Vatnajokull National Park stands out as one of Iceland’s most striking natural wonders. Its vast ice cap, glacial tongues, and spectacular ice caves make it a magnet for explorers and scenery lovers alike. What makes these tours special is not just the breathtaking landscapes but the chance to experience Iceland’s raw glacier beauty firsthand—without needing to be an expert climber or hiker. Our favorites include immersive glacier hikes with knowledgeable guides, like the Small Group Glacier Hike on Vatnajökull that combines stunning scenery with safety and comfort, and the remarkable Blue Ice Cave & Glacier Hike which offers a rare glimpse into the blue depths of a glacier-filled ice cave.
From beginner-friendly walks to full-on ice climbing adventures, Vatnajokull offers opportunities for all levels. Whether you want to capture spectacular photos of shimmering blue ice formations or challenge yourself with an ice climbing session, there’s a tour designed to fit your style. Just remember, these experiences are best booked early as they tend to fill up quickly, especially during peak season.
Quick Overview
Our list highlights eight top-rated tours. These range from easy glacier walks suitable for most fitness levels to more adventurous options like ice climbing and exploring remote ice caves. Most tours include expert guides, safety gear, and transport from nearby towns or parks, providing a seamless experience. Check out the detailed descriptions below to find the right fit for your Iceland trip.
1. Skaftafell: Small Group Glacier Hike on Vatnajökull (Easy)
At number 1, this 3.5-hour glacier hike offers a manageable yet awe-inspiring introduction to Vatnajökull’s icy wilderness. The tour starts at the Skaftafell Visitor Center, where you’ll hop on a coach to the glacier. Guided by experts, you’ll ascend icy slopes, cross crevasses, and witness the dramatic icefall from ancient ice cascading down the mountain. The focus here is on learning about glacier movement and climate change, which adds an educational layer to the adventure.
What sets this tour apart is its small group size—totaling just a handful of travelers—making it easier to get personalized safety instructions and layer up comfortably. Guests consistently mention the expert guides’ care for safety and the breathtaking photo opportunities of the blue ice formations and glacier scenery. This tour is perfect if you want a moderate, well-organized glacier walk that balances scenery, education, and safety. The value at $108 per person is excellent, especially considering the high review score of 4.7/5 from nearly 500 reviews.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a safe, guided glacier hike without extreme physical demands, with plenty of photo opportunities and expert insights.
2. Jökulsárlón: Glacier Hike to a Remote Ice Cave
At number 2, the 6-hour tour to a remote ice cave offers a truly unique experience. You’ll travel in a 4×4 to Iceland’s largest glacier, unlike the more popular, crowded caves. The highlight is exploring a stunning blue ice cave with a professional glacier guide, providing a safe environment to witness the spectacular ice formations. The tour also includes a challenging off-the-beaten-path hike across the glacier, giving you a sense of serenity and solitude—away from the crowds.
This tour is especially favored for its remote location, which means fewer travelers and more pristine scenery. The expert guide’s knowledge of glaciology enriches the experience, turning it into an educational journey as well. Guests note that the 4.5-hour transfer and hike are well-paced, and the spectacular scenery more than justifies the $234 price tag. The reviews highlight the breathtaking color of the ice and the thrill of hiking into untouched parts of the glacier.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a more exclusive, less crowded ice cave experience combined with a challenging glacier hike.
3. Vatnajökull: Short Glacier Encounter Walk with 4×4 Transfer
Number 3 is a short, beginner-friendly glacier experience. Starting at the Sóluskálin in Freysnesi, you’ll transfer via 4×4 to the glacier edge, where you’ll walk on Falljökull, one of Vatnajökull’s beautiful glaciers. This 2.5-hour tour is ideal if you’re pressed for time or want a gentle introduction to glacier hiking.
What makes this tour distinctive is the easy access with the 4×4 transfer, reducing the hike’s physical effort but still letting you walk on the glacier and learn about the geology of glaciers. The reviews praise the informative guides and the scenic views. It’s especially good for travelers who want a shorter, less strenuous option but still get to experience Vatnajökull’s icy wonder.
Bottom Line: A good choice for beginners or those short on time who still want to step onto a glacier and learn something about the area’s natural features.
4. Skaftafell: Blue Ice Cave & Glacier Hike on Vatnajökull
Number 4, with a 4-hour itinerary, explores a breathtaking blue ice cave combined with a glacier hike. Starting from Arctic Adventures’ Skaftafell Base Camp, you’ll travel by coach to Vatnajökull, then hike over rugged glacier terrain and visit a stunning ice cave filled with vivid blue ice. The tour includes a photo stop at Falljökull, adding to the visual feast.
Guests comment on the high quality of the guides and the scenery of the ice cave. The shorter duration makes it a practical option for travelers wanting a taste of both glacier hiking and ice cave exploration without a full day commitment. Rated 4.5/5 from 360 reviews, it offers good value for an immersive experience.
Bottom Line: Well-suited for those wanting to combine glacier hiking with ice cave exploration, especially if you prefer a shorter tour.
5. Skaftafell: Half-Day Vatnajökull National Park Glacier Hike
Number 5 is a half-day glacier hike that combines a scenic drive and a comprehensive walk on Falljökull Glacier. Starting at Sóluskálin in Freysnesi, you’ll be driven toward the glacier in a jeep or SUV. The about 3-hour glacier walk offers opportunities to see deep crevasses and glacier features while learning about the local geology.
Reviewers highlight the knowledgeable guides like Maria and Austa, who make the hike informative and enjoyable. The $154 price is competitive considering the duration, gear, and expert guidance. The tour suits travelers who want more glacier time but don’t want a full-day commitment.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who prefer a mid-length glacier adventure that strikes a balance between scenery and educational content.
6. Skaftafell: Glacier Hike & Ice Climbing Adventure
Number 6 is the most adventurous on our list, lasting about 6.5 hours. It combines a hike over rugged icy terrain with ice climbing—an experience for those comfortable with physical activity and eager for a challenge. Guides like Yaya and Florence help you conquer the ice walls, with all necessary gear provided.
Guests rave about the safety, professionalism, and exhilaration of the climb. It’s perfect if you’re craving a full-day, hands-on glacier experience that pushes your skills, with plenty of opportunities for spectacular photos of ice formations. The $300+ price reflects the intense experience and specialized equipment.
Bottom Line: Best for active travelers seeking a full-day ice adventure with plenty of technical ice climbing.
7. Ice Cave Tour: Venture into the Largest Glacier in Europe
Number 7 offers a 3.5-hour journey into a natural ice cave on Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier. Starting with a jeep drive, you’ll explore interior ice formations and learn from guides about the glacier’s formation and climate significance. The colorful ice and fascinating caves make this a standout experience for photography and geology buffs alike.
Rated 4.8/5 from 33 reviews, travelers praise the guide’s expertise and the stunning interior features of the cave. It’s a fantastic option if your main goal is to see an authentic ice cave and enjoy an easier, shorter tour.
Bottom Line: Perfect for visitors who want a focused visit into an ice cave without extensive glacier hiking.
8. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Diamond Beach and secret glaciers
Number 8 is a full-day, 10-hour tour with a focus on dramatic glacial scenery and photography. It includes a visit to the Jökulsárlón Lagoon, where enormous icebergs drift, and the black sands of Diamond Beach. The highlight is hopping onto a monster truck for a thrilling ride to the foot of Vatnajökull for a glacier hike or ice cave exploration.
While the price is high, at nearly $980, it offers a comprehensive look at several iconic Icelandic sights plus access to secret glaciers that most travelers never see. Reviewers love the variety and exclusivity of this experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for serious nature lovers and photographers eager to see multiple glaciers, icebergs, and secret spots in one day.
How to Choose
When selecting your Vatnajokull tour, consider your fitness level, budget, and interests. If you want an easy, educational experience, the Skaftafell Small Group Glacier Hike is perfect. Looking for something more adventurous and remote? The Glacier Hike to a Remote Ice Cave provides a more off-the-beaten-path experience. For ice climbing or full-day glacier adventures, the Ice Climbing Tour is unmatched.
Timing is key—most tours are best booked in advance, especially during peak season (summer months). If you’re short on time, the Half-Day Glacier Hike offers a good balance of scenery and pace. For photographers or those craving a scenic, comprehensive day, the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon tour is a fantastic choice.
Final Thoughts
Vatnajokull National Park offers a wide spectrum of tours for all interests and fitness levels. Whether you prefer a simple walk on the glacier or an adrenaline-fueled ice climb, there’s something here for you. The best advice? Decide what kind of experience excites you most—do you want photos of shimmering blue ice caves, or are you eager to conquer a glacier on foot? Book early, especially in summer when demand peaks, and prepare for an unforgettable Icelandic adventure.