Sólheimajökull: Glacier Hike and Ice Cave Tour

If you’ve ever dreamed of standing on a glacier and peering into a shimmering blue ice cave, this tour offers a fantastic chance to do just that. For $164 per person, you’ll spend approximately 3.5 hours exploring Iceland’s famed Sólheimajökull glacier, with around 2 hours dedicated to actual hiking on the ice. Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll get to see deep crevasses, volcanic ash layers, and the dazzling crystal-clear ice cave, making this experience ideal for adventure lovers and curious travelers alike.

What I love about this tour is the dual perspective it offers—first, walking across the glacier’s ridges and crevasses, then stepping inside a naturally formed ice cave, which looks like something straight out of a fairy tale. The guides are clearly passionate and well-trained, which makes all the difference when navigating slippery surfaces and unfamiliar terrain. Another highlight is the opportunity to witness volcanic ash layers embedded in the ice—these tell stories of past eruptions and add to the visual drama.

A small consideration to keep in mind: this tour involves walking on uneven, icy terrain, so good footwear and some level of physical comfort are necessary. It’s not suitable for those with mobility issues or young children under 8. If you’re looking for a family-friendly experience or have mobility concerns, this might not be the best fit. But if you’re prepared for some physical activity and want a true taste of Iceland’s icy wilderness, this tour is well worth considering.

This experience suits travelers who crave authentic natural sights, enjoy active adventures, and value guides who share their knowledge and enthusiasm. It’s especially perfect if you want to combine stunning scenery with a bit of a workout, all while learning about Iceland’s volcanic and glacial history.

Key Points

• Unique glacier experience: Walk on the ice and explore iconic features like crevasses and volcanic ash layers.
• Spectacular ice cave: Step inside a naturally formed, radiant blue ice cave, a highlight of the tour.
• Guided expertise: Led by experienced guides who provide safety gear and plenty of insightful commentary.
• Good value: For $164, you get roughly 2 hours of glacier hiking plus the awe-inspiring ice cave visit.
• Physical readiness needed: Includes walking on uneven, icy terrain; not suitable for mobility-impaired travelers.
• Weather considerations: Dress warmly, wear rain gear, and be prepared for potentially variable conditions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Sólheimajökull Glacier Hike and Ice Cave Tour

Starting Point and Logistics

Your adventure begins at the Sólheimajökull glacier car park, where you’ll meet your guide and get geared up with crampons, a helmet, an ice axe, and optional footwear or rainwear. The meeting point is straightforward, and arriving about 20 minutes early ensures you’re ready to go without rushing. The bus picks everyone up from the designated location, and from there, it’s a short walk to the glacier’s base, where the real fun begins.

The Gear and Safety

Guides are diligent about safety, fitting you with crampons and giving clear instructions on how to walk on the ice. This is crucial since the glacier’s surface can be slippery and uneven. The equipment provided is sufficient to keep you safe, but bringing sturdy hiking shoes and rain gear is recommended—these are either supplied or can be rented if needed. The guide’s explanations help you understand what to expect and how to navigate the icy landscape confidently.

The 2-Hour Glacier Hike

Once properly equipped, you’ll venture onto the glacier, which takes around 15-20 minutes to reach on foot. The landscape on Sólheimajökull is endlessly fascinating, with deep crevasses, ridges, and layers of volcanic ash that tell stories of past eruptions. Our guides are enthusiastic and knowledgeable, pointing out features like ice formations constantly reshaped by nature, and explaining the glacier’s ongoing change.

The walk is an active experience—climbing up and down gentle slopes, crossing narrow crevasses, and stopping at viewpoints. One reviewer praised the guide Edgar, mentioning he was “super friendly, knowledgeable, kind, patient, and always ready to help.” This level of guide engagement makes the experience accessible and enjoyable, even for those unfamiliar with glacier terrain.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Highlight: The Ice Cave

About an hour into the hike, the group reaches the highlight—the blue ice cave. Stepping inside is breathtaking. The walls of the cave are radiant with shades of blue and black, created by the compression of ancient ice over thousands of years. The contrast of the crystal-clear walls against the dark volcanic ash embedded within makes it a visual feast.

Guests have described the cave as “speechless” and “breathtaking,” emphasizing how special it is to see such a natural wonder. The cave isn’t artificially created; it’s a natural formation, which adds to its mystique. Spending time inside allows you to marvel at the sheer beauty and the centuries-old ice that forms these chambers.

Returning and Reflection

After soaking in the scenery, you’ll retrace your steps back down the glacier, completing a full but manageable adventure. The entire glacier hiking segment lasts about 2 hours, and the whole tour wraps up back at the meeting point roughly 3.5 hours after departure.

Authenticity and Value

This tour offers an authentic glimpse of Iceland’s glacial landscape. Unlike more commercialized attractions, the focus here is on natural features—from the crevasses and icy ridges to the naturally formed cave. The combination of surface exploration and interior viewing makes it a well-rounded experience.

At $164, the price is reasonable considering the expert guidance, gear, and access to areas usually off-limits to the casual visitor. The reviews consistently praise the value, with comments like “I totally recommend this activity” and “this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.”

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This activity is best suited for adventure-minded travelers who are comfortable with physical activity and outdoor conditions. It’s ideal for those wanting to combine a scenic walk with the thrill of exploring a glacier’s interior. While not suitable for small children or those with mobility issues, anyone with a reasonable level of fitness and a sense of curiosity will find it rewarding.

Additional Considerations

• Weather: Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable. Dress warmly in layers and bring rain gear to stay comfortable.
• Group size: Guided tours tend to be small, ensuring personalized attention and safety.
• Flexibility: You can reserve your spot with the option to pay later, which is handy if your itinerary changes.
• Duration: The total activity lasts around 3.5 hours, making it a manageable half-day trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I bring?
Bring warm clothing, rain gear, and sturdy hiking shoes. The tour provides gear like crampons, helmets, and ice axes, but proper footwear is your responsibility unless rented.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Not for children under 8 years old. The terrain and activity level are more suitable for older children and adults comfortable with physical outdoor adventures.

Will I need to rent hiking shoes?
Hiking shoes are available for rent if you don’t have suitable footwear. Wearing your own sturdy, waterproof shoes is recommended.

How long is the glacier hike?
The hike on the glacier lasts approximately 2 hours, covering features like crevasses, ridges, and volcanic ash layers.

What is the ice cave like?
The cave is a naturally formed chamber of vivid blue ice, with walls that shine and shimmer from centuries of compression. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime visual experience.

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

Is the tour bilingual?
The tour is conducted in English.

What if I have mobility issues?
This tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments due to uneven, icy terrain.

Final Thoughts

The Sólheimajökull Glacier Hike and Ice Cave Tour offers a compelling blend of adventure, natural beauty, and education. You’ll love the chance to walk on a real glacier, marvel at the deep crevasses and volcanic layers, and step into a stunning ice cave that looks like a piece of frozen art. The guides’ expertise enhances safety and enriches the experience with stories and insights about Iceland’s volcanic and glacial history.

For travelers seeking an active, authentic encounter with Iceland’s icy wilderness, this tour hits the mark. It’s a brilliant choice for those who want more than just a scenic drive—who crave the thrill of walking on ice and witnessing one of nature’s most extraordinary creations firsthand.

If you’re prepared for some physical effort, dress appropriately, and have a sense of adventure, this experience promises memories that will last a lifetime. Just remember to bring your camera — you’ll want to capture every breathtaking moment.

You can check availability for your dates here: