Iceland: Zip Line Tour + Glacier Adventure

Imagine soaring across a glacier’s icy expanse on the world’s first glacier zip line — a thrill that combines high adrenaline with jaw-dropping scenery. This 4-hour tour in Iceland’s southern wilderness offers not just zip lining but also a mesmerizing glacier hike on Sólheimajökull, making it a true adventure for those craving both excitement and stunning natural beauty. Led by knowledgeable guides, this experience promises a blend of fun, education, and awe-inspiring views.

Two things we particularly love about this tour: First, the chance to glide over ice caves and vertical ice formations—a rare and exhilarating perspective on Iceland’s glaciers. Second, the expert guides—like Claudia—who bring their deep local knowledge and enthusiasm, making the experience more engaging and informative.

One consideration, however, is the clothing requirements—you’ll need to dress warmly and be prepared for colder conditions on the glacier, especially if winds pick up. It’s not a casual stroll, so proper gear is essential for comfort and safety.

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers aged 10 and up who want more than just sightseeing. If you enjoy a little risk, love breathtaking natural landscapes, and are comfortable with some physical activity, you’ll find this experience worth every penny. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate guided tours with small groups, ensuring more personalized attention and safety.

Key Points

• Unique experience: The only glacier zip line in the world, combined with a glacier hike.
• Stunning scenery: Panoramic views of blue ice, ice caves, and glacier landscapes.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable staff enhance safety and share insights.
• Physical activity: 6-8 km of mostly moderate terrain, with some glacier terrain.
• Clothing requirements: Warm layers, rain gear, and sturdy hiking shoes are essential.
• Limited group size: Small groups (max 12) for a more personalized experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on This Glacier Adventure

This tour begins at the Sólheimajökull Glacier Car Park, setting the stage for an exciting day amidst Iceland’s icy wilderness. From the start, it’s clear the experience is designed to blend adventure with incredible scenery. You’ll be greeted by guides who are well-versed in glacier safety and local geography, ready to equip you with helmets, harnesses, crampons, and ice axes—tools crucial for safely navigating the icy terrain.

The Itinerary: From Ground to Sky

The first part of the adventure involves a hike of approximately 6-8 km, which is manageable for most with some moderate exertion. The terrain is a mix of rocky ground and glacier ice, offering a variety of textures and views. The initial section is relatively gentle but involves walking over uneven, rocky terrain that’s suitable for an average level of fitness.

After about 40 minutes of gradual incline on the glacier, you’ll arrive at the area where the zip line begins. Here, the real thrill begins: you’ll get to experience two jumps on the world’s only glacier zip line. As you glide over the ice, you’ll pass over vertical ice caves, known as moulins, and take in the vast, icy landscape below. Imagine feeling the wind in your hair as you soar hundreds of meters across a sea of blue and white, with the glacier stretching as far as the eye can see.

The Glacier Hike and Ice Caves

Following the zip line, the guides will lead you on a glacier hike that offers a closer look at the ice caves and crevasses. The hike is rated as easy, but it’s essential to be prepared for colder, windier conditions. The guides will ensure you’re properly equipped and safe as you walk across the glacier’s surface, which provides an incredible opportunity to see ice formations and caves up close.

Weather and Clothing Considerations

Given the colder temperatures and wind on the glacier, dressing properly is critical. Layers, windproof and waterproof jackets, gloves, and sturdy hiking shoes are necessary to stay comfortable. The guides recommend bringing sunglasses and water for after the hike, but note that you’ll need to bring your own winter clothing—gloves, hats, and warm layers.

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Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventure seekers aged 10 and above, especially those eager to combine physical activity with stunning scenery. Since part of the tour involves moderate hiking on rocky terrain and ice, it’s suited for those with average fitness levels. The small group size ensures plenty of attention from guides, and the photographer will capture your memorable moments, with a package of 10 edited photos sent later.

Authentic Insights from Real Travelers

One reviewer highlights Julienne, describing her as a “fantastic guide,” though noting the difficulty of finding the group at the start. Weather impacted their plans, leading them to switch to just a glacier hike, which was “clunky and confusing,” but even so, they appreciated the experience.

Another traveler raves about Claudia, calling her “very knowledgeable” and “a wonderful guide,” and giving the tour a perfect 10/10. They especially loved the zip lining, calling it “a lot of fun and safe,” emphasizing how guides add confidence and security to the adventure.

These reviews underline the importance of a skilled guide and good communication, especially given Iceland’s unpredictable weather. The guides’ expertise is a big part of why this tour is enjoyable and safe.

Analyzing the Value

At a certain price point, this tour offers a combination of thrill, education, and scenery that’s hard to match elsewhere. The fact that it includes two zip line jumps, glacier gear, a professional guide, and photos makes it a well-rounded experience. For those who love a mix of adrenaline and glacier scenery, it’s a compelling value—especially considering the small group size and personalized attention.

While the need to dress warmly might seem inconvenient, it actually ensures you’re prepared for the conditions, which are part of what makes this experience authentic. The photos are an added bonus—allowing you to keep a visual record of your icy adventure.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour suits adventurous travelers who aren’t afraid of some physical activity and enjoy unforgettable views. It’s perfect for families with children over age 10, especially those eager for a unique, adrenaline-fueled experience on a glacier. If you’re a fan of guided adventures in small groups, with knowledgeable guides making safety and fun their priority, this tour fits the bill.

However, if you have mobility issues or are uncomfortable with cold weather, this adventure might not be ideal. Also, since the experience involves hiking and some exposure to icy conditions, it’s best suited for those in good health and with a reasonable level of fitness.

This Iceland Glacier Zip Line + Glacier Hike tour offers a rare mix of adventure and natural beauty. The zip line’s unique setting over the glacier’s ice caves and moulins provides a sense of thrill that’s hard to find anywhere else. Coupled with a guided glacier hike that reveals close-up sights of ice formations, this experience captures the spirit of Iceland’s wild, icy landscapes.

For adventure lovers, especially those who enjoy a bit of physical activity and stunning scenery, this tour delivers a memorable day. The guides’ expertise and small group sizes ensure safety and personal attention, making it suitable even for those new to glacier adventures.

The experience is a wonderful way to see Iceland’s glaciers from a different perspective—flying high above the ice and walking right on its surface. It’s a good investment for anyone wanting to combine adrenaline, scenery, and expert guidance in one package. Just remember to dress warmly and be ready for some wind and cold—those are part of the adventure.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children over 10 years old can participate. The tour involves some physical activity and cold conditions, so younger children or those with mobility issues might not find it suitable.

Do I need special clothing?
Yes, you should bring winter clothing, gloves, hats, windproof and rainproof jackets, and sturdy hiking shoes. The glacier experience is cold and windy, so proper layers are essential.

How much hiking is involved?
Expect about 6-8 km of total hiking, with the terrain including rocky ground and glacier ice. The hike is rated as easy but involves some moderate effort.

What’s included in the price?
The tour fee covers guides, photographs, glacier equipment (helmet, harness, crampons, ice axe), and two zip line jumps. You’ll also receive a package of 10 edited photos.

What should I bring?
Bring warm clothing, waterproof layers, sunglasses, water, and any personal items you need for your hike. Remember, you’ll be responsible for your own winter gear (clothing and gloves).

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

Embark on this adventure if you’re eager for a truly unique experience in Iceland—a day filled with soaring over glaciers, walking among ice caves, and learning from guides who love sharing their homeland’s icy secrets. It’s a memorable way to see Iceland’s frozen beauty from a completely new viewpoint.

You can check availability for your dates here: