Skaftafell Ice Climbing & Glacier Hike Tour

Get ready for a day packed with excitement and adventure on this ice climbing and glacier hiking tour, departing from Skaftafell!

This exhilarating day tour will have you traversing solid ice upon Vatnajökull glacier, the largest ice-cap in all of Europe. It is one of the most popular ice climbing areas in Iceland, with thrilling opportunities to clamber up and over the glaciated terrain. Take your climbing skills to the next level as you make your way across the unique and pristine landscape, enjoying captivating views over the expanse of Skaftafell Nature Reserve and beyond.

The journey begins when you meet your certified glacier guide at the car park of the Skaftafell Visitor Centre. They’ll take you through a number of safety procedures, before giving you a comprehensive introduction to ice climbing techniques. You’ll learn the basic skills that you need to know in order to be able to climb safely on the glacier, so be sure to listen closely. In advance of the glacier hike, you’ll be equipped with necessary safety gear required for the trip, including a helmet, harness, crampons, ice climbing boots and an ice axe. Rest assured that your guide will be on hand to help you every step of the way.

As you begin the walk towards the glacier tongue, you’ll learn all about the history of Vatnajökull National Park, as well as the impact that glaciers have upon Iceland’s landscape and weather. Watch out for Hvannadalshnúkur, the tallest peak in the country, as you get closer to the base of the ice cap. Meanwhile, you’ll be able to take in an awe-inspiring view of the Skaftafell Nature Reserve, sprawling out across the valley below.

Glacier hiking offers excellent opportunities to explore Vatnajökull glacier in detail. As you make your way across the ice, you’ll pass by extraordinary circular moulins that have been carved by meltwater through the ice sheet. There will be plenty of time to marvel at the many ice formations that rise forth from the blue ice and to examine the oxygen bubbles that are trapped within. With assistance from your guide, you’ll descend into the depths of the glacier, scaling walls of thick ice as you practice ice climbing with the use of your trusty ice axe. Despite all the fun of this challenging activity, there will be a special silence that you’ll experience when surrounded by the heart-stirring beauty of nature.

A combination of stunning scenery and skilled expertise of glacier guides means that his tour offers people of all ages and skill levels the opportunity to participate in an exciting glacier adventure. Whether you are a newcomer to adrenaline-pumping activities or a seasoned veteran on glaciers, this experience is sure to introduce you to the undisturbed, wild and rugged landscapes of Iceland. No previous experience is required.

If you’ve always wanted to join an ice climbing expedition or complete a glacier hike in Iceland, then this is the tour for you. Join our experienced glacier guides and climbing instructors on an adventure like no other! Check availability by choosing a date.