Solheimajokull Glacier: Small-Group Hike with Gear & Guide

Summary

Solheimajokull glacier hike small group certified guide included

You’ll step onto Sólheimajökull Glacier with a small group and a certified guide who keeps things real (and safe). Feel the crunch of ancient ice under your boots, learn glacier secrets you won’t find online, and catch those wild blue-grey views that stick with you long after. All gear’s included—just bring your sense of adventure.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed at Sólheimajökull was the weird quiet — just boots crunching on old ice and this low wind that made my cheeks sting. Our guide, Einar, handed out crampons and made sure everyone’s harness was actually tight (I thought mine was, but nope). He had this way of talking about glaciers like they were alive, which I didn’t expect. He pointed to these blue streaks in the ice and said it’s centuries-old compacted snow. I tried to imagine that much time under my feet.

Walking on the glacier felt less scary than I’d built up in my head, but also stranger — like the ground moved differently. Sometimes you’d hear water trickling somewhere below, then nothing for a while except our group breathing hard. Einar showed us how to use the ice axe if we slipped; he joked about “glacier yoga” when someone tried it out too enthusiastically. The air smelled clean, almost metallic, and there was this moment where sunlight hit the ridges and everything looked kind of blue-grey. I still think about that view.

We stopped halfway so Einar could explain how Sólheimajökull is actually part of Mýrdalsjökull — he drew it in the snow with his axe, which was oddly satisfying to watch. Someone asked about volcanoes (because Iceland), and he grinned and said Katla’s right under us but “don’t worry, she’s sleeping.” So yeah, it’s not your average day trip from Reykjavík or wherever. By the end my legs were tired in a good way, and there was this little thrill knowing we’d crossed something so old together — even if I did nearly fall twice putting on my crampons.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sólheimajökull Glacier 3-Hour Hike

• Put on hiking boots and gear
• Meet guide and group
• Learn about glacier formation
• Hike on Sólheimajökull glacier
• Explore natural glacier features
• Return from glacier hike

Top questions

How long is the Solheimajokull glacier hike?

The guided hike lasts approximately 3 hours on Sólheimajökull Glacier.

Is special equipment provided for the glacier tour?

Yes, all necessary glacier equipment—crampons, helmets, harnesses, and an ice axe—are included.

What is the group size for this Solheimajokull hike?

The small-group tour has a maximum of 12 participants per guide.

Do I need prior experience to join this glacier hike?

No previous glacier hiking experience is needed, but moderate physical fitness is required.

Is there an age limit for participating?

The minimum age for joining is 8 years old.

Does the tour operate in bad weather?

The hike operates in all weather conditions; dress appropriately for Icelandic weather.

Where does the Solheimajokull hike start?

You should arrive at the starting location 15 minutes before departure; details are provided upon booking.

What’s included

Your experience includes all essential glacier hiking gear—crampons, helmet, harness, and ice axe—plus guidance from a certified local expert in a small group setting with no more than 12 people.