Sólheimajökull Glacier Hike
Price
560 EUR / 80,000 ISK
Group size
1–10 people
Duration
3-hour hike · 1-day tour

Overview

The Sólheimajökull Glacier Hike is a 3-hour small-group adventure on one of Iceland's most accessible and impressive glaciers. Starting from the Sólheimajökull parking lot at the end of Route 221, you'll walk through dramatic volcanic landscapes — glacier lagoons, moss-lined mountains, and old terminal moraines — before stepping onto the ice with your guide.

On the glacier, you'll explore striking features including deep crevasses, moulins (vertical water tunnels), volcanic ash layers frozen into the ice, and sometimes small ice caves or glacier mice. Throughout the hike, your guide shares insight into Iceland's volcanic geology, the story of glacier formation, and the visible effects of climate change on Iceland's ice.

The tour is suitable for most fitness levels. The pace is relaxed and the group size is kept small to ensure a personal and safe experience, with about one hour spent directly on the glacier.

Itinerary

Before departure

Arrive at least 10 minutes early — use the time to visit the facilities and adjust your clothing layers for the conditions.

Meeting point

Meet your guide at the Sólheimajökull parking lot by the toll gate. All necessary safety gear and instructions are provided here.

Walk to the glacier

A scenic 15–20 minute walk from the parking lot across volcanic landscapes and glacier lagoons to reach the ice.

On the glacier

Learn to walk safely on ice with crampons under your guide's supervision. Explore deep crevasses, moulins (vertical water shafts), volcanic ash layers embedded in the ice, and — occasionally — small ice caves and glacier mice (moss formations).

Along the way

Observe the moss-lined mountains marking the glacier's former boundaries, and take in panoramic views across the black sand plains below.

Throughout the hike

Your guide shares insights on glacier formation, Iceland's volcanic geology, and the visible effects of climate change on the ice.

Total duration

A relaxed, educational 2.5 to 3-hour hike suitable for most fitness levels, with plenty of time for photos.

What's included

  • Crampons
  • Helmet
  • Harness
  • Safety briefing and equipment fitting

What's
not included

  • Hiking boots
  • Warm, layered clothing
  • Waterproof and windproof jacket and trousers
  • Gloves and warm hat
  • Sunglasses with UV protection
  • Sunscreen
  • Snacks and water
  • Parking fees

What to bring

  • Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support (required for crampons)
  • Warm, layered clothing — thermal base layer, fleece mid-layer
  • Waterproof and windproof jacket and trousers
  • Gloves and a warm hat (must fit under a helmet)
  • Sunglasses with UV protection
  • Small backpack
  • Extra snacks and water

Good to know

  • Arrive 15–20 minutes before departure for gear fitting and safety briefing.
  • Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support are required — crampons cannot be fitted to sneakers or low-cut shoes. Rental options may be available on request.
  • Weather on the glacier is highly variable and can change quickly — warm, waterproof layers are essential year-round.
  • The glacier guide will tailor the activity and gear to the day's conditions and your group's needs.
  • Participants should be comfortable with moderate physical activity on uneven, icy terrain.

Cancellation
policy

  • We will charge a cancellation fee of 100% if booking is cancelled 4 days or less before the event
  • We will charge a cancellation fee of 50% if booking is cancelled 8 days or less before the event

Why hrafnar

Avoid the Crowds
We are not just drivers. We provide context, not just a view. We have the ability to "read" the land and see clearly where others see chaos.
Expert Insight
Security, experience, and memory.  It is the promise that you are in the hands of a professional who knows every shift of the Icelandic weather.
Local & Authentic
True beauty is found in reduction. We strip away the noise to reveal the raw truth of Iceland. If it doesn't add meaning, it is removed.
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