Taking on vertical ice walls in Skaftafell gives you a chance to try a different side of glacier travel. With guidance from experienced instructors, even complete beginners can learn how to climb safely while being photographed throughout. It’s a hands-on experience focused on building confidence and getting you onto the ice.
Meeting near Skaftafell, your guide will get you prepared before heading out in a 4×4 vehicle towards the glacier. The short drive crosses rough terrain and gives a sense of the scale of the surrounding glacial plains. Once you arrive, all equipment is provided and fitted, including crampons, harnesses, helmets, and ice axes, followed by a clear safety briefing.
A short walk across rocky ground leads to the glacier’s edge, where you’ll step onto the ice and begin learning how to move confidently using crampons. Before climbing, your guide introduces the basics of technique, including how to position your feet and use your tools effectively. You’ll start on smaller, more accessible ice walls to build confidence and get comfortable with the movement.
As you progress, there’s the option to try more challenging sections depending on how you feel. The guide manages the setup throughout, ensuring each climb is safe while giving you the chance to improve with each attempt. Between climbs, there’s time to rest, take in the surroundings, and have photos captured in action before making your way back to the starting point.
Located within Vatnajökull National Park, the Skaftafell area is known for its outlet glaciers and wide open landscapes. The meeting point is near Hnappavellir, placing you close to several glacier tongues that extend down from the main ice cap.
Reaching Skaftafell from Reykjavík takes around four to five hours by road, so staying nearby is often the best option. Basic facilities are available near the meeting area, but once you head towards the glacier there are no services, so arriving prepared is important.
No previous climbing experience is required, as the session is designed for beginners as well as those looking to try ice climbing for the first time. A moderate level of fitness is recommended, as you’ll be walking on uneven terrain and using your upper and lower body during climbs.
Participants should be in good general health and comfortable following safety instructions. Warm, waterproof clothing and sturdy footwear are essential, and anyone joining should be prepared for cold conditions while spending time on the glacier.
Built around years of glacier guiding and climbing experience, Mike, Ryan, and the team have created a format that introduces ice climbing in a straightforward and supportive way. Their approach focuses on building confidence first, allowing you to progress at your own pace while staying safe on the ice.
Alongside the climbing, professional photography is included so you leave with more than just the experience itself. Each session is structured to give you time to practise, improve, and capture the moment properly without feeling rushed.
Yes, this experience is designed to introduce ice climbing in a controlled and supportive way. You’ll begin with simple techniques and easier climbing sections to build confidence.
Guides provide clear instruction throughout, so even if you’ve never climbed before, you’ll be able to take part and progress at your own pace.
Ice climbing requires a mix of strength and technique, but it’s not purely about power. Good foot placement and balance play a big role in making climbing more efficient.
While it can be tiring, especially on your first attempts, plenty of breaks are included. You can choose how many climbs you want to attempt during the session.
You’ll be provided with crampons, an ice axe, a harness, and a helmet. These are all essential for moving safely on the glacier and climbing the ice walls.
Your guide will explain how each piece of equipment works and ensure everything is fitted correctly before you begin.
Yes, the aim is for everyone to try climbing on ice walls during the session. You’ll start on easier angles before moving onto steeper sections if you feel ready.
The level of difficulty is adjusted based on your confidence and ability, so you’re never pushed beyond what feels manageable.
A portion of the tour is dedicated to climbing, with time also spent learning techniques and moving across the glacier. You’ll have multiple opportunities to attempt climbs.
The exact amount of climbing time depends on pace and how many attempts you choose to make, but there is no pressure to rush.
If you find a climb too challenging, your guide can safely lower you back down at any point. There is no expectation to reach the top every time.
The experience is about trying something new and building confidence, so partial climbs are just as valuable as completing a full route.
Your guide captures photos while you are climbing and during breaks, focusing on action shots as well as posed moments. They know where to position you for the best results.
After the tour, selected images are edited and shared digitally. The package includes a mix of shots that reflect your time on the glacier.
About the centre
Hnappavellir , 785 Öræfi
We partner with Rewilding Britain to help protect our natural spaces for future adventures.
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