Vatnajokull National Park is one of Iceland’s crown jewels, offering some of the most stunning glacier landscapes in the world. Its vast ice caps, dramatic crevasses, and shimmering blue ice caves make it a prime destination for hikers and trekkers craving raw natural beauty. Whether you’re looking for a gentle glacier walk or an adrenaline-pumping ice climb, this park has a lot to offer. We especially love how many tours combine expert guidance with unique sights, like the deeply photogenic ice formations or remote ice caves. Imagine walking on a glacier, discovering ancient ice, or squeezing through icy tunnels—these tours deliver authentic, memorable experiences that stay with you long after the trip ends.
For those planning their visit, it’s worth noting that Vatnajokull’s size and variety of terrain mean tours range from easy walks to advanced ice climbs. The diversity makes it a great spot for different interests and fitness levels. If you want a taste of Iceland’s frozen wonders, the Small Group Glacier Hike on Vatnajökull offers an easy way into glacier exploration, while the Ice Climbing Adventure promises thrills for more experienced adventurers. Below, we’ve rounded up the best options for exploring Vatnajokull’s icy landscape.
1. Skaftafell: Small Group Glacier Hike on Vatnajökull (Easy)
At number 1, this small group glacier hike is perfect for those who want a manageable introduction to Iceland’s immense glaciers. For about $108, you spend around 3.5 hours enjoying Vatnajokull’s icy wonders. The tour starts at Skaftafell Visitor Center, then takes a short bus ride to the glacier’s edge. Led by expert guides, you’ll ascend icy slopes and walk amidst deep crevasses and shimmering blue ice formations. The experience includes breathtaking photo opportunities of the icefalls, with guides explaining glacier movement and climate change impacts along the way.
What makes this tour stand out is its accessibility—no previous experience is needed, but you still get the chance to see the glacier’s dramatic features up close. The reviews highlight expertly led hikes with a focus on safety and fun, with guides like Tomasz making the experience informative and engaging. Many travelers appreciate the balance of scenery and learning, noting this as “a beautiful and exciting experience” with “wonderful guides.” The modest price point also makes it a great value for a half-day adventure.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a straightforward, well-supported glacier walk with plenty of photo opportunities and expert insights without a strenuous climb.
2. Jökulsárlón: Glacier Hike to a Remote Ice Cave
Number 2 on our list, the Glacier Hike to a Remote Ice Cave takes you on a six-hour journey to explore some of the most spectacular ice formations in Vatnajokull. For $234, it’s a pricier option but offers a truly immersive experience. Here, you’ll travel in a 4×4 vehicle deep into one of Iceland’s largest glaciers—away from the crowds—before hiking onto the glacier itself. The highlight is visiting a blue ice cave, which boasts surreal, glowing blue walls formed over thousands of years.
This tour’s uniqueness lies in its focus on remote, less-visited parts of Vatnajokull, where you’ll see spectacular ice canyons and icy tunnels. Guides are professionals in glaciology, sharing insights into climate impacts and glacier dynamics. The off-the-beaten-path route appeals to adventurous travelers who want a more secluded experience. The reviews praise the trip’s beautiful scenery and the expertise of guides who prioritize safety while making the adventure fun. One guest noted, “We hiked further than most and avoided the crowds,” which is a bonus for photography and a sense of discovery.
Bottom Line: Best suited for confident hikers and photographers wanting to explore remote ice caves and scenic glacier landscapes with expert guidance.
3. Skaftafell: Blue Ice Cave & Glacier Hike on Vatnajökull
This Blue Ice Cave & Glacier Hike offers a 4-hour adventure that combines glacier trekking with the unforgettable experience of entering a blue ice cave. Starting from Skaftafell Base Camp, the tour includes a 20-minute bus ride to Vatnajokull, followed by guided hikes over rugged ice formations. Guides provide insights into the glacier’s geology and the natural phenomena behind these mesmerizing caves.
The tour’s balance of scenic walkings and ice exploration makes it perfect for travelers new to glacier adventures, with reviews noting the “incredible guide” and “well-coordinated excursions.” The highlight is the visit to a phenomenal ice cave, with its ethereal blue glow providing excellent photo opportunities. The tour is shorter than some, making it a great choice for a half-day trip, and offers a good mix of scenery and education.
Bottom Line: A fantastic choice for those seeking a shorter, educational, and visually stunning glacier experience with a focus on ice caves.
4. Skaftafell: Half-Day Vatnajokull National Park Glacier Hike
Number 4, this half-day glacier hike is perfect for travelers short on time but eager to experience Vatnajokull’s icy landscapes. Starting from Sóluskálið in Freysnesi, you’re transported in a 4×4 to the glacier edge. Over the course of about 3 hours, you’ll walk on Falljökull Glacier, learning about its geology and history from your guide.
This tour stands out for its less walking but still thorough glacier experience, making it suitable for those with limited time or moderate fitness levels. The reviews are glowing, with one guest praising guide Maria’s cheerful and informative approach. The scenic glacier features and safety briefing ensure a memorable experience while minimizing physical exertion. The 15-minute transfer times keep the pace comfortable, making it a practical choice.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want a quick, engaging glacier walk without dedicating an entire day.
5. Skaftafell: Glacier Hike & Ice Climbing Adventure
Rounding out our list, the Glacier Hike & Ice Climbing Adventure is the most intense experience, lasting about 6.5 hours. For those who want to conquer ice formations, this tour offers both glacier hiking and the thrill of ice climbing amidst Vatnajokull’s spectacular scenery.
Guides lead you over rugged ice landscapes, demonstrating how to use crampons and providing all necessary gear. Guests speak highly of the spectacular scenery and the guide’s expertise, with one reviewer calling it “an amazing experience” with “a long, but worth it” activity. The tour is best for physically fit travelers eager for a full-day challenge with a focus on ice climbing. The weather can influence the experience, so booking early in the season or in good weather maximizes your chances for a successful climb.
Bottom Line: Suitable for adventure seekers with some fitness who want a full, hands-on ice climbing experience on Vatnajokull.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your fitness level, time availability, and interests. For a gentle introduction, the Small Group Glacier Hike offers a safe, scenic walk. If you’re after spectacular ice caves and don’t mind a longer trip, the Ice Cave Hike presents a more adventurous, less crowded experience. Those pressed for time should consider the Half-Day Glacier Hike, which packs a lot into a shorter duration.
For thrill-seekers, the Ice Climbing Tour is unmatched in intensity and excitement, but requires a good level of fitness and willingness to challenge yourself. Weather can be unpredictable, so booking early or in the shoulder seasons helps secure better conditions.
Final Thoughts
Vatnajokull National Park offers a diverse range of glacier adventures suited for all levels and interests. If you’re new to glaciers but want a memorable experience, the Small Group Glacier Hike is perfect. For those craving remote scenery and ice caves, the Ice Cave Tour delivers breathtaking sights and fewer crowds. Adventure travelers seeking a full-day challenge should consider the Ice Climbing experience.
Booking early is advisable, especially during the busy summer months, as these tours fill quickly. Whatever your choice, the glaciers of Vatnajokull promise unforgettable moments—so lace up your boots and prepare for icy adventures that will stay with you.