Exploring Iceland’s glaciers is an experience unlike any other. The vast ice, the shimmering blue ice, and the constantly changing formations remind us of nature’s power and beauty. We are excited to introduce a new glacier tour from Jökulsárlón, offering guests the chance to hike on Breiðamerkurjökull and explore unique ice features and water paths high on the glacier.
This adventure is designed for travellers who want more than just a quick stop. It’s a 3 to 3.5-hour experience that combines hiking, glacier exploration, and breathtaking scenery in Vatnajökull National Park.
A Different Kind of New Glacier Tour Experience
Unlike tours that focus on ice caves, this trip takes you to explore the glacier itself. The tour begins with a 30-minute drive from Jökulsárlón towards Breiðamerkurjökull, one of Vatnajökull’s stunning outlet glaciers. After the scenic drive, there is a 15–25 minute walk to reach the edge of the ice.
Once we arrive at the glacier, we spend about 1.5 hours hiking and exploring. Here you’ll see bright blue ice, winding water paths, and striking natural formations shaped by wind and melting water. These ice features are constantly changing, making every visit unique.
Moderate Difficulty – Perfect for Adventurous Travellers
This tour is rated moderate in difficulty. The walk to the glacier is relatively easy, but once on the ice, conditions can be uneven, and crampons are required. We provide all the necessary safety gear, including helmets and crampons, and your guide will instruct you on their use before you step onto the glacier.
You don’t need previous glacier experience to join, but a good level of fitness and proper hiking shoes are important. Guests who enjoy outdoor activities and want a little adventure will find this tour both rewarding and memorable.
What Makes This Tour Special
- Blue Ice Formations – See some of the most transparent and vivid ice in Vatnajökull.
- Natural Glacier Features – Explore moulins, crevasses, and water-carved paths that reveal how the glacier moves and melts.
- Away from the Crowds – By heading further up the glacier, we avoid the busiest areas, giving guests more space to enjoy the scenery.
- Expert Local Guides – Our team has years of experience leading glacier hikes in southeast Iceland. Your safety and experience are always the top priorities.
Practical Information
- Duration: 3–3.5 hours in total
- Driving time: 30 minutes each way from Jökulsárlón
- Walk to the glacier: 15–25 minutes
- Time on glacier: ~1.5 hours exploring ice features
- Difficulty: Moderate (requires walking on uneven surfaces with crampons)
What to bring:
- Warm, layered clothing
- Waterproof jacket and pants
- Good hiking boots (must fit crampons securely)
- Hat and gloves
A Seasonal Adventure in Vatnajökull
This tour operates early in the season, when the glacier is still adjusting to the warmer weather. At this time, the ice is dynamic, with water flowing across its surface, and new formations appear daily. It’s a fascinating way to see the glacier as a living, changing landscape.
Instead of entering a single ice cave, you’ll discover a variety of features across the glacier surface—water channels, blue ice ridges, and natural ice sculptures. Every tour is different, depending on how nature has shaped the glacier that week.