Glacier Hiking · Skaftafell
How to choose
Glacier hikes in Skaftafell and the surrounding areas range from 85 € to 359 €, with durations stretching from 2h to 8h across 31 available outings. Three tours rated “Everybody welcome” cost between 100 € and 134 € for 3h to 4.5h, while seven outings classified as “Occasionally sporty” run from 99 € to 189 € and last from 2h to 7h. One demanding excursion rated “Sporty” costs 359 € for 8h. You can also pick specialised itineraries: seven outings feature ice cave visits costing 139 € to 272 € for 3.5h to 6h, and two packages include a boat ride priced between 185 € and 210 € for 4h to 7h. Note that several trips depart away from the main centre, including selected tours starting at Jökulsárlón, Fjallsárlón, or Freysnes. To decide, select an “Everybody welcome” 3h route for an easy introduction, or choose an extended 5h to 8h excursion if you want ice caves and steeper terrain.
31 offers available
Our picks
Vatnajokull: Skaftafell Glacier Hike
At 85 € for a 3-hour outing, this tour with Guide to Iceland is the lowest-priced glacier hike in the area.
Beginner Falljökull Glacier Hiking Excursion in Vatnajökull National Park from Skaftafell
This 3-hour trek with Troll.is costs 100 € and is rated “Everybody welcome”.
Blue Ice Cave Tour and Glacier Hiking on the Vatnajökull Glacier from Skaftafell
Priced at 143 € with Troll.is, this 4-hour hike includes a blue ice cave visit.
Full Day Vatnajökull Glacier Hike from Skaftafell
This full-day trip with Ice Guardians lasts 8h, costs 359 €, and is rated “Sporty”.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a glacier hike in Skaftafell cost?
Prices start at 85 € for a 3-hour excursion and go up to 359 € for a full-day 8-hour trek. Packages combining hiking with ice caves range from 139 € to 272 €.
How long do the glacier outings take?
Outing durations span from 2h to 8h. Standard beginner walks typically last 3h to 4.5h, while combined treks and advanced excursions run from 4h to 8h.
What fitness level is needed for these hikes?
Three outings are rated “Everybody welcome”, seven are classified as “Occasionally sporty”, and one full-day trek is rated “Sporty”.
What languages are the tours guided in?
English is available on 11 outings, and Icelandic on 4. Guided options in French, German, Italian, Danish, and Norwegian are available on select tours operated by Icelandic Mountain Guides.
Where are the meeting points located?
Meeting points depend on the operator. Common locations include the Skaftafell Terminal, the Arctic Adventures Booking Hut, the Icelandic Mountain Guides Sales Lodge, or the Shell petrol station in Freysnes. Specific tours start further east at Jökulsárlón or Fjallsárlón.
Best time to go
| Month | Temperature | Rainfall | Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | -1.8 °C | 289.9 mm | Possible |
| February | -1.2 °C | 317.1 mm | Possible |
| March | -1.4 °C | 160.9 mm | Peak |
| April | 2.1 °C | 145.4 mm | Peak |
| May | 5.3 °C | 135.9 mm | Peak |
| June | 7.9 °C | 209.6 mm | Good |
| July | 11.2 °C | 132.7 mm | Peak |
| August | 11.1 °C | 176.6 mm | Peak |
| September | 8.8 °C | 311 mm | Good |
| October | 4.6 °C | 230 mm | Possible |
| November | -0.6 °C | 202.9 mm | Good |
| December | -0.1 °C | 273.5 mm | Possible |
Practical info
Equipment
Wear sturdy waterproof hiking boots and warm base layers with waterproof outer trousers and a jacket. Bring warm gloves and a woollen hat.
Getting there
Check your confirmation voucher carefully, as meeting locations vary between the Skaftafell visitor hub, Freysnes, Jökulsárlón, and Fjallsárlón.
See also
Other activities in Skaftafell
Updated September 2026