12 Best Glacier Tours in Iceland in 2024 | Top Locations + Best Tours

Wondering what are the best glacier tours in Iceland?

You’re at the right place! With so many options to choose from it can be confusing to pick the best option for you. It will depend on what area, if you are looking for a short or a long tour, including visiting an ice cave or only doing the glacier hiking in Iceland or a combo. Phew! But this guide has the 12 best glacier tours in Iceland for you!

Now if you are wondering: Is it worth it to go on a glacier tour in Iceland? – My honest answer is glacier tours in Iceland is truly worth it. If you love hiking in the nature, a glacier hike in Iceland will give you a whole new twist on that activity.

This guide to the absolute best Glacier tours in Iceland covers a wide range of interests. Including an ice climbing tour, the incredible opportunity to go on a natural ice cave, or if you are an adrenaline junkie you can go on a glacier snowmobile tour and many other amazing tours!

Here you can find very useful information and have no doubts you will choose the right glacier tours in Iceland. Plus two bonus sections to help to choose the best location and to answer all your questions. So, get ready to hike the top glaciers in Iceland, and discover some of Iceland’s most incredible sights.

You may also be love this articles:

• Glacier Hike in Iceland + Ice Climbing: Exploring Sólheimajökull Glacier
• Best 10-day Iceland Road Trip Itinerary
• How to Travel to Iceland on a Budget + Tips to save money

If you are short in time, you can have a quick scan of this table that will help you to choose the best glacier tours in Iceland that fits perfectly your needs. This table shows the best glacier tours in Iceland and a rundown of what each one offers! 

HIGHLIGHTS	AREA	RECOMMENDED TOUR
🏆 My Personal TOP Pick Tour | Ice climbing + glacier hike tour | 3-4 hours	Sólheimajökull Glacier	Sólheimajökull Ice Climb and Glacier Hike
🏙️ Best Tour from Reykjavik | Glacier tour + Glacier hike combo | 12-hour	Sólheimajökull Glacier	Small-Group South Coast Tour & Glacier Hike
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Best Tour for Families & kids | Glacier hike | 3-hour	Sólheimajökull Glacier	Sólheimajökull 3-Hour Glacier Hike
💸 Budget-friendly tour | Glacier hike | 3-hour	Vatnajökull glacier	Skaftafell Glacier Hike 3-Hour Small Group Tour
❄️ Best tour with natural ice cave | Glacier hike + cave tour combo | 3 hours	Vatnajökull glacier	Glacier Natural Ice Cave Tour,
⭐️ Top-rated tour | Glacier snowmobile + Golden Circle tour | 11-hour tour	Golden Circle and Langjökull Glacier	Golden Circle and Glacier Snowmobile Tour
🚙 Best top-adventurous tour | Glacier hike + volcano tour |14 hours tour	Reykjavik	Ice Cave by Katla Volcano Super Jeep from Vik
✨ Best Multi-day Tour | Glacier hike cave + South Coast Waterfalls | 2-day tour	South Coast, Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon	Jokulsarlon with Glacier Hike & South Coast Waterfalls

💡  EXPERT TIP: Before booking your glacier tours in Iceland, read the frequently asked questions (FAQ) section for the tour(s) you’re considering, to ensure you pick the best one for your needs and interests. 

⭐️ CUSTOMER REVIEWS: Make sure you read carefully the whole description of the tour you choose to do and book in advance to make sure you will be able to join the right tour on the right day. Also, read customers’ reviews to make sure it is a well-rated tour and avoid any frustration. If you are short on time the Sólheimajökull: Guided Glacier Hike is the best-rated glacier hike, and is very close to Reykjavik, making it a great day trip option.

🏆 HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR TOUR: Pay attention to what the tours offer such as hiking and safety gear, transportation, and if they offer small group tours.

❄️ TOUR TYPE: Decide if you want to go on a Glacier Hike or on a Combo with Ice Climbing. Some combos also offer ice caves or even tours that combine to go chase the Northern Lights.

📍TOUR LOCATION: Decide if you want to go on a Glacier Tour at Sólheimajökull vs. Vatnajökull Glacier. You cannot go wrong with any location, but I recommend deciding based on your itinerary. Check at the end of this article for a detailed review of the best locations for you.

1. TOP OVERALL GLACIER TOUR: Sólheimajökull Guided Glacier Hike

🏆 TOP PICK MOST POPULAR GLACIER HIKING IN ICELAND 🔥 🔥

Tour at a Glance:

❄️ TOUR TYPE: Glacier Hike

📍TOUR LOCATION: Sólheimajökull Glacier

⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3-Hours

⭐️ RATING: 4.7/5 (686 Reviews) | Details: Read more reviews now!

Why Take This Glacier Tour in Iceland:

This Sólheimajökull: Guided Glacier Hike is the most popular glacier hike in Iceland due to its proximity to Reykjavik. It isconveniently located en route to the most popular landmarks (Skogafoss and Vik beach) and you can book it any time of the year. The guides are extremely professional, and they will make sure you are well prepare and safe during the whole activity.

• You will hike across the ice of the Sólheimajökull Glacier.
• Get detailed explanations about the glacier formations from a specially trained guide.
• On the way, you will discover ice cave tunnels and an amazing glacier lagoon.
• This tour is great because you can enjoy the intimacy of a small group, a family-friendly experience

“We absolutely loved it. It was a great difficulty level. Was hard enough that experienced hikers feel a little challenged and yet easy enough that even young children came along and seemed to not have trouble. The glacier itself is a fascinating and beautiful thing to behold.”

Jeffery (read more reviews now)

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2. THE TOP COMBO TOUR: Sólheimajökull Ice Climb and Glacier Hike

🏆 MY PERSONAL TOP PICK COMBO TOUR IN ICELAND 🏆

Tour at a Glance:

❄️ TOUR TYPE: Glacier Hike + Ice Climb

📍TOUR LOCATION: Sólheimajökull Glacier

⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 4-Hours

⭐️ RATING: 4.9/5 (55 Reviews) | Details: Read more reviews now!

Why Take This Glacier Tour in Iceland:

This Sólheimajökull Ice Climb and Glacier Hike is the tour I chose to do, and highly recommend it. The Glacier hike experience is epic, plus the opportunity to learn basic skills and actually climb an ice wall is a must-do while in Iceland. You can read all my experiences on Ice Climbing & glacier hike tour in Iceland.

• They offer small groups of no more than 6 people, provide all the glacier equipment,
• With this tour, you will climb the ice walls of the Sólheimajökull Glacier
• You will love the opportunity to see the ice formations, crevasses, and tunnels up close
• You will learn how to climb ice with the help of a certificated glacier guide, and they are really amazing!

“Great experience, our lovely guide shared interesting facts/info throughout the hike and confidently supported our group on the ice climb. I was a nervous climber ( fear of heights & unfit!) but she was so reassuring and patient, I was amazed I managed to do the ice climbing to the top (& proud of myself for doing it)! She was also very safety conscious throughout and would find safe spots for taking pictures. Would certainly recommend.”

GetYourGuide Traveler (read more reviews now)

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3. BEST ECO-FRIENDLY TOUR: Eco-Friendly Tour on Sólheimajökull Glacier

🏆 POPULAR TOUR AND LIKELY TO SELL OUT

Tour at a Glance:

❄️ TOUR TYPE: Glacier Hike with certified glacier guide

📍TOUR LOCATION: Sólheimajökull Glacier

⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 4-Hours

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 (34 Reviews) | Details: Read more reviews now!

Why Take This Glacier Tour in Iceland:

Embark on an eco-friendly adventure with this Eco-Friendly Tour on Sólheimajökull Glacier , delving into the breathtaking beauty of Iceland’s glaciers through an intimate small-group hike.

Your journey begins at the base camp, where the local expert equips you with all the necessary gear, ensuring a safe and comfortable experience. Lace up your boots and step onto Sólheimajökull Glacier, immersing yourself in its icy wonders and exploring the enchanting glacier lagoon. During this tour, you will gain fascinating insights into the glacier’s formation and witness icebergs up close. Don’t miss out on this sustainable and educational glacier hike—it’s an experience like no other

• Our half-day tour includes several photo stops
• Maximize time with a small-group tour
• Glacier hiking gear is provided

“Our guide was fantastic, we got more out of the tour than we expected aside from hiking (drank glacier water, climbed a glacier crack, went in a glacier ice cave), and we had such a great time! The views were spectacular and we lucked out with the weather and a rainbow. 10/10 would recommend!“

Kellia (read more reviews now)

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4. TOP TOUR FROM REYKJAVIK: Small-Group South Coast Tour & Glacier Hike

🏆 BEST TOUR IF YOU ARE VISITING REYKJAVIK

Tour at a Glance:

❄️ TOUR TYPE: Combo, visit the South Coast + Glacier Hike

📍TOUR LOCATION: Sólheimajökull Glacier

⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 12-Hours

⭐️ RATING: 4.7/5 (44 Reviews) | Details: Read more reviews now!

Why Take This Glacier Tour in Iceland:

This Small-Group South Coast Tour & Glacier Hike offers an extraordinary day trip from Reykjavik and delves into the untamed beauty of Iceland. Prepare to be captivated by the magnificent Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, where cascading waters create awe-inspiring spectacles.

Be captivated by the mystical Reynisdrangar sea stacks, rising majestically from the roaring ocean waves. But the adventure doesn’t end there – brace yourself for the excitement of a guided walk on the amazing Solheimajokull Glacier, immersing into a frozen world adorned with breathtaking ice formations.

During this tour you will have a complimentary WIFI aboard a cozy and climate-controlled van.

• You will walk behind a wall of water at the Seljalandsfoss waterfall
• Have the opportunity to hike the glacier tongue of the Solheimajokull Glacier
• Take advantage to learn the Viking history of Iceland on a small group tour of the south coast
• Get incredible panoramic views of the Eyjafjallajökull and Hekla volcanoes on clear days

“Excellent tour with impressive viewpoints during the tour. Highlight for me was the the glacier hike; but also the waterfalls were amazing to see. Our Tourguide and driver Christopher was outstanding, he gave us a lot of insights during the tour of the stops and Iceland. Definitely recommend this tour for those who want to see something extraordinary.”

GetYourGuide Travler (read more reviews now)

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5. TOP TOUR FOR FAMILIES: Sólheimajökull 3-Hour Glacier Hike

🏆 TOP TOUR FOR ANYONE TRAVELING WITH FAMILIES & KIDS

Tour at a Glance:

❄️ TOUR TYPE: Glacier Hike

📍TOUR LOCATION: Sólheimajökull Glacier

⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3-Hours

⭐️ RATING: 4.8/5 (78 Reviews) | Details: Read more reviews now!

Why Take This Glacier Tour in Iceland:

This Sólheimajökull 3-Hour Glacier Hike you will hike the stunning glacier of Mýrdalsjökull, designed for all nature enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable experience. Beneath the glistening ice cap lies Katla, one of Iceland’s largest and most impressive volcanoes, with its last eruption dating back to 1918.

Your journey begins at the Sólheimajökull parking lot, where you’ll meet your expert guide and receive all the necessary safety equipment. As you make your way toward the glacier, you’ll be given a comprehensive safety briefing and a tutorial on attaching crampons to your sturdy boots.

Immerse yourself in the wonders of the impermanent glacier formations, exploring crevasses and moulins that unveil the ever-changing nature of this icy landscape. Throughout the hike, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and catch glimpses of volcanic ash delicately scattered across the glacier.

• You will love hiking on the Sólheimajökull Glacier
• Get the opportunity to learn from an experienced and certified glacier guide
• You will have the opportunity to gaze into the ice tunnels and crevasses

“This was a great adventure! Just learning to walk in the crampons was fun – getting to climb on a glacier was icing on the cake. And our guide Gab was amazing!! He was so cool and interesting, but also so thoughtful and aware of all the guests and took extra good care of our 9 year old who had a little trouble in the high winds. He also took pictures of every travel group at several amazing viewpoints.”

GetYourGuide Traveler (read more reviews now)

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6. BUDGET-FRIENDLY TOUR: Skaftafell Glacier Hike 3-Hour Small Group Tour

🏆 BEST VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY GLACIER HIKE TOUR IN ICELAND 💸

Tour at a Glance:

❄️ TOUR TYPE: Glacier Hike

📍TOUR LOCATION: Vatnajökull Glacier

⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3-Hours

⭐️ RATING: 5 /5 (450 Reviews) | Details: Read more reviews now!

Why Take This Glacier Tour in Iceland:

This Skaftafell Glacier Hike 3-Hour Small Group Tour tour offers the best value for your money. You will go on an extraordinary adventure into the mesmerizing realm of Vatnajökull, one of Iceland’s most spectacular natural wonders. You will be led by certified guides who will unveil a world of awe-inspiring ice formations and deep crevasses within Skaftafell National Park.

With your safety as the top priority, they provide all the necessary equipment, ensuring you can explore this icy wonderland with peace of mind. Delve into the glacier’s enchanting landscapes while receiving personalized attention from your guide, thanks to our small-group tour limited to just 12 people.

• This is a very affordable glacier tour, at US$110 per person
• Get breathtaking views of the ice-covered peaks of Skaftafell National Park in the epic wilderness of Iceland.
• Sweeping views over the icy formations and rugged terrain
• All safety equipment included

The guide was super fun and you can tell he enjoys giving the tour. The tour itself was not difficult physically. The glacier was an amazing sight and the water was cold and refreshing! Definitely would consider doing the 5hr tour next time! 10/10

Ernie (read more reviews now)

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7. TOP SHORT ICE CAVE TOUR: Glacier Natural Ice Cave Tour

🏆 THE BEST OPTION ICE CAVE TOUR IF YOU ARE SHORT ON TIME

Tour at a Glance:

❄️ TOUR TYPE: Glacier Hike + Cave Tour Combo

📍TOUR LOCATION: Vatnajökull Glacier

⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3-Hours

⭐️ RATING: 4.7/5 (193 Reviews) | Details: Read more reviews now!

Why Take This Glacier Tour in Iceland:

With this amazing Glacier Natural Ice Cave Tour, you have the opportunity to experience the glacial landscape and the natural ice cave with incredible formations in a cave inside the largest glacier in Europe Make your own way to the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon to experience a natural ice cave from the luxury of a huge custom-made super jeep.

Uncover the captivating history of these caves and witness their ever-changing nature with the shifting seasons. Whether you crave the freedom to explore at your own pace or prefer the company of a knowledgeable guide for a richer experience, the choice is yours.

Embark on a magical adventure with the Natural Blue Ice Cave Tour of Vatnajökull Glacier from Jökulsárlón—an exclusive journey filled with breathtaking natural beauty and an unforgettable peek into the heart of the glacier

• Take a guided tour to an ice cave aboard one of Iceland’s largest super jeeps
• Experience the winter phenomenon of a natural ice cave in all its beauty
• Learn about the wonders of nature and how the ice cave came to formation

“This ice cave is exceptional. Our guide David was very knowledgable about the landscape, professional and friendly. The cave really is as blue as the pictures. We would recommend this tour to anyone visiting Iceland. It is well worth the trip.“

Robert (read more reviews now)

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8. TOP SMALL-GROUP ON A BUDGET: Glacier Wonders Adventure From Skaftafell

🏆 THE BEST OPTION SMALL GROUP TOUR WITH THE BEST VALUE 💸

Tour at a Glance:

❄️ TOUR TYPE: Glacier Hike

📍TOUR LOCATION: Skaftafell Glacier

⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3-Hours

⭐️ RATING: 4.8/5 (102 Reviews) | Details: Read more reviews now!

Why Take This Glacier Tour in Iceland:

This Skaftafell Extra-Small Group Glacier Hike tour is a great option because it offers a very small group tour with a maximum of 8 people.

Under the guidance of your expert instructor, master the skills needed to use your climbing equipment with confidence. Venture through the glacier valley, ascending onto the pristine ice as you follow your knowledgeable guide.

• You will see stunning ice formations, moulins, crevasses, and crystal-clear blue pools.
• Have the chance to marvel at Skaftafell and its surrounding mountainous landscapes on a 4×4 drive
• You will enjoy an intimate small-group tour with a maximum of 8 participants with a certified English-speaking guide

“Our guide was super safety oriented and very friendly. He also knew a great deal about the glacier and educated us with many Interesting facts. I would HIGHLY recommend this. It was a nice hike, but not crazy and it was the most beautiful view ever being up there! We even ended up filling our water bottles from glacier water!”

Brian (read more reviews now)

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9. TOP-RATED TOUR: Golden Circle and Glacier Snowmobile Tour

🏆 TOP-RATED TOUR WITH OVER 600+ REVIEWS ⭐️

Tour at a Glance:

❄️ TOUR TYPE: Glacier snowmobile+ Golden Circle Tour

📍TOUR LOCATION: Golden Circle and Langjökull Glacier

⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 11-Hours

⭐️ RATING: 4.6/5 (641 Reviews) | Details: Read more reviews now!

Why Take This Glacier Tour in Iceland:

With this Golden Circle and Glacier Snowmobile Tour, you will see the spouting geyser and hot springs of Iceland’s Golden Circle. Stand on one of Europe’s biggest glaciers, and follow in the footsteps of Vikings down the lava canyon where the American and European continents drift apart in Þingvellir National Park.

Set off from Reykjavík in the early morning and make the most of the radiant morning sun on this unique and comfortable journey. Hop aboard our brand new bus, specially equipped with individual computer tablets at each seat. Stay connected throughout the trip with convenient onboard USB chargers and enjoy free Wi-Fi access, ensuring you’re always connected and ready to capture every moment of your adventure.

• You will have fun riding a snowmobile through one of Europe’s last great wilderness areas
• You will have the opportunity to see an erupting geyser and a variety of hot springs
• Get amazed when you feel the spray of the 32-meter-high Gullfoss Waterfall
• Take the opportunity to learn about the Vikings in Thingvellir National Park

“1000% recommend this trip, what an amazing experience, my husband and I did this trip back in early February and it was wonderful. The trip up to the glacier was amazing the views were just beautiful. The snowmobiling itself was great (even though I tipped it up) which the staff were super quick at stopping to see if we were ok. the views at the top were stunning as they were also on the way and back. Book it your won’t be disappointed.”

GetYourGuide Traveler (read more reviews now)

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10. TOP PRIVATE TOUR: Glacier and Ice Cave Private Photoshoot – 20 Shot Photo Package

🏆 BEST PRIVATE TOUR INCLUDING PHOTO SHOOT 📸

Tour at a Glance:

❄️ TOUR TYPE: Glacier Hike

📍TOUR LOCATION: Jökulsárlón Glacier

⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 6-Hours

⭐️ RATING: 8/5 (5 Reviews) | Details: Read more reviews now!

Why Take This Glacier Tour in Iceland:

This Glacier and Ice Cave Private Photoshoot is an extraordinary adventure in Iceland’s glacier paradise and create timeless memories of your Jökulsárlón experience with a truly unique offering: a private tour accompanied by your very own personal photographer.

Get ready to be captivated as you wander through glacial tundra, explore the majestic glacier, and delve into several ice caves. Throughout this adventure, a skilled photographer will expertly capture breathtaking photos of you amidst these awe-inspiring natural wonders

• Jökulsárlón glacier walk led by a photographer
• Private tour, exclusively for your party: A personalized experience
• Commemorate your glacier adventure with a photo album that will last a lifetime
• Eat lunch on the ice while witnessing the sunset on the glacier

“Ice Pic Journeys was a fantastic experience! From the ease of booking, to the expertise of the guide, to the photos we received, everything was exceptional. Our guide Adam was super knowledgeable about Iceland and was kind, funny, and also worked with my boyfriend to plan an epic proposal! The zipline he set up also looked totally safe and secure, and of course he tested it himself before letting us go haha. And then the ice cave was beautiful. We ended up getting to drink fresh glacier water too! We ended up being the only 2 on the adventure and it truly felt like a personal experience. I can’t recommend this company enough. They made our time in Iceland unforgettable!”

Tripadvisor Reviewer (read more reviews now)

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11. TOP ADVENTUROUS TOUR: Ice Cave by Katla Volcano Super Jeep from Vik

🏆 BEST ADVENTURE TOUR IN ICELAND WITH OUTSTANDING REVIEWS ⭐️

Tour at a Glance:

❄️ TOUR TYPE: Glacier Hike

📍TOUR LOCATION: Reykjavik

⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 14-Hours

⭐️ RATING: 4.6/5 (686 Reviews) | Details: Read more reviews now!

Why Take This Glacier Tour in Iceland:

This Ice Cave by Katla Volcano Super Jeep from Vik is the BEST tour for adventurers! From Vík, take a jeep ride to the natural ice cave at Mýrdalsjökull Glacier, situated below the Katla volcano.

Equipped with crampons and a helmet, you’ll be ready to explore this natural phenomenon. With this tour, you will learn about the Katla volcano and the ice cave’s formation while you enjoy the natural ice cave tour.

• You will have the amazing opportunity to explore a natural ice cave
• Take advantage to learn about the Katla volcano and the ice cave’s formation from the professional guides
• Marvel yourself with the views of Mýrdalsjökull Glacier

“Amazing seeing a glacial ice cave and going inside! The experience of going in this big 4×4 all the way to the cave and then walking inside was unique. Seeing how fast the glacier melts is eye opening. Some parts were a bit scary as you need to walk on ice, but they provide all the necessary equipment. Very nice activity!!“

GetYourGuide Traveler (read more reviews now)

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12. BEST 2-DAY TOUR: Jokulsarlon with Glacier Hike & South Coast Waterfalls

🏆 TOP COMBO TOUR IN ICELAND WITH 5-STAR REVIEWS ⭐️

Tour at a Glance:

❄️ TOUR TYPE: Glacier Ice Cave + South Coast Waterfalls Combo

📍TOUR LOCATION: Departure from Reykjavik, travel to South Coast, waterfalls and glacier hike, Glacier Lagoon and Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon

⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2-days

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 (102 Reviews) | Details: Read more reviews now!

Why Take This Glacier Tour in Iceland:

Imagine being surrounded by the awe-inspiring beauty of frozen glaciers, lava fields, and cascading waterfalls at Jökulsárlón—it’s a paradise for adventurous souls. But navigating this pristine wilderness solo can be risky. That’s where this exceptional overnight tour steps in, ensuring a safe and immersive experience like no other.

This thoughtfully planned excursion includes essential elements such as accommodation, breakfast, and safety equipment, ensuring your utmost comfort and peace of mind. Prepare to be enchanted as you discover remarkable natural attractions along the way, including the awe-inspiring Skógafoss waterfall that cascades with breathtaking power.

With this incredible tour, you will dive into the magic of the Solheimajokull glacier and behold the surreal beauty of Jökulsárlón lagoon. This tour will take you on a journey together with expert guides sharing insights, unveiling the secrets and stories that make these landscapes truly extraordinary.

• Explore Iceland’s wild south coast on an adventurous overnight tour
• Visit top attractions including Skógafoss waterfall and Jökulsárlón lagoon
• Hassle-free round-trip transport from your Reykjavik accommodation

“Absolute fantastic choice of places to visit, correct sequencing, very very guest friendly driver. Top overnight stay. So all in all a 5 star experience. Keep it up.”

Sandeepa (read more reviews now)

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Most glacier tours in Iceland are conducted on Sólheimajökull and Vatnajökull Glaciers. It will depend on weather conditions, and occasionally the glaciers may be temporarily closed.

📍 Sólheimajökull Glacier

This is the most popular choice because it is only 2-hour drive from Reykjavik – which makes it a very convenient location. You can hike Sólheimajökull Glacier on a day trip from Reykjavik or if you are visiting the South Coast of Iceland: Skogafoss Waterfall and Vik Beach. You can book this tour on Sólheimajökull Glacier any time of the year.

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📍Vatnajökull Glacier (Snæfellsjökull)

 This is the largest glacier in Europe, and is also part of the Vatnajökull National Park, with roughly 30 outlet glaciers. Snæfellsjökull Glacier is a glacier tongue of the huge Vatnajokull glacier where you can go hiking. Most of the glacier hikes on Vatnajökull start in Skaftafell – located a 4-hours drive from Reykjavik. While here, you can also add on kayaking or cruising Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon –  Check availability on this tour here.

📍 Sólheimajökull vs. Vatnajökull Glacier

Both are incredible places to go glacier hiking in Iceland – but it will depend mainly on your preferences and location.

I chose to go hiking in Vatnajökull because I was on the Ring Road road trip, so adding this activity to my itinerary was very convenient. 

Also, it is farther from Reykjavik and it tends to have lower crowds at this glacier. Plus, in Vatnajökull there are several outlet glaciers to hike, making the crowds lower and you can hike the largest glacier in Europe!

Is it worth it to go on a glacier tour in Iceland?

ABSOLUTELY YES! A trip to Iceland is not completed without adding glacier hike. This was the highlight of my trip, and I highly recommend you to add it to you Iceland Bucket list too. You can add a combo to your glacier hike, such as ice caves or ice wall climbing, or you can only go on a glacier hike.

How hard it is a glacier hiking in Iceland?

The glacier hiking in Iceland is not hard, and it can be done by almost everyone, including kids. It was my first time and I felt super safe. The guides will train you at a safe place before they take you to climb, and no previous experience is required.

Do I need to be fit to add ice climbing?

You need some level of fitness, so good news, you can use Your next vacation as a fitness goal motivation.  But they will adapt the activity based on the fitness level of the group.

Can I hike glacier in Iceland on my own?

No, you cannot go glacier hike in Iceland on your own. Do not venture onto the glacier without the right equipment (crampons and ice picks) and an experienced guide. The ice is incredibly slippery and you will not make it far. You don’t want to cut your trip short slipping on the ice or falling into a crevasse.

When is the best time to go glacier hiking in Iceland?

The good news is that the tour companies offer Glacier Hike in Iceland all year round. If you also want to explore an ice cave, the best months are between November and March, it is when the ice caves are open and safe to explore. If you decide to go hike the Vatnajökull Glacier, you can also add a combination tour with a boat ride on Jokulsárlón Lagoon.

How long does a glacier hiking in Iceland take?

It may take 4 to 5 hours, it depends on the weather conditions. But it is so much fun and so much to do and see that 5 hours just fly.You can also do shorter tours (2-3 hours) that may exclude ice climbing, but include a glacier tour.

Do I need any equipment?

Yes, to go glacier hike in Iceland you will need special shoes, crampons, special warm layers of clothes and a helmet. If you go ice climb you will also need harness, and ice axes, which will be provided by your guide who will also take care of the ropes.

I hope this best glacier tours in Iceland guide has helped you to choose the perfect tour for you. Whether you choose to climb on ice, ride on top of it, or go inside, there is an Iceland glacier tour for everyone.

While this article featured the 10 Best glacier hike tours in Iceland, you might still be undecided – so let me help you!

These best glacier tours in Iceland will have you packing your bags and planning your trip! Just don’t forget to wear the right clothing and you will be good to go!

If you are wondering what to pack, how to get around, what age you can go on the tours, and all the other questions, I answer all of them on this Everything you should know before you go on a glacier hike in Iceland.

If you still have any questions, just leave me a comment below and I will connect with you. If you are planning a trip to Iceland, you may also enjoy these:

• Glacier Hike in Iceland + Ice Climbing: Exploring Sólheimajökull Glacier
• How to plan a trip to Iceland
• 10-day Ring Road itinerary in Iceland
• Iceland on Budget + resources to plan your trip cost
• Iceland 10-hidden gems
• 25 Best Landmarks in Iceland