Day Trips

Vatnajokull: Advanced Glacier Expedition

Guests trekking on Vatnajökull Glacier with ice axes in Iceland.

Guest exploring Vatnajökull Glacier during advanced expedition in Iceland.

Guests trekking on Vatnajökull Glacier in Iceland.

Person exploring ice cave during Vatnajökull glacier expedition.

Duration

5 hrs

Free cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.

Guided tour

Explore dramatic crevasses, moulins, and blue ice formations on this advanced Falljokull glacier hike.

Venture across Vatnajokull’s ice cap in a small group, fully equipped with helmet, harness, crampons, and ice axes, all included.

Certified glacier guides share insights into glacier formation and the impact of global warming along the route.

Enjoy sweeping views of Skaftafell National Park, a backdrop for films like James Bond and Game of Thrones.

Small group glacier hike (advanced)

Certified glacier guide

All glacier safety equipment (helmet, harness, crampons, ice axes)

Parking

Hotel transfers

TOTAL DURATION5 hours
Timeline
Map
Start point
Skaftafell
1. Falljokull Glacier
Free Admission
2 activities
From the drop-off point, take a brief hike across the glacier’s rugged moraine to reach the ice. Before stepping onto the glacier, your guide provides a safety briefing and instructions on how to move confidently with crampons and an ice axe.
Things to do
Advanced glacier hike on Falljokull
Included in price
High-altitude exploration
Included in price
End point
Skaftafell
Your ending point would be same as your start point

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

102 reviews
How do we collect reviews?
These ratings include verified reviews from both Headout guests and our trusted partners who operate this experience locally. All reviews come from real travelers who've taken this experience.
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What our guests say
3 weeks ago
Honestly, wasn’t sure what I was getting myself into with this glacier hike (I’m not the most outdoorsy dude) but wow—totally worth it! Our guide Freya cracked jokes the whole way and never made anyone feel silly for asking stuff like 'is this safe??' The scenery is just out of this world, big blue ice everywhere and the crunch under your boots is oddly satisfying. Pro-tip: bring snacks, the 5 hours go by fast but you’ll definitely want a bite. Only thing, bathroom situation at the start is a bit basic, so go before you arrive! Would 100% do it again, but maybe next time I’ll double up on socks (my toes got chilly).
May 2026
Did the 5 hr glacier hike with my partner and it’s kinda wild how much we LOVED it. Our guide, Lucas, was so chill and made the science stuff actually fun (who knew ice could be so interesting?). Views were EPIC! We were a bit nervous about slipping but they gave us crampons and showed us how to use ‘em, so it was all good. Legs hurt after but totally worth it for the photos (which, btw, you can’t really take inside some of the caves—just a heads up). Would recommend if you want a proper adventure and don’t mind a little cold.
May 2026
Went with friends and, ngl, it was a bit more tiring than I expected. The guide (Anna) was super patient though, always checking if we were good. Weather turned halfway so we got pretty wet, but they had spare gloves for ppl who needed them. Not a fan of crowds and the first 30 mins felt busy, but once we spread out on the glacier it was cooool. Would say bring a rain jacket just in case.
May 2026
Family trip with 2 teens. The hike is long but not *too* tough if you’re reasonably fit. My daughter kept slipping at first but the guide patiently showed her how to walk on the ice (and didn’t laugh at her falls!). Bit rushed at the end but we still got to see all the highlights. Glacier scenery is just GORGEOUS. Would recommend sturdy boots and a hat—wind is no joke up there.
May 2026
Came solo, left with a ton of new friends and memories! The glacier is MASSIVE and you feel so tiny and alive walking on it. Our guide, Soren, was a legend—he showed us this hidden crevasse with the bluest ice I’ve ever seen. Pace was good, not too fast, and we stopped for plenty of pics. My only regret: I should’ve packed more snacks, lol. Still, I’d go again in a heartbeat.

What to bring

Bring warm, layered clothing suitable for cold and wet weather.

Wear waterproof pants and a waterproof jacket.

Sturdy hiking boots are required; waterproof boots are recommended.

Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly.

Waterproof pants, jackets, and hiking boots are available for rent if you do not have your own.

Bring snacks and water, as food is not included.

What’s not allowed

Children under 12 years are not permitted on this experience.

Pets are not allowed.

Alcohol and drugs are strictly prohibited during the activity.

Accessibility

This experience is not wheelchair accessible.

Additional information

The activity operates in most weather conditions; in case of severe weather, the tour may be rescheduled or canceled.

Please arrive at the meeting point at least 20 minutes before the scheduled departure time.

The hike involves moderate to strenuous physical activity; a good level of fitness is required.

Your voucher will be emailed to you shortly.

Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the starting point.

Please check your final voucher for the starting point details & specific instructions.