Moving across Vatnajökull glacier, this longer hike combines steady exploration with time spent capturing photos in some of the glacier’s most striking features. Your guide leads the way while also photographing key moments, giving you a set of edited images after the tour. It’s a more in-depth experience with extended time on both rocky terrain and the ice itself.
Beginning near the meeting point close to Skaftafell, you’ll meet your guide before heading off-road in a 4×4 vehicle towards the glacier. The drive crosses a wide glacial plain, with your guide explaining how the surrounding landscape has been shaped over time. Once you reach the access area, equipment is distributed and fitted, including helmets, harnesses, and crampons ready for the ice section ahead.
The first part of the hike follows flat but rocky ground, allowing you to settle into a comfortable pace before reaching the glacier’s edge. After fitting crampons, you step onto the ice and begin a gradual ascent, taking in the textures and formations beneath your feet. Along the route, your guide points out moulins and deep glacial features while continuing to capture photos in carefully chosen spots.
Further into the glacier, the route leads towards a series of crystal crevasses and ice formations. These natural features create narrow passages and deep blue walls, where you’ll spend time exploring and pausing for photos. After taking in the area and allowing time to capture images, you’ll retrace your steps off the glacier and return by vehicle to the starting point.
Set within Vatnajökull National Park near Skaftafell, this area is known for its mix of glaciers, volcanic landscapes, and open plains. The meeting point is close to well-known landmarks, making it a convenient base before heading deeper into the glacier environment.
Although accessible by road, the area is still remote, and the drive from Reykjavík takes several hours. Many visitors choose to stay nearby the night before. Facilities are available near the meeting point, but once you head towards the glacier there are no services, so preparation is important.
A moderate level of fitness is needed, as the experience includes around four hours of total hiking. The first section is relatively easy, while the glacier portion involves a gradual incline and walking on ice using crampons. Participants should feel comfortable being on their feet for extended periods on uneven terrain.
Warm, waterproof clothing and proper hiking boots are essential. The activity is suitable for those in good general health, and children meeting the minimum age can join when supervised, provided they are able to complete the full duration and follow instructions from the guide.
Blending glacier guiding with photography, Mike, Ryan, and the team have designed this experience to give more time on the ice while ensuring every key moment is captured. Their experience allows them to guide safely across changing terrain while also finding the best locations for photos within crevasses and formations.
With a longer duration than standard hikes, there is more time to explore and take everything in at a steady pace. The focus remains on creating a well-structured day that combines movement, learning, and a strong set of images to take away afterwards.
This experience is longer and involves more time on the glacier, making it slightly more demanding than shorter options. The terrain varies between rocky ground and ice, with a gradual incline once on the glacier.
While still accessible to those with average fitness, you should be comfortable walking for several hours. The pace is steady, with breaks built in to manage energy levels throughout.
No previous experience is required, as your guide will explain how to use crampons before stepping onto the ice. You’ll have time to get used to the movement before continuing further.
Most people adjust quickly, and the guide will offer support and tips along the way. By the end of the hike, walking on ice often feels natural.
The main difference is the extended time spent exploring deeper areas of the glacier, including crystal crevasses. There is also a strong focus on photography throughout the experience.
Rather than just passing through, you’ll have time to stop, explore, and capture moments properly. This creates a more complete experience both during and after the tour.
Photos are taken throughout the hike, particularly in areas where lighting and formations create the best results. Your guide balances leading the group with capturing images at key moments.
After the tour, selected photos are edited and shared digitally. The package includes a set number of images, covering portraits, action shots, and wider landscape scenes.
A significant portion of the tour is spent on the glacier after the initial approach. This includes time walking across the ice and exploring specific features such as crevasses.
The exact duration can vary depending on conditions, but there is enough time to move at a steady pace and take breaks for photos and explanations.
About the centre
Hnappavellir, 785 Öræfi, 785 Hnappavellir
We partner with Rewilding Britain to help protect our natural spaces for future adventures.
All centres are vetted for safety and quality. Your adventure is in good hands with adventuro.
Operated by Ice Journey ehf, a partner of adventuro.
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