Snæfellsjökull Glacier Summit Tour
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Description
Attempt a demanding 6-8 hour guided ascent of Snæfellsjökull from Arnarstapi, covering about 10 km and 950 metres of ascent with glacier equipment included.
This is a chance to experience the ice-capped heart of the peninsula at closer range, surrounded by lava, ocean horizons and the powerful mountain scenery beneath Snæfellsjökull.
Over about 8 hours, each change in landscape adds a new chapter, making this an excellent choice for travellers who want more than a quick viewpoint tour.
This is a meet-on-location mountaineering tour, not a sightseeing drive from Reykjavík. Meet at Arnarstapi Center at 10:00 and allow 6-8 hours for a demanding ascent and descent on the glacier-volcano.
The route covers approximately 10 km with about 950 metres of ascent. After the approach, the guide fits crampons, harnesses and rope equipment before continuing towards the upper glacier. The normal high point can be around 1,418 metres; the true 1,446-metre summit requires a steep final rock-and-ice section and is never guaranteed.
Current booking categories start at age 14. The tour normally operates from May to November and can be cancelled, postponed or shortened when cloud, wind, snow or glacier conditions make the ascent unsafe.
Itinerary
Arnarstapi Center
The journey begins
Meet your guide at the confirmed location and settle in for a beautiful journey west, where Reykjavík gives way to broad bays, moss-covered lava and the mountain skyline of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.
Trail approach
A high-mountain glacier adventure
Move from the lower volcanic slopes towards the sweeping ice of Snæfellsjökull, with the guide choosing the strongest route for the day. Expanding views across Breiðafjörður, the peninsula and distant Westfjords make the ascent increasingly spectacular.
Glacier equipment briefing
A high-mountain glacier adventure
Move from the lower volcanic slopes towards the sweeping ice of Snæfellsjökull, with the guide choosing the strongest route for the day. Expanding views across Breiðafjörður, the peninsula and distant Westfjords make the ascent increasingly spectacular.
Upper glacier ascent
A high-mountain glacier adventure
Move from the lower volcanic slopes towards the sweeping ice of Snæfellsjökull, with the guide choosing the strongest route for the day. Expanding views across Breiðafjörður, the peninsula and distant Westfjords make the ascent increasingly spectacular.
High point or summit attempt
A high-mountain glacier adventure
Move from the lower volcanic slopes towards the sweeping ice of Snæfellsjökull, with the guide choosing the strongest route for the day. Expanding views across Breiðafjörður, the peninsula and distant Westfjords make the ascent increasingly spectacular.
Descent to Arnarstapi
A relaxed finish
Settle back after a wonderfully varied day as the road returns through West Iceland, with one last look at the peninsula’s sweeping coast and volcanic horizons.
What is included
- Certified glacier or mountain guide
- Crampons
- Harness
- Ice axe
- Ropes and carabiners
- Technical safety briefing
What do I need to bring
- Waterproof jacket and trousers
- Warm insulating layers
- Gloves and warm hat
- Strong hiking boots
- Lunch, snacks and sufficient water
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
- Personal medication
Good to know
- Meet at Arnarstapi Center at 10:00.
- Transport from Reykjavík is not included.
- Allow 6-8 hours for approximately 10 km and 950 m of ascent.
- Current booking categories start at age 14.
- The normal season is May-November.
- The high point and true summit are never guaranteed.
- Weather can cause cancellation, postponement or an earlier turnaround.
- Some clothing and hiking equipment may be available to rent when arranged in advance.
On location: Arnarstapi Center, Arnarstapi. Meeting time: 10:00.
Highlights
- Meet on location in Arnarstapi
- Guided glacier and mountaineering ascent
- Approximately 10 km and 950 m of climbing
- Crampons, harness, ice axe and rope equipment
- Possible high point near 1,418 m or summit attempt at 1,446 m
Snæfellsjökull Glacier Summit Tour - Frequently Asked Questions
Allow approximately 6-8 hours for preparation, the approach, glacier ascent, breaks and descent.