Skaftafell is a true highlight of Iceland’s southeastern wilderness. Unlike many spots where you’re left to wander with a map, Skaftafell offers some of the most accessible and breathtaking glacier adventures you can find. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned ice explorer, the tours here are designed for all levels, with options ranging from easy walks to advanced ice climbing. We especially like the Skaftafell: Falljokull Glacier Easy Group Hike, which combines manageable walking with the chance to stand on one of Europe’s most iconic glaciers.
Skaftafell’s proximity to Vatnajökull National Park means you’re never far from an authentic ice experience. The tours in this list include guided glacier hikes, ice caves, small-group adventures, and adrenaline-pumping ice climbing. This variety ensures there’s something for all—from those seeking a relaxing walk to thrill-seekers eager to conquer the ice wall. Below, you’ll find detailed insights into each tour, helping you choose the right fit for your trip.
Types of Tours in Skaftafell
The tours here are primarily glacier hikes, ice caves, and adventure excursions. Some tours focus on easy walks suitable for beginners, like the Blue Ice Discovery, while others are more advanced, such as the Ice Climbing & Glacier Hike. You’ll find small-group options that offer a more personalized experience, like the Extra Small Group Glacier Hike, and longer, in-depth explorations like the 5-hour Glacier Adventure. Each tour is uniquely suited to different comfort levels and interests, from casual sightseeing to technical ice skills.
Now, let’s unpack each experience – what makes it special, and who it’s best suited for.
1. Skaftafell: Falljokull Glacier Easy Group Hike
This tour offers a straightforward way to stand on Europe’s incredible Vatnajökull glacier, without needing any prior experience. Starting from Skaftafell, the group boards a bus for a quick 10-minute drive, then walks into Vatnajökull National Park before donning crampons for a 1.5-hour guided hike across Falljökull. The guide shares fascinating facts about glaciers and their formation while you walk across icy fractures and peaks. The trip finishes with a short walk back to base.
What makes this tour stand out is its perfect balance of ease and awe. Rated 4.7/5 from over 1,400 reviews, travelers praise its accessibility and stunning scenery. For $109, you get a solid introduction to glacier hiking that’s ideal for first-timers or those with limited time. It’s particularly good if you want a memorable, guided glacier experience without heavy exertion.
Bottom Line: A great choice for beginners who want a safe, well-organized introduction to glacier walking in Iceland’s iconic landscape.
2. Skaftafell National Park: Falljokull Glacier Advanced Hike
Looking for a more serious glacier adventure? This advanced hike takes you across Vatnajökull’s massive ice cap with a certified guide. Over five hours, you’ll explore crevasses, ice formations, and even get close to ice caves, with the added bonus of panoramic views of Skaftafell and the surrounding mountains. The trip involves some physical effort but is well worth it for those who crave a deeper connection with the ice.
Rated 4.8/5 from nearly 1,000 reviews, this tour consistently exceeds expectations, with many travelers citing their guides’ extensive knowledge and enthusiasm. The long duration allows ample time for photos and exploring unusual features like moulins. For $153 per person, it’s a premium experience designed for those comfortable with a more strenuous hike and eager to learn about glaciers’ secrets and their global climate impacts.
Bottom Line: Perfect for adventurous travelers or seasoned hikers wanting a comprehensive glacier experience with expert guidance.
3. Glacier Hike from Skaftafell – Extra Small Group
If you prefer a personalized, intimate experience, this small-group glacier hike offers a maximum of four participants. Traveling in a 4×4 vehicle directly to the glacier’s edge, you’ll spend about three hours exploring moulins and crevasses with a certified guide. The small group size, rated 5.0/5 from over 440 reviews, guarantees plenty of attention and flexibility.
Some travelers say it’s slightly adventurous but manageable, with informative guides sharing stories and glacier facts. The tour is ideal if you want quality over quantity, with a focus on safety and personal care. Costing $145, this experience delivers a close-up glacier encounter with fewer crowds and more interaction.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those wanting an exclusive, small-group adventure on a stunning outlet of Europe’s largest glacier.
4. Jökulsárlón: Vatnajökull Glacier Guided Hiking Tour
From the scenic Jökulsárlón lagoon, this guided hike takes you across Vatnajökull’s vast ice fields. Traveling by jeep, you’ll explore crevasses and ice formations over approximately 4.5 hours. The tour emphasizes safety gear like crampons and helmets, making it accessible to most levels. The views are breathtaking—think towering ice walls and sparkling blue caves.
Rated 4.9/5 with many reviews praising the guides’ knowledge and the stunning scenery, this tour is suitable for those who want a longer, more in-depth glacier adventure. The mix of adventure, photography, and learning makes it a well-rounded option at $116 per person.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for travelers wanting to combine glacier hiking with the striking scenery of the largest ice cap in Europe.
5. Skaftafell: Extra-Small Group Glacier Hike
Here, small-group intimacy meets a fuller glacier experience. Traveling in a 4×4 to the glacier’s base, you’ll hike on Falljokull for about two hours, exploring crevasses and ice formations with a guide. Rated 4.9/5 from 449 reviews, guests love the personalized attention and the chance to go further onto the glacier than most tours.
The $145 price includes safety gear and expert guidance. Reviewers mention how the guide’s knowledge makes the experience special—one called it “the best glacier hike I’ve ever done.” It’s perfect for those wanting a balance of adventure and comfort, with fewer people and more tailored attention.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers seeking an intimate, immersive glacier hike with a knowledgeable guide.
6. Blue Ice Discovery – Guided Glacier Hike from Skaftafell
This guided glacier hike is great for first-timers and families. With no experience necessary, full instruction is provided, and you’ll traverse Falljokull’s snow-dusted walls, ice sculptures, and crevasses. The tour’s small group size (up to 15) ensures plenty of individual attention, and at just $74.99, it offers fantastic value.
Many reviewers highlight the friendly guides and the stunning scenery. It’s a perfect option if you want a manageable yet memorable ice adventure with a focus on safety and natural beauty.
Bottom Line: Ideal for beginners and those wanting a relaxed but awe-inspiring glacier experience.
7. Skaftafell Ice Caving & Glacier Hike
For those intrigued by the mysterious blue depths of ice caves, this ice caving tour combines glacier exploration with a visit inside Europe’s largest ice cave. Traveling from Hofn, you trek across the glacier with crampons and pick axes to reach the stunning blue interior. The tour lasts about four hours and is limited to small groups for an immersive experience.
Rated 5.0/5 from 222 reviews, travelers love the guide’s safety focus and the surreal beauty of the ice cave. This trip suits adventure lovers who want more than just a hike—your imagination and camera will both thank you.
Bottom Line: A top pick for those eager to see inside a glacier’s icy cathedral while learning about glacial formations.
8. 5-hour Glacier Adventure From Skaftafell
This longer glacier hike on Svinafellsjokull glacier offers about four and a half hours on the ice. With limited groups of up to eight, you’ll explore deep crevasses and ice sculptures, with exceptional guides ensuring safety and fun. The natural surroundings are spectacular, and the longer duration means you see more and experience more.
Rated 5.0/5, travelers emphasize the high quality of guides and the impressive scenery. This is a great pick for those who want a more comprehensive glacier trek and are comfortable with physical activity.
Bottom Line: For fit travelers seeking a thorough, immersive glacier experience, this tour delivers.
9. Skaftafell Adventure Tour – 5-Hour Expedition
If you’re after the ultimate glacier experience, this 5-hour expedition takes you on a deeper exploration of the ice, including viewing moulins, deep crevasses, and ice formations. The small group of eight ensures personalized attention as you learn about glaciers’ role in climate change. Expect to see waterfalls, ice caves, and panoramic views.
Rated 5.0/5, travelers appreciate the extra time on the ice and the knowledgeable guides. Suitable for active travelers who want an in-depth, educational adventure.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those looking for a full, detailed exploration with plenty of time on the glacier.
10. Ice Cave and Glacier Exploration Tour of Vatnajökull from Jökulsárlón
This ice cave tour from Jökulsárlón lagoon combines glacier trekking with inside-the-ice cave exploration. Traveling by super Jeep, you trek 4-6 km across Vatnajökull, with crampons and safety gear. The tour is approximately 5-6 hours, making it an immersive experience into Iceland’s icy depths.
Rated 5.0/5 from 143 reviews, participants love the professionalism of guides and the surreal beauty of the caves. It’s ideal for travelers who want a full-day adventure combining ice walking with inside-the-cave exploration.
Bottom Line: A fantastic choice for those wanting a longer, more detailed glacier and ice cave experience.
11. Half-Day Vatnajokull Glacier Small Group Tour from Skaftafell
This half-day glacier tour offers a relaxed yet detailed exploration of Vatnajökull’s icefall and Falljokull outlet. In a small group, you’ll use harnesses, crampons, and ice axes to safely venture into the glacier. The tour is perfect for newcomers or those with limited time, with guides explaining glacier formation and dynamics.
Rated 5.0/5, reviews mention how safe and informative the trip is, even for those with limited hiking experience. It costs $180 and is perfect for beginners or anyone wanting a shorter, manageable glacier trip.
Bottom Line: Ideal if you want a focused, beginner-friendly glacier experience with expert guidance.
12. Skaftafell Glacier Hike 3-Hour Small Group Tour
This 3-hour glacier hike is perfect if you want a snapshot of Vatnajökull. It covers deep crevasses and ice formations, with a guide ensuring safety and sharing insights. Rated 4.5/5 from 552 reviews, most travelers find it a manageable yet immersive experience.
The trip is good for those on a tight schedule but still eager to see Iceland’s icy marvels up close. It’s priced at $114.70 and limited to 12 participants for a more personal experience.
Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers seeking a shorter but detailed glacier adventure.
13. Skaftafell Glacier Hike – Small Group Trek on Vatnajökull
This small-group trek focuses on hiking to the tongue of Virkisjokull. It involves a scenic bus ride into the region, with experts guiding you through crevasses, ice caves, and waterfalls. With around five hours of exploration, this tour combines geology with stunning vistas.
Rated 5.0/5, reviewers love the personal attention and the chance to explore less-visited corners of Vatnajökull. It’s best for those who want a comprehensive, educational experience at a relaxed pace.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded choice for those interested in the geology and scenic beauty of Iceland’s glaciers.
14. Skaftafell Ice Climbing & Glacier Hike
For the active, this ice climbing tour combines hiking with the thrill of climbing a blue ice wall. Suitable for beginners, with all equipment included, you’ll learn basic climbing techniques and explore Svinafellsjokull Glacier’s spectacular ice formations. The tour is limited to six participants, ensuring a safe and personal experience.
Rated 5.0/5, travelers mention how fun and instructive the guides are, making this a memorable, adrenaline-pumping trip. It’s great for those looking for a hands-on ice adventure.
Bottom Line: Perfect for adventurous travelers eager to try ice climbing in a controlled, guided setting.
15. Vatnajokull Guided Beginner Glacier Walk with 4×4 Transfer
This beginner glacier walk is designed for newcomers. Starting from Falljokull, you’re transferred in a SuperJeep directly onto the glacier, where a guide leads an easy to moderate walk exploring ice formations and panoramic scenery. The tour lasts about three hours and is rated 5.0/5 by recent travelers.
Ideal for those new to glaciers or with limited mobility, the focus here is on safety, comfort, and a true ice experience. Costing $109.80, it’s a budget-friendly way to see Iceland’s icy beauty.
Bottom Line: A safe, relaxed introduction suitable for beginners and families.
How to Choose Your Glacier Tour
When selecting the perfect Skaftafell glacier experience, consider your fitness level, time availability, and interest in technical skills. If you’re after a straightforward walk with incredible views, the easy group hikes are a great start. For those wanting to learn more about glaciers’ role in climate change, the longer, in-depth tours offer comprehensive insights.
Budget-conscious travelers should look at the Blue Ice Discovery or the beginner glacier walk, both providing excellent value. If you’re craving a thrilling ice cave or ice climbing experience, the Ice Cave & Glacier Exploration or Ice Climbing tours are unbeatable.
Booking early is wise, especially in peak summer months, and always check availability for your preferred dates. Many tours require moderate physical fitness, so review your comfort level before booking.
Final Thoughts
Skaftafell offers an impressive range of glacier adventures—whether you want a relaxing walk, an educational tour, or an adrenaline-filled climb, you’ll find options that match your interest and fitness. The easy hikes and small-group glacier adventures are perfect for families or first-timers, while more advanced options like ice climbing will satisfy seasoned explorers.
If you’re visiting during the summer, I recommend booking tours like the Glacier Hike from Skaftafell – Extra Small Group or 5-hour Glacier Adventure early to secure your spot. For those interested in icy caves, the Ice Cave and Glacier Exploration Tour is truly unforgettable. Whatever you choose, these tours promise a memorable journey into some of Iceland’s most spectacular icy landscapes.