Glacier Panorama Trail
A versatile, scenic hike by the volcano Katla that rewards you with a view of Eyjafjallajökull, Sólheimajökull and other unique landscapes of the south coast.
Tour code: AG104
Enjoy a Scenic Hike With Stunning Panoramic Glacier View
During the hike, you will enjoy views of glaciers, black beaches, and a stunning south shore by the Atlantic Ocean. This hike gives you a glimpse into the world of geological wonders of Iceland and how glaciers have shaped the land for thousands of years. Our glacier truck transports you to approximately 750 m to start with. The hike ahead will generally be downhill but involves some challenging sections.
If you are looking for an active adventure that offers the best view and informative guiding through pristine landscapes, the Glacier Panorama Trail is the hike for you. In the morning, guests will meet their guide at the Sólheimajökull parking lot. From there, you will be driven up to the roots of the Mýrdalsjökull glacier. On a clear day, you will be able to see the famous Eyjafjallajökull volcano.
The hiking route lies above and along Sólheimajökull outlet glacier and ends by the glacier terminus. The route includes walking on loose gravel and traversing steep slopes, requiring good balance and careful footing. In some parts, the trail crosses a knee-deep, fast-flowing river, making waterproof shoes and an extra pair of socks essential. Optionally, you can bring wading sandals.
The total tour takes approximately 9.5 hours, and participants should be prepared for a physically demanding experience. This tour is suitable for those in good health and with some experience in mountain walking.
Please stay on the path and follow your guide’s instructions to preserve nature. Note that our guides are experienced and will assist you through the difficult passages.
We hope you enjoy this adventure and appreciate the unique beauty of Iceland's landscape.
Tour Overview
- Meeting Point
- Sólheimajökull Base Camp
- Group Size
- Up to 14 per guide
- Active
- 6 hours
- Language
- English
- Total Distance
- 9 km / 5.6 mi
- Minimum age
- 12 years
- Duration
- 7 hours
- Difficulty
- Demanding
Tour Highlights
Included
- Experienced and qualified guide
- Transport in a glacier truck
- Group safety equipment carried by guide
Not included
- Rain gear
- Good shoes
- Warm clothing
- Drinks and food
Optional extras
- Rain gear (jacket or pants)
- Hiking boots
- Hiking poles
Tour Map and Itinerary
Click map for detailed itineraryGlacier Panorama Trail
Day Tour
After meeting your certified glacier guide, at our Sólheimajökull Base Camp by Sólheimajökull glacier. Make sure you have all necessary equipment for the hike.
Remember you are going up to 750 meters so the weather is most likely different from the weather in the parking lot. At Sólheimajökull Base Camp you are picked up and taken to the starting point with the glacier truck.
Your guide will lead you from the high ground with versatile views down to the south low land. Following the walk, you will head back to the original meeting point in the parking lot.
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Practical Information
I want to join Glacier Panorama Trail tour but the season is over/not started?
Unfortunately this trip will only be offered as a scheduled tour from mid June to mid September. Please email us (info@mountainguides.is) or contact Icelandic Mountain Guides (IMG) (+354 587 9999) regarding trips other days or for groups.
What can I expect regarding the weather?
The weather between June and September can be variable. In September deperatures might start to get lower. Average temperature in Iceland during summer is around 13 degrees (55.4 Fahrenheit) . The weather could to be colder and also a bit windier at the beginning of the hike by the glacier than from the parking lot. The hike starts in around 750 meters. Some days hikers could go with out having to use extra clothing.
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.
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.
How does it work if I want transfer from Reykjavík?
This would only be offered as a private transfer. Unfortunately the starting of this tour does not correspond with other tours that Icelandic Mountain Guides operate. Please email us (info@mountainguides.is) or contact IMG (+354 587 9999) regarding private transfer.