Tour starts
location_on
Sólheimajökull
Duration
access_time
5 hours
Difficulty
insert_chart_outlined
Challenging
Languages
language
English
Available
date_range
All year
Minimum age
group
6 years old

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. A private format adds a comfortable pace, personal attention and room to enjoy the views without rushing from one highlight to the next.

Beginners can learn the basics while more experienced climbers receive challenges matched to safe conditions. Private guiding provides focused instruction, but every route remains controlled by glacier movement, weather and the guide’s assessment.

What is included

  • Private English-speaking glacier guide
  • Crampons
  • Helmet and ice axe
  • Climbing and safety equipment

What do I need to bring

  • Warm outdoor layers
  • Waterproof jacket and trousers
  • Ankle-high hiking boots with sturdy soles
  • Hat and gloves
  • Food, snacks and water

Good to know

Meeting point: Meet at Sólheimajökull parking area on Road 221. Arrive at least 15 minutes before departure.
Open in Google Maps

  • Minimum age is 6 years.
  • A minimum booking of two people applies.
  • The tour lasts about 4–5 hours with roughly three hours on the ice.
  • Pickup may be available only as an extra confirmed option.

Highlights

  • Private glacier guide
  • Ice-climbing instruction
  • Sólheimajökull
  • About three hours on the ice
  • Equipment included

Private Ice climbing tour (1) – 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.

You might also like

favorite_border

Shape a private highland day around the scenery you love most, from volcanic viewpoints and waterfalls to the brilliant colours of...

All year
10 hours
Reykjavík
Very easy
favorite_border

A private long-distance day that carries the classic South Coast route into southeast Iceland for floating icebergs and glacier-po...

All year
12 hours
Reykjavík
Easy
favorite_border

Discover Private Golden Circle & Helicopter Transfer, a richly varied Icelandic experience where the Golden Circle’s tectonic hist...

All year
6 hours
Reykjavík
Very easy