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.
Arrive at least 10 minutes early — use the time to visit the facilities and adjust your clothing layers for the conditions.
Meet your guide at the Sólheimajökull parking lot by the toll gate. All necessary safety gear and instructions are provided here.
A scenic 15–20 minute walk from the parking lot across volcanic landscapes and glacier lagoons to reach the ice.
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).
Observe the moss-lined mountains marking the glacier's former boundaries, and take in panoramic views across the black sand plains below.
Your guide shares insights on glacier formation, Iceland's volcanic geology, and the visible effects of climate change on the ice.
A relaxed, educational 2.5 to 3-hour hike suitable for most fitness levels, with plenty of time for photos.
– Fuel surcharge
– Parking fees
– Entry or admission fee
– Private transportation for the entire 13-hour duration
– Professional English-speaking guide
– Door-to-door pickup and drop-off in Reykjavík or Keflavík
– Parking fees at all locations
– Fuel and local taxes
– Crampons
– Helmet
– Harness
– Hiking pole
– Meals and drinks throughout the day (bakery, brewery, and other stops)
– Travel insurance
– Personal expenses
– Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support (mandatory for glacier – crampons cannot be fitted to sneakers or low-cut shoes)
– Warm, layered clothing – thermal base layer, fleece mid-layer
– Waterproof and windproof jacket and trousers
– Gloves and a warm hat
– Sunglasses
– Small backpack
– Water and snacks for between stops
– Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support are strictly required – crampons cannot be fitted to sneakers, soft boots, or low-cut shoes. Please inform us in advance if you need to arrange rentals.
– The glacier hike is rated easy to moderate. Participants should be comfortable walking on uneven surfaces for approximately 1.5–2 hours.
– Children must be at least 8–10 years old and able to fit the smallest crampon size (approx. EU size 34/35) to participate in the glacier hike.
– In the event of extreme wind or lightning, the glacier section may be adjusted or replaced with an alternative activity for your safety.
– This is a long day (13+ hours) – pack extra layers, snacks, and plenty of energy.
– 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
