, accessible from the Golden Circle, year-round operation, natural ice caves (winter). Perfect for those who want a glacier experience without strenuous hiking.

ICE CAVES YEAR-ROUND

🌋 Mýrdalsjökull & Katla Ice Caves

📍 South Coast | ⏱️ 2.5 hours from Reykjavik | 🎯 Moderate

Mýrdalsjökull covers the powerful Katla volcano and is home to the famous Katla Ice Cave — one of the only natural ice caves accessible year-round in Iceland. The black volcanic ash mixed with the ice creates stunning patterns you won’t see anywhere else.

Highlights: Year-round natural ice caves (unique in Iceland!), super jeep access, volcanic ice formations, black ash patterns in the ice, accessible from Vík. Combines well with South Coast sightseeing.

Compare Iceland’s Glacier Hiking Locations

Glacier Distance from Reykjavik Difficulty Tour Duration Best For
Sólheimajökull 160 km (2.5 hrs) Easy 2-4 hours on ice Beginners, Day Trips
Skaftafell (Vatnajökull) 330 km (4.5 hrs) Easy-Moderate 3-5 hours on ice Adventurers, Multi-Day Tours
Langjökull 140 km (2 hrs) Easy (inside tunnel) 3-4 hours total Families, Golden Circle Combo
Mýrdalsjökull (Katla) 180 km (2.5 hrs) Easy-Moderate 3-4 hours total Year-round Ice Caves

Types of Glacier Tours in Iceland

We offer several ways to experience Iceland’s glaciers, from easy walks to challenging ice climbing:

🥾 Glacier Hiking (Walking)

The most popular glacier experience. Walk on the ice surface with crampons and ice axes, exploring crevasses, ice formations, and moulins. No experience needed — suitable for anyone in reasonable fitness who can walk on uneven terrain for 1-3 hours.

Duration: 2-5 hours on the glacier (varies by tour)
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Age: 8-10 years and up (varies by tour)
Price: From $100-180 per person (standalone) or included in day tours from $180+

🧗 Ice Climbing

Take your glacier adventure to the next level by climbing vertical ice walls. Using ice axes and crampons, you’ll ascend frozen waterfalls and ice formations under expert guidance. This is a step up from basic glacier hiking but no prior climbing experience is required.

Duration: 4-6 hours total (includes hiking + climbing)
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Age: 12 years and up
Price: From $180-250 per person

💎 Ice Cave Exploration

Explore the magical world inside glaciers. Natural ice caves form during winter (November-March) in Vatnajökull, featuring stunning blue ice chambers. The Katla Ice Cave is unique — accessible year-round due to volcanic insulation. The man-made Langjökull Ice Tunnel is also available year-round.

Duration: 2-4 hours (ice cave visit) or full day with transport
Season: Vatnajökull: Nov-Mar | Katla & Langjökull: Year-round
Age: 6-8 years and up (varies by cave)
Price: From $150-300 per person depending on location and transport

🏔️ Snowmobile on Glacier

Experience glaciers at speed! Ride powerful snowmobiles across vast ice fields, enjoying panoramic views and adrenaline-pumping adventure. Available on Langjökull and Mýrdalsjökull. Valid driver’s license required to operate (passengers can ride with a driver).

Duration: 1-2 hours on ice (full day with transport)
Difficulty: Easy (no physical exertion required)
Age: 6 years as passenger, 18+ to drive
Price: From $200-350 per person including transport

Popular Glacier Tour Combinations

Most glacier hiking tours from Reykjavik combine the glacier experience with Iceland’s other iconic attractions:

MOST POPULAR

South Coast Day Tour + Glacier Hike

12-14 hours | From Reykjavik | Year-round

The ultimate South Coast experience combining Iceland’s most famous waterfalls with glacier hiking on Sólheimajökull. Perfect for maximizing your Iceland adventure in a single day.

Includes: Seljalandsfoss waterfall, Skógafoss waterfall, Sólheimajökull glacier hike (2-3 hours on ice), Reynisfjara black sand beach, all equipment, guide, and pickup.

MULTI-DAY ADVENTURE

2-Day Glacier Lagoon + Glacier Hike

2 days | Includes accommodation | Year-round

Explore Iceland’s Southeast coast over two days, including glacier hiking in Skaftafell National Park, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Diamond Beach, and South Coast waterfalls. Winter tours add ice cave exploration.

Includes: Hotel accommodation, glacier hike in Skaftafell, Jökulsárlón boat tour (summer), ice cave (winter), waterfalls, all equipment, meals, and pickup.

ICONIC COMBO

Golden Circle + Langjökull Glacier Experience

11 hours | From Reykjavik | Year-round

Combine Iceland’s most famous sightseeing route with an unforgettable glacier experience. Visit Þingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss, then ride a monster truck onto Langjökull glacier for snowmobiling or ice tunnel exploration.

Includes: Golden Circle sightseeing, monster truck glacier transfer, snowmobile ride OR ice tunnel tour, all equipment, and pickup.

All Glacier Tours

Browse all our glacier hiking and glacier adventure tours below:

What to Expect on a Glacier Hike

Never been glacier hiking before? Here’s exactly what happens on a typical glacier tour in Iceland:

1️⃣ Arrival & Safety Briefing (20-30 minutes)

Meet your certified glacier guide at the designated meeting point (or after pickup from Reykjavik). You’ll receive a comprehensive safety briefing covering glacier hazards, proper use of equipment, and group protocols. Guides will check everyone’s footwear and provide proper hiking boots if needed.

2️⃣ Equipment Fitting (15-20 minutes)

You’ll be fitted with all necessary glacier equipment: crampons (metal spikes that attach to your boots), an ice axe for balance and self-arrest, a harness for safety, and a helmet. Guides ensure everything fits properly and demonstrate how to walk with crampons.

3️⃣ Approach Walk (15-30 minutes)

A short walk across rocky terrain brings you to the glacier’s edge. This is often through volcanic landscapes with stunning views. Guides share information about the glacier, local geology, and the effects of climate change visible in the retreating ice.

4️⃣ Glacier Exploration (1-4 hours depending on tour)

The main event! Walk across the ancient ice, exploring crevasses (safely from the edge), ice ridges, moulins (vertical shafts formed by meltwater), and blue ice formations. Your guide leads you through the most interesting and scenic parts of the glacier, stopping for photos and explanations.

5️⃣ Return & De-equipping (20-30 minutes)

Walk back off the glacier and return equipment. There’s usually time for final photos at the glacier’s edge. For full-day tours, you’ll continue to other attractions on the South Coast.

Equipment & What to Wear

Equipment Provided (Included in Tour)

🧊 Crampons — Metal spikes that attach to your boots for grip on ice. Fitted to your shoe size.
⛏️ Ice Axe — Used for balance and self-arrest if you slip. Your guide will teach you proper technique.
🦺 Harness — Safety harness for glacier travel. Allows guides to rope up the group if needed.
⛑️ Helmet — Protection from falling ice (rare but possible near ice walls and crevasses).

What You Should Wear & Bring

✅ Essential (Required)

  • Sturdy hiking boots — Waterproof with ankle support and stiff soles (crampons won’t fit on soft-soled shoes). Rental available.
  • Warm base layers — Thermal underwear, wool or synthetic (NOT cotton)
  • Mid-layer — Fleece or wool sweater for insulation
  • Waterproof outer layer — Jacket with hood, waterproof pants
  • Warm hat & gloves — Windproof and waterproof if possible
  • Sunglasses — Snow/ice glare is intense, even on cloudy days

📦 Recommended (Optional)

  • Sunscreen — UV reflection off ice is strong
  • Small backpack — For extra layers and snacks
  • Camera — With extra batteries (cold drains them fast)
  • Water & snacks — Stay hydrated and energized
  • Neck gaiter/scarf — Wind protection
  • Hiking poles — Some find these helpful (optional)

Need hiking boots? Most tour operators offer boot rental for approximately 1,500-2,000 ISK ($10-15 USD). Reserve when booking to ensure availability in your size. For complete packing advice, see our What to Pack for Iceland guide.

Best Time for Glacier Hiking in Iceland

Glacier hiking is available year-round in Iceland, but each season offers a different experience:

☀️ Summer (June – August)

🌡️ 8-15°C on glacier | ☀️ 20+ hours daylight | 👥 Peak season

Best for: Longest days for extended glacier time, mildest weather, easiest conditions for beginners, combination with South Coast sightseeing.

Note: Most popular season — book 1-2 weeks ahead. Natural ice caves are NOT accessible in summer (they melt). The Katla Ice Cave and Langjökull Ice Tunnel remain open year-round.

❄️ Winter (November – March)

🌡️ -5 to 5°C on glacier | 🌙 5-7 hours daylight | 💎 Ice cave season

Best for: Natural ice caves in Vatnajökull (only accessible in winter!), dramatic snowy landscapes, Northern Lights opportunity after dark, fewer crowds, unique photography conditions.

Note: Dress extra warmly. Tours may be modified due to weather conditions. Combine glacier hiking with ice cave exploration for the ultimate winter experience.

🍂 Spring & Fall (April-May, September-October)

🌡️ 2-10°C on glacier | ☀️ 10-16 hours daylight | 💰 Shoulder season

Best for: Fewer crowds, good balance of daylight and prices, variable conditions that can offer unique photo opportunities, Northern Lights possible (Sep-Oct).

Note: Weather can be unpredictable — always dress for winter conditions. Ice caves may extend into early April or start in late October depending on temperatures.

Fitness Requirements & Who Can Participate

Glacier hiking in Iceland is accessible to most people, but there are some requirements to consider:

Tour Type Minimum Age Fitness Level Walking Time
Easy Glacier Walk 8-10 years Basic (can walk 1-2 hours on uneven ground) 1-2 hours on ice
Moderate Glacier Hike 10-12 years Moderate (can walk 2-3 hours on varying terrain) 2-4 hours on ice
Ice Climbing 12 years Good (upper body strength helpful) 3-5 hours total
Ice Cave Tours 6-8 years Basic (may involve uneven terrain) 1-2 hours walking
Langjökull Ice Tunnel No minimum Easy (minimal walking) 45 min inside tunnel

Ready to Walk on Ancient Ice?

Book your glacier hiking adventure and experience one of Iceland’s most unforgettable activities.

❄️ Use code WINTER2025 for 10% off private tours | Book by Dec 31

Frequently Asked Questions About Glacier Hiking in Iceland

Everything you need to know before your glacier adventure:

Do I need prior experience to go glacier hiking?

  • No experience is needed for beginner-level glacier hikes
  • All necessary equipment (crampons, ice axes, harnesses, helmets) is provided
  • Your certified guide will teach you everything: how to walk with crampons, use the ice axe for balance, and navigate safely
  • A comprehensive safety briefing is included before stepping onto the ice
  • You should be able to walk on uneven terrain for 1-3 hours and be in reasonable physical condition
  • Ice climbing requires no experience either — guides teach you the techniques on location

Which glacier is best for a first-time glacier hike?

  • Sólheimajökull is the best choice for beginners — it’s the most accessible glacier with easy terrain
  • Located just 2.5 hours from Reykjavik on the South Coast
  • Easily combined with waterfalls and black sand beach visits in a single day
  • Multiple tour lengths available (1-4 hours on ice)
  • For a more immersive experience with fewer crowds, consider Skaftafell in Vatnajökull National Park (4.5 hours from Reykjavik)
  • For families with young children or those wanting minimal hiking, Langjökull Ice Tunnel offers a glacier experience without strenuous walking

How much does glacier hiking in Iceland cost?

  • Meet-on-location glacier walks: $100-150 USD per person (2-3 hours on ice)
  • Full-day tours from Reykjavik with glacier hike: $180-280 USD per person (includes South Coast sightseeing)
  • Ice climbing add-on: Additional $50-100 per person
  • Ice cave tours: $150-300 USD depending on location and transport
  • 2-day tours with glacier hiking: $400-600 USD including accommodation
  • Private tours: Contact us for custom pricing
  • All prices include equipment (crampons, ice axe, harness, helmet)
  • Boot rental available for approximately 1,500-2,000 ISK ($10-15 USD) if needed

What equipment do I need for glacier hiking?

  • All glacier equipment is provided: crampons, ice axes, harnesses, and helmets
  • You need to bring:
  • — Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support and stiff soles (rental available)
  • — Warm, layered clothing (thermal base, fleece mid-layer, waterproof outer layer)
  • — Warm hat and waterproof gloves
  • — Sunglasses (glacier glare is intense)
  • Recommended: Sunscreen, camera with extra batteries, water, snacks, small backpack
  • Avoid: Jeans (get cold when wet), cotton clothing, sneakers or soft-soled shoes

Can I go glacier hiking in Iceland year-round?

  • Yes! Glacier hiking tours operate every day, all year
  • Summer (June-August): Longest days, mildest weather, best for beginners, but no natural ice caves
  • Winter (November-March): Shorter days, colder, but natural ice caves in Vatnajökull are accessible, snowy landscapes, Northern Lights possible
  • Spring/Fall: Good balance of conditions, fewer crowds, variable weather
  • Year-round ice caves: Katla Ice Cave and Langjökull Ice Tunnel are accessible all year
  • Tours may be modified (not cancelled) in extreme weather for safety

Is glacier hiking dangerous?

  • With a certified guide, glacier hiking is very safe
  • Guides know the glacier intimately and identify safe routes daily
  • All equipment provided is professional-grade and regularly inspected
  • Groups are kept small (8-15 per guide) for close supervision
  • Dangers WITHOUT a guide include: hidden crevasses, ice collapse, getting lost, weather changes
  • Never walk on a glacier without a certified guide — this is extremely dangerous
  • Follow all instructions from your guide and stay with the group
  • Guides carry emergency communication equipment and first aid supplies

What’s the difference between glacier hiking and ice climbing?

  • Glacier Hiking (Walking):
  • — Walking across the glacier surface with crampons and ice axe for balance
  • — Exploring ice formations, crevasses (from safe distances), and moulins
  • — Suitable for most fitness levels, no experience needed
  • — 1-4 hours on the ice
  • Ice Climbing:
  • — Ascending vertical ice walls using ice axes and crampons
  • — More physically demanding (upper body strength helpful)
  • — Still no experience required — guides teach you the technique
  • — Usually combined with glacier hiking (3-5 hours total)
  • — More adrenaline and challenge for adventure seekers

How long is a typical glacier hike in Iceland?

  • Time on the glacier varies by tour:
  • — Easy glacier walks: 1-2 hours on ice
  • — Standard glacier hikes: 2-3 hours on ice
  • — Extended glacier hikes: 4-5 hours on ice
  • — Ice climbing tours: 3-5 hours total (includes hiking + climbing)
  • Total tour duration (from Reykjavik):
  • — Sólheimajökull day tour: 10-12 hours total
  • — Skaftafell requires a 2-day tour due to distance (4.5 hours from Reykjavik)
  • Additional time for: safety briefing, equipment fitting, approach walk, and sightseeing stops

Can children go glacier hiking?

  • Yes, with age restrictions:
  • — Easy glacier walks: Typically age 8-10 and up
  • — Moderate glacier hikes: Age 10-12 and up
  • — Ice climbing: Age 12 and up
  • — Ice cave tours: Age 6-8 and up (varies by cave)
  • — Langjökull Ice Tunnel: No minimum age (minimal walking)
  • Children must be able to walk independently for the required duration
  • Crampons are available in sizes from EU 35 (approximately US 4 / UK 2.5)
  • Private tours are ideal for families — guides can adjust the pace and route for children

What if the weather is bad on my glacier hiking day?

  • Tours rarely cancel entirely — Iceland’s weather is always variable, and guides are prepared
  • Light rain, wind, or snow usually doesn’t stop tours — dress warmly and waterproofly!
  • Guides may modify the route or shorten glacier time in challenging conditions
  • Tours may be cancelled for: extreme storms, hurricane-force winds, or unsafe ice conditions
  • If we cancel: Full refund or free rescheduling to another date
  • Always dress for the worst and hope for the best — Iceland weather can change rapidly
  • The glacier often has different (sometimes better!) weather than Reykjavik

What if I’m not fit enough for glacier hiking?

  • Alternative glacier experiences for lower fitness levels:
  • — Langjökull Ice Tunnel: Walk inside a glacier through man-made tunnels, minimal walking
  • — Snowmobile tours: Experience glaciers without hiking — ride across the ice
  • — Super Jeep ice cave tours: Vehicle takes you close to ice caves with shorter walks
  • — Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon boat tour: See glacier ice up close from a boat
  • If you can walk for 1 hour on uneven ground, the easy glacier walks are likely suitable
  • Private tours can be customized to your fitness level
  • Contact us to discuss your situation — we’ll find the right option for you

Are glacier hikes accessible from cruise ports?

  • From Reykjavik cruise port: Full-day glacier tours available (Sólheimajökull)
  • We offer shore excursions specifically timed for cruise schedules
  • Guaranteed return to your ship before departure
  • Other ports: Glacier access depends on port location and time in port
  • Contact us with your cruise schedule for recommendations
  • Private shore excursions available for groups wanting flexibility
  • See our Shore Excursions page for all cruise options

Can I visit an ice cave AND go glacier hiking?

  • Yes! Many tours combine both experiences
  • Winter option (Nov-Mar): 2-day tours to Vatnajökull include glacier hiking in Skaftafell + natural blue ice cave exploration
  • Year-round option: Katla Ice Cave + Sólheimajökull glacier hike on the South Coast
  • Langjökull: Ice Tunnel is technically “inside” a glacier, combined with snowmobiling on top
  • Natural ice caves in Vatnajökull are only accessible November-March
  • Katla Ice Cave is unique — accessible year-round due to volcanic heat insulation
  • Contact us for recommendations based on your dates

How far in advance should I book a glacier tour?

  • Summer (June-August): Book 1-2 weeks in advance — this is peak season
  • Winter (Nov-Mar): Book 1 week ahead, especially for ice cave combos
  • Spring/Fall: 3-7 days usually sufficient
  • Private tours: Book at least 1-2 weeks in advance
  • Last-minute availability is sometimes possible — check our website or contact us
  • Booking early guarantees your preferred date and tour type
  • Multi-day tours should be booked well in advance (accommodation fills up)

What’s the cancellation policy for glacier tours?

  • 48+ hours before tour: 95% refund (5% transaction fee retained)
  • 24-48 hours before tour: 50% refund
  • Less than 24 hours: No refund
  • If we cancel due to weather/safety: 100% refund or free rescheduling
  • We understand plans change — contact us if you need to modify your booking
  • Travel insurance is recommended to cover unexpected cancellations

Why should I book glacier tours with Iceland Highlights?

  • Local expertise since 2016: We’re a Reykjavik-based family company, not an international aggregator
  • Certified guides: All our glacier guides hold professional certifications and years of experience
  • Quality equipment: Professional-grade crampons, ice axes, harnesses, and helmets
  • Small groups: Maximum 12-15 per guide for safety and personal attention
  • Full-day combos: Combine glacier hiking with South Coast sightseeing
  • Reykjavik pickup: Door-to-door service from your accommodation
  • Best price guarantee: Competitive rates with quality service
  • Personal support: Our team responds quickly to questions and helps plan your adventure

Questions? We’re Here to Help!

Not sure which glacier tour is right for you? Our team can recommend the perfect adventure based on your fitness level, schedule, and interests.

📞 Phone:

+354 556 6868

⏰ Response Time:

Within 24 hours

Explore More Iceland Adventures

Discover other popular adventure tours and day trips:

South Coast Tours

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Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Floating icebergs, Diamond Beach, and boat tours at Iceland’s most famous lagoon

Volcano Tours

Explore Iceland’s volcanic landscapes with helicopter, hiking, and lava cave adventures

Northern Lights Tours

Chase the aurora borealis with expert guides who know the best viewing locations

Iceland Highlights — Family-owned tour company based in Reykjavik since 2016

Experience Iceland’s glaciers with local guides who share their passion for these ancient ice giants.

Last updated: November 2025