GLACIER HIKE & ICE CAVE GUIDE

A glacier hike or ice cave tour is on your bucket list. And so it should be! You have no doubt seen the pictures of the incredibly blue ice, the crunchy white surface, the bottomless crevasses, and the captivating textures of these moving giants.

But the big question from us is, are you ready for it? And, is it the right choice for you and your fellow travellers? This Glacier Hike & Ice Cave Guide covers all your burning questions to help you make the right choice when it comes to which tour to choose.

Frequently Asked Questions

What fitness level do I need to take part?

Our glacier and ice cave tours range from easy to challenging. On our easier tours (except for our helicopter tours) you must be able to walk at least 3 km (approx. 2 miles) without undue fatigue. The more challenging hikes require a moderate fitness level with the expectation that you can ascend and descend stair like slopes without support, and walk between 6–9 km (approx. 5 miles) on our longest hikes. Don’t worry, every tour is designed for first timers and your guide is on hand to help at every step of the way.

What level of mobility do I need to take part?

Regardless of the difficulty level, full mobility of your knees and ankles is required. Most glacier hikes involve some sloped walking, so being able to lift your knees up to your waist and having a full rotational motion of both ankles is key. Don’t worry, we will provide you with all glacier equipment needed for the trip to keep you safe.

Will an injury or illness stop me from taking part?

In a word, no. We always assess on a case by case basis. However, it is your responsibility to notify Hidden Iceland staff before the tour of any medical conditions, illnesses, or injuries that might affect your ability to take part or make entering a wilderness setting unadvisable. Not notifying us of relevant conditions can put you and those around you at risk.

How fast do I need to walk?

Further details are explained below for each tour, but since each tour is designed for first timers, we make sure to take ample water breaks and picture stops and walk at a slow to medium pace. On the longer tours, we even stop for lunch on the ice. It’s rare that you will be walking for more than 20 minutes at a time without a break. You will be given crampons and other safety gear to allow you to walk on the ice without any worry of slipping.

Will I have a guide for the entire time?

Always. All of our guides, or trusted partner operators, are experienced and well-trained glacier guides. Each guide has hiked on the glacier you will be walking on many times in the past. They have all completed strenuous glacier training. Each glacier guide for Hidden Iceland is a certified Wilderness First Responder. They are also trained in rescue techniques, including crevasse rescue. For self drive tours and some private tours, we may utilize the skills of trusted local partners who meet our secondary service provider standards.

Is it cold on the glacier?

On average, the glacier can feel around 1-2 °C (approx. 2-3 °F) colder than the surrounding areas, but with constant walking, you’ll rarely notice the difference. With that said, you should always bring gloves and a hat and waterproof clothing at all times of year. In winter, extra thick socks and added warm layers are likely needed. You can borrow waterproof outer-layers and boots from us upon request.

What should I bring?

We will provide all the glacier equipment for you (helmet, crampons, harness, ice axe etc.) but as standard you should bring a hat, gloves, sunglasses and multiple layers (yes, even in summer). Inner layers should be made of either synthetic fabric or wool, but no cotton, as cotton makes you feel colder when damp or wet. Waterproof outer layers (top and bottom) and hiking boots that support the ankle are highly recommended on all tours. These can be provided by Hidden Iceland or our partners upon request. A small day pack to shed and add layers as well as carrying water and snacks is a good idea too.

Is there a minimum age?

Yes, there is a minimum age of 8 years old for glacier hikes, or 14 years old for ice climbing. On private departures, we may be able to reduce the minimum age slightly. This comes down to the child’s height and shoe size, more than age. The smallest shoe size that fits the glacier gear required for the activity is size EU 34.

When is the best time to come for a glacier hike or ice cave tour?

Ice cave tours are typically safe and accessible between November and March, with the possibility of extending slightly before or after these months, depending on weather and glacier conditions. Glacier hikes, however, are available year-round. From November to March, the ice glows with a striking blue hue, while during summer, it transforms into a crisp white texture, making exploration easier. In short, we can always help you experience the magic of Iceland's glaciers, no matter the season.

What kind of tracks and trails will we be walking on?

Regardless of the tour difficulty (easy to challenging), we will be walking on nature trails or make-shift tracks that are not necessarily maintained regularly. You will likely encounter rocks, uneven surfaces and ice. Walking on these surfaces may require specialist equipment such as crampons, micro-spikes and other equipment, which can impede your walking somewhat. These devices are generally easy to use, especially if you take part in regular hikes in an outdoor setting, but may change the level of difficulty for some individuals if you are not used to this type of exertion.

What’s the difference between glacier hiking and ice climbing?

A glacier hike doesn’t require any use of ropes and relies on our guides to lead you across the surface of the glacier on foot (wearing crampons). We focus on exploring the surface of the ice and taking in the scenery. We tend to be able to cover the most ground on a glacier hike. An ice climbing tour will still require some hiking but will focus on single pitch climbs, with ropes. In both cases, your guide will have full control of the group and any necessary safety equipment.

Glacier Hike & Ice Cave Guide
Tour Selection & Glacier Options

Falljökull Glacier

This glacier is located within the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Vatnajökull National Park. The name, Falljökull, translates to ‘The Falling Glacier’ due to its impressive ‘ice fall’ views in the distance. We explore this glacier’s unique glacier features and textures, walk along the bottom of crevasses, and hike all the way up to the spectacular ice fall on our longer hikes. This glacier is one of our favourite glaciers in the country. This glacier allows for a range of tours, from short to moderate, to challenging tours depending on your desires.

Shorter Glacier Hike
Glacier Encounter Hike

SEASON All year Recommended Apr – Sept	DURATION 3 hours, 1 hour on ice	DISTANCE 3 KM 2 MILES
LEVEL OF DIFFICULTY Easy — Moderate	GROUP SIZE Max 12	MINIMUM AGE 8 years old

Longer Glacier Hike
Glacier Discovery Hike

SEASON April – November	DURATION 4 hours, 2 hours on ice	DISTANCE 6–9 KM 4–6 MILES
LEVEL OF DIFFICULTY Moderate — Challenging	GROUP SIZE Max 8	MINIMUM AGE 12 years old

Elevate your glacier experience
Glacier Hike & Ice Climbing

SEASON All year	DURATION 6 hours, 4 hours on ice	DISTANCE Varies based on the conditions
LEVEL OF DIFFICULTY Moderate — Challenging	GROUP SIZE Max 3 in winter Max 6 in summer	MINIMUM AGE 14 years old

Shorter Ice Cave Experience
Falljökull Ice Cave & Glacier Hike Tour

SEASON Main season Nov – March	DURATION 3 hours, 1 hour on ice	DISTANCE 1–3 KM 1–2 MILES
LEVEL OF DIFFICULTY Easy — Moderate	GROUP SIZE Max 12	MINIMUM AGE 10 years old

Breiðamerkurjökull Glacier

Breiðamerkurjökull glacier, nestled within the same UNESCO World Heritage Site as Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, offers a secluded and enchanting experience. Hidden behind the famous lagoon and accessible only by rugged off-road vehicles, this glacier is a gateway to discovering Iceland’s captivating winter ice caves. Unlike steeper glaciers, Breiðamerkurjökull’s gentler terrain provides an inviting backdrop for exploration. With ice cave tours ranging from moderate to adventurous, visitors can choose the perfect level of challenge while marvelling at the intricate blue hues and ethereal textures carved by nature over centuries.

Longer Ice Cave Experience
Ice Cave Discovery Tour

SEASON October – April	DURATION 5 hours, 3 hours on ice	DISTANCE 5–7 KM 5–6 MILES
LEVEL OF DIFFICULTY Moderate — Hard	GROUP SIZE Max 12	MINIMUM AGE 16 years old

Blue Diamond Ice Cave, winter 2023-24. Local Guide x Hidden Iceland. By @joshbeames

The ice caves are extraordinary (photo by @joshbeames)

Blue Diamond Ice Cave, winter 2023-24. Local Guide x Hidden Iceland. By @joshbeames

Skeiðarárjökull Glacier

Skeiðarárjökull Glacier, a hidden gem within the UNESCO World Heritage Site, promises a once-in-a-lifetime adventure with our exclusive Private Helicopter Ice Cave Tour. Accessible only by helicopter, this pristine and remote glacier reveals untouched ice caves of extraordinary beauty. Nestled amidst dramatic landscapes, the shimmering blues and intricate formations of these caves offer an unparalleled experience, making this glacier a dream destination for those seeking to uncover Iceland’s most secluded wonders.

The Ultimate Glacier Experience
Private Helicopter Ice Cave Tour

SEASON October – April	DURATION 2 hours, 1 hour on ice	DISTANCE 1–2 KM 1 MILES
LEVEL OF DIFFICULTY Easy	GROUP SIZE Max 4 per helicopter	MINIMUM AGE 14 years old

Blue Dragon Helicopter Ice Cave Tour. Hidden Iceland

Blue Dragon Helicopter Ice Cave Tour with Hidden Iceland

Blue Dragon Helicopter Ice Cave Tour | Hidden Iceland | Photo by Scott Drummond

Blue Dragon Helicopter Ice Cave Tour by Scott Drummond, Hidden Iceland. Featured

Sólheimajökull Glacier

This glacier is sandwiched between the Katla and Eyjafjallajökull volcanoes, two of Iceland’s most active volcanoes. Sólheimajökull glacier is one of the outlet glaciers that flow down from Mýrdalsjökull glacier ice cap and is easily accessible from the main ring road. Both tours below can be done as a day trip from Reykjavík or as part of your onward journey further east. It is ideally located close to the town of Vík on the south coast. This glacier is known for the stark contrast between the crevasse ridden, ash-covered, ice at the front of the glacier and the cleaner, flatter ice as you venture further up the glacier.

Please note, this glacier is more prone to cancellation due to local conditions and weather effects. It will be determined by the guide on the day if the hike can commence as planned. If the glacier hike is cancelled, alternative activities will be arranged.

Shorter Glacier Hike
Private Glacier Hike Tour

SEASON All year	DURATION 3 hours, 1.5 hours on ice	DISTANCE 3 – 4 KM 2 MILES
LEVEL OF DIFFICULTY Easy — Moderate	GROUP SIZE Max 6	MINIMUM AGE 8 years old

Longer Glacier Hike
Private Glacier Hike Tour

SEASON All year	DURATION 4 hours, 3 hours on ice	DISTANCE 4 – 5 KM 3 MILES
LEVEL OF DIFFICULTY Moderate — Challenging	GROUP SIZE Max 6	MINIMUM AGE 14 years old

The Sightseeing Option
Glacier Viewpoint Valley Walk

SEASON All year	DURATION 45 minutes	DISTANCE 1–2 KM 1 MILES
LEVEL OF DIFFICULTY Easy, no glacier hike	GROUP SIZE Max 12	MINIMUM AGE No minimum age

Svínafellsjökull, Fjallsjökull & Other glaciers

Discover the beauty of Iceland’s glaciers without the need for specialised gear or strenuous hikes. Svínafellsjökull, Skaftafellsjökull, Fjallsjökull, Kvíárjökull, and Gígjökull are perfect for relaxed exploration. Accessible paths, ranging from 5 to 50 minutes, guide you to awe-inspiring views of icy landscapes and glacier lagoons. Whether strolling along flat trails or gravel pathways, these glaciers offer a tranquil way to immerse yourself in Iceland’s natural splendour at your pace, making them ideal for all adventurers.

Difficulty level
Easy, no glacier hike

Season
All year

Group size
Max 12

Oraefajokull volcano. Andreas Constandinou Hidden Iceland Oraefi

Vatnajökull Glacier Svínafellsjökull. Hidden Iceland. Photo Norris Niman. Featured

Icelandic Glacier | Hidden Iceland

Explore our Glacier and Ice Cave tours

One thought

Holly Spice says:

April 2, 2020 at 9:23 am

Hiking on the glacier is usually the highlight of the trip, both for the customers and for me as the guide. For people who have never set foot on a glacier before, they are usually blown away by the majestic otherworldly scenery. Even for us guides who visit glaciers regularly, each glacier is unique and ever-changing, so it’s different every time I visit! Don’t forget to bring your gloves, especially in winter!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Glacier Hike & Ice Cave Guide Tour Selection & Glacier Options

Falljökull Glacier

Shorter Glacier Hike Glacier Encounter Hike

Longer Glacier Hike Glacier Discovery Hike

Elevate your glacier experience Glacier Hike & Ice Climbing

Shorter Ice Cave Experience Falljökull Ice Cave & Glacier Hike Tour