Sólheimajökull Glacier Hiking Tour

Taking a glacier hike might sound like an adventure reserved for expert mountaineers, but the Sólheimajökull Glacier Hiking Tour offers a surprisingly accessible way for most travelers to get a taste of Iceland’s icy wilderness. With its close proximity to Reykjavík and a manageable three-hour duration, it promises a memorable outing without demanding advanced skills or equipment. Whether you’re a first-timer or just looking for a scenic day trip, this tour packs in some of Iceland’s most iconic features with a good dose of education and fun.

What we love about this experience is the chance to see a dynamic glacier in a relatively short time — and the added bonus of passing by stunning waterfalls like Skógarfoss and Seljalandsfoss en route. The guides are knowledgeable and friendly, making the journey both informative and engaging. One thing to consider is that the tour does not include waterproof clothing or hiking boots, so you’ll need to bring your own or plan to rent or buy these items separately. This tour is ideal for travelers who want a hassle-free, guided adventure that combines natural beauty with authentic Icelandic scenery.

If you’re after a straightforward, small-group experience that offers expert insight—and you’re keen to stand on a glacier with ease—this tour is a great choice. It’s perfect for those seeking a taste of glacial Iceland without the commitment of a more intense ice-climbing or multi-day expedition.

Key Points

• Accessible for most: Suitable for beginners and those with limited hiking experience.
• Includes essential gear: Crampons, harness, and ice axe are provided, making it easier to focus on the experience.
• Beautiful route: The journey features iconic waterfalls like Skógarfoss and Seljalandsfoss.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides share insights into glaciers, volcanoes, and local geology.
• Limited group size: Small groups of up to 10 travelers ensure personalized attention.
• Good value: For $117, you get a 3-hour guided experience plus all necessary equipment and transportation.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

The Meeting and Preparation

The adventure begins at a designated meeting point marked by a vehicle with the North Ice logo. After gathering together, the guides provide all the glacier gear you’ll need—harnesses, crampons, and ice axes—which they will show you how to use. It’s worth noting that your own waterproof jacket or trousers, hiking shoes, hat, and gloves are not included, so be prepared to bring these or rent/buy them locally. This setup allows for a seamless start, especially for those who prefer to travel light.

The Walk to the Glacier Base

From the meeting point, you’ll take a 15-minute gravel-road hike to reach the base of Sólheimajökull. This part is a gentle warm-up and gives you your first glimpses of the surrounding volcanic terrain. The route is straightforward and suitable for most fitness levels, even children if accompanied by adults. Along the way, you’ll enjoy views of Iceland’s rugged south coast, setting the stage for what’s ahead.

The Glacier Trek

Once at the foot of the glacier, your guide will demonstrate how to properly put on and walk with crampons. This is where the real fun begins. You’ll spend approximately 1.5 to 2 hours walking on the ice, during which you’ll learn different techniques to navigate the glacier’s surface safely. The guides share insights into Iceland’s volcanic activity, explaining how the glacier’s ice is tinged with black volcanic ash from nearby volcanoes, creating a striking contrast of black and white on the ice.

The terrain varies from smooth, icy surfaces to crevassed zones, offering a genuine glacial experience. Because the glacier is surrounded by volcanoes, you might see different ash deposits, making each step visually interesting. The guides point out highlighted features—ice formations, moulins, and possibly even some small ice caves—though these are not guaranteed.

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The View and Learning Opportunities

Throughout the trek, your guide will share stories about volcanic activity, glacial dynamics, and the effects of climate change—adding depth to your visual experience. We loved the way the guides combined expert knowledge with a friendly approach, making complex geology accessible. One reviewer mentioned, “He was very informative, knowledgeable about the area & kept it light/fun!”

The Return Journey

After exploring the glacier, you’ll trek back on the gravel road to your vehicle, completing a full 3-hour experience. The tour concludes back at the original meeting point, leaving you with a sense of accomplishment and plenty of photos.

Evaluating the Value and Practicalities

At $117 per person, this tour offers good value considering the inclusion of gear, a knowledgeable guide, and transportation from Reykjavík. It’s a competitive price for a guided glacier hike that provides a safe, educational, and visually stunning experience. The small group size ensures personalized attention, which many travelers appreciate.

However, the tour’s value depends heavily on your preparation. Since waterproof clothing and hiking boots are not included, bringing your own or renting locally is essential. Weather in Iceland can be unpredictable, so pack rain gear, a hat, and gloves—just in case. The flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance also makes it easier to book with confidence.

Accessibility and Suitability

This is a beginners-friendly tour—no prior glacier experience needed. It’s ideal for travelers who want a scenic day trip with some light adventure, especially since it’s close to Reykjavík (about 2 hours and 20 minutes drive). The tour’s emphasis on education and safety makes it a comfortable choice for families, couples, or solo travelers eager to see a glacier up close without rigorous technical difficulty.

The Scenic Bonus

An added perk is passing by the iconic Skógarfoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls en route. These waterfalls are among Iceland’s most famous and offer excellent photo opportunities. Such stops add a scenic dimension to the journey beyond just the glacier experience.

Authentic Reviews from Travelers

Among the few reviews, two stand out for their praise of the guides and value:

“Small group guided tour with an experienced guide made that trip unforgettable and definitely worth the little extra money you pay in comparison…Thanks north ice-tours for showing and explaining the beauty and tragedy of that dying glacier. Till next time.” — A traveler who appreciated the knowledgeable guidance and the focus on glacial health.

“The glacier hike was an amazing day – we met Bergur onsite, he was there on time & we had an amazing tour of the glacier. He was very informative, knowledgeable about the area & kept it light/fun!” — Another review highlighting the professionalism and friendliness of the guide, making the experience enjoyable and educational.

These insights reinforce that your guide can truly make or break your glacier adventure, and small groups foster a more personalized experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This glacier hike is perfect for first-time visitors to Iceland who want a safe, guided introduction to the country’s glacial features. It’s suited for families, couples, and solo travelers who appreciate small-group settings and expert commentary. If you’re looking for a scenic, manageable adventure close to Reykjavík, this experience offers a solid balance of value, safety, and stunning natural beauty.

Conversely, if you’re seeking more technical ice-climbing or multi-day glacier expeditions, this tour might be too basic. Also, travelers who want to travel light should plan ahead to bring or rent proper clothing and footwear.

The Sum Up: The Practical Choice for a Glacial Iceland Experience

The Sólheimajökull Glacier Hiking Tour stands out as a practical, enjoyable way to experience Iceland’s icy wilderness without overextending your abilities or budget. It’s well-suited for first-timers and casual adventure seekers eager to see a glacier up close, learn about Iceland’s volcanic past, and enjoy some of the south coast’s most spectacular waterfalls.

The expert guides and small group size ensure a personalized, engaging experience, while the inclusion of essential gear simplifies the logistics. The tour’s value is enhanced by its proximity to Reykjavík, making it an easy day trip that combines natural beauty with educational insights. It’s an excellent introduction for those wanting an authentic taste of Iceland’s glacial landscapes in a safe, friendly environment.

Final Tip

Pack your rain gear, bring your own waterproof hiking shoes if possible, and arrive ready for a memorable ice adventure. Whether you’re celebrating your first glacier experience or simply want an accessible way to witness Iceland’s stunning ice formations, this tour offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of the country’s natural wonders.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the tour’s gentle pace and short duration suggest it could be suitable for children, especially if accompanied by adults. Always check with the provider for age restrictions and ensure children are comfortable with walking on ice.

Do I need to bring my own waterproof clothing?
No, waterproof gear such as jackets and trousers are not included. You should bring your own or plan to rent or purchase these locally to stay dry during the hike.

Are hiking boots provided?
No, hiking boots are not included in the gear package. You’ll need waterproof hiking shoes or boots that you can bring or rent separately.

How long is the drive from Reykjavík to the glacier?
It takes about 2 hours and 20 minutes to reach Sólheimajökull from Reykjavík, making it a manageable day trip.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to small groups of up to 10 participants, ensuring more personalized guidance and better interaction.

What’s the best time of year for this tour?
While the specific season isn’t mentioned, weather in Iceland can be unpredictable, especially in winter. Always check road conditions and weather forecasts before booking.

What should I wear on the day?
Bring a hat, gloves, rain gear, and sturdy waterproof hiking shoes. Dressing in layers is advisable to stay comfortable on the glacier.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if plans change unexpectedly.

You can check availability for your dates here: