Skaftafell Glacier Hike: Small Group Trek on Vatnajökull

Summary

Walk ancient blue ice with a guide in Iceland’s glacier heart

You’ll hike across Falljökull glacier in a small group with a certified local guide, learning about Vatnajökull’s history as you crunch over ancient blue ice. Feel the cold air on your face, taste glacial water, and share laughs with fellow travelers while exploring Iceland’s wildest landscapes together.

What’s the experience like?

“You’ll want to tighten those straps, trust me,” our guide Einar grinned, kneeling to check my crampons before we set off from Skaftafell. I’d never worn these before — they felt kind of awkward at first, but honestly, once we started up the rocky path toward Falljökull, I forgot about my feet and just stared. The air was cold enough to sting your nose, but it smelled so clean — like nothing but snow and stone. There were only six of us plus Einar, which made it feel less like a tour and more like some strange little expedition.

The walk to the glacier was longer than I pictured (maybe 30 minutes?), through this rough landscape that kept changing — black gravel, mossy patches, then suddenly you’re staring at this river of blue-white ice. Einar stopped us right at the edge and explained how Vatnajökull is actually Europe’s biggest glacier. He pointed out these weird creaks and pops coming from somewhere deep inside the ice — apparently it’s always moving, even when you can’t see it. We clipped on our helmets and he handed out ice picks (“not for fighting trolls,” he joked), and then we stepped onto the glacier itself. That first step felt surreal — slippery but solid, like walking on frozen waves.

I thought I’d be nervous but mostly I just felt small in the best way. The crampons bit into the surface with this satisfying crunch. Einar showed us how to walk without tripping (I still managed to stumble once — no style points for me). He told stories about old eruptions under the ice and pointed out ash layers trapped inside; it was wild seeing black streaks running through all that blue. At one point he chipped off a chunk so we could taste 500-year-old ice — honestly? Kind of bland but weirdly refreshing. Someone in our group asked if people ever get used to this view; Einar just shrugged and said “not really.”

Icelandic weather being what it is, we got hit by a quick burst of wind that nearly knocked my hat off. But then everything went quiet again except for our boots crunching along and that distant sound of meltwater trickling somewhere below us. It’s hard to explain why that stuck with me — maybe because it felt like the whole world had pressed pause for a second. We hiked about 8km altogether (Einar kept us moving but never rushed), stopping now and then so he could point out crevasses or answer someone’s question about glaciers melting or whatever else came up.

By the time we made it back down toward Skaftafell, my legs were tired but in that good way you get after doing something real. I still think about that feeling sometimes — standing on top of all that ancient ice with strangers who didn’t feel like strangers by the end.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Glacier hike at Falljökull glacier

• Depart from Skaftafell booking center
• Hike through glacier-carved landscape
• Arrive at glacier tongue
• Gear up with crampons
• Explore glacier terrain with guide

Top questions

How long is the Skaftafell Glacier Hike?

The hike covers roughly 8km over uneven terrain and takes several hours including gearing up and walking to Falljökull glacier.

Is equipment provided for the Vatnajökull glacier hike?

Yes, all necessary glacier gear such as crampons, helmet, and an ice pick are included in your tour.

Where does the tour start?

The tour departs from Skaftafell booking center in southeast Iceland.

What is the minimum age for this glacier hike?

The minimum age is 14 years old due to safety requirements.

Are hiking boots required for this tour?

Yes, hiking boots with ankle support are mandatory; rentals are available at Skaftafell if needed.

How far is Skaftafell from Reykjavik?

Skaftafell is approximately 327km (203 miles) from Reykjavík by road.

Is lunch included in this glacier trek?

No meals are included; participants should bring their own snacks or lunch.

Can travelers with health issues join this hike?

This tour isn’t recommended for those with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health; moderate fitness is required.

What’s included

Your day includes a certified glacier guide leading your small group across Falljökull with all necessary safety gear provided—crampons, helmet, and an ice pick—plus guidance on using them before stepping onto Vatnajökull’s ancient ice fields together.