Snæfellsjökull Summit Hike
Take on this challenging one day hike to the top of Snæfellsjökull and be handsomely rewarded with stunning views, geological formations and the knowledge that you summited the crowning jewel of the famous Snæfellsness Peninsula. This tour is only available as a private tour.
Tour code: IMG19 / IMGP19
Hike to the Summit of Snæfellsjökull Glacier
The Snæfellsjökull glacier is one of the most picturesque glaciers in Iceland. It hides a dormant 700,000-year-old stratovolcano that rises 1.446 m above sea level, and last erupted in 250 AD.
Hike to the summit of this glacier in one day and enjoy the surroundings that famously provided the setting for Jules Verne’s classic subterranean epic, “Journey to the Center of the Earth”.
This area is rich with history, mystique and charm. Standing on top of the glacial volcano, you will have amazing panoramic views that extend from the Reykjanes Peninsula in the south to the West Fjords in the North. The drive to the starting point of the hike takes you through Snæfellsnes National Park.
It is a microcosm of Iceland’s diverse landscape with its black sand beaches, mossy lava fields, rare wildlife, hidden waterfalls and caves. This day tour checks all the boxes: amazing views, geological wonders and a challenging hike, which is mostly done on snow-covered glaciers.
Tour Overview
- Duration
- 12 hrs
- Group Size
- 1 to 8 per guide
- Active
- 6 - 7 hrs
- Language
- English
- Minimum age
- 16 years
- Duration
- 12 hours
- Difficulty
- Demanding
Contact Us
For availability information on a tour, please contact us using the form below.Customer Reviews
We hiked the Snæfellsjökull Glacier with Icelandic Mountain Guides in early June. It was the highlight of our 11-day Iceland adventure. There were only 2 of us on the tour (my partner and me) and neither of us had used crampons or climbed with ropes before. Conditions were challenging because of the weather which was very cold, windy and with very poor visibility. An authentic Iceland experience! Our guide, Villi, was awesome: enthusiastic, knowledgeable, encouraging and meticulous in explaining safety requirements. We felt we were in the best of hands and would highly recommend Icelandic Mountain Guides.
Tour Highlights
Included
- Experienced and qualified mountain guide
- Glacier gear
- Safety equipment
Not included
- Rain gear
- Hiking boots
- Warm clothing
- Lunch
Optional extras
- Rain gear (jacket and pants)
- Hiking boots
- Transport from Reykjavík
Tour Map and Itinerary
Click map for detailed itinerarySnæfellsjökull Summit Hike
Day Tour
This meet-on-location tour begins at Arnarstapi on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, where you’ll meet your expert mountaineering guide. After a safety briefing, you’ll be equipped with all the necessary gear for the hike.
A short drive will bring you to the trailhead, where the challenging ascent of this snow-covered mountain awaits. The effort is well worth it, as the breathtaking views from the summit offer the ultimate reward.
Once you’ve descended, you’ll return to your vehicle, ready to continue your journey.
Keep informed about Snæfellsjökull Summit Hike
From time to time we send updates about new routes
Practical Information
How does it work if I want transfer from Reykjavík?
In the booking process you can add transfer from Reykjavík at an extra cost, and choose your pick up location.
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.
I want to hike up Snæfellsjökull but the season is over/not started?
Unfortunately due to the nature of glaciers we cannot offer hikes to the top of these glaciers outside the hiking season. The season can vary according to weather conditions that year but is usually from April-August