9 of the Best Iceland Glacier Tours 2024
Have you been wondering the Best Iceland Glacier Tours? I’ve got you covered!
I’ve lived in Europe for the past few years and have spent a lot of time exploring Iceland. One of my favorite activities is taking glacier tours, so I’m confident that I can provide insight into some of the best tours available.
When talking to other travellers about what glacier tour to take in Iceland, one thing always stands out – they tend to be overwhelmed by the sheer number of options. That’s why I think it’s important to know which glacier tours offer the best value and experience for your money.
That’s why I created this article, to provide comprehensive reviews and guidance on some of the best glacier tours available in Iceland. We look at factors such as safety, cost, and quality of guides when providing our recommendations so you can rest assured that your choice will be an informed one.
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My Top 3 Picks: Best Iceland Glacier Tours
9 of the Best Iceland Glacier Tours
1. Small Group Glacier Experience From Solheimajokull Glacier
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 | ⏳ LENGTH: 3 hours | ✅ Book it!
Get to experience an unforgettable walk on pure ice as you join this small group tour on the Sólheimajökull glacier in South Iceland. During this glacier hiking adventure, you will be setting off from the food of Sólheimajökull with a professional guide and a small group.
As you start your hike, you will be hiking on solid ice and already experience walking across a frozen valley. Your guide will also share information about the glacier’s formation while you walk up to see ice sculptures, crevasses, moulins and many more natural formations.
All essential glacier walking equipment will also be provided at the start of the tour, and this tour is suitable for all ages!
“It was out of our comfort zone but the guides were amazing , walking up tot he glacier was an amazing experience. Kuddos to the guide and company for ending early as the winds picked up to over 70 mph, he made sure all got down safely and calmly and guided us all safely back along the beach even though it was a very difficult to even walk.”-Trudy_B
Since it’s a small group tour, this ice hiking tour allows you to have a more intimate yet enjoyable time with family and friends. With only a limited number of participants (15 per group), you are ensured to enjoy your day hiking with your experienced guide.
It starts with a convenient pick-up at Solheimajokull Cafe, the meeting place. While the tour lasts approximately 3 hours, you’ll only be hiking for one and a half hours, making it beginner friendly and thrilling for all kinds of visitors.
Important details
- Start Time (and location): Time varies at Sólheimajökull Cafe
- Duration: 3 hours
- Includes: Small group guarantee, Guided glacier hiking tour on Solheimajokull Glacier, Certified glacier guide, All necessary glacier gear needed
2. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon 2 Day Tour & Optional Glacier Hike
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 | ⏳ LENGTH: 2 days | ✅ Book it!
Spend 2 days exploring various destinations in Iceland during this Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon tour without rushing between locations. Instead of spending your day with a jam-packed itinerary, you will explore them overnight with a small group. This allows you to immerse in the experience fully and enjoy your trip.
Some of the stops you will be making include the famous waterfalls of Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, the black sand beach and basalt columns at Reynisfjara, Falljökull Glacier and the highlight of the tour, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon.
Since you will be doing a 2-day tour, you will already be provided overnight accommodation at Lilja Guesthouse at the foot of Vatnajökull National Park and a round-trip transfer from your Reykjavik accommodation.
“It was an excellent tour! Loved everything: itinerary, sights, accommodation, transportation, tour guide Max, food choices, overall organization and small size of the group. Amazing experience, it’s a must!” – Tatyana_I
If you want to experience the best glacier tours Iceland offers, this Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon 2-day tour is something you should consider. During your first day, you will be exploring 5 stops. The first stop will be the two famous Iceland waterfalls, Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss.
After taking great shots and admiring the views of the iconic and influential waterfalls, you will head over to see the beautiful black sand and basalt column rock formations at Reynisfjara Beach. Fjadrarrgljufur Canyon will be your next stop; you can enjoy a nice walk along its trails here. Lastly, the first day’s last stop will be at Fellsfjara, iconic for being an Iceland-covered black sand beach.
On the second day, you will proceed on a glacier adventure to Glacier Lagoon and the famous Vatnajokull Glacier. Glacier Lagoon is an enormous iceberg-filled glacier lagoon covered with a black sand beach. The highlight of your second day is going on an Iceland glacier hike at the famous Falljökull glacier.
Important details
- Start Time (and location): 8:30 AM at the chosen pick-up point (Reykjavik)
- Duration: 2 days
- Includes: Breakfast, Overnight accommodation, Buffet breakfast, Glacier Hike & Equipment, Pickup and drop-off from designated meeting points, Transport by air-conditioned minivan, Professional guide, Food and drinks
3. Small Group Glacier Hiking & Ice Caving Tour Inside Vatnajokull Glacier
⭐️ RATING: 4/5 | ⏳ LENGTH: 3 hours 30 minutes | ✅ Book it!
Another must-visit destination in Iceland is the famous Skaftafell National Park, home to the jewel Vatnajökull glacier. Now during this ice cave tour, you will be hiking around and beneath the Vatnajökull glacier.
With a certified guide, your small group tour will explore millions of years of natural geology while you gain insight into these formations. Compared to the other glacier hiking tours, in this activity, you will be hiking beneath and inside caves instead of climbing ice glaciers.
You will also be provided with all the necessary safety equipment to enjoy an uninterrupted tour around the icy landscapes of Iceland.
“Highly recommended experience, and it’s not as strenuous as we thought. Fantastic guides! Enjoy the sunset by taking the evening hike.” – Saaket_P
Suppose you want to discover what else Iceland offers besides the glaciers on the surface. In that case, this Vatnajökull glacier hike at the Skaftafell National Park lets you experience that.
The tour starts once your group meets at the Arctic Adventures Booking Hut within Skaftafell National Park. This means you’ll need to find your ride to the site if you’re coming from Reykjavik, approximately 327 kilometres away.
You will then be briefed on the dos and don’ts inside the park and reminded of the safety measures needed before hiking up the glacier. They will also be providing here the necessary gear and equipment.
What’s great about this tour is you will experience two activities. First, you will hike your way up the glacier to reach the cave, and then once you make it through, you will enter the cave and explore what’s beneath the surface.
Important details
- Start Time (and location): Time varies at Arctic Adventures Booking Hut in Skaftafell National Park
- Duration: 3 hours and 30 minutes
- Includes: Small group experience, Ice caving adventure, Professional driver/guide, Glacier equipment (crampons, ice axe, helmet)
🤩 Check Prices and Availability!
4. Small-Group Glacier Hiking And Ice Climbing On Sólheimajokull Glacier
⭐️ RATING: 4/5 | ⏳ LENGTH: 4 hours | ✅ Book it!
When visiting Iceland, it’s a must to at least experience ice climbing on Sólheimajökull Glacier. In this 4-hour ice climbing tour, you will go with a small group and expert guide to conquer the frozen curves and crevasses of the iconic Sólheimajökull Glacier.
This tour is highly recommended for those travelling to Iceland and looking for an adventurous day excursion. All necessary glacier gear will already be provided, and a certified glacier guide will be the one to join you, so rest assured everyone will be safe during the tour.
“All guides were skilled, helpful, and friendly. The hike itself was moderately strenuous (as advertised) but was well worth every step. Our guide did a great job getting us to some very cool spots on the glacier (which can change almost daily) and allowed us to see unique formations in the ice. We always felt our safety was paramount and we had an incredible experience.” – Eugene_P
The tour starts at the Solheimajokull glacier parking lot, where you’ll meet your tour guide. You will be provided with all the necessary equipment, including crampons and ice picks, while the guide briefs you on safety guidelines.
After the group gets fitted with all the necessary preparations, you will set out to hike and climb the Solheimajokull Glacier. Unlike the usual mountain hiking, this time, you will be manoeuvring around jagged ridges while learning more about the creation of glaciers.
Throughout the hike, you’ll also see lots of frozen crevices, caves and sinkholes while your guide gives you personalised attention compared to big group tours.
Important details
- Start Time (and location): Time varies at Sólheimajökulll
- Duration: 4 hours
- Includes: Small group guarantee, Guided glacier hike on Solheimajokull glacier, Certified glacier guide, All necessary glacier gear
🤩 Check Prices and Availability!
5. RED GLACIER MONSTER TRUCK Langjokull Glacier Tour From Gullfoss
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 | ⏳ LENGTH: 4 hours | ✅ Book it!
Enjoy Iceland’s second-largest glacier, Langjökull, as you embark on an adventure aboard a Red Glacier Monster Truck. Unlike the other Glacier Tours Iceland offers, this Langjokull Glacier Tour lets you explore comfortably and safely inside a monster truck that will drive you through the area.
A knowledgeable local guide will be with you aboard, sharing deep insights about Iceland’s glaciers and geographical history. This is also a great chance to learn about unique stories often unheard of.
After making your way up the glacier, there’s also a chance to sled down icy slopes. Another highlight of the tour is the chance to play golf on ice.
“Monster truck trip on a glacier, what’s not to love! Great trip with Sleipnir Tours. We took the bus from Gulfoss to the glacier edge and jumped in the Monster truck and cruised onto the glacier. Was great fun bumping around and then having a chance to wonder around on the glacier and explore. Kids had a great time exploring the geology and drinking fresh glacier water! Really amazing experience, would highly recommend!” -Tripadvisor Reviewer
The tour starts at the meeting point, Upper Gullfoss. You will be taking the transfer bus here, so you must arrive in the area before the start time.
The first stop will be the Gullfoss Waterfall, where you can enjoy taking photos of the sight for a few minutes. From there, you will head to Langjokull aboard the Red Monster Truck, which will serve as your daily vehicle. Find a comfortable spot inside, and you’ll be ready to enjoy the icy landscapes of Langjokull.
Inside the bus, your guide will be sharing insider stories and information about the geographical formations in the area. You’ll also enjoy Icelandic songs on the way to the top. As you arrive atop the glacier, you will enjoy several activities on the icy ground, including sledging and golfing. Of course, don’t forget to take pictures to capture the moment!
This is considered one of the best glacier tours in Iceland, especially if you’re seeking a thrilling and joyful time with some friends or family.
Important details
- Start Time (and location): 1:00 PM at Upper Gullfoss Parking Space
- Duration: 4 hours
- Includes: Guided a 3-4 hour tour to Langjökull in one of our enormous glacier trucks, Icelandic Music on board + QR to Icelandic playlists, Sled and/or Glacier Golf (depending on the weather conditions), Coffee and/or Tea, Alcoholic Beverages, Snacks, Crampons ,WiFi on board, Restroom on board
🤩 Check Prices and Availability!
6. Snowmobiling Experience On Mýrdalsjökull Glacier
⭐️ RATING: 4/5 | ⏳ LENGTH: 3 hours | ✅ Book it!
If you’re looking for other day excursions or activities in Iceland after hiking and sightseeing tours, you can also enjoy a unique adventure at the ice cap of Mýrdalsjökull glacier. The Mýrdalsjökull glacier covers Katla, one of Iceland’s largest volcanoes.
During this Iceland glacier tour, you will jump aboard a snowmobile and drive around the Mýrdalsjökull glacier to marvel at the incredible views of South Iceland. A guide will join you and will share stories and information with you.
“Highly recommended! The tour was well organized and the guides were friendly, knowledgeable, and gave clear instructions on how to operate the snowmobile. It took 30 minutes each way to go up and down the glacier, and we rode for about 1 hour. We were given an opportunity to switch drivers half way through and take plenty of pictures. It was our first experience on a snowmobile and we felt safe and comfortable. What a fun and exhilarating experience!” – Mitesh_P
Since the tour is subject to weather experience, this tour is best to experience during the winter season to be ensured a smooth sailing snowmobiling experience. Ice melts on some days, so it would be dangerous to go snowmobiling. Instead, you will be offered alternative activities to enjoy in the same area.
If weather permits, you will embark on a journey to the ice cap of the glacier. As you arrive, you will be fitted with an insulated cover-all, helmet and other necessary equipment to protect your body from the cold and icy environment.
When you’re all geared up, you will ride a glacier truck that will drive you atop where the snowmobiles are. A professional guide will teach you how to manoeuvre the snowmobile independently, so you can enjoy driving around the ice cap for at least an hour. There will also be time for photo stops, learning information, and stories from your tour guide.
Important details
- Start Time (and location): Time varies at Mýrdalsjökull Base Camp
- Duration: 3 hours
- Includes: English-speaking guide, Snowmobile (can take up to two persons), Insulated cover-all, Helmet, Snowmobile balaclava face mask, Round-trip transportation from the base to the glacier
🤩 Check Prices and Availability!
7. Icelandic Sagas And Glacier Cave Private Tour From Reykjavik
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 | ⏳ LENGTH: 9 to 10 hours | ✅ Book it!
Enjoy Iceland’s Langjokull glacier cave and Viking history with your private group tour on this full-day trip from Reykjavik. You will explore caves and Icelandic Sagas as you cross the Hvalfjordur fjord lands on the west coast. From there, you will visit Borgarnes Settlement Center, where you will learn about the Icelandic Sagas, the early medieval tales about Viking families.
After gaining insights and lessons, you will continue through Langjokull, Iceland’s second-biggest glacier. You can ride a monster ice truck here to the caves. After arriving, you can enjoy walking around the spectacular ice chambers inside the glacier and learn from your private guide about these glaciers’ formations.
“The whole entire experience was amazing! The drive up to the glacier and ice cave was absolutely beautiful! The ice cave was magical! Our private ride to and from was breath taking. And the lava falls absolutely stunning!” – Cindy_B
Since this is a private Iceland tour, you will be straightly picked up from your Reykjavik area hotel. The first stop you will be making is the Settlement Center, where you’ll learn about the history of the settlement and the Viking warrior-poet Egill Skallagrimsson.
After learning lessons about history, you will spend almost half of the day at Langjokull Glacier, which is the highlight of this tour. Here you’ll be going on a hike, have the time to walk around the caves, the ice cap, and take plenty of pictures with unique icy backgrounds. The tour’s last stop will be at Hraunfossar Lava Waterfall, considered one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Iceland.
Important details
- Start Time (and location): Time varies at the chosen pickup point
- Duration: 9 to 10 hours
- Includes: Driver/guide, Bottled water, WiFi in the vehicle, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Private tour to Húsafell and back, Transport from Húsafell to and from the glaciers edge (Not private), Tour in a specially modified glacier vehicle on Langjökull glacier (not private)
8. Glacier Walk
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 | ⏳ LENGTH: 3 hours | ✅ Book it!
Glacier walks in Iceland are one of the most famous day activities to enjoy the rugged and natural landscapes of the country. During this tour in specific, you will be hiking and walking through glaciers in Breiðamerkurjökull.
You will also walk over a segment of Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier, and then escape the tourist track at a secluded location. Before you start the tour, you will receive all the safety training you need, plus the equipment to use.
“We had a fantastic experience on the glacier walk. Our guides, Michael and Philip were so friendly, knowledgeable, and patient with our larger (21 people I believe) group. They shared stories about the glaciers and how they changed over time. Ensured everyone felt comfortable and safe throughout the duration of the walk.” -Amber_R
As mentioned, this tour takes place at Vatnaokull, part of Breiðamerkurjökull. This is the largest glacier in Europe. You will be hiking to the top and walking around to marvel at the magnificent natural landscape.
Before the tour starts, you will meet at Jökulsárlón (Glacier Lagoon) with the group and embark on a 30-minute jeep ride to where we begin our walk. The activity will also end back at the meeting point.
Important details
- Start Time (and location): Time varies at Jökulsárlón (Glacier Lagoon)
- Duration: 3 to 4 hours
- Includes: Crampons, helmet, ice axe, harness
🤩 Check Prices and Availability!
9. Kayaking On The Sólheimajökull Glacier Lagoon
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 | ⏳ LENGTH: 2 hours 30 minutes | ✅ Book it!
Aside from hiking, sledding and riding ice trucks that will let you enjoy the glaciers of Iceland, you can also enjoy kayaking on the Sólheimajökull Glacier Lagoon and see the Glacier from a different perspective.
Before you start the kayak tour, you will be provided with a dry suit and be taught by a professional guide the basics of kayaking. The tour guide will also be leading the group into the lagoon while he shares information and insider stories about the glacier and lagoon.
“The kayak crew prepared us well for the experience, talking us through how to put on the unfamiliar and bulky dry suit and flotation device. There were very few kayaking instructions given. I’d kayaked before but for someone who was a complete beginner it might be intimidating. The length of the tour was perfect, the guide was good at answering questions, and the actual tour itself was varied and exciting. I’d recommend it to anyone. I did the tour with my 5-months-pregnant daughter and she loved it!!!” – Ellen_G
This kayak tour experience is one of a kind in Iceland, especially since most tours in the country are hiking and ice climbing. During this kayak tour, you will be able to admire the Sólheimajökull glacier from a different perspective andwill also experience something which is kayaking within an icy and cold environment.
Kayaking along the lagoon is also beginner friendly, so you don’t have to worry about prior experience with kayaks. Most travelers of all ages can also participate and the group tour will only be in a maximum of 8 persons.
Important details
- Start Time (and location): Time varies at the Sólheimajökull Glacier parking lot
- Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Includes: Professional guide, Technical equipment, Kayak and paddle, Dry suit
🤩 Check Prices and Availability!
FAQs About best glacier hikes in iceland
is glacier hiking in iceland worth it?
Yes, glacier hiking in Iceland is definitely worth it! For starters, the experience of trekking across a massive glacier is both awe-inspiring and unique.
You’ll get to see views that you won’t find anywhere else in the world. Plus, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about Iceland’s fascinating geological history as you explore the glacial terrain. Glacier hiking is also a great way to get some exercise and spend time outdoors with friends or family.
So if you’re looking for an unforgettable adventure with plenty of educational opportunities and mental health benefits, consider adding glacier hiking in Iceland to your bucket list!
can you go glacier hiking in iceland without a guide?
Whille technically you can go glacier hiking in Iceland without a guide – however, it is highly discouraged.
I know it can be tempting to explore the glaciers yourself, doing so can be extremely dangerous and we strongly advise against it.
It is best to hire an experienced guide with knowledge of the terrain in order to make your experience as safe and enjoyable as possible. Additionally, hiring a tour guide will allow you access to the best trails and viewpoints.
what glacier walks in iceland are good for avoiding crowds?
Iceland is known for its breathtaking glaciers, and it’s no wonder that many visitors want to experience them up close. Luckily, the country offers many glacier walks, some of which are less overrun with crowds than others.
The Fimmvörðuháls hike is one great option for avoiding crowds. This popular route takes you through the scenic surroundings of Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull glaciers. The 8-12 hour trek offers an unparalleled view of Icelandic nature while having plenty of space to explore, even in peak season.
Another excellent option is Sólheimajökul glacier walk. This easy 2-3 hour tour provides a stunning view of the landscape and gives plenty of room for contemplation during your hike.
Finally, Svínafellsjökull glacier walk is both crowd free and mesmerizingly beautiful. The 3-4 hour tour has challenging sections but rewards you with awe-inspiring views from every angle you turn your head to.
Final Thoughts: best glacier tour iceland
Iceland glacier tours are a great way to explore the vast ice fields, breathtaking views, and unique wildlife of this beautiful country.
Whether you’re a first-time explorer or an experienced traveler, Iceland has something for everyone. By booking one of these amazing tours today, you can make sure you have the perfect experience with plenty of time to explore all that this incredible country has to offer.
So don’t wait until it’s too late! Book your glacier tour now and make the most of your time in Iceland. With the right tour, you’ll be able to see some of the most spectacular sights in the world and create lifelong memories that will last forever.
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