From Skaftafell

Ice Cave and Glacier Walk - Only the Brave

Explore the most iconic and picturesque features of the glacial landscape. Please Note: access to the ice cave is temporarily restricted. However, we will still hike to the cave's entrance, where our guide will offer an external view and share valuable insights on safety and risk assessment.

Tour code: SKF02

Price from:

$215

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A challenge with a great reward

On this unique day tour, we venture off the beaten path to explore an outlet glacier in Vatnajökull National Park. While reaching the Ice Cave is challenging, the reward is equally spectacular. We traverse stunning terrains, navigating through a labyrinth of towering glacial ridges and other remarkable glacial features.

The tour begins at our Skaftafell Base Camp, conveniently located next to the campsite by the visitor centre, where you'll meet your expert glacier guide. After being equipped with all the necessary gear—crampons, harnesses, helmets, and an ice axe—we board our glacier bus and head towards the glacier.

The glacier hike is demanding, but the scenery is truly breathtaking. Depending on conditions, reaching the Ice Cave can take up to 2 hours. The journey across the outlet glaciers of Vatnajökull, surrounded by its awe-inspiring landscape, is an integral part of the experience.

After our ice cave exploration, we return to Skaftafell Base Camp, bringing back memories that will last a lifetime.

*Please note that your safety is our first priority, so sometimes, our tours may be cancelled with short notice due to weather conditions or safety concerns. If this happens, we will always do our best to offer you an alternative tour, if weather permits.

Tour Overview

Meeting Point
Skaftafell Base (20 min. prior to departure): Group Size
Up to 8 per guide: On the ice
4.5 hrs: Minimum shoe size
European 34 (U.S. - 2.5): Language
English: Minimum age
16 years: Duration
5.5 hours: Difficulty
Challenging

Tour Highlights

Included

Experienced and qualified guide
Glacier gear
Safety equipment

Not included

Rain gear
Hiking boots
Warm clothing
Snacks

Optional extras

Rain gear (jacket or pants)
Hiking boots

Tour Map and Itinerary

Click map for detailed itinerary

Map & Itinerary

Ice Cave and Glacier Walk - Only the Brave

Ice Cave - Only for the Brave: A challenge with a great reward

Day Tour

Ice Cave adventure starts off with meeting your certified glacier guide at the Skaftafell Base Camp.

There, you will be provided with a harness, ice axe, helmet and crampons. After a quick safety briefing, you will head off to the glacier on our glacier bus.

Skaftafell Base Camp

Directions

Driving time
From Reykjavík: 5 hrs
From Vík: 2.5 hrs
From Höfn: 1.5 - 2 hrs

GPS point for Skaftafell
N 64.016217
W -16.966664

Our Welcome Centre in Skaftafell is located in the heart of the camping site, right next to the service center.

The park is by the end of road no. 998 that branches off the main road no. 1

Please be there 20 min before the departure of your tour.

Keep informed about Glacier Walks in Skaftafell

From time to time we send updates about new routes and conditions

Practical Information

FAQ

Equipment List

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.