Overview
Get ready for an exciting adventure on the stunning Vatnajökull glacier, the largest in Europe. This tour combines a thrilling ice climbing session with a scenic glacier hike, giving you the chance to explore one of Iceland’s most breathtaking natural wonders. You’ll be surrounded by incredible views of snow-covered peaks that rise high above the glacier. A friendly and experienced guide will teach you the basics of ice climbing, help you use the gear, and make sure you feel safe and confident throughout the activity.
You’ll ride in a special glacier bus, take a short walk to the ice, and then step onto the glacier with crampons securely fastened. Your guide will find the best ice walls and crevasses for climbing, set up safety ropes, and lead you on an unforgettable climb. Along the way, you’ll see amazing ice features like deep cracks, moulins, and small tunnels glowing with blue light.
Itinerary
Meeting Point
Your adventure begins at the base camp of Troll Expeditions Skaftafell. Here you’ll meet your certified glacier guide, get checked in, and receive all the gear you’ll need for the day. The team will give a quick overview of the experience ahead and make sure everyone feels comfortable before heading out.
- Duration: About 20–30 minutes
Ride to the Glacier
After gearing up, you’ll hop on the troll bus for a short scenic drive. The journey takes you through stunning landscapes with towering peaks and vast ice fields in the distance, setting the tone for the day’s adventure.
- Duration: Around 10 minutes
Short Walk to the Ice
Once off the bus, you’ll take a gentle walk to the glacier’s edge. Your guide will help you fit your crampons securely and explain how to walk on the ice safely. This is the perfect moment to take in the incredible surroundings.
- Duration: About 15 minutes
Ice Climbing & Glacier Hike
Now the real fun begins. Your guide will find the best spots on the glacier for climbing and set up all the safety ropes. You’ll have the chance to climb an ice wall or rappel into a crevasse, feeling the thrill of standing on ancient ice. After climbing, you’ll continue hiking across the glacier to explore deep crevasses, moulins, and shimmering blue ice formations.
- Duration: Around 3 hours on the glacier
Return & Warm Treats
When the adventure comes to an end, you’ll walk back to the bus and return to the base camp. A warm cup of coffee and sweet treats will be waiting for you—perfect after an action-packed day in Iceland’s icy wilderness.
- Duration: About 20 minutes
What's included
- Expert glacier guide for the whole tour
- Crampons for walking safely on ice
- Ice axe for climbing the glacier wall
- Supportive boots for extra ankle safety
- Harness and helmet for secure climbing
- Warm drink and sweet treat after the hike
Know before you go
- The starting point for this tour is Skaftafell, easily accessible by car.
- The experience is available all year, allowing visitors to enjoy the glacier in every season.
- The total duration of the tour is approximately 4 hours, including preparation and climbing time.
- Warm and layered clothing is essential to stay comfortable in changing weather.
- Waterproof outerwear, gloves, and a hat are strongly recommended for protection against wind and moisture.
- This activity is rated medium difficulty and requires a good fitness level.
- Participants must dress according to the weather and be ready for outdoor physical activity.
- Minimum age for joining the tour is 12 years old to ensure safety for all participants.
- Wearing jeans is not advised since wet denim can become cold and uncomfortable.
- The temperature on the glacier is slightly lower than in Skaftafell, with stronger winds at higher elevation.
Important Information
- This tour is not suitable for pregnant participants due to climbing and safety restrictions.
- Proper winter or outdoor clothing is required to join the activity.
- A guided safety briefing and all technical equipment will be provided before entering the glacier.
- Participants should arrive early to allow time for check-in and preparation.
- Weather can change quickly in the area, and tours may be adjusted for safety reasons.
Good to know
How long does the tour last?
The total duration is approximately 4 hours. This includes gearing up, transportation to the glacier, walking to the edge, climbing and hiking, and returning to base. You will spend around 3 hours directly on the ice.
Is the activity physically demanding?
The tour is rated as medium difficulty. You don’t need to be an experienced climber, but you should be in good physical shape and able to walk and climb for an extended period in outdoor conditions.
Is previous ice climbing experience required?
No experience is needed. Your certified glacier guide will teach you the basic techniques for climbing and using the equipment. The activity is designed to be suitable for beginners with a sense of adventure.
Is equipment provided, or do I need to bring my own?
All technical climbing and safety equipment, including crampons, harness, ice axe, boots, and helmet, is included in the tour. Optional clothing add-ons like waterproof jackets and gloves are available for rent or purchase at the base.
