Glacier Hike at Sólheimajökull: Small Group, Moderate Route

Walk onto the glacier yourself with a guide and up to five others

A guided glacier hike at Sólheimajökull in South Iceland for groups of six or fewer, with technical equipment provided and a live English or Greek-speaking guide. The route approaches the glacier through a canyon over 2.5 km in about 40 minutes, then continues across the ice at the group's pace for a total experience of around 4 hours. Children from age 10 are welcome.

The experience

The hike starts at the Sólheimajökull parking lot and follows a new route behind the mountain through an untouched canyon before reaching the glacier's tongue. That approach walk covers 2.5 km and takes around 40 minutes depending on how the group moves. Once you reach the glacier, your guide fits everyone with technical equipment and runs through a full safety briefing before anyone steps onto the ice.

On the glacier itself, the pace adjusts to the group's ability, so you explore at a speed that works for everyone. You'll see jagged ridges, blue-ice formations, and black sand left by past volcanic eruptions. The total time on the mountain is around 4 hours, which gives plenty of room to move across the ice without rushing and to stop for photographs.

The route is now rated moderate rather than easy because of the longer canyon approach. You need at least a moderate level of physical fitness, and the hike is not suitable for travelers with spinal injuries, poor cardiovascular health, or pregnancy. Bring your own hiking boots and warm layers. The guide and operator provide the glacier-specific gear.

What’s included

• Technical glacier equipment including crampons and safety gear.
• a live guide in English or Greek.
• a full safety briefing before stepping onto the ice.
• time to explore the glacier at a comfortable pace suited to the group's ability.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDepartures at 10:00, 10:30 and 11:00

Book up to12h before

AgesAdult (16 to 69 years) · Child (10 to 15 years) · Under 10: can't be included in the booking

GroupUp to 6

Live guideEnglish and Greek

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.Operator's directions: “The minivan will be parked near the entrance to the Sólheimajökull parking lot, making it easy to find. If you have any difficulty locating us, please don't hesitate to give us a call.”

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Paid on siteUS$ 15

Prices and times updated yesterday

Good to know

Moderate physical levelNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditionsNot for back problems

Operated by Hyperborea Tours

Is this one for you?The small group size and moderate pace mean you move at your own speed with a guide who adjusts to everyone's fitness level, making this suited for hikers who want instruction and company but not a rushed schedule or a crowd.

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Top questions

What languages is the guide in?

Live guide in English and Greek.

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (10 to 15 years). Under 10: they can't be included in the booking.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24h before the start.

What's the walk like before you get to the glacier itself?

The approach follows a new route behind the mountain through a canyon for 2.5 km, taking around 40 minutes. It's untouched terrain with scenic views of the surrounding landscape, and the pace depends on how the group moves.

Do I need my own hiking boots, or are they provided?

Bring your own hiking boots and personal clothing. The operator provides all technical glacier equipment, including crampons and safety gear.

How many people go on each hike?

Groups stay at six people maximum, including the guide. This keeps the experience small and lets the guide adjust the pace to everyone's ability.

What do you actually see once you're on the ice?

You'll photograph jagged ridges, blue-ice formations, and black sand deposits from past volcanic eruptions. The guide explains the glacier's features and history as you move across it.