Glacier Hike departing from Skaftafell National Park

Trip difficulty ranges from 1-2 out of 5 possible

For those looking for a quick but stunning adventure, this popular trip is a great eco-adventure full of variety and interest. Our famous buses leave from Skaftafell national park several times a day for the scenic 15 minute drive to Virkisjökull glacier.  On our way we will see impressive mountains that line the southern edge of the Vatnajökull glacier.  

This is a fantastic introduction to the unique, enthralling world of ice, traversing the spectacular but easy tracks of the Virkisjökull glacier. We start with a short walk along the glacier valley where your guide will explain the unique features of the retreating paths of Falljökull and Virkisjökull glaciers and their surroundings.

As we arrive at the edge of the Virkisjökull glacier we will strap on crampons and make our way up the icy but easily accessible slopes. On the way we will witness incredible ice formations and crevasses, learning about how they are formed and how the glacier continuously reshapes itself. We will approach the awe-inspiring ice fall, seeing up close how the ancient ice stoically falls hundreds of meters off the mountain top below as it flows in slow motion towards the ocean, a journey it will never complete as global warming continues to fuel its melting and slow retreat.

Guaranteed departures everyday at 09:30, 10:30, 13:00, and 14:30 from May 15th – September 11^th. Free pick up from Skaftafell Campsite, Hotel Skaftafell and the camping ground at Svínafell. 

Details:

Price: 5.990 ISK per person. Pick-up included.

Distance from Reykjavik: 330 km. Duration of trip: Approx 2.5 hours with transfer, 1.5 hours on the glacier. Available: All year (depending on weather). No minimum number of participants in June, July & August. Age limit: 8 years. Bring with you: Warm outdoor clothing, waterproof jacket and pants, headwear and gloves. Good hiking shoes are recommended! You can rent hiking shoes and waterproof clothing should you need them.

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Disclaimer: Guests are advised that all activities are undertaken entirely at their own risk and they must behave in a fit and proper manner at all times in accordance with Glacier Guides guidelines and must take proper responsibility for their own safety. Glacier hiking and related activities carry inherent risks and Guests may be requested by Glacier Guides to sign a liability release and assumption of risk prior to certain excursions.