Skaftafell Glacier Hike and Ice Climbing
Discover the exhilarating world of ice climbing in Iceland with our unforgettable Skaftafell glacier adventure tour. Experience the majestic beauty of Vatnajökull National Park as you embark on a thrilling glacier hike and ice climbing journey.
Tour code: SKF28
A Fun Glacier Hike With An Introduction To Ice Climbing
Embark on an exhilarating Skaftafell ice climbing adventure and discover the excitement of ice climbing in Iceland. Set within the breathtaking Vatnajökull National Park, you'll have the opportunity to explore the mesmerizing features of an outlet glacier, including water cauldrons, ridges, and deep crevasses.
Your journey begins with meeting your certified and experienced glacier guide in Skaftafell. Equipped with essential glacier gear, such as a helmet, harness, crampons, and an ice axe – all provided by us – you'll be briefed on safety procedures before stepping into an enchanting world of ice.
As you venture onto the glacier, you'll be captivated by the awe-inspiring landscape. It showcases different shades of blue ice and the remarkable mountain peaks surrounding you, with Iceland's Highest peak among them, creating the perfect backdrop for your ice climbing adventure.
Your skilled guide will select the perfect location and set up the climbing ropes, ensuring a smooth introduction to the thrilling sport of ice climbing.
With a small group size of just six passengers per guide, you'll have ample time to fully immerse yourself in the exhilarating world of ice climbing. This unique combination of a glacier walk and ice climbing offers the ultimate way to experience Iceland's majestic glaciers. Be sure to bring your camera to capture the unforgettable moments of your ice climbing Skaftafell adventure!
*The Skaftafell parking lot fee is not included in the tour price.
Tour Overview
- Meeting Point
- Skaftafell Base (next to the National Park Visitor Center)
- Group Size
- 2 - 6 per guide
- On the ice
- 3 hrs
- Language
- English
- Minimum shoe size
- European 34 (U.S. - 2.5)
- Minimum age
- 14 years
- Duration
- 4.5 hours
- Difficulty
- Moderate
Customer Reviews
We had a amazing time on our glacier walk and ice climbing tour. Our guide Tom tailored the tour to each individual’s desires and skill level and gave everyone a chance to shine. Defiantly a trip to remember!
Tour Highlights
Included
- Experienced and qualified guide
- Glacier gear
- Safety equipment
Not included
- Rain gear
- Hiking boots
- Warm clothing
- Lunch
Optional extras
- Rain gear (jacket or pants)
- Hiking boots
Tour Map and Itinerary
Click map for detailed itinerarySkaftafell Glacier Hike and Ice Climbing
Day Tour
After meeting your professional and knowledgeable glacier guide at the Skaftafell Base, you will be provided with a safety orientation, a harness, a helmet, crampons and an ice axe.
On the glacier, your guide will rig up the climbing ropes and you can enjoy an introduction to this awesome activity.
Following your Glacier Walk and ice climbing adventure, you will head back to our Base.
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 centre.
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 Walk an Ice Climbing
From time to time we send updates about the new routes
Practical Information
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.