Duration
access_time
11 hours
Difficulty
insert_chart_outlined
Easy
Voucher
receipt
Electronic
Meeting point
location_on
Pick-up

Description

Experience the thrill of exploring a living glacier, surrounded by blue ice, sweeping ridges and volcanic landscapes shaped by centuries of movement.

With specialist equipment and expert guidance, the glacier becomes an unforgettable outdoor playground of textures, colours and wide South Coast views. Clear organisation and expert guidance make it easy to relax into the experience and enjoy every memorable moment.

No previous climbing experience is required. The challenge comes from 3–4 kilometres of walking, roughly 100–150 metres of elevation gain and uneven glacier terrain.

Itinerary

1

Reykjavík pick-up

Guided minibus departure

Begin the adventure with a comfortable departure from the confirmed meeting point, then watch the landscape open into lava fields, coastal lowlands and distant glaciers.

2

Seljalandsfoss

Walk-behind waterfall when open

Fed by meltwater from Eyjafjallajökull, Seljalandsfoss drops from the old coastline in one of Iceland’s most elegant waterfalls. The path behind the shimmering cascade creates a rare inside-out perspective and one of the South Coast’s most memorable photo moments.

3

Skógafoss

Waterfall and cliff-top views

Skógafoss combines raw power with classic South Iceland scenery: a 60-metre cascade, moss-covered cliffs and a vast open foreground. From the foot of the falls it feels immense; from above, the view stretches across the lowlands to the sea.

4

Sólheimajökull briefing

Meet the glacier guide

Meet your guide and settle in for a scenic journey as Reykjavík gives way to open farmland, volcanic ridges and the glacier-capped mountains of South Iceland.

5

Glacier hike

Ridges, blue ice and crevasses

Build confidence moving over the changing surface.

6

Ice climbing

Introductory supervised climb

Try climbing technique on terrain selected by the guide.

7

Return to Reykjavík

Minibus journey west

Relax on the return journey and enjoy a final look across the waterfalls, mountains and volcanic landscapes that shaped the day.

What is included

  • Guided minibus transfer
  • Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss visits
  • Certified glacier guide
  • Glacier and ice-climbing safety equipment
  • Free Wi-Fi

What do I need to bring

  • Warm non-cotton layers
  • Waterproof jacket and trousers
  • Hiking boots with ankle support
  • Gloves and headwear
  • Food and water

Good to know

Pick-up: Use the exact Reykjavík pickup point and time on your voucher. The glacier guide is met at Sólheimajökull during the tour.

  • Minimum age is 14 years.
  • Minimum shoe size for crampons is EU 35.
  • Expect 3–4 km of walking and 100–150 m of elevation gain.
  • No previous ice-climbing experience is required.

Highlights

  • Glacier hiking and introductory ice climbing
  • Approximately three hours on Sólheimajökull
  • Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss
  • All specialist safety equipment included

Blue Ice - Glacier Hike and Ice Climbing from Reykjavik – Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between glacier hiking and ice climbing?

Ice climbing adds a coached vertical-ice element to the glacier walk, while the guide selects features that suit the day's conditions and the group's ability.

Do I need climbing experience?

No previous ice-climbing experience is normally needed. The guide demonstrates the techniques and manages the safety system before you climb.

Is specialist equipment included?

The included glacier and climbing equipment is confirmed in the live booking details. Bring warm layers and suitable outdoor footwear as instructed.

How physical is the activity?

Expect uneven glacier terrain and active movement. Check the tour's current fitness, age and boot-size requirements before booking.

Will the climbing route be the same every day?

No. Glacier conditions change, so the guide chooses the safest and most rewarding accessible ice features on the day.

How should I prepare for the glacier?

Dress in layers, bring waterproof outerwear and arrive ready for a guided outdoor activity in changeable South Coast weather.

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