Iceland: Zip Line Tour + Glacier Adventure

If you’re dreaming of an adventure that combines adrenaline, breathtaking scenery, and a taste of Iceland’s ice-capped wilderness, this glacier zipline and hike tour might just be your ticket. While we haven’t personally strapped into the zipline ourselves, the reviews and information paint a picture of a truly unique experience in the Southern Region of Iceland, perfect for those who crave active outdoor fun and authentic natural beauty.

What we love about this tour is its combination of high-energy activities—a zipline over a glacier and an accompanying glacier hike—delivering both thrill and stunning vistas. The knowledgeable guides seem to elevate the experience with their expertise, and the chance to glide above vast icy landscapes is genuinely rare. However, it’s worth noting that the tour involves about 6-8 km of walking, and the weather can be windier and colder on the glacier than anticipated, so good gear is essential.

This adventure appeals most to active travelers, families with older children, and those interested in experiencing Iceland’s glaciers from a new perspective. If you’re comfortable with physical activity and are eager to see some of the country’s most extraordinary ice formations, this tour offers a memorable mix of excitement and natural wonder.

Key Points

• First & only glacier zipline in the world offers a distinctive thrill above the ice.
• Includes a glacier hike with spectacular views of ice caves and expansive blue-white glaciers.
• Guides are highly praised for their knowledge and friendliness, enhancing the experience.
• Dress appropriately for cold, windy conditions on the glacier; gear is crucial.
• The tour is rated as easy to moderate, suitable for most with some physical fitness.
• Small group size (limited to 12 participants) ensures a more personalized experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

This Icelandic adventure combines two of the most exciting ways to explore glaciers: an innovative zipline crossing the icy terrain and a comprehensive glacier hike that takes you into the heart of the ice. The zipline, being the first and only of its kind globally, is the headline feature that promises an exhilarating experience—imagine soaring across a glacier with panoramic views of blue ice and ice caves beneath you.

The glacier hike complements the zipline perfectly, providing a chance to walk on the glacier itself, with routes spanning a total of 6-8 km. The terrain is described as moderate and rocky in parts, making it accessible for most travelers of average fitness. The hike includes a gentle incline over about 40 minutes, leading to spectacular scenery and close encounters with ice caves and moulin formations (vertical ice caves).

The Experience it Offers

The tour begins at the Sólheimajökull Glacier Car Park, where you’ll meet your guides—who are noted for their knowledgeable and friendly approach. They equip you with helmet, harness, crampons, and ice axe, essential for safe exploration. Be prepared for the need to dress warmly, especially in winter, as the glacier’s environment is much colder and windier than you might expect.

Once geared up, you’ll set out on the glacier hike. Along the way, you’ll see ice caves and get a real sense of the scale and beauty of Iceland’s glaciers. The guides are known for their expertise, making sure everyone stays safe while sharing insights into the glacial landscape.

The highlight, of course, is the zipline. You’ll get to two jumps per person, flying over the ice and above a vertical ice cave called a Moulin. The sensation of wind rushing past you as you glide across the icy landscape is described as both exhilarating and awe-inspiring. The views are panoramic—an unforgettable perspective of Iceland’s icy wilderness.

Why the Guides Make a Difference

Guests consistently praise the guides’ knowledge and friendliness, which greatly enhances the experience. One reviewer noted that Claudia was “very knowledgeable and a wonderful guide,” emphasizing that safety and learning are prioritized during the adventure. Another reviewer pointed out that Julienne was also fantastic, though weather-related changes required some flexibility.

Having experienced guides means you’re in capable hands, especially when navigating glacier terrain and ice caves. Their insights help you appreciate the geological features and glacial formations while ensuring safety in unpredictable environments.

Practical Details and What to Expect

The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, but this includes meeting, gear-up, the hike, ziplining, and returning. The small group limit of 12 ensures a more intimate experience, with plenty of opportunities for questions and personalized attention.

The cost includes the guide and photographer, glacier equipment, and two zipline jumps. You’ll also receive a 10-shot photo package sent within two weeks. This is a great value for those wanting a lasting memory of their adventure, especially since the photos are professionally taken.

Included gear—helmet, harness, crampons, ice axe—are essential for safety, but you’ll need to bring warm and windproof clothing, gloves, hat, and rain gear. The terrain involves rocky sections and glacier ice, so sturdy hiking shoes are a must.

Note: Children must be at least 10 years old to participate, with younger children in the summer possibly allowed at 8 years. Be aware that the altitude, weather, and wind can be harsher than expected, so preparation is key.

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Review Highlights

One reviewer commented, “Claudia is very knowledgeable and a wonderful guide,” highlighting the importance of expert guides in ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. Another noted that ziplining was fun and safe, calling it a 10/10 recommendation.

However, it’s worth mentioning that some travelers found finding the meeting point tricky, and weather conditions can change plans—one had to switch to just a glacier hike with an ice cave visit.

Who Would Love This Tour

This adventure is ideal for active travelers who enjoy physical activity and want to see Iceland’s glaciers from a unique vantage point. It’s perfect for families with children over 10 years old, especially those interested in adventure sports. Given the emphasis on safety and guidance, it’s suitable for most people in good health, provided they can handle 6-8 km of walking.

Those eager to experience something truly out of the ordinary—gliding above a glacier and walking into ice caves—will find this tour memorable. However, if you’re less comfortable with cold weather or physical activity, you might prefer a less demanding glacier experience.

The Sum Up

This Iceland: Zip Line Tour + Glacier Adventure offers a rare combination of thrill, natural beauty, and expert guidance, making it a standout experience for those looking for something extraordinary. The zipline over the glacier provides a sense of freedom and adventure that’s hard to match elsewhere, while the glacier hike offers a close-up view of one of Iceland’s most stunning landscapes.

The small group size and professional guides make this a safer, more personalized experience, handling even the trickier aspects like weather and terrain with confidence. The inclusion of photos helps capture the memories, and the overall duration fits well into a day of exploration.

While the gear and clothing requirements mean travelers should come prepared, the reward—a bird’s-eye view of shimmering ice caves and expansive glaciers—is well worth the effort. Whether you’re an adventure junkie or a nature lover eager to see Iceland’s icy heart, this tour provides a balanced mix of adrenaline and awe.

Who Should Book This Tour

If you’re physically active, love outdoor adventures, and want to see Iceland’s glaciers from a fresh perspective, this tour fits perfectly. It’s especially suited for families with older children, adventurers, and nature enthusiasts who appreciate guided expertise. It’s not ideal for those with mobility issues or very young children, but for most, it offers a genuine chance to enjoy Iceland’s stunning icy landscapes safely and exhilaratingly.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children over 10 years old are allowed, and possibly younger in summer, depending on conditions. All minors must be accompanied by an adult.

What should I wear for the tour?
Dress in warm layers, including rain gear, gloves, hat, and windproof jacket. Good hiking shoes are also necessary for the rocky and icy terrain.

How challenging is the hike?
The hike covers 6-8 km in total. The first part is moderate and rocky, while the glacier section involves a gradual incline of about 40 minutes. Overall, rated as easy to moderate.

What’s included in the tour price?
Guides, glacier equipment (helmet, harness, crampons, ice axe), two zipline jumps, and a photo package.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What makes the zipline unique?
It’s the first and only glacier zipline in the world, offering a one-of-a-kind flying experience across Iceland’s icy landscape.

Will I be able to see ice caves?
Yes, the tour includes viewing ice caves and moulins—vertical ice formations—adding to the visual spectacle.

What if the weather is poor?
Weather can cause changes or cancellations; guides are experienced at adapting plans. Some travelers have had to switch to just hiking or ice cave visits.

Is this tour safe?
Absolutely. The guides are trained professionals who prioritize safety, and gear is provided for secure exploration of the glacier and caves.

This adventure combines exhilarating adrenaline with awe-inspiring scenery, making it a standout choice for travelers eager to truly experience Iceland’s icy wilderness. Whether you’re flying over the ice or walking into ancient glacier caves, this tour delivers a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with one of nature’s most stunning landscapes.

You can check availability for your dates here: