Iceland’s charming fishing town of Höfn offers several spectacular glacier-focused tours worth your time and money. The standout experience is the guided hike on Breiðamerkurjökull glacier – perfect for active travelers who want to get up close with ancient ice formations. I especially love the shore excursion combining the stunning Glacier Lagoon with stops at Stokksnes peninsula and Höfn’s famous lobster restaurants. The ice cave tours in Vatnajökull National Park are simply magnificent, and with both group and private options available, you can choose your preferred pace. For serious photographers, the private ice cave tour with a professional photographer is worth the splurge. Let’s look at my recommended tours in detail.
Key Points
- The Ice Exploration Tour from the Glacier Lagoon offers a personalized glacier hiking experience with safety gear and a small group size.
- The Shore Excursion Djúpivogur tour provides a full-day exploration of Iceland’s landscapes, including the Glacier Lagoon, Stokksnes, and the seafood hub of Höfn.
- The Ice Cave Tour in Vatnajökull National Park allows visitors to explore naturally formed ice caves within Europe’s largest glacier, with varying access based on daily safety assessments.
- The Private Full-Day Tour of the Vatnajökull Glaciers From Höfn offers a guided exploration of remote, off-the-beaten-path glacier wonders with comfortable transportation.
- The Private Ice Cave Tour in Vatnajokull with a Photographer provides a private glacial adventure, including transportation and professional photography services.
Ice Exploration Tour From the Glacier Lagoon
For those seeking an exhilarating adventure on the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier, the Ice Exploration Tour from the Glacier Lagoon is a must-try experience.
The tour begins with a transfer to the glacier by super-jeep, followed by a guided hike of 4-6 km across the ice. Participants are provided with all necessary safety gear, including crampons, helmets, and ice axes, ensuring a safe and enjoyable trek.
The maximum group size of 8-12 travelers ensures a personalized experience, with knowledgeable guides leading the way.
Highlights of the tour include the opportunity to drink glacier water and try ice climbing, providing a unique and memorable encounter with Iceland’s stunning natural beauty.
With a 5.0 overall rating from 127 reviews and 99% of travelers recommending the tour, the Ice Exploration Tour is an excellent choice for those seeking an adventurous and unforgettable experience in the land of ice and fire.
Read our full review: Ice Exploration Tour From the Glacier Lagoon Review
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Shore Excursion Djúpivogur: Glacier Lagoon-Stokksnes-Höfn
The Shore Excursion Djúpivogur: Glacier Lagoon-Stokksnes-Höfn offers a comprehensive exploration of Iceland’s stunning natural landscapes. This full-day tour departs from the town of Djúpivogur and takes visitors on a journey through some of the country’s most breathtaking sights.
First, you’ll visit the renowned Glacier Lagoon, where you’ll marvel at the serene, otherworldly beauty of floating icebergs.
Next, you’ll travel to Stokksnes, a dramatic peninsula with towering mountains and black sand beaches. Here, you’ll have the chance to explore the mystical Vestrahorn, a dramatic mountain that has become an iconic symbol of Iceland.
Finally, you’ll reach the charming town of Höfn, known as the “Lobster Capital of Iceland.” You’ll have the opportunity to savor local seafood delicacies and learn about the region’s rich maritime heritage.
Throughout the tour, you’ll be captivated by the stunning vistas and immersed in the natural wonders that make Iceland such a unique and unforgettable destination.
Read our full review: Shore Excursion Djúpivogur: Glacier Lagoon-Stokksnes-Höfn Review
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Ice Cave Tour in the Vatnajökull National Park
What makes the Ice Cave Tour in the Vatnajökull National Park a unique experience? Each year, explorers can step into naturally formed ice caves, a one-of-a-kind opportunity to witness the awe-inspiring effects of Europe’s largest glacier, Vatnajökull.
Departing from the Glacier Lagoon, the 3-hour adventure aboard a modified super jeep promises stunning views and an intimate encounter with the cave’s icy wonders.
Equipped with the necessary gear, participants can safely venture into the cave, taking in the ever-changing, intricate ice formations. However, access to the caves may vary based on daily safety assessments, with guides offering alternatives like a glacier hike if conditions are unsuitable.
Unpredictable Icelandic weather means warm, waterproof attire is essential.
Reviews reflect a mixed bag, with some finding the experience too short and crowded, while others praise the knowledgeable guides and breathtaking scenery.
With a maximum of 28 travelers per tour, flexibility in departure times, and a straightforward cancellation policy, the Ice Cave Tour offers a memorable adventure in Iceland’s stunning natural landscape.
Read our full review: Ice Cave Tour in the Vatnajökull National Park Review
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Shore Excursion Djúpivogur: Stokksnes-Vestrahorn-Höfn (Lunch)
Departing from the picturesque town of Djúpivogur, this shore excursion offers a captivating exploration of the Stokksnes peninsula and the iconic Vestrahorn mountain.
Travelers will journey through the dramatic landscape, admiring the stunning black sand beaches, the imposing Vestrahorn, and the serene lagoons.
At Stokksnes, they’ll have the opportunity to wander among the unique rock formations and capture breathtaking photographs.
The tour then continues to the charming town of Höfn, where you will enjoy a delicious local lunch.
During the meal, they’ll have the chance to savor the region’s renowned seafood and learn about the fishing culture that has shaped this coastal community.
This comprehensive tour provides a well-rounded experience, blending natural beauty, cultural insights, and delectable cuisine for a truly memorable day in southeast Iceland.
Read our full review: Shore Excursion Djúpivogur: Stokksnes-Vestrahorn-Höfn (Lunch) Review
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Sapphire Ice Cave Tour From Jökulsárlón – Extra Small Group
Travelers embarking on the Sapphire Ice Cave Tour from Jökulsárlón can expect an intimate and awe-inspiring experience exploring the ethereal blue glacial chambers. Priced from $170 per person, this small-group tour (maximum 6 travelers) is operated by Melrakki Adventures and offers a unique opportunity to venture deep into the ice cave, accessible only by 4×4 drive.
All necessary safety equipment and weather-appropriate attire are provided, ensuring a comfortable and secure exploration. The tour begins at the main parking lot of Jökulsárlón, where a distinctive Land Rover Defender marked with the company logo will be waiting to transport guests to the glacier.
Upon returning, the tour concludes at the same meeting point.
With a 5-star rating based on 5 total reviews, the Sapphire Ice Cave Tour is highly acclaimed for its incredible experience, crowd-beating access, and the exceptional guiding of Javi.
Suitable for most travelers, this tour offers a captivating and unforgettable glimpse into the breathtaking ice formations of Iceland’s glacial landscape.
Read our full review: Sapphire Ice Cave Tour From Jökulsárlón – Extra Small Group Review
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Private Full-Day Tour of the Vatnajökull Glaciers From Höfn
Nestled in the southeastern corner of Iceland, Höfn serves as the gateway to the breathtaking Vatnajökull glaciers. For those seeking to explore this natural wonder, the Private Full-Day Tour of the Vatnajökull Glaciers from Höfn is an exceptional choice.
This private tour takes you on a guided hike to admire the region’s waterfalls and glacial scenery, immersing you in the remote and off-the-beaten-path wonders of the area.
The tour includes comfortable air-conditioned transportation, a professional glacier guide, and complimentary food and drinks, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience.
While not recommended for those with mobility issues or serious medical conditions, the moderate fitness level required makes this tour accessible to most travelers.
Priced at €716.34 per person, with the flexibility of free cancellation and reserve-now-pay-later options, this tour offers excellent value for the opportunity to explore the Vatnajökull glaciers from Höfn.
Read our full review: Private Full-Day Tour of the Vatnajökull Glaciers From Höfn Review
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Private Ice Cave Tour in Vatnajokull With Photographer
The Private Ice Cave Tour in Vatnajokull with Photographer offers adventurous travelers a unique opportunity to explore the captivating ice caves of the Vatnajokull glacier. Located in Hofn, Iceland, this private tour provides a comprehensive experience, including transportation via superjeep and the services of a professional photographer.
Priced from $1,325.00 per group (up to 4 people), the tour includes all necessary glacier equipment, such as helmets, harnesses, and crampons. Participants will receive two edited photos per person, delivered within 14 days of the tour.
The meeting point is at the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Boat Tours and Cafe in Höfn í Hornafirði.
To participate, travelers must be in good physical condition, as the tour requires hiking at least 5 kilometers (3.1 miles). Children under 6 need prior approval, and infants must have a car seat provided by parents.
With a 5.0 average rating from 3 reviews, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Iceland’s stunning glacial landscapes.
Read our full review: Private Ice Cave Tour in Vatnajokull With Photographer Review
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Sum Up
Hofn offers a variety of ice exploration tours, from glacier lagoons to ice caves in the Vatnajökull National Park. These tours provide visitors with unique opportunities to experience the region’s stunning glacial landscapes. Whether you’re interested in a shore excursion, a private tour, or a small-group adventure, there’s an option to suit your travel preferences and budget. Exploring the icy wonders of Hofn is a must-do activity for any visitor to the area.