Arnarstapi: Snæfellsjökull Glacier and Volcano Hike

If you’re dreaming of standing atop a massive glacier-covered volcano in Iceland, this tour might catch your eye. It’s a guided hike that takes you up to one of the highest peaks on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula—Snæfellsjökull, a 1,446-meter-high volcano cloaked in ice. We’ve come across this experience and, honestly, it sounds like a memorable mix of adventure, scenery, and the chance to challenge yourself a bit.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines a beautiful nature walk with a glacier climb, all led by knowledgeable guides who know the terrain well. Plus, the views from the summit promise to be spectacular—think sweeping panoramas of the surrounding landscape, which include the coastline and the volcanic landscape that inspired Jules Verne’s “Journey to the Center of the Earth.” One slight consideration is that this is a mountaineering tour on a glacier, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with uneven ground and some steep climbs. If you’re new to hiking or aren’t physically prepared, it might be worth considering whether this particular adventure is right for you.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate a combination of scenic beauty and a physical challenge, especially those eager to see a true Icelandic icon from the top. It’s perfect if you want a guided, well-structured day that mixes some mountaineering with epic views—though it’s not exactly a casual stroll.

Key Points

• Guided glacier hike led by experienced guides ensures safety and expert insights.
• Stunning panoramic views from the summit, including unique landscapes made famous by Icelandic lore.
• All necessary glacier gear provided, making it accessible for those with some hiking experience.
• Duration of around 6.5 hours offers a full, immersive experience, but requires good physical condition.
• Small group size (limited to 7) means more personalized attention but requires early booking.
• Weather-dependent experience—clothing and gear are key for comfort and safety.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Detailed Review of the Snæfellsjökull Glacier and Volcano Hike

What the Tour Offers and Why It’s Worth Considering

This tour is a full-day adventure, around 6.5 hours long, that takes you from the base of the Snæfellsjökull volcano to its summit. Starting from one of two pickup spots—either at the Arnarstapi Center or the Snjófell Restaurant—you’ll meet your guide and prepare for a real Icelandic mountain day.

The journey begins with a rocky one-hour walk along the Snæfellsnes road to reach the glacier’s base. This initial stretch is a good warm-up, and it gives you a chance to get a first glimpse of the surrounding landscape. Once at the base, your guide will assist you in putting on glacier gear—crampons, harness, ice axes, and ropes. This part is pretty important because it ensures safety on the ice and steep slopes. The guides take their safety role seriously; they’ll show you how to use the equipment, and they will be the ones deciding if conditions are suitable for the climb.

The actual ascent to the summit takes about 3 hours, moving along a marked trail that leads to the top. The slope can be steep and protected with ropes in some sections, making it a proper mountaineering experience, but the effort pays off. On clear days, the views from the top are described as breathtaking, with expansive vistas of the peninsula and beyond. You’ll have the chance to eat a packed lunch at the summit, soaking in the scenery that Jules Verne’s story famously popularized.

The descent follows roughly the same trail, taking between 1 to 2 hours. The entire hike from the glacier base to summit and back is about 5-6 hours, giving you plenty of time to appreciate the surroundings. Keep in mind, this is a physically demanding activity; the terrain and elevation gain aren’t ideal for those who are not used to uphill hiking or uneven ground.

What’s Included and What You Should Bring

The tour includes a knowledgeable local guide and glacier gear, which is especially helpful if you’re less familiar with glacier hiking. However, transport, clothing, and food are not included. You’ll need to prepare by bringing hiking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, snacks, a packed lunch, and drinks. Icelandic weather can change fast, so layering and waterproof gear are strongly recommended—cotton clothing is a no-go, as it doesn’t dry or insulate well when wet.

The Experience Itself: Views, Challenges, and the Guide’s Role

We’ve seen reviews praising the guides as “experienced and enjoyable,” highlighting how they make the experience both safe and engaging. One reviewer, Alexandros, called out the guide as “great, experienced, and enjoyable to be with,” which is reassuring when you’re venturing onto a glacier.

Some travelers have expressed a bit of disappointment, particularly about the perceived value. One review noted: “the hike was only 4 hours instead of 6, and it felt expensive for that,” which raises a good point about price versus experience. At $486 per person, this isn’t a cheap outing, but the cost covers guide expertise, gear, and the unique opportunity to reach a glacier summit—experiences that are hard to replicate elsewhere.

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Who Will Love This Tour?

This adventure is perfect for adventure-seekers who want to add a mountain climb to their Iceland trip. It’s also suitable for those who enjoy guided experiences with a small group, giving more personal attention. If you’re comfortable with uphill hiking and uneven terrain, you’ll probably find it rewarding. On the other hand, if you’re not used to physical activity or have mobility issues, this might be a challenging day.

Practical Details and Tips

• Duration: About 6.5 hours, including transportation and breaks.
• Group size: Limited to 7 participants, which is great for personalized guidance but requires early booking.
• Starting points: Either Stapinn at Arnarstapi Center or Snjófell Restaurant.
• Price: $486 per person, which includes guide and gear but not food or transport.
• What to bring: Snacks, packed lunch, drinks, proper hiking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and snow gear.
• Weather considerations: Iceland’s weather can change abruptly; dress in layers and avoid cotton.
• Safety: Guides reserve the right to turn participants around if conditions or individual fitness levels pose concerns.

Authentic Traveler Feedback

From reviews, it’s clear that guides make or break the experience. One traveler called the guide “experienced and enjoyable,” emphasizing how the knowledge and friendliness of the guide enhanced their day. Conversely, some questioned the value based on the duration and price, which is worth considering especially if you’re budget-conscious.

Another reviewer’s daughter enjoyed the trip immensely, which suggests that the tour appeals to those who appreciate a physically engaging and scenic outing.

The Sum Up

This Snæfellsjökull Glacier and Volcano Hike offers a rare chance to climb a stunning Icelandic volcano with a knowledgeable guide, surrounded by spectacular scenery. It’s ideal for travelers who are comfortable with hiking, eager for a challenge, and interested in truly experiencing Iceland’s volcanic landscape up close. The small group size and gear inclusions mean you’ll likely get a personalized, safe adventure, but be prepared for the physical effort involved.

If you’re after an experience that combines mountaineering, scenic views, and Icelandic adventure spirit, this tour could be a highlight of your trip. Just remember to consider your fitness level, gear up properly, and enjoy the breathtaking vistas from the top of Snæfellsjökull.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
While the tour isn’t overly technical, it involves steep slopes and uneven terrain, so it’s best for those with some hiking experience and good fitness. Guides can turn you around if they see you’re not in good shape.

What gear is provided?
The guides supply glacier gear, including crampons, harness, ice axes, and ropes, making the climb safer and more manageable.

Do I need to bring my own clothes?
Yes, you should bring weather-appropriate clothing, including layers, gloves, and a waterproof jacket. No cotton clothing, as it doesn’t dry well.

How long does the hike take?
The entire activity from base to summit and back usually takes about 5-6 hours.

Can I see the views without clear weather?
Clear days are ideal for viewing, but Iceland’s weather can change quickly. Guides will assess conditions and prioritize safety.

Is food included?
No, food isn’t included. You should bring a packed lunch, snacks, and drinks.

What’s the group size?
Limited to 7 people, which allows for a more personalized experience.

Is transportation included?
No, transportation to and from the starting point is not included, so plan accordingly.

What if I change my mind?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you some flexibility.

Would this tour be good for families?
It’s more suitable for adults or teens comfortable with hiking, rather than very young children, due to the physical demands and glacier safety considerations.

This guided hike to Snæfellsjökull is a serious but rewarding adventure, offering a close-up look at one of Iceland’s most iconic volcanoes. If you’re craving a physically engaging day with stunning vistas and expert guidance, it’s worth considering—and preparing for—this memorable climb.

You can check availability for your dates here: