If you’re dreaming of stepping onto a real glacier and exploring its icy wonderland, the Blue Ice Discovery Guided Glacier Hike from Skaftafell might catch your eye. While we haven’t personally strapped on crampons for this adventure, we’ve gathered plenty of insights from travelers who’ve done it — and it sounds like quite the experience.
What really draws us in are the small-group setting, which promises personalized attention, and the fact that full instruction and gear are included. Plus, the scenery—snow-covered peaks, walls of ice, and natural sculptures—sounds spectacular. On the flip side, one consideration is that this tour might not satisfy adrenaline junkies seeking technical glacier climbing, as it’s more of a walk with a relaxed pace.
Overall, if you’re after a manageable, guided introduction to Iceland’s glaciers—especially if you’re new to this kind of activity—that’s exactly what this tour offers. It’s best suited for those who love stunning landscapes but prefer a comfortable, approachable experience.
Key Points
- Small Group Size: Max 15 travelers for a more personal experience.
- Inclusive Equipment & Instruction: No need to worry about gear or experience.
- Breathtaking Scenery: Ice walls, crevasses, and ice sculptures abound.
- Flexible Timing: Multiple departure times throughout the day.
- Price Point: Around $75, offering good value for a guided glacier walk.
- Age Suitability: Suitable for ages 10 and up, with minors accompanied by adults.
What This Tour Is All About
This guided glacier adventure is based in the Skaftafell-Vatnajökull National Park, home to Europe’s largest glacier. The highlight is a walk across the Falljökull Glacier, an outlet of Vatnajökull. The scenery here is genuinely striking—snow-covered mountains, ice falls, and crystalline sculptures carved by nature.
The tour lasts about three and a half hours, starting from the Mountain Guides Sales Lodge. Once you arrive, the process is smooth: your guide provides a safety briefing, and then you’re fitted with crampons, ice axes, and other necessary gear. It’s worth noting that all equipment is included, so no need to rent anything separately unless you prefer your own boots or rain gear.
After a short bus ride to the glacier’s edge, you’ll practice walking on ice, which helps build confidence for the actual hike. The route involves navigating through deep crevasses, ducking beneath towering ice formations, and marveling at the glacier’s natural sculptures. Throughout, your guide explains the glaciers’ formation, their changing nature, and the geology of the region. This educational element adds depth to the experience, making it more than just a walk.
From the reviews, travelers consistently mention the guide’s knowledge and friendliness, which enhances the overall vibe. One reviewer, Emilia, was praised for her expertise and safety-conscious approach, making even first-timers feel comfortable. The scenery, according to many, is simply out of this world—an Instagram-worthy landscape that feels otherworldly.
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The Itinerary in Detail
The tour begins at the Skaftafell base, where you’ll meet your guide and get geared up. The safety briefing is straightforward, emphasizing glacier safety and walking techniques. Once prepared, you’ll hop on the bus for a brief drive to the glacier’s edge, where the real fun begins.
Expect a walk of roughly two hours on the ice, although some reviews note that this time might feel shorter or longer depending on your pace and interest. The terrain is flat ice for the most part, so it’s accessible for most people, even those with no prior hiking experience. The route includes crossings of crevasses, which can look daunting but are navigated safely in a guided environment.
One reviewer mentioned that the equipment—harness, helmet, ax—feels more like props than essential tools, as the hike doesn’t require technical climbing. Instead, it’s a walk with some optional moments, like stepping into crevasses or viewing ice formations up close, which are pretty special.
After about three hours of ice exploration, you’ll hop back on the bus and return to the lodge. Throughout, your guide will point out features like glacier mills, discuss climate change effects, and maybe even spot Hvannadalshnukur, Iceland’s highest peak, in the distance.
What’s Included and What to Know
For the price, around $75 per person, this tour offers great value. All necessary glacier gear—crampons, ice axes, helmets—is included, which simplifies planning. The small group size means you’ll get more attention, and the guides are clearly knowledgeable and safety-focused. Many reviews highlight the guides’ friendliness and expertise, which makes the experience even more enjoyable.
However, note that food and drinks aren’t included, so bring a snack if you want to refuel during or after your adventure. Also, transportation to and from the meeting point is your responsibility, so plan accordingly.
The tour is suitable for travelers aged 10 and above, with children needing to be accompanied by an adult. Travelers should dress warmly in layered clothing, waterproof gear, gloves, and sturdy hiking boots. Rain gear and boots can be rented on location if needed.
The Real Traveler Experience
According to reviews, the overall vibe is positive, emphasizing the scenic beauty and the professionalism of the guides. Several travelers comment on how the walk feels more relaxed than strenuous—ideal for those who want to enjoy the scenery without tackling technical ice climbing or intense hikes. One person mentioned that they could have stayed on the ice longer, which shows the experience’s laid-back nature.
That said, not everyone found the walk challenging or adventurous enough. One reviewer pointed out that the equipment is mostly for show, and the hike involves just walking on flat ice for most of the time. If you’re expecting a more mountaineering-style experience, this might not be the tour for you. But if you’re looking for a scenic, educational, and accessible glacier walk, this tour hits the mark.
The Value and Who It’s For
At roughly $75, this tour provides a solid introduction to glacier hiking without the hefty price tag of longer or more technical trips. You’ll get expert guidance, all necessary equipment, and a chance to explore some of Iceland’s most awe-inspiring ice landscapes.
This experience suits travelers who want to see glaciers up close but prefer a manageable pace. It’s perfect for first-timers, families with older children (10+), or anyone who appreciates stunning natural scenery without the expectation of technical climbing or strenuous activity.
If you’re short on time but want to tick off a significant Icelandic experience, this hike packs a punch. It’s also a good choice if you’re traveling with others who prefer a more relaxed activity. The small-group setup, combined with expert guides, ensures you feel safe and well-informed throughout.
Final Thoughts
The Blue Ice Discovery Guided Glacier Hike offers a balanced mix of adventure, education, and breathtaking scenery. It’s not a hardcore mountaineering trip, but for what it’s worth, it’s an authentic way to connect with Iceland’s glacier landscape. You’ll leave with fantastic photos, new knowledge about glaciers, and a sense of accomplishment just walking across the ice.
This tour is best suited for those who want to experience the beauty of a glacier without diving into technical ice climbing. If you’re after an accessible, well-organized, and truly scenic outing in Vatnajökull, it’s a solid option.
While it’s not the most adrenaline-fueled adventure out there, it offers an authentic taste of Iceland’s icy wilderness. The guides’ professionalism and the stunning views make it a worthwhile addition to your trip, especially if you love natural landscapes and want a safe, guided introduction.
Blue Ice Discovery Guided Glacier Hike from Skaftafell
“On our trip to Iceland we were very much looking forward to getting up on a glacier. We booked a tour on Viator with Icelandic Mountain Guides. It …”
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, no prior experience is needed. Full instruction and equipment are provided, making it accessible for most people.
What should I wear?
Layered warm clothing, rain gear, gloves, and sturdy hiking boots are recommended. Boots and rain gear can be rented on-site if needed.
How long is the glacier walk?
The actual walk lasts about two to three hours, depending on group pace and interest, within the total tour duration of around 3.5 hours.
Is transportation included?
No, travelers need to arrange their own transport to the meeting point at the Mountain Guides Sales Lodge.
What age is this tour suitable for?
Minimum age is 10 years old. Children must be with an adult.
Can I book a different departure time?
Yes, multiple departure times are available throughout the day, offering flexibility.
What’s the main highlight of this tour?
The chance to walk on Falljökull Glacier and see stunning ice formations up close, guided by knowledgeable professionals.
What if the weather turns bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
In the end, this glacier hike presents a wonderful opportunity for anyone wanting a manageable, guided entry into Iceland’s icy world. With expert guides, breathtaking scenery, and a small-group vibe, it’s a tour that many travelers cherish—and one that can create memories worth a lifetime.
