A rare combination of glacier hiking and zip lining comes together during a near-total solar eclipse, creating a very different atmosphere on the ice. Moving across the glacier as the light shifts gives the whole experience a completely different feel compared to a standard day. With photos included, you’ll have something to look back on from a moment that won’t come around again anytime soon.
You’ll begin at the glacier parking area where your guide will meet you and get everyone organised with equipment, including crampons, harness, and helmet. After a short briefing, the walk towards the glacier begins, taking around 40 minutes across uneven but manageable ground. Along the way, your guide will explain how the glacier has formed and how the landscape continues to change over time, giving context to what you’ll see once you step onto the ice.
Once on the glacier, the terrain shifts underfoot as you move across ice using crampons. You’ll pass features like crevasses and moulins while making your way towards the zip line area. As the eclipse progresses, the light gradually dims into a softer, almost twilight-like setting, which changes how the glacier looks and feels around you. This part of the experience stands out not because of speed or intensity, but because of the unusual environment created by the eclipse overhead.
Reaching the zip line, your guide will run through safety checks before you clip in. You’ll then glide across a section of the glacier, often above a moulin, while photographers capture the moment at the right point during the eclipse. After everyone has had their turn, the group heads back across the glacier and retraces the route to the car park, wrapping up the session with time to take in the surroundings one last time.
The meeting point is at Sólheimajökull Glacier on Iceland’s south coast, a well-known outlet glacier that extends from the larger Mýrdalsjökull ice cap. The area is shaped by a mix of ice, volcanic ash, and meltwater, creating a landscape that changes regularly depending on conditions. Access is via a gravel road leading to the glacier parking area, where facilities are available before departure.
Reaching this location from Reykjavík takes around three hours by car, making it a good idea to plan ahead and allow extra time for the journey. Many visitors choose to stay somewhere along the south coast to make the day more relaxed. The surrounding region includes black sand plains, coastal viewpoints, and other glacier outlets, so it’s worth exploring beyond the activity itself if you have time.
Participants should be comfortable walking for extended periods across uneven terrain, including rocky paths and ice surfaces. The hike includes gradual inclines and requires steady footing, particularly once crampons are fitted. A moderate level of fitness is recommended, but no previous glacier experience is needed as full guidance is provided throughout.
Confidence with heights can be helpful for the zip line portion, although the activity is fully supervised and safety equipment is provided. Guests should be prepared for cold and exposed conditions on the glacier, where weather can change quickly. Following guide instructions at all times is essential to ensure both safety and enjoyment during the experience.
The experience is designed to combine multiple elements into one session, allowing participants to see and move across a glacier while also taking part in a zip line activity. The addition of professional photography ensures that key moments are captured without needing to focus on taking your own photos during the activity.
Guides are experienced in both glacier travel and safety procedures, helping the group move confidently across changing terrain. Small group sizes allow for a more organised pace, and the structure of the session ensures time is spent both exploring the glacier and taking part in the zip line without feeling rushed.
The key difference is the timing alongside the solar eclipse, which changes how the glacier looks and feels throughout the activity. Instead of consistent daylight, you’ll notice the light gradually dimming and shifting, creating unusual shadows and colours across the ice. This adds a completely different atmosphere to the hike and zip line compared to a normal day.
Alongside that, the inclusion of a zip line over glacier features adds variety to the experience. You’re not just walking across the ice but also seeing it from above, which gives a different perspective. The addition of professional photos means you don’t need to worry about capturing the moment yourself.
No prior experience is required for either part of the activity. Before stepping onto the glacier, your guide will explain how to walk safely using crampons and how to move across different ice formations. You’ll have time to get used to the equipment before covering longer distances.
For the zip line, full instructions are provided before you begin. The setup is designed to be straightforward, with guides handling safety checks and ensuring everything is secure. You’ll be guided through each step so you can focus on the experience rather than the technical side.
The session is rated as moderate, mainly due to the combination of hiking distance and terrain. The walk to the glacier is steady but manageable, while the glacier section includes some gradual uphill sections and uneven surfaces. Most people with a reasonable level of fitness can take part comfortably.
Breaks are taken when needed, and the pace is adjusted to suit the group. The goal is to keep things enjoyable rather than rushed, so there’s time to take in the surroundings without feeling under pressure.
Layered clothing works best, allowing you to adjust depending on conditions throughout the day. A waterproof jacket and trousers are strongly recommended, as well as warm layers underneath to deal with wind and lower temperatures on the glacier. Gloves and a hat are also important.
Footwear is equally important, with sturdy hiking boots providing the best support. If you don’t have suitable gear, many items can be hired in advance. Being properly dressed makes a big difference to comfort during the activity.
Safety is managed closely by experienced guides who handle all equipment checks and setup. Before you begin, your harness and connections are carefully secured, and you’ll be given clear instructions on how the zip line works.
The route itself is designed to be controlled and suitable for participants without prior experience. Guides remain nearby throughout, ensuring everything runs smoothly and stepping in if assistance is needed at any stage.
The eclipse timing is predictable, but visibility depends on weather conditions on the day. If skies are clear or partially clear, you’ll be able to observe the changing light and use the provided eclipse glasses safely. Even with some cloud cover, the shift in brightness is often still noticeable.
Regardless of visibility, the activity still runs as a full glacier and zip line experience. The changing light adds to the atmosphere, but the core experience remains enjoyable even if conditions aren’t perfect.
A professional photographer accompanies the group and captures key moments throughout the activity. This includes time on the glacier and your zip line run, with attention given to positioning and timing to get clear shots.
After the session, the photos are edited and shared digitally. Delivery typically takes around two weeks, giving you a set of images that reflect the experience without needing to bring your own camera onto the glacier.
About the centre
Sólheimajökull Glacier, 871, Iceland
We partner with Rewilding Britain to help protect our natural spaces for future adventures.
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