Glacier

The Guide’s Choice - Custom Skaftafell Adventure

New tour

Step into the unknown with this full-day adventure designed for experienced hikers who thrive on spontaneity, variety, and challenge.

Tour code: SKF30

Price from:

$455

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Scenic view of moss-covered volcanic mountains with a glacier cascading down between rocky peaks in Skaftafell, Iceland, under a cloudy sky.

Panoramic view of a glacier flowing between rugged mountain peaks in Skaftafell, Iceland, under a blue sky with scattered clouds.

Person wearing a yellow jacket and helmet walking with crampons and an ice axe on a glacier in Iceland, surrounded by dramatic ice formations and snowy terrain. You said:

Person wearing a yellow jacket and helmet walking through a narrow ice canyon on a glacier, surrounded by towering blue ice walls.

Two climbers equipped with helmets, harnesses, and ice axes preparing to ascend an icy slope on a glacier, with one climber looking up while roped in for safety.

Tailor-Made Full-Day Tour with a Local Expert Guide

This is not your average glacier tour. Starting from Skaftafell, this 8–9 hour exploration has no fixed route or set plan. Instead, it’s built entirely around the group and the guide’s inspiration on the day.

You could find yourself crossing glacier tongues, summiting surrounding mountain peaks, navigating steep ridges, or following quiet hiking trails far from the crowds. The experience is fully flexible and adapted to conditions and group dynamics.

The day begins with a short briefing, during which your guide will evaluate everyone's fitness and experience. From there, the adventure is shaped on the spot—it could include glacier crossings, alpine hiking, ice caving, or even some light climbing/ice climbing if the group is up for it. Along the way, you'll enjoy breathtaking views, deep solitude, and access to areas few travelers ever reach.

This tour is for fit, experienced hikers comfortable with long days in rugged outdoor conditions. You don’t need previous glacier experience — all necessary gear and basic training will be provided — but you should be able to hike 9 hours on uneven terrain, including uphill climbs, without hesitation. A spirit of adventure and flexibility is essential — this is a true off-the-map experience.

Tour Overview

Language
English: Meeting Point
Skaftafell Base (next to the National Park Visitor Center): Group Size
Maxumim 6 people per guide: Walking per day
Custom to the group: Minimum age
16 years: Duration
9 hours: Difficulty
Mpderate to Challenging

Tour Highlights

Expert Guidance from a Certified Glacier Guide

Hands-On Glacier Experience for Small Groups

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Practical Information

FAQ

Why do I need to arrive 20 minutes before departure time?

Before we head to the glacier for the tour we need to get everyone fitted with the equipment, crampons and harnesses. The crampons need to be adjusted to each persons shoe size so it is important that people arrive 20 minutes before so everyone is ready at the departure time.

What is the address of the meeting place?

There are no official addresses on our meeting points but you can see directions and GPS points if you click the map above.

What is the difference between Sólheimajökull and Skaftafell?

Sólheimajökull and Skaftafell are two different locations in Iceland, each having its own unique characteristics and attractions.

Sólheimajökull is a glacier tongue that extends from the mighty Mýrdalsjökull glacier, Iceland's 4th largest ice cap. It is located on the south coast of Iceland between the volcanoes Katla and Eyjafjallajökull. The area is renowned for its beauty and is perfect destination for glacier hiking and ice climbing due to its easily accessible location and terrain. We offer a variety of tours at Sólheimajökull, which are especially suited for families and those seeking a more relaxed experience.

Skaftafell is a nature reserve located in the Vatnajökull National Park in the south-east of Iceland. It is a green oasis nestled under the white expanse of Vatnajökull, Europe's largest glacier. Skaftafell is a hiker's paradise, with trails leading to stunning attractions and picturesque glacial tongues.

Skaftafell's glaciers are known for their rugged terrain and fantastic views. The tours we operate here are particularly designed for those with an adventurous spirit. If you're a keen hiker or climber, you'll find the challenging landscapes of Skaftafell incredibly rewarding.

How long in advance do I need to book?

We always recommend to book as soon as you are ready especially if you have a strict travel schedule or a large group. It is easy to change or cancel 24 hours before departure by emailing us (info@mountainguides.is). Tours can also be purchased the day of as long as there are spaces available.