Skaftafell Glacier hike – Glacier Encounter
Glacier Encounter - Glacier hike in Vatnajökull National Park
Join us for an unforgettable glacier hike adventure in Iceland with Glacier Encounter, our classic short glacier walk – ideal for first-time glacier explorers. This 3-hour guided tour takes you onto the stunning Falljökull glacier, an outlet of Vatnajökull, Europe's largest ice cap, located in the breathtaking Vatnajökull National Park.
Your journey begins at Freysnes Service Station, just a 2-minute drive from Skaftafell National Park. From there, we travel in specially modified 4×4 vehicles, taking you as close as possible to the glacier to maximize your time on the ice and reduce physical strain.
Once at the glacier, you’ll gear up with crampons and an ice axe and follow your expert guide onto the ice. Along the way, you'll witness dramatic glacier formations such as deep crevasses, moulins (glacier mills), dirt cones, and moraines. Your guide will share insights into the glacier’s constantly changing surface and the surrounding Öræfi region, home to Iceland’s highest peak and several active volcanoes.
Whether you’re visiting in summer—when sweeping views of jagged mountain ridges and black sand beaches meet the horizon—or during another season, this glacier hike offers a rare chance to walk on ancient ice and experience the raw power of Icelandic nature.
We’re proud to carbon offset all our tours, staying true to our commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility.
Included:
- All safety equipment needed for the tour
- 3 hour tour on a glacier
- Professional guides with lots of experience on Icelandic glaciers
Why Choose Us
The tour is operated by a small family company, choose locals when planning your trip for the best experience.
Here’s why we stand out:
- Local Expertise: Our guides are all trained for the Icelandic glaciers
- Safe tours: Safety is a priority for all our tours
- Family company: Choose to go with a small local company for your trips
Book A Date
How can we help you?
Contact us and we will be happy to help you plan your trip
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Frequently Asked Questions
No, the meeting point is in Freysnes near Skaftafell
The total duration of the tour is around 3 hours with 90 minutes on the glacier itself
This tour takes you on the Falljökull glacier, an outlet of Vatnajökull.