Description
Follow Iceland’s South Coast through a breathtaking landscape of cascading waterfalls, volcanic beaches, green cliffs and distant glaciers.
The route is designed to reveal the region’s strongest scenery and most memorable viewpoints in one beautifully varied day. A thoughtfully planned route makes the day feel effortless, leaving you free to enjoy the views, stories and unforgettable photo moments.
The long snow slope reaches the Öræfajökull plateau at about 1,800 metres. After a break, the group crosses towards the summit, changes to crampons where needed and then returns to the skis for a descent that can range from about 900 to 1,400 vertical metres. The summit and ski line always depend on weather, snow and glacier safety.
Itinerary
Pre-tour preparation
Equipment and experience review
Meet or speak with the guide before summit day to review conditions, equipment and an appropriate departure time.
Sandfell
Early mountain start
Begin the steep gravel ascent and refill water at the spring when the guide confirms it is suitable.
Skerið
Rope-up point
Put on harnesses and prepare for crevassed glacier travel above approximately 1,100 metres.
Öræfajökull plateau
Glacier ascent
Climb the long snow slope, manage crevasse terrain and take a food break before the summit section.
Rótarfjallshnúkur
Conditional summit attempt
Enjoy Rótarfjallshnúkur and take in the scenery, character and photo opportunities that make it a special part of the day.
Ski descent
Condition-led return
Settle back for the westbound drive, with time to revisit the day’s glacier, waterfall and coastal highlights as the road returns to Reykjavík.
What is included
- Professional mountain and glacier guide
- Rope management and glacier safety leadership
- Pre-tour preparation and equipment review
What do I need to bring
- Touring skis, skins and ski crampons
- Compatible ski boots and helmet
- Crampons suitable for the boots
- Harness and required personal glacier equipment as confirmed
- 20–30 litre backpack, food and water
- Warm layers, waterproof shell, gloves and sunglasses
Good to know
Meeting point: Meet at Sandfell at the exact time and location confirmed by the guide. The departure can be very early.
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- This is a demanding ski-mountaineering expedition, not a beginner sightseeing activity.
- The summit is never guaranteed.
- The listed duration can extend to approximately 13 hours.
- Every participant must provide honest mountain and ski experience before the tour.
Highlights
- Öræfajökull glacier travel
- Conditional summit attempt
- Roped crevasse terrain
- Long ski descent
- Small guided mountain team
Rotarfjallshnukur skiing – Frequently Asked Questions
The guide leads you onto a moving ice landscape of crevasses, blue ice and volcanic scenery, selecting a route that matches the day's conditions and the group.
Yes. Many glacier walks are designed for beginners, with a professional guide providing the safety briefing, route choice and required equipment.
The booking details confirm the equipment included for your option. Follow the guide's fitting instructions and bring the personal clothing listed for the tour.
Sturdy outdoor footwear and warm waterproof layers are essential. Check the product's current footwear and minimum-size guidance before departure.
Glaciers are constantly changing. The guide adapts the route to visible ice features, weather and safety conditions, making each walk a little different.
Use the meeting time in your voucher and arrive ready for equipment fitting and a pre-departure safety briefing.
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