Skaftafell is a true highlight for anyone visiting Iceland, especially for those eager to experience its glaciers and icy landscapes. Unlike many other destinations, Skaftafell offers a diverse range of guided glacier tours, ice cave explorations, and small-group hikes that showcase the raw beauty of Vatnajökull’s ice fields. We particularly love tours that maximize time on the ice, like the Glacier Hike from Skaftafell – Extra Small Group, which allows for personalized attention and in-depth exploration. Whether you’re after an easier walk or a full-day adventure, Skaftafell’s terrain and professional guides make it a must-visit for ice lovers.
If you’re planning your trip, keep in mind that the variety of tours below covers everything from beginner glacier walks to high-adrenaline ice climbing, and even ice caving. This list highlights what makes Skaftafell special: its accessible but awe-inspiring icy landscapes, the high quality guides, and the chance to safely explore some of Europe’s biggest glaciers. Read on for detailed insights into each experience.
1. Skaftafell: Falljokull Glacier Easy Group Hike
At number 1, this easy group hike across Falljokull offers a fantastic introduction to Iceland’s glaciers. For 3 hours, with a friendly English-speaking guide, you’ll follow in the footsteps of film stars like James Bond, trekking across Vatnajökull’s stunning ice cap. It’s especially good for those new to glacier hiking or those on a tight schedule, as the tour includes a walk to the glacier, safety briefing, and some epic photos of Europe’s biggest glacier. Guests consistently praise the guide’s knowledge and the front-row views of icy peaks. For $109, it’s a beginner-friendly taste of glacier exploration that balances safety with the thrill of walking on ice.
Bottom line: Perfect for newcomers or families, this tour gets you on the ice with minimal fuss and maximum scenery.
2. Skaftafell National Park: Falljokull Glacier Advanced Hike
Holding the second spot, this advanced glacier hike is designed for those who want more time on the ice and a deeper experience. It lasts about 5 hours and includes a drive in a 4WD to the glacier’s edge, where you’ll explore crevasses and ice formations with a certified guide. The trip is highly rated, with guests noting the guide’s enthusiasm and the breathtaking views over Skaftafell National Park. The longer duration means you’ll see more of the glacier’s features and learn about glacier formation and global warming impacts.
Bottom line: For serious outdoor enthusiasts willing to put in a bit more effort, this tour offers a comprehensive, immersive glacier adventure.
3. Glacier Hike from Skaftafell – Extra Small Group
Number 3 is this intimate small-group glacier hike which emphasizes personalized attention. The tour lasts about 3 hours, with a drive in a 4×4 to the glacier’s base, where you’ll explore moulins, crevasses, and stunning ice formations. Rated a perfect 5.0, guests rave about their guides, especially Javi, who takes you off the beaten path. The smaller group size—only 8 participants—means a more flexible, relaxed experience, perfect for those who want detailed insights and fewer crowds. The $145 price point reflects this more exclusive access and expert guidance.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers seeking an intimate, flexible glacier experience with top-tier guides.
4. Jökulsárlón: Vatnajokull Glacier Guided Hiking Tour
Number 4 on our list is this guided hike from Jökulsárlón, which combines glacier exploration with a stunning lagoon backdrop. The 4.5-hour tour takes you across Vatnajökull’s ice, with opportunities to see crevasses and ice formations, all from the vantage point of a Lagoón adjacent to the glacier. Rated 4.9/5, it’s praised for the knowledgeable guides and the scenery. The combination of glacier trekking and the glacier lagoon makes this tour a visual feast and a great way to connect Iceland’s icy landscape with its floating icebergs.
Bottom line: A perfect choice for those who want to connect glacier walking with spectacular scenery at Jökulsárlón.
5. Skaftafell: Extra-Small Group Glacier Hike
This small-group glacier hike offers a 3-hour adventure with a maximum of 8 participants, focusing on exploring Europe’s largest glacier outlets. Your guide, Ásta, will drive you close to the glacier in a 4×4 and take you over crevasses and ice ridges. Guests love the personalized experience, with many reviews mentioning the guide’s friendliness and safety-conscious approach. It’s a good fit for those who want a manageable yet exhilarating glacier adventure with plenty of ice exploration.
Bottom line: Great for travelers who value small groups, expert guides, and close-up glacier experiences.
6. Blue Ice Discovery – Guided Glacier Hike from Skaftafell
Number 6 is this Blue Ice Discovery tour, rated perfect 5.0 and priced affordably at under $75. It features a 3.5-hour guided hike across Falljökull, with full gear provided for those with no experience necessary. It’s perfect for first-timers or those on a budget who want to see snow-covered ice sculptures and natural formations. Departure times are flexible, and the small group size allows for a more tailored experience. Guests mention the guide’s attentiveness and the ease of learning crampon use.
Bottom line: An excellent beginner-friendly option that offers a lot of glacier scenery without a hefty price tag.
7. Skaftafell Ice Caving & Glacier Hike
Number 7 offers an ice cave and glacier exploration from Hofn. This 4-hour tour takes you into Europe’s biggest ice caves with a guide experienced in ice caving and ice hiking. Inside the blue-lit caves, you’ll see stunning formations and learn how the caves form. It’s rated 5.0 with rave reviews about the guide’s patience and the spectacular scenery. Because it’s a small-group experience with equipment provided, it’s suited for those eager for a more adventurous, inside-the-ice experience.
Bottom line: The best choice for travelers wanting to step inside an ice cave, combining glacier trekking with a surreal underground view.
8. 5-hour Glacier Adventure From Skaftafell
This 5-hour glacier hike on Svinafellsjökull offers a comprehensive experience of Europe’s largest glacier. With a small group, you’ll explore crevasses, ice sculptures, and icy ridges, with plenty of time for photos. Rated 5.0, guests appreciate the guide’s expertise and the chance to get further into the glacier than shorter tours. The full safety gear and expert guiding make it suitable for confident beginners and seasoned hikers alike.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers wanting a longer, more in-depth glacier adventure with excellent guides.
9. Skaftafell Adventure Tour – 5-Hour Expedition
Number 9 is this extended glacier trek, which takes you further into the ice than most tours. It offers a 5-hour exploration of deep crevasses, moulins, and ice sculptures, with plenty of panoramic views. Rated 5.0, reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and the opportunity to learn about glaciers’ formation and climate change impacts. It’s suited for travelers eager for a thorough, behind-the-scenes look at Vatnajökull.
Bottom line: Best suited for serious glacier enthusiasts seeking a longer, more detailed excursion.
10. Ice Cave and Glacier Exploration Tour of Vatnajökull from Jökulsárlón
Number 10 offers a comprehensive ice cave and glacier trek, lasting 5-6 hours. Meeting at Jökulsárlón, you’ll take a super Jeep out to explore crevices, ice caves, and vast icy landscapes. The reviews praise the professionalism and safety focus of guides like Holt and Diego. The tour combines stunning visual ice features with expert instruction, making it ideal for those who want an inside look at Vatnajökull’s icy depths.
Bottom line: An ideal choice for travelers wanting a full-day, intimate ice cave experience with knowledgeable guides.
11. Half-Day Vatnajokull Glacier Small Group Tour from Skaftafell
This half-day glacier tour is designed for a relaxed but informative experience. It explores the ice fall of Falljökull and provides all safety gear. Rated 5.0, reviewers love the guide’s professionalism and the chance to get close to the ice fall. It’s perfect for those who want a shorter but still immersive glacier experience without sacrificing quality.
Bottom line: Good for travelers wanting a concise yet detailed glacier walk with expert guidance.
12. Skaftafell Glacier Hike 3-Hour Small Group Tour
Number 12 is this 3-hour glacier hike, rated 4.5. It takes you into the icy world of Vatnajökull with a guide, focusing on crevasses and ice formations. Many reviewers mention the professionalism of guides like Anna and Maria, and how the smaller group ensures safety and a more personal experience. It’s the perfect choice for travelers short on time but eager to see glacier features firsthand.
Bottom line: Ideal for those wanting a focused, safe, and intimate glacier outing.
13. Skaftafell Glacier Hike – Small Group Trek on Vatnajokull
This small-group trek offers five hours of adventure, exploring the glacier tongue of Virkisjökull. Known for its safety and personal touch, it’s rated 5.0. Guides like Darren and Sarah provide detailed information about Iceland’s geology and glacier features, making it suitable for travelers who want a full day of ice exploration in a manageable group.
Bottom line: Great for dedicated explorers who want depth and safety in their glacier experience.
14. Skaftafell Ice Climbing & Glacier Hike
For those after a true adrenaline rush, this ice climbing tour combines hiking and ice climbing on Svinafellsjökull Glacier. Limited to six participants, it’s suitable for beginners thanks to expert tuition. Guests love the chance to climb ice walls and learn technical skills in a safe environment. All equipment is provided, making it an accessible way to try something novel.
Bottom line: For thrill-seekers, this is an unforgettable experience that balances skill-building with stunning scenery.
15. Vatnajokull Guided Beginner Glacier Walk with 4×4 Transfer
Number 15 offers a beginner-friendly glacier walk lasting three hours. It’s ideal for those new to ice trekking, with all safety equipment included and guides who are patient and clear. The tour focuses on the Falljökull outlet and provides sweeping views of the icy wilderness, making it accessible but still impressive.
Bottom line: Perfect for first-timers and travelers looking for an easy yet rewarding glacier experience.
16. Skaftafell: 4h Small Group Glacier Hike with Guide and Transfer
Rounding out the list, this 4-hour guided glacier hike takes you up close to Falljökull in a group limited to nine. Your guide will teach you how to use crampons and ice axes, with full safety gear provided. Many reviews commend the guide’s expertise and the opportunity to learn about glacier geology firsthand, making it ideal for those who want a comprehensive but manageable ice adventure.
Bottom line: Excellent for travelers seeking a well-organized, educational glacier hike with small-group intimacy.
How to Choose Your Skaftafell Glacier Tour
Picking the right tour depends on your interests, fitness level, and how much time you want to spend on ice. For beginners or families, tours like the Skaftafell: Falljokull Glacier Easy Group Hike or the Blue Ice Discovery offer manageable experiences with stunning scenery. More experienced hikers and those craving deeper knowledge should consider the 5-hour Glacier Adventure or the Ice Climbing & Glacier Hike. If exploring inside an ice cave excites you, the Ice Cave and Glacier Exploration Tour is unbeatable.
Booking early is wise, especially in peak summer months when tours fill quickly. Also, consider your fitness and comfort with cold conditions—some hikes are more strenuous than others. If you’re short on time but want a taste of glacier life, the Half-Day Vatnajokull Glacier Tour provides a solid overview.
To sum it up, Skaftafell offers an incredible range of glacier experiences. If you want a quick beginner walk, the easy group hike is perfect. For more serious adventurers, longer, more in-depth tours like the 5-hour Glacier Adventure or ice climbing provide unforgettable moments. For those chasing inside-the-ice magic, the Ice Cave delivers. Whatever your choice, Skaftafell’s icy landscapes won’t disappoint—just remember to book early, dress warmly, and prepare for a spectacular icy adventure.