From Skaftafell

Skaftafell Ice Cave Tour & Glacier Hike

New Ice Cave!

Step into another world when you hike on the glacier, explore the fantastic features on the surface of the glacier and its naturally forming ice caves in Vatnajokull National Park.

Tour code: SKF01

Price from:

$182

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The Ultimate Glacier Combination

On this action packed day tour, you will explore the naturally formed ice caves and ice tunnels of a stunning outlet glacier.

The ice caves, open up for exploration when the meltwater underneath the glacier freezes over or finds another route and leaves behind these ice tunnels.

After meeting your highly trained and certified glacier guide in Skaftafell in Vatnajokull National Park, you will be fitted with the required glacier gear we provide, like an ice axe, ice spikes and a helmet.

As your guide leads you on to the icy landscape for your glacier walk, you will learn about how they are formed. While in the ice caves, you will have plenty of time to take pictures of the breathtaking surroundings. The melting ice, vivid blue color and tranquility inside of the cave are what make these features of the glacier so spectacular.

After exploring the cave, you will return up to its surface. There, your guide will lead you through the ever-changing glacial landscape and crevasses. You end off with a view of low land, sandy beach by the Atlantic Ocean in the distance.

Please note that ice caves are a natural phenomenon and the conditions can change depending on the weather. Your safety is our first priority so sometimes our tours may be canceled 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 12 per guide: On the ice
2 hrs: Minimum shoe size
European 34 (U.S. - 2.5): Language
English: Minimum age
10 years: Duration
3.5 hours: Difficulty
Moderate

Customer Reviews

Just back from a six-day trip to Iceland. One of the highlights of the trip was a glacier hike and ice cave tour we did with Icelandic Mountain Guides from Skaftafell. Michal, our guide, was wonderful and was extremely knowledgeable and enthusiastic. Would highly recommend the tour.
DARRENCLARKE0803-2019-02-05

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

Skaftafell Ice Cave Tour & Glacier Hike

Ice Cave & Glacier Hike: The Ultimate Winter Combination

Day Tour

Your Glacier Walk and ice cave adventure starts off with meeting your certified glacier guide at the Skaftafell Base.

There, you will be provided with a harness, ice axe and crampons. After a quick safety briefing, you will head off to explore an icy wonderland.

Following your exploration, of colors, crevasses and caves, you will head back to our lodge.

Skaftafell Base Camp

Direction

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.

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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.