Skaftafell: Blue Ice Cave & Glacier Hike on Vatnajökull

Title as listed by the operator: Arctic Adventures

4.6 (854 verified reviews)

Skaftafell: Blue Ice Cave & Glacier Hike on Vatnajökull

Before you book

Meets at the Arctic Adventures hut near the Skaftafell visitor centre, about four and a half hours' drive (roughly 320 to 330 km) from Reykjavík.
A 20 to 25 minute 4x4 ride reaches the glacier, then about two and a half hours hiking and in the cave; groups run up to 12 people per guide.
Minimum age 8 and minimum shoe size EU 35, needed for the rental crampons to fit; ankle-support boots are mandatory and can be rented on site.
Food, drinks and warm clothing are not included. Runs roughly October to April; the exact cave is chosen for safety and can look different from the photos.

About This Experience

A guided glacier hike and ice cave visit on Falljökull, an outlet of Vatnajökull, from Arctic Adventures' base near Skaftafell visitor centre. A short 4x4 ride leads to about two and a half hours on the ice.

Highlights

Safely explore Vatnajökull, the largest glacier in Europe, with an expert guide
Witness the stunning, natural blue colours inside a real ice cave
Enjoy a scenic hike across a rugged frozen landscape
Experience a more personalised small group tour with max 12 guests per guide
Take a 4x4 bus from Skaftafell to the foot of the glacier

What's Included

✓ Expertly guided glacier hike and natural ice cave visit
✓ Experienced English-speaking glacier guide
✓ All necessary glacier safety gear (glacier crampons, helmet, walking ice axe, harness)
✓ 4x4 bus transport from Skaftafell right to the foot of the glacier
✓ Small group experience limited to a maximum of 12 guests per guide

Not Included

Food & drinks
Warm clothing
Hiking boots with ankle support

Good to Know

Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support are mandatory for this adventure.
Please note that ice caves are an ever-changing natural phenomenon and, therefore, unpredictable. The ice cave you will visit during the tour is selected based on conditions and safety
The minimum age is 8 years old and minimum shoe size is 35 EU
Please note that our specialized glacier crampons are only available for shoe sizes 35-50 EU. Those with a shoe size beyond these are unfortunately unable to participate.
Please bring a warm and waterproof jacket and pants, hiking boots, headwear and gloves
Hiking boot, waterproof jackets, and waterproof pants are available to rent on-site