Overview
Experience an unforgettable 3-hour guided walk on Falljökull, part of the mighty Vatnajökull National Park. This easy glacier hike takes you across stunning ice landscapes, where you’ll see deep crevasses, tall ice walls, and possibly an ice cave. Along the way, your guide will point out unique features like glacier mice—tiny moss balls found only in these frozen areas—and explain how the glacier is constantly shifting and reshaping itself.
Your adventure begins at a cozy indoor base in Hof, located close to the glacier. Free parking is included, so you can relax and focus on the experience. You’ll be given all the safety equipment you need, including a helmet, harness, crampons, and an ice axe. With a small group size, you’ll enjoy plenty of personal attention from your guide as you walk on Europe’s largest glacier and admire its striking blue ice and powerful natural beauty.
Itinerary
Meeting Point – Troll Expeditions Skaftafell
The adventure begins at Hof, conveniently located just off Route 1 in Southeast Iceland. This is only a short drive from the Skaftafell Visitor Centre, making it easy to find. Travel time from Reykjavík is around five hours in good weather and road conditions.
- Duration: 20 minutes before departure
Check-In & Gear Up
Once you arrive, you’ll be welcomed at the indoor facility where the team will provide you with all the necessary safety equipment. This includes crampons, a helmet, harness, and an ice axe. Your certified guide will explain how to use the gear and make sure everyone is fully prepared for the glacier walk.
- Duration: 20–30 minutes
Transfer to the Glacier
After gearing up, you’ll take a quick transfer from the base to the edge of the Falljökull outlet glacier. This short drive brings you closer to the icy landscape, giving you your first stunning view of the glacier.
- Duration: 10–15 minutes
Guided Glacier Hike
Your guide will lead the way onto the glacier, pointing out fascinating formations like crevasses, moulins, and possibly an ice cave. Along the route, you’ll learn about the glacier’s history, movement, and the unique ecosystem around it. With a small group size, this experience is calm, personal, and safe.
- Duration: 2–2.5 hours
Wrap-Up & Return
After an unforgettable walk on the ice, you’ll return to the base where warm coffee and sweet treats await. This is a great time to relax, share your favorite moments, and take in the incredible scenery one last time before heading back.
- Duration: 20–30 minutes
What's included
- Crampons for safe walking on the ice
- Ice axe for balance and support
- Helmet for added protection
- Harness to keep you secure
- Warm coffee and sweet treats after the hike
- Guided by a certified glacier expert
Know before you go
- The tour starts at Skaftafell and operates all year round
- Total tour duration is approximately 3 hours
- The temperature on the glacier is slightly colder than at the Skaftafell base and usually windier at higher altitudes
- Dressing in layers is recommended to stay warm and comfortable during the hike
- Jeans are not suitable for glacier activities as they take a long time to dry if wet
- Optional gear like waterproof jackets, pants, and boots can be rented directly at the meeting point
Important Information
- Warm layered clothing is essential, including an inner base layer, insulated mid-layer, and a waterproof outer layer
- Proper hiking boots with ankle support are required; rentals are available if needed
- Accessories like gloves, hats, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a small water bottle are recommended
- The activity is easy to moderate but requires a basic fitness level and appropriate clothing for the weather
- Minimum age to join the tour is 8 years, with a required minimum shoe size of EU 33/34
- Please avoid arriving late, as missed departures cannot be refunded
- Weather conditions can change quickly, so guests should dress and prepare accordingly
Good to know
Do I need any hiking experience to join?
No previous glacier or hiking experience is required. This tour is designed for beginners and those with a moderate fitness level. Your certified guide will provide all the instructions and support you need to feel safe and confident on the ice.
Is gear provided, or do I need to bring my own?
All essential glacier gear—crampons, helmet, harness, and an ice axe—is included in the tour. You only need to bring appropriate clothing and personal items like gloves, hat, and sunglasses. Optional clothing items such as waterproof jackets and pants are available to rent at the meeting point.
Can children join the tour?
Yes, children from the age of 8 and older are welcome to join. The minimum shoe size required to participate is EU 33/34. All participants should be able to walk on uneven terrain for the duration of the hike.
How difficult is the hike?
The hike is rated easy to moderate. While the terrain is uneven and icy, the provided equipment makes it manageable for most people with average fitness. Guides will adjust the pace to ensure everyone feels comfortable.
