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Skaftafell Ice Cave and Glacier Hike in a Small Group

Small group Reykjavik, IcelandAbout 4–5 hoursGuided in English

Put on crampons and hike onto a Vatnajökull glacier tongue with a certified guide, then step inside a natural blue ice cave. A small-group winter adventure from Skaftafell.

About 4–5 hoursExplore at your own pace
Small groupKeeps the experience personal
EnglishLive guide or host
CancellationNon-refundable: tickets are issued for your chosen date and time

Highlights

  • A guided hike on a Vatnajökull glacier tongue
  • A natural blue ice cave
  • Crampons, harness and helmet provided
  • Small group with a certified glacier guide
  • Hot drink on the return

Full description

Skaftafell, in south-east Iceland, sits at the foot of Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier. From the meeting point your glacier guide drives you to an outlet glacier and fits you with crampons, a harness and a helmet.

You then hike over ridges and crevasse fields, learning how the ice moves and how the glaciers are changing, before entering a natural ice cave whose walls glow blue in the winter light. The caves change every season, so your guide picks the best and safest one on the day. A hot drink is served on the way back.

Itinerary

  1. Skaftafell

    Meet your guide at the visitor centre area.

  2. Glacier

    Get fitted with equipment and hike onto the ice.

  3. Ice cave

    Explore a natural ice cave with your guide.

  4. Return

    Hot drink and back to Skaftafell.

Included

  • Certified glacier guide
  • Crampons, harness, helmet and ice axe
  • Transfer from the meeting point to the glacier
  • Hot drink

Not included

  • Transport to Skaftafell (about 4 hours' drive from Reykjavik)
  • Food
  • Gratuities

Meeting point

Skaftafell, Vatnajökull National Park (about 4 hours' drive east of Reykjavik); exact point sent with your confirmation.The exact spot and your host's details arrive with your confirmation.

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Know before you go

  • Natural ice caves are only safe in winter, usually about November to March; outside this season the tour is a glacier hike only.
  • Bring warm waterproof clothing and stiff hiking boots (boots may be available to rent).
  • A minimum age applies, usually around 8–10 years.
  • Tours can change or be cancelled for weather and ice conditions; we will offer another date.

Frequently asked questions

Is it hard?

It needs average fitness; you walk on uneven ice for a couple of hours with stops.

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