Solheimajokull: Guided Glacier Hike

Explore Solheimajokull on a guided glacier hike with an experienced and qualified guide using included glacier gear and safety equipment.

Getting started

Meet at the base camp by the Solheimajokull parking lot, a 25-minute drive from Vik. Arrive 20 minutes before the activity starts to check in and meet your guide. After a short preparation period, you will get ready to move from the base area toward the glacier front for your hike.

Solheimajokull Glacier

What to expect

Solheimajokull is an outlet glacier of the larger Myrdalsjokull ice cap, reached directly from the nearby parking lot and base camp area. From here you set out on foot, moving from the gravel and ice-molded terrain at the edge of the glacier onto the ice itself as your hike progresses.

Features

• Views shift from the parking lot and base camp surroundings to the crevassed glacier surface and sculpted ice formations as you hike farther from the trailhead. You follow your guide on a set route across the ice, adjusting to the glacier’s changing texture underfoot.

• An experienced and qualified guide leads the route selection on Sólheimajökull, sets a safe walking pace, and explains how to move on the glacier surface throughout the hike.

• Glacier gear is provided for use on the ice so you can walk securely on the glacier terrain; your guide will indicate when and how to fit and adjust this equipment before stepping onto the ice.

• Safety equipment is included for the glacier hike portion of the tour, and your guide will show you how it is used in the context of the route and conditions.

• Tea, coffee, and water are available during your time at the Sólheimajökull base facilities, giving you a chance to hydrate and warm up before or after being out on the ice.

• Access to restrooms at Sólheimajökull is included while you are at the base area, so you can prepare comfortably before setting out and once you return from the hike.

Wrapping up

The guided glacier hike finishes back at the Sólheimajökull base camp, where you return your glacier gear and safety equipment, can use the restrooms again, and have another tea, coffee, or water before continuing your journey from the parking lot.