snowmobiling and ice cave tour iceland

The World’s Largest Ice Tunnel

Your journey into the heart of langjokull glacier starts here.

snowmobiling and ice cave tour iceland

Discover Ice Tunnel Inside a Glacier Into the Glacier Classic Tour

snowmobiling and ice cave tour iceland

Day tour with Reykjavik Excursions Into the Glacier from Reykjavik

Lonely snowmobile in Iceland

Ice Tunnel & Snowmobile ride on Langjokull Glacier Into the Glacier Ice Tunnel and Snowmobile Combo

snowmobiling and ice cave tour iceland

Visit the ice cave in Langjökull Glacier and see the Northern Lights! Into the glacier & Northern Lights Tour

snowmobiling and ice cave tour iceland

Explore Icelandic terrains in a Super Jeep Into the Glacier Private Super Jeep Tour

snowmobiling and ice cave tour iceland

Customized Experiences for Special Occasions Private Ice Cave Tour in Iceland

snowmobiling and ice cave tour iceland

CHECK AVAILABILITY FOR ALL TOURS

Day tours with pickup from reykjavik, route map to húsafell and klaki base camp.

Into The Glacier route map to Húsafell and Klaki base camp

  • Driving instructions
  • Safe Travel

Latest articles

snowmobiling and ice cave tour iceland

Sustainability In Focus: Un Deputy

We’re excited to announce the visit of Amina Mohammed, the fifth Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, to Into the Glacier. This significant event emphasizes the urgency of addressing climate change and its impact on our treasured natural wonders.  Joined……

snowmobiling and ice cave tour iceland

Into the Glacier Celebrates Pink Ribbon Event with Courageous Women

Deep within Iceland’s frozen landscapes, a beacon of hope shone brightly. Into the Glacier was honored to host a Pink Ribbon event, casting a radiant pink hue over the world’s longest man-made ice tunnel this October. Beyond the captivating illumination,……

Follow us on Instagram | @intotheglacier

snowmobiling and ice cave tour iceland

❄️FREEZE THE MOMENT❄️ Are you the winner of the month? Post your moment on social media and tag #ITGmoment

Ice Cave Tours

Best Ice Cave Tours in Iceland

Select starting location

Select dates

Add travelers

Ice Cave Tours

Refine the results by using the filters

Woman in yellow coat at the Vatnajokull ice cave

Best Ice Cave Tour in Vatnajokull Glacier Starting from Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Only those fortunate enough to visit Iceland in winter will have the chance to explore an ice cave.

2 Day Ice Cave Tour with South Coast Waterfalls & Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Exploring a natural ice cave is a unique experience only available between November and March.

Amazing 5-Day Northern Lights Winter Vacation Package in Iceland with Ice Caving & the Blue Lagoon

How often do you normally get to venture inside of a glacier?

3-Day Northern Lights Tour of Iceland’s Golden Circle & South Coast with Ice Caving & Glacier Hiking

The Katla Ice Cave Tour

The Katla Ice Cave Tour

Northern Lights dancing over the jet-black church at Búðir in Snæfellsnes.

Best 7-Day Northern Lights Self Drive Tour Through South Iceland to Jokulsarlon Ice Cave

An ice caver marvels over the colors of Skaftafell glacier.

Skaftafell Ice Cave Tour in a Small Group Including Glacier Equipment

A view of the ice tunnel into Langjökull Glacier

Into the Glacier Langjokull & Hraunfossar Waterfalls Tour with Transfer from Reykjavik

The northern lights fill the sky and dye the surroundings their colors, particularly over the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon.

Amazing 6-Day Northern Lights Winter Self-Drive Tour on Iceland's South Coast with Ice Caving

Katla ice cave is located inside Mýrdalsjökull glacier, Iceland's fourth largest ice cap.

Katla Volcano Ice Caving & Glacier Hiking Tour with Transfer from Vik

Witnessing the inside of an ice cave is an otherworldly and once in a lifetime opportunity.

Ice Caving Super Jeep Tour of Katla with Transfer from Vik

Stunning 3 Hour Ice Caving Tour in Katla Ice Cave of Myrdalsjokull with Transfer from Vik

Exciting Katla Ice Cave Tour with Pick Up from Vik

Above a beautiful lake in Iceland, emerald and violet Northern Lights dance across the sky.

Breathtaking 6-Day Northern Lights Hunting Package of Iceland with Ice Caving

The gorgeous Diamond Beach on Iceland's South Coast is a sight not to be missed

Outstanding 2 Day Tour of Iceland's South Coast with Glacier Hiking & Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Guides will show you the wonders of the Ice Tunnel.

Into the Glacier Ice Tunnel Tour in Langjokull from Base Camp

Crystal Ice Cave Exploration Tour of Vatnajokull with Transfer from Jokulsarlon

Crystal Ice Cave Exploration Tour of Vatnajokull with Transfer from Jokulsarlon

The Blue Ice Caves under Vatnajökull in South Iceland, only being open in winter, require more appropriate clothes than the beautifully dressed couple are wearing here, as your guide will tell you.

Guided 45 Minute Blue Ice Caving Adventure in Vatnajokull with Transfer from Jokulsarlon

The northern lights dancing over Búðakirkja church on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula in West Iceland.

Northern Lights 2 in 1 Winter Tours of Iceland with the Golden Circle, Ice Caving & Snaefellsnes

The word 'Aurora' is derived from the Latin words for 'Dawn' and 'Light'.

7-Day Northern Lights Winter Vacation Package with Ice Caving

2 Day Northern Lights & Ice Cave Tour with Glacier Hiking & Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

2 Day Northern Lights & Ice Cave Tour with Glacier Hiking & Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Step inside a blue ice cave on this fantastic tour from Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon.

6 Hour Super Jeep Glacier Hiking & Ice Caving Tour in Vatnajokull with Transfer from Jokulsarlon

Blue northern lights dancing with purple shades over South Iceland's Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon in winter.

2 in 1 Bundle Discount Tours | All National Parks & Ice Caving

Self drive tours mean the places in which you seek the northern lights, and the amount of time you search for them, are entirely up to you, allowing you to maximise your chances of capturing this amazing phenomenon.

8-Day Northern Lights Winter Self-Drive Tour of West and South Iceland with Ice Caving

The ice caves beneath the glacier of Vatnajokull look so beautiful that they belong in a fantasy novel more than the real world.

Unforgettable 8-Day Northern Lights Winter Package of Iceland with Ice Caving & National Parks

Explore an unequalled wealth of tours and packages

Vacation Packages in Iceland

Self drive tours in iceland, tour calendar, nature tours in iceland, adventure tours in iceland, cheap bus tours in iceland, top tour destinations in iceland, verified customer reviews.

Read first-hand reviews by customers from across the world

Teresa

La nostra guida è stata fantastica! Grande Freacky! ( patrick) Tour ben organizzato. Esperienza indimenticabile

Amit Bokade

Amit Bokade

Was really a lovely experience booking a trip from Guide to Iceland. Team were super responsive and answered queries within a short period of time. Also, they were super supportive to make ad-hoc adjustments, as per my travel plans. For anyone planning to explore Iceland and its beauty without having much a hassle and smooth process, would definitely recommend it to others.

Xinyi Liu

Amazing adventure! Pavel and Dana are excellent guides. They were super patient, enthusiastic, and responsible, always chatting with us along the way. What's crucial is how professional they were, always making sure everyone was safe. Whenever I had to scramble up the ice caves, Dana was right there, grabbing my hand to pull me up. Pavel even threw in a mini geography lesson, talking about how glaciers move, ocean currents, and the water cycle and all that. We hit up 5 ice caves, and each one was gorgeous. It wasn't too tough, and we even had a kid with us who breezed through the adventure. Big shoutout to Pavel and Dana! When we wrapped up, Pavel said, "My work is my joy." I hope you get to share in this cool blue joy with Pavel and Dana too!

David Hansen

David Hansen

Everything was taken care of! All we had to do is show up and start enjoying our time in Iceland.

Ice caves in Iceland

Iceland is often hailed as a land of stark contrasts, where you can explore the ethereal beauty of a glacier ice cave. 

Forged in fire and ice, Iceland is alive with primordial energy unlike anywhere else in the world. The geological and geothermal elements provide seductive sightseeing activities and visiting ice caves and ice tunnels is an activity which should not be overlooked while travelling in Iceland.

Iceland has many different caves, both well known and uncharted, but if you would like to visit a glacier ice cave, you are guaranteed an entirely one of a kind visit. Ice caves change from year to year, due to the movement of the glaciers and Iceland's ever-changing weather — and the unique character of each ice cave is an alluring call to adventure.

The incredible beauty to be admired inside the reaches of a glacier has a divine quality which, when combined with the geothermal power of Iceland, can make you feel like you are closer to earth’s beginnings.

11% of Iceland's landmass is covered with glaciers which means that an abundance of ice caves are found in the extremely thick glacial ice. These natural ice caves form when summer meltwater flows through the ice sheets, carving tunnels that can be explored during the colder months of winter. 

Most often, all light is absorbed in these icy vacuums, rendering the caves in brilliant blue ice colours that are unparalleled anywhere else. Some caves also have what looks like black ice, where volcanic ash has landed on the caves. This natural occurrence is truly magnificent to witness.Ice caves in the region of Vatnajokull, Europe’s largest glacier, were previously referred to as the Crystal Caves. The sheer size of these caves liken them to an icy citadel, its heavenly blues and enchanting coolness evoking a real sense of awe. You will want to take a camera, but nothing can prepare you for the subject.

Most day tours which involve visiting a glacier cave in Iceland involve taking a super jeep up onto the glacier. There you will be fitted with crampons (studs which fit over your boots) and be invited to take a short glacier hike (less than 5 minutes) into the cave.

Ice cave tours in Iceland can be taken at several places throughout the island. The best ice cave tours in Iceland take place at Vatnajokull glacier in Skaftafell National Park. Closer to Reykjavik, and extremely close to Vik, the ice caves in Myradsjokull glacier are popular among travellers. The meeting point for this day tour is at Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, from where you embark on the super jeep journey.

There are also tours of man-made ice tunnels which have been created in the Langjokull glacier. Some tours are available year-round and those in this area are ideal for those traversing the golden circle. Nearby Gullfoss waterfall is a popular stop on guided tours.

No-one should ever attempt going into an ice cave or tunnel without a guide, no matter how experienced they are, and with no end to guided ice cave tours, you have no reason to try.

Frequently asked questions

What's the best ice cave tour in iceland, what are the best ice caves in iceland, what's the cheapest ice cave tour in iceland, how do the ice caves form in iceland, when can i visit ice caves in iceland, are the ice caves in iceland worth it, are ice caves in iceland safe to enter, can you visit ice caves in iceland on your own, can i visit the ice caves in iceland in late october, are ice cave tours in iceland operational around christmas, how much time will i spend inside the ice cave in iceland, is a glacier hike included in the ice cave tours in iceland, what is the best ice cave tour from reykjavik, how long is an ice cave tour in iceland, do you offer a snowmobile and ice cave tour in iceland, do you offer a photography ice cave tour in iceland, how cold are the ice caves in iceland, will there be any daylight if we visit the ice caves in iceland early in the day in the middle of winter, how much do ice cave tours cost in iceland, what should i wear for my ice cave tour in iceland, will there be any climbing tools necessary to explore the ice caves in iceland, are ice cave tours in iceland suitable for children, how physically demanding are ice cave tours, what happens if the weather is bad on the day of my ice cave tour, when is the best time to visit ice caves in iceland, where can i find ice caves in iceland, how can i visit an ice cave in iceland, can i visit ice caves during the summer, are ice caves wheelchair accessible, can i take photographs inside the ice caves, do i need to book an ice cave tour in advance, is it possible to combine an ice cave tour with other activities in iceland, are there restroom facilities at the ice caves, can i take a private ice cave tour, is there a maximum group size for ice cave tours, are ice cave tours suitable for seniors, how far are the ice caves from reykjavik, can i use a drone to capture footage during an ice cave tour, what types of ice formations can i expect to see inside the caves, how do i choose the right ice cave tour for me.

Link to appstore phone

Download Iceland’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place

Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Iceland’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.

Top things to do in Iceland

Book your complete trip with the best companies only

Explore an Ice Cave

Explore an Ice Cave

Visit a Live Volcano

Visit a Live Volcano

Find the Northern Lights

Find the Northern Lights

Visit the Blue Lagoon

Visit the Blue Lagoon

Go on a Road Trip

Go on a Road Trip

Do the Golden Circle

Do the Golden Circle

See the Glacier Lagoon

See the Glacier Lagoon

South Coast Tours

South Coast Tours

Active Iceland Fire and Ice Expedition

A group of people inside the Raufarhólshellir lava cave

Experience glaciers up close and walk in the footsteps of lava

Are you after a winter adventure in the Land of Fire and Ice? On this 5-day active winter trip to Iceland, you’ll walk inside one of the country’s largest lava tubes. The next day, you’ll be whisked up onto a glacier by super jeep.

From there, you’ll jump onto a snowmobile and ride the glacier’s surface. And you’ll also have the chance to explore an ice cave underneath another glacier. All with time to hunt down the Northern Lights and spend some time exploring Reykjavík.

If you’re an epic adventure lover, you’ll feel right at home on this trip where you’ll spend almost as much time below ground as above it.

On this tour you will...

Tour the iconic Golden Circle – expect waterfalls, geysers and more

Walk inside Raufarhólshellir, one of  Iceland’s largest lava tubes

Ride a snowmobile across the vast Mýrdalsjökull glacier 

See dazzling formations when you  explore an ice cave

Hunt for the Northern Lights on an evening excursion

Enjoy a guided  super jeep tour of Langjökull glacier

Top attractions

The Tjörnin pond in Reykjavík in summer

Downtown Reykjavík

The Gullfoss waterfall in summertime

Geysir and Strokkur

Þingvellir National Park, Iceland, in autumn colors

Þingvellir National Park

A rainbow over the Skógafoss waterfall on a sunny day

Seljalandsfoss

Why book a multi-day trip with Iceland Tours?

Start your tour on the date that suits you

Stay at the same place in Reykjavík for your whole trip

Travel on comfortable buses with free Wi-Fi

Effortlessly customize your trip with extra activities

24/7 emergency helpline in Iceland

Secure your booking with just a 5% deposit

Your 5-day bus & super jeep itinerary

Day 1 – welcome to reykjavík, iceland’s buzzing capital.

Transfer from Keflavík International Airport to your hotel in Reykjavík (included). Welcome to wintry Iceland, where your active adventure awaits. Spend your first day exploring Reykjavík, the buzzing capital. You could take a walk around the city’s old harbor before grabbing a bite at a local restaurant. Or relax in a hot tub before your first day of activities at one of the city’s excellent pools.

Included experiences, upgrade options & extra activities

Woman relaxing in the Blue Lagoon

Arrival/Departure via Blue Lagoon

Riders on FlyOver Iceland above a virtual waterfall

FlyOver Iceland

Perlan on a sunny summer’s day

Perlan Museum Wonders of Iceland & Northern Lights Show

Day 2 – Lava caving and Northern Lights hunt

This morning, you’ll have the chance to actually walk inside an extinct Icelandic volcano. Stand inside the Raufarhólshellir cave, a hollow tube in the rock where lava would once have been rushing by. As you walk through the widest lava cave in Iceland, you’ll notice colorful rock formations in the walls left behind by the eruption 5,200 years ago.In the afternoon, you’ll return to Reykjavík and have time to continue exploring the city. Why not unwind with a coffee and slice of cake after your expedition?

In the evening

Spend the night on a magical Northern Lights hunt! Included with your package is a large group bus tour to a dark-skied location that’s perfect for spotting the lights.

You also have the option to upgrade to a small group excursion for a more intimate experience, or even a trip via super jeep or boat if you’re feeling adventurous!

Good to know: The Northern Lights (also called the Aurora Borealis) are a natural phenomenon and sightings cannot be guaranteed, even with clear skies. The tour may be canceled if weather conditions are unfavorable, but you’ll have the chance to join the same or a similar excursion for free later in your trip.

Day 3 – Golden Circle & glacier snowmobiling

Hop in your super jeep in Reykjavík. First, your driver-guide will take you to Þingvellir (Thingvellir) National Park, the site of Iceland’s Viking-age parliament. It’s also the place where the European and North American tectonic plates are drifting apart.

Then you’ll head to Geysir, where the famous Strokkur geyser erupts 25 meters (80 feet) into the air. Here you can also see other geothermal formations like bubbling hot springs and mud pots. Next you will round out the Golden Circle section of today’s tour by stopping at Gullfoss, one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Iceland.

Now you’ve whetted your appetite for adventure, you’ll head up onto the Langjökull glacier with your driver-guide. Your super jeep will navigate it with ease! Once you reach base camp, you’ll jump onto your 2-person snowmobile. Spend 1 hour exploring this mind-blowing glacial landscape.

You’re probably thinking you can’t get much closer to a glacier than this. Well, just wait for tomorrow.

Day 4 – Glacier hiking and exploring the Katla ice cave

Today, it’s time for your second super jeep expedition! This time you’ll be driven up onto the Mýrdalsjökull glacier, the fourth largest in Iceland. Put your glacier gear on and set off on a fully guided hike past spectacular ice formations and deep crevasses.

After a short while, you’ll reach Kötlujökull, where you’ll step into a jaw-dropping black and blue ice cave. This glacier sits on Katla, one of Iceland’s dormant volcanoes. Here you’ll see how the volcano and ice have interacted over centuries.

You’ll also stop at Seljalandsfoss waterfall, which you can actually walk behind. And if you’re traveling between 1 February and 15 November, you’ll also stop at its bigger brother Skógafoss just down the road.

Day 5 – Goodbye Iceland

Transfer from Reykjavík to Keflavík International Airport  (included). Depending on when your flight departs, you might have time for a warm dip in the Blue Lagoon before you jet off home. Why not arrive at the airport feeling fully relaxed and restored?

If you go for this option, you’ll be picked up from your hotel and driven to the Blue Lagoon. There you can store your luggage for a fee. Once you’re done, you’ll be taken on to Keflavík International Airport.

What’s included?

Budget, Comfort, or Quality accommodation every night

Continental breakfast every day

Airport transfer

Raufarhólshellir lava cave tour

Northern Lights guided bus tour

Golden Circle & snowmobiling tour

Katla Ice Cave – Under the Volcano tour

24/7 emergency helpline when you’re in Iceland

VAT, taxes & service fees

Flights to Iceland

Food & drink, unless otherwise stated

Attraction entrance fees, unless otherwise stated

Personal travel insurance

Accommodation

FAQs about our multi-day trips

How does an iceland multi-day trip work.

Throughout your multi-day trip with Iceland Tours, you’ll be based in the Icelandic capital of Reykjavík or Akureyri the capital of the North. From here, you can join guided tours into the surrounding countryside to soak up the mind-blowing scenery. Your package will include at least one day trip, and depending on the length of your tour package you can opt to add more.

It’s worth bearing in mind that you won’t have the same guide throughout your trip. In fact, on each escorted group day trip from Reykjavík or Akureyri, you’ll get to meet a new guide and new fellow travelers.

What’s more, spending each night in the same accommodation means you don’t need to worry about unpacking and repacking during your trip. It also gives you the chance to experience more of the city’s restaurants, food halls, and bars. And you’ll have time to browse the local shops and visiting the city’s attractions.

How many people will there be on a multi-day trip?

When you opt for a multi-day package, you won’t be traveling with the same guide and group throughout your trip. This means that number of fellow travelers you meet on your guided excursions will vary depending on the activity.

For instance, if you’re going on an ice cave tour, your group could include a just a handful people. Meanwhile, a tour of the Golden Circle by bus will often be a larger group as you’ll likely be traveling by coach. And you’ll find evening Northern Lights tours are usually by coach too, although you have the option to upgrade to a small group, super jeep, or boat tour.

What are the buses like on a multi-day trip?

Depending on the excursion, your bus could be either a minibus or coach. Most buses will have free onboard Wi-Fi and charging points for your phone. Larger buses also have overhead compartments for stowing your bag and jacket.

It’s good to know that although there’s no restroom on the bus, your guide will make sure to include regular breaks throughout the journey.

Do multi-day trips include airport transfers to Reykjavík?

Yes, all of these multi-day trips include airport transfers by bus from Keflavík International Airport to Reykjavík on arrival and departure.

What meals are included in a multi-day trip package?

On each morning of your trip, you’ll get a tasty continental breakfast at your accommodation. In most places, this is served buffet-style in a communal dining room.

With most packages, lunch and dinner are not included so you’re free to choose from all of the options available. In Reykjavík and Akureyri, you’ll be spoiled for choice when deciding where to eat.

Some festive packages include special meals. Check the ‘What’s included?’ section for the individual package to find out exactly what you’ll get.

If your package features longer day tours, you’ll find that the guide will factor in lunch and restroom stops. But it’s still good to come prepared by packing a few snacks and plenty of water. And if you prefer, you could bring a picnic lunch rather than eat out.

Can I customize my multi-day trip?

Absolutely! You can customize your package by:

  • Picking your level of accommodation (Budget, Comfort, or Quality)
  • Extending your stay with extra nights in Reykjavík at the start or end of your trip
  • Adding optional activities, such as a food tour or glacier hike

Don’t take our word for it

See what hundreds of fellow travelers have to say about their trips with Iceland Tours.

More trips like this

two people hiking along lagoon at night with green northern lights in the sky

Ice Adventure Day Tripper with Northern Lights

The super customizable one.

Katlatrack Fast Track Ice Cave Tour

Active Iceland Fire and Ice Expedition with Northern Lights

Immerse yourself in jaw-dropping natural beauty

A woman with a back tattoo sitting in the Blue Lagoon

Iceland Thrill and Relax Winter Combo

Experience ice caving, snowmobiling, chasing the aurora, and more.

Northern Lights glowing above icebergs on the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon

Iceland South Shore & Glacier Winter Adventure

Waterfalls, glaciers, and black sand beaches abound.

#icelandmyway

See what travelers like you have been up to lately on Instagram.

snowmobiling and ice cave tour iceland

  • Packing List

Snowmobile Tour Iceland

The Most Incredible Snowmobile Tours In Iceland | 2024

Seeing Iceland from above and cruising over a glacier on a snowmobile is an absolute dream. Read on to find out the best snowmobile tours in Iceland!

snowmobiling and ice cave tour iceland

Recommended Tour

Snowmobiling On Langjokull Glacier!

We think you have two incredible options to choose from. Firstly, the highest-rated snowmobile experience on Langjokull Glacier , a 4-hour snowmobile adventure from Gullfoss waterfall, or the incredible combi tour that includes the Golden Circle and finishes with the exact same snowmobile experience. The question is, do you want to spend the extra money to combine the Golden Circle with your snowmobile experience?

Heading to Langjokull Glacier takes you past the Golden Circle so we think it’s a no-brainer to combine! However, If you have done the Golden Circle before or you have your own transport and you have decided to do it yourself, then go for the snowmobiling on its own .

Make sure to watch our video below to see exactly what you’re in for!

Snowmobiling In Iceland - With Mountaineers Of Iceland! - Langjökull Glacier!

Read More: All Of The Best Tours In Iceland For The Winter

The Best Snowmobile Tours In Iceland

Taking one of the fun snowmobile tours in Iceland is one of the best ways to enjoy the glorious landscapes and nature that the country has to offer. Read this post for our recommendations, tips and advice from our own personal trip before booking your adventure of a lifetime!

When we went to Iceland in November we made the decision to book ourselves onto an ice cave + snowmobile tour whilst we were there. This has got to be the BEST decision we made on our entire trip. Seriously, if you have never been on a snowmobile before then it is well worth the money.

Watch Our Highlights Video Here!

Best Of Snowmobiling In Iceland - Highlights! Mountaineers Of Iceland!

They are so bloody fast and your tour guides won’t hold you back either. There are multiple employees throughout the entire tour so the people at the front can go off as fast as they want and the others can go as leisurely as they want. Everyone wins!

There are so many snowmobile tours in Iceland available, some on their own and some with additional activities included in the tour. I’ve started with only snowmobile tours, but further down you can find multi-activity tours too!

If you are looking to find out what snowmobiling in Iceland is all about then scroll down past the recommended tours for all the information you could ever want! Oh and I highly recommend hiring a car for your stay in Iceland, it’ll save you a tonne of time and money on transport. See our entire guide for hiring a 4×4 in Iceland here.

Read More: Helicopter Tours & Glacier Tours In Iceland

#1 Glacier Snowmobiling on Langjokull Glacier

This is the cheapest option on my entire list and, in my opinion, your best option if you’re wanting only the snowmobile part of the tour.

Watch This Video For This Exact Tour Here!

Key Information

  • Tour Duration: 4 Hours
  • Pick Up Included: From Gulfoss waterfall
  • Age Suitable For: 6+
  • Need To Take: Driving licence
  • People Per Snowmobile: 2

Click here for more information and prices of this tour

If you have a look around then you’ll come to realise that all of the tour operators are providing roughly the same service – 1 hour’s worth of snowmobiling and around 4-5 hours of your time. Well, this tour is exactly that and is the best value for money.

A lone snowmobile on the Langjokull Glacier taken on a snowmobile tour in Iceland

The pick-up is from Gullfoss waterfall which is part of the famous Golden Circle. Take my advice and see the Golden Circle in the morning and arrive at Gullfoss in time for your tour. This kills two birds with one stone and saves you money as you won’t have to be picked up from Reykjavik, which is around $30 extra per person on the tour. If you want to be picked up from Reykjavik then click here for the same tour but with a pickup.

Perfect For

  • If you want the highest-rated snowmobile tour in Iceland, on the most convenient glacier and for the best price then this is the one for you.
  • Budget travellers. This is the lowest-priced tour on this list.

Click here to check availability

#2 Snowmobile Tour On Eyjafjallajökull Glacier

If you have already planned a little road trip exploring the southeast coast (which you definitely should) then this is the perfect snowmobile tour in Iceland for you.

  • Tour Duration: 2 Hours
  • Pick Up Included: Yes
  • Age Suitable For: All
  • Need To Take: Licence & walking boots

the views from a glacier whilst on a snowmobile tour Iceland

This tour is a similar price to the Langjokull glacier tour but it has some very unique selling points. Foremost, this glacier is where the huge volcanic eruption happened in 2010 that shut down most of Europe’s air space! I don’t know about you but knowing all that raw power is so close makes it a little more epic.

Secondly, the views from the Eyjafjallajökull glacier are insane. On a clear day, you’ll be able to see the Westman Islands in the south and incredible horizon views of the highlands as well. So, if you’re not planning a trip to the South East then stick with the Langjokull glacier tour. If you are then this is a great option.

  • Any travellers making their way through the South East.
  • People that want to experience views you cannot get elsewhere.

#3 Glacier Rush on Langjökull Glacier

If you’ve been snowmobiling before, want to push yourself or you’re just a straight-up adrenaline junkie then look no further.

  • Tour Duration: 5 Hours
  • Pick Up Included: From Gulfoss Waterfall
  • Age Suitable For: Anyone with a licence
  • Need To Take: Licence & Walking Boots
  • People Per Snowmobile: 1

The Glacier Rush tour offers the quickest and most powerful snowmobiles on offer in the whole of Iceland and the staff don’t hold you back. They will push you to your limits and you will end up travelling further and faster than any of the other tours on this list.

The cost is higher than both of the previous tours, however, these monsters only have one seat. The other tours in this list are for 2 riders and all of the tour operators have an additional cost if you want to have a snowmobile to yourself. There is obviously no additional fee with this tour so, in fact, the cost is not that much more if you don’t want to share!

snowmobiling and ice cave tour iceland

  • Adrenaline junkies
  • People with experience wanting something extra
  • Anyone wanting something more unique and exhilarating.

#4 Snowmobiling Tour On Mýrdalsjökull Glacier

The Mýrdalsjökull glacier is a distance away from Reykjavik down in the southeast of Iceland. However, I strongly suggest you visit the southeast when you’re in Iceland so this might just be the perfect way to complement your trip.

  • Tour Duration: 3 Hours
  • Pick Up Included: No – tour starts here
  • Age Suitable For: 9+
  • People Per Snowmobile: 2 (Can pay a supplement for solo rider)

snowmobiling and ice cave tour iceland

These tours tend to be less busy due to the distance from the tourism centre so this means that you can expect a more peaceful and personal experience. Plus the price is pretty much the same so if you’re down there any way it’s a no brainer!

  • Any travellers making their way through the South East and don’t want to have to go out of their way.

The Best Snowmobile Tours In Iceland With Extra Activities

There is an incredible array of things you can do alongside your snowmobile tour in Iceland. They include pairing it up with an ice-cave visit, Golden Circle tour, Northern Lights show and waterfall chasing.

The south of Iceland is literally packed with incredible scenery and places to discover so if you’re already spending the money on the transport and staff, why not pair it up and make the most out of your trip.

If you are thinking of doing multiple tours then I highly recommend you book a tour with all of the things you want to do in one. This will save you time and money.

#5 Snowmobiling And Golden Circle Tour

This is our top pick for a snowmobiling tour in Iceland and there are plenty of different tours following a similar itinerary.

  • Tour Duration: 10 Hours
  • Pick Up Included: From Reykjavik bus stop
  • Age Suitable For: 6 years old

Click here for more information and availability

Combining snowmobiling and the Golden Circle is the most popular combination of tours and for good reason.

Many of the snowmobile tours in Iceland pick you up from Gullfoss waterfall, which is part of the Golden Circle. Therefore, it doesn’t cost that much more to visit the Golden Circle on the same day.

snowmobiling and ice cave tour iceland

The Golden Circle consists of the Geysir geothermal area, Pingvellir national park and Gullfoss waterfall.

All 3 are a MUST visit on your trip to Iceland so why not do it as part of an epic full-day activity that culminates in the adventure of a lifetime, snowmobiling a glacier.

At the time of writing, this tour was not much more per person than the cheapest solely snowmobile tour so it’s a no brainer if you don’t have your own transportation.

  • People who want to see the Golden Circle and don’t have their own transportation

#6 Snowmobiling, Ice Cave And Hot Spring

This is another amazing snowmobile experience you can get in Iceland. You get to snowmobile, you get to walk into a natural ice cave and you get to bathe in a secluded secret lagoon. What more can you ask for?

  • Tour Duration: 10 hours
  • Pick Up Included: From Reykjavik hotel
  • Age Suitable For: 18+ for driver
  • Need To Take: Licence, boots & swimsuit

A hot spring in iceland after a snowmobile tour in iceland

If you have already planned a trip to the Blue Lagoon (the most famous hot spring in Iceland) then you might want to consider the tour below that only goes to the ice cave.

However, if you haven’t then this lagoon is more secluded and less crowded than the Blue Lagoon.

To be honest with you, even if you have planned to go to the Blue Lagoon I still highly recommend this tour over all of the others. Bathing in a hot spring in Iceland is not something that you should only do once.

Ice cave on a snowmobile tour iceland

  • People looking for a perfect Iceland experience.
  • People who haven’t planned a lagoon visit yet.

#7 Snowmobiling And Ice Cave

This is quite a lot cheaper than the ice cave and hot spring tour above so if you really don’t want to add the hot spring element or you’re on a tight budget then this is perfect.

The ice caves of Iceland really are amazing. People literally have to go out into the glacier at the end of each summer to try to find newly formed ice caves from season to season. This means that every year there will be new and different caves over the glacier.

An Ice cave whilst snowmobiling in Iceland

Inside you get to see the evidence of thousands of years of volcanic activity, shown as lines of black in the ice. I think it’s so cool to be able to see the actual ash from eruptions thousands of years ago right in front of you.

These caves aren’t accessible to everyone either, it takes roughly half an hour of riding through the glacier to get to the entrances, so don’t expect queues of people and photographers ruining your moment.

  • Adventurers that want to experience the natural ice caves of Iceland who are also on a budget.

Where To Stay For Snowmobiling In Iceland

There are a couple of locations discussed in this post but most of you are going to want to be in or around Reykjavik. This will allow you to get to the majority of the snowmobile tours in this post and still be around the other action Iceland has to offer. Have a look at our top picks below or use the map to check out deals now.

snowmobiling and ice cave tour iceland

Banner Text

Northern Comfort Apartment

You get the entire apartment for a remarkably low price compared to other options in Reykjavik whilst also being in the heart of the city. If you are staying in Reykjavik then I think this may be the best option in the whole city.

Lovely Cabin

This 2-bedroom private chalet is perfect for small groups and still doesn’t break the bank compared to other options in Iceland. When we went to Iceland, we got a small chalet and it really is the best way to experience this beautiful country.

What To Expect On A Snowmobile Tour In Iceland

I had never been snowmobiling before so I really didn’t know what to expect with my snowmobile tour in Iceland.

Firstly you have to actually get to the glacier, which is no small feat! You will probably be loaded into a very large custom-built off-road truck that looks like it wouldn’t be out of place on Mars.

Then you are driven through the mountains, up into the snow. Depending on where you have been picked up, this trip can take anywhere from 1 hour to 2 hours.

When you get to the base camp you will be offloaded and be fitted for all in one winter suits, helmets, goggles and balaclava. This is the reason you must bring good sturdy shoes with you as they will not provide this.

They will also not let you ride if you are wearing something inappropriate. After, you’ll be loaded back into the Mars Rover and driven to the snowmobiles.

You’ll be given a snowmobile between 2 people unless you have paid an additional solo rider fee or your tour specifically states that it is for solo riders only.

The tours are 1 hour long and have a break in the middle so there is an opportunity to swap drivers at the midway point.

You will follow in convoy through the ice, snow and mountains but don’t worry about being slowed down by the person in front.

Before you go everyone will be asked how confident they are with driving and the less confident people will be put at the back.

This benefits everyone as the speed freaks get to zoom around and everyone else gets to have a relaxing time without worrying about someone too close behind them.

After the tour, you will get unchanged and be driven back to the original pick-up point. We actually got hot chocolate and biscuits after our tour so maybe you’ll be as lucky as we were.

Fear Not! Snowmobiling Is For Everyone

If you’ve watched a few videos about snowmobiling in Iceland then you’ll have seen that snowmobiles are big pieces of kit and pack a serious punch. I wouldn’t be surprised if some of you were thinking that maybe snowmobiling in Iceland isn’t for you.

Let me put that theory to bed straight away. In our group, we had 2 people who were really on the fence about the whole idea. My 54-year-old mum and the other Two Tall Traveller, Jade.

Both my mum and Jade are people who look for a bench in theme parks to wait for the people who are queuing for the roller coasters, so it’s safe to say they are not adrenaline junkies.

But this is where snowmobiling and pure thrill-seeking differ greatly. When you get on a roller coaster you have no control over the speed or the intensity and you’re only on it for the thrill.

None of the snowmobile tours in Iceland will make you go faster than you feel comfortable going or make you do something you are not comfortable with.

Yes, you will be in convoy but people who want to go fast will slowly move towards the front and the people who want to sit back and soak in the atmosphere will slowly find themselves closer to the rear. This is by design.

There will be multiple tour guides throughout the convoy who will stay with people who are expecting different things from this experience.

When I got to the halfway point, people were still arriving in dribs and drabs up to 10 minutes later. No one was being told to hurry up and everyone was given the opportunity to drive.

Tips About Riding The Snowmobile

Some of these bad boys go up to 70kmph which is incredibly fast considering the bumpy ride that you’ll be experiencing.

Every time you push the accelerator you’re going to get some serious acceleration. It is, however, very easy to control the speed that you are going at. Don’t worry about losing control or being forced to go too fast.

When we went, Jade didn’t want to drive so she sat behind for the duration of the trip. At first, she wanted to have a steady pace as she was a little nervous, which is completely understandable.

I had never been snowmobiling before but it was very easy, right from the start, to control the snowmobile exactly the way I wanted it.

After a short amount of time, you will really get the hang of it and be able to open up a little across the ice.

However, if you don’t then DO NOT feel obligated to go faster.

We had people on our tour that simply did not want to go above a nice crawl. When we stopped mid-way we had to wait a little longer for the others to catch up but all this meant is that we had more time to mess about in the snow and ice.

The tour guides will not pressure you to go faster so don’t ruin your tour by going faster or slower than you feel comfortable going.

Best Time To Get Snowmobile Tours In Iceland

There are snowmobile tours in Iceland running throughout the year. However, there are considerably more available outside of the summer months.

Don’t worry though as the glaciers are there 365 days of the year!

The main difference in the tours will be the drive up to the snow. In the summer you will have to drive a lot further into the mountains to reach the start point so your tour may be slightly longer than the winter tours.

I think the winter months may have a slight edge over the summer as the views from the top are the whole country covered in a gorgeous white layer of fresh snow.

However, in the summer you can go snowmobiling in the middle of the night during the midnight sun! As always, Iceland manages to amaze whatever season you end up going.

Read More: An Epic 4 Day Iceland Itinerary For Summer & Winter

The Best Place To Snowmobile In Iceland

As you can imagine, there are quite a few glaciers in Iceland. Only some of these can be snowmobiled on and some only at certain times of the year.

It all depends on where you are going to be and what you already have planned for your trip. If you’re staying in the capital, book an airport shuttle that will take you directly to the centre. It means that if you arrive in Iceland planning on going directly on a snowmobile tour, you can go straight to your pick-up location from your transfer.

The first two are the best in my opinion but don’t let that put you off the other glaciers because, in reality, they are all epic!

Langjokull is by far the most popular place for snowmobiling tours in Iceland due to its close proximity to both the Golden Circle and Reykjavik, both huge tourist hot spots. 

It is also the second biggest glacier in the whole of Iceland with a thickness of 500m in certain areas. This means that it is also one of the grandest and most awe-inspiring places to snowmobile in Iceland.

Tours will start either from Reykjavik or from Gullfoss waterfall. It is cheaper to start from Gullfoss as the majority of the distance has already been covered by yourself.

Most of the tours charge around an additional $30 or more per person to start from Reykjavik.

Take my advice, hire a vehicle and do a self-drive tour of the Golden Circle in the morning and finish at Gullfoss. Then you can save money by getting to Gullfoss yourself as well as seeing the sights along the way!

You can’t really go wrong with Langjokull glacier for snowmobiling due to the location and the lower price in comparison to the other glaciers.

Vatnajokull

Vatnajokull is the largest glacier in the whole of Europe so I couldn’t leave it off my list entirely. If you are visiting Iceland in summer then this is very close to the top of the list for the best locations as it is only accessible in the summer.

It still doesn’t beat Langjokull in my opinion as you do have to drive quite far into the southeast to get to the starting point of the tour.

However, if you are already planning a trip to Diamond Beach or any of the incredible sights along the south-east then definitely bear Vatnajokull in mind.

The views and experience from Vatnajokull are unforgettable and you would get to snowmobile on Ice that goes up to 1000m deep, which is pretty damn cool.

Read More: The Ultimate Guide To The East Fjords In Iceland

Myrdaljokul

Another glacier situated in the south of Iceland, Myrdaljokul sits right on top of the infamous Katla volcano. It seems that wherever you decide to go in Iceland, the raw power of its nature follows you even to its most remote places.

If you are planning a trip around the south coast then this is another great option for a snowmobile tour in Iceland. It will be slightly more expensive and a little further to travel from Reykjavik but if standing on top of a volcano (which is due an eruption) gets your blood pumping then this is the place for you.

If you are planning a trip up north, maybe to get away from the tourist centre in the south or to go whale watching in the summer months, then you’re in luck! Akureyri is home to some absolutely fantastic snowmobiling experiences.

They actually differ slightly from what you would experience in the south of Iceland because you won’t be sledging on a glacier.

Instead, you will get to ride out onto the large snow flats which blanket the outskirts of Akureyri. This is an altogether different experience to glacier snowmobiling as you can really pick up some speed in the beautiful soft snow.

It might be far from Reykjavik and away from some of the best attractions but rest assured, Akureyri’s charm and remote beauty will not leave you wanting anymore.

Eyjafjallajökull

If the name sounds familiar then that’s because this is the site of the volcanic eruption that closed significant parts of Europe’s air space in 2010. Don’t let that put you off though as on a clear day you will witness some of the most spectacular views anywhere in Iceland.

If you are planning on travelling throughout the southeast coast of Iceland during your trip then this is definitely a good option for snowmobiling in Iceland. If you will be staying closer to the capital then I recommend spending less money and time and sticking with Langjokull glacier.

Lake Myvatn

This gorgeous lake is in the north of Iceland, relatively closse to the town Akueyri. In the winter months this is a great place to grab a snowmobile tour in Iceland. You won’t be on a glacier but you will have vast open spaces of gorgeous fresh snow to explore.

There are not as many tours available for this area but take a look at this one to see if the location and the price seem better up north.

What To Wear

It gets pretty cold whilst snowmobiling in Iceland so we have compiled a list of products that you’re going to need to take if you want to make the most out of your trip! Take a look and remember, amazon has deals all the time so make sure to go through the links to see the current price.

MOERDENG Women's Mountain Waterproof/Windproof Jacket

If you are thinking of going into colder climates then you have to make sure you have a suitable jacket to go along for the ride. This ski jacket is waterproof and windproof which helps keep out the cold and a fleece lining which helps to keep in the warmth. The jacket is also extremely affordable compared to other brands meaning your comfort is no longer going to cost you an arm and a leg!

CAMEL CROWN Fleece Lined Waterproof/Windproof Pants

People often buy really good gloves, hats, boots, and jackets when they are going into colder climates but neglect the need for a good pair of waterproof/windproof trousers to go along with it. These brilliant fleece-lined trousers will keep you warm, dry, and comfortable for those long days in the freezing cold.

Columbia Hiking Boots

You can spend an insane amount of money on hiking boots if you want (trust me, I have) but, unless you're planning on travelling to the Arctic Circle, you simply don't have to break the bank. These amazingly diverse and adaptable boots by Columbia will handle everything you throw at them, whilst keeping your feet dry, warm, and pain-free!

Fleece Lined Long Johns & Base Layer

If you really feel the cold but already have a decent jacket and insulated trousers , then you have to check out these fleece-lined thermal long johns and top base layer. These will fit under your outer clothes and give a massive increase to your warmth whilst paired with other quality winter wear. A must-have for someone who struggles with the cold.

KINGSBOM -40F° Waterproof & Windproof Thermal Gloves

If you need a pair of no-nonsense, warm, waterproof, and windproof gloves that will work with your touch devices then we highly recommend checking out these gloves. I recommend getting slightly larger than you think as the sizing is on the small size.

HOT FEET Winter Boot Socks

If you're going to be wearing boots, especially in colder climates, then you need to grab yourself a decent set of cold-weather socks. These thermal socks from HOT FEET don't break the bank and will keep your feet warm in some of the coldest weather. You also get 8 pairs!

ICEWEAR Vík Hat

A gorgeous 100% Icelandic wool hand-knitted hat to keep your head warm in the coldest situations. It would make a perfect gift/souvenir for anyone who is travelling to Iceland or has travelled to Iceland and forgotten to pick one up when they were there!

100% Cotton Cable Sweater

Cotton is the way to go to keep you warm on cold nights staring up at the beautiful starry sky, surrounded by ice and snow. This is from Amazon Basics so you're not paying a premium for a famous brand but you're still getting that thick cotton quality.

Classic Ear Warmers

Jade prefers wearing ear muffs because it gives her more options to style her hair whilst also keeping her little ears warm. If that sounds like something you might struggle with then check out these fantastic ear warmers that come in a variety of colours!

Panasonic LUMIX LX10

Read More: Your Complete Guide To Icelandic Souvenirs

What Is A Snowmobile?

So, I come from the south of England where snow settles every 2-3 years. When it settles the entire country stops and people huddle indoors too afraid to venture outside in case you slip and die….

Suffice to say, no one is heading to the garage to whip out a snowmobile and head to the local grocery shop. So if you haven’t ever ridden or even seen a snowmobile before then let me explain.

They look and feel very much like a motorbike on skis. At the rear there are two rubber tracks that push you along and at the front is a pair of skis. Turning the handlebars turns the skis which is how you turn. Unlike a motorbike, they don’t fall over when you stop so don’t worry about falling off.

Some of the more high-end snowmobiles can reach nearly 100mph on snow which is completely insane but you will almost certainly be limited to about 45mph. Don’t be sad though because I reached about 40mph on my first go and going across snow at that speed feels properly mental. I think I reached that speed for about 3 seconds before Jade was frantically hitting me on the back asking me to slow down.

A Brief History Of Snowmobiling And Icelandic Culture

As you can imagine from the land of ice, snowmobiling is built right into their culture. Many Icelanders have snowmobiles just like me and you have bikes in the shed. This might seem alien to us but heading out into the ice and snowfields is a normal weekend activity for so many across the island.

Who do they have to thank for this pretty damn cool hobby? The modern design is most closely attributed to Joseph-Armand Bombardier, a French-Canadian inventor who wanted to make it easier for families in remote areas to get around.

The first snowmobiles were hulking great beasts capable of transporting up to 7 people. This just wasn’t necessary for the vast majority of practical applications so 20 years later Joseph-Armand helped develop the much more sleek and dependable 2 seater variant that is so popular today.

Jump forward in time to the 21st century and it isn’t just adrenaline junkie locals or wanderlust searching travellers who have Joseph-Armand to thank. Snowmobiles are still used the world over in search and rescue teams and scientific expeditions in some of the most remote and inhospitable places on the planet.

Where To Stay In Reykjavik

If you’re still stuck on accommodation whilst in Iceland, here are a few great options that cover budget travellers, families, groups and even honeymooners! Click on the links to find the best deals and availability for each place.

  • Try Lækur Hostel if you’re looking for a dorm bed or if you would prefer a private room, Igdlo Guesthouse should tick all of your boxes.
  • Vesturgata is a cool apartment that sleeps 4 adults, but if you want rooms for the kids, try Grey Apartments
  • An incredible option for couples if you want to treat yourself is Tower Suites Reykjavík – you won’t regret it!
  • If you’re looking for a unique place to stay in Iceland that isn’t necessarily the capital, check out my post on these INSANE accommodation options !

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to go on a snowmobile tour in iceland.

You can go snowmobiling in Iceland all year round however there are more tours running in the winter months. The only difference is it will take you longer to get to the snow in the summer as a lot of it has melted.

How Old Do You Have To Be To Go On A Snowmobile Tour In Iceland?

You have to be at least 18 and have a driving licence to be able to drive the snowmobile in Iceland. However, you can take children from 6+ as passengers (depending on the operator).

Do I Need A Driving License To Go On A Snowmobile Tour In Iceland?

Yes. You will need a full driving license to be able to drive the snowmobile. You can go as a passenger if you do not have one.

Can I Take Children On A Snowmobile Tour In Iceland?

Yes as passengers. Operators differ on the minimum from 6+ to 8+ so make sure you check the minimum age with your operator before booking.

How Long Is A Typical Snowmobile Tour In Iceland?

The typical time of a snowmobile tour in Iceland is 1 hour. This does not include the time it takes to get to the ice. The entire tour may take up to 5 hours of your time depending on where you are being picked up from and which glacier you are seeing.

Can I Get Snowmobile Tours In Icleand In The Summer?

You can but not everywhere. The glaciers are available to snowmobile all year but in the low lands this will be specific to the winter. I recommend Langjokull Glacier in the summer.

How Many People Fit On A Snowmobile In Iceland?

You can fit 2 people on a snowmobile in Iceland but you can also choose to only have 1 (some tours will ask for additional fees for this).

Is A Snowmobile Tour In Iceland Worth It?

100% it was the best thing we did in Iceland. So good in fact that very soon we will be going to Iceland again, just to do a snowmobile tour. I’m not kidding either, stay tuned for the video!

So thats our complete guide to snowmobile tours in Iceland. If you have found this article helpful, please do let us know in the comments section. Also, if there is anything you think we could add then please also let us know below!

Click on the image to repin this post!

Iceland | Snowmobiling Tours In Iceland

Want to ride snowmobile for 2-3 hours. Daytrip from Reykjavik. 1 person. 13 Janua6 to 15 January 2023. Thank you. Lawrence Gaiber [email protected]

' src=

Hi Lawrence, No problem at all. We do not run the snowmobile tours here, we just recommend the best tours to book. You can find our top recommendation here!

' src=

I’m really interested in booking the snowmobile / golden circle tour? Would you suggest booking direct with mountaineers of Iceland or the Reykjavik Excursions group tour? We are looking for a small group tour

' src=

We usually look at reviews and both of those trips have great ones! Our experience with Mountaineers of Iceland was fantastic. We like using Viator as they give flexibility with cancellations, plus you can usually reserve a trip now and pay later (for transparency, this is an affiliate link!)

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

A man rides a snowmobile across a glacier in Iceland

The Icelandic Glacier Guide: Ice Caving, Snowmobiling and Glacier Hiking

  • Lára Borg Lárusdóttir
  • March 7, 2024

Share article

In Iceland, there are numerous glaciers all over the country, perhaps explaining the country’s descriptive name. There are approximately 269 glaciers in Iceland, which cover about 11% of the country’s surface.

The Icelandic glaciers are not solely a stunning work of art for the naked eye, but they also provide a glimpse into the effects of climate change and how it has shaped nature in Iceland. Like many glaciers worldwide, the glaciers in Iceland are receding rapidly, leading to changing landscapes and rising sea levels.

Despite this, the Icelandic glaciers have been a symbol of the country’s stunning nature, with visitors from around the world getting drawn to them. Glacier-related activities have, therefore, become a key part of visiting Iceland with activities such as glacier hiking, snowmobiling and ice caving. 

People hiking in Skaftafell glacier

Glacier Hiking in Iceland 

Hiking on a glacier in Iceland is truly an unforgettable experience, allowing visitors to explore the mesmerizing icy landscapes of the country’s glaciers up close. Several glacier hikes are available in Vatnajökull, Sólheimajökull and Skaftafell glaciers.

Sólheimajökull Glacier Hiking and Walking

Hikes and walks on Sólheimajökull glacier have become immensely popular attractions in Iceland. The experiences range from relaxed glacier walks to more strenuous hikes.

Sólheimajökull Glacier Hike

The Sólheimajökull Hike is moderately difficult, lasting for about 3 hours. The tour is comprehensive, and guides will lead you through the experience, explaining the natural wonder of the Icelandic glaciers. Sólheimajökull glacier is part of Mýrdalsjökull glacier, which is one of the largest in Europe. Once the ice is reached, hikers get to bask in the beautiful views, which might reach the famous Eyjafjallajökull glacier on a clear day. Participants can also gaze deep into the glacier moulin, a vertical ice cave which can lead all the way to the glacier’s bottom.

Sólheimajökull Glacier Discovery Tour

The Glacier Discovery Tour is an easy walk on Sólheimajökull glacier’s tongue. The walk is family-friendly, and everyone from the age of 10 can participate. The walk lasts for about 2.5 hours, with plenty of stops and photo opportunities on the way. The guides will educate the group on the glaciers and their ever-changing landscapes.

Glacier Hike, Waterfall and Black Sand Beach

The Glacier Hike, Waterfall and Black Sand Beach Tour is a whole-day trip that takes participants to see the top attractions on the south coast of Iceland. The main sights of the trip are the well-known Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, Reynisfjara black sand beach and finally, a glacier hike at Sólheimajökull glacier. The hike offers the opportunity to gain an understanding of the glacier’s formation and its movements and changes, along with exploring glacial features.

South Coast and Glacier Hike

The full-day Small South Coast and Glacier Hike Tour takes a smaller group of a maximum of six people on an excursion of Iceland’s south coast, visiting two of the country’s most famous waterfalls, Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss and to Reynisfjara black sand beach. The tour then ends with a glacier hike on Sólheimajökull glacier. The tour is more intimate as it is meant for a small group.

People hiking on sólheimajökull Glacier

Vatnajökull Glacier Walk

Vatnajökull is one of Iceland’s most spectacular sights and a unique phenomenon to experience as it is not only Iceland’s largest glacier but also Europe’s largest glacier by volume. 

During the Vatnajökull Glacier Walk, participants explore a piece of Vatnajökull National Park, Breiðamerkurjökull glacier, which extends from Vatnajökull. During the walk, participants will explore the icy world of the glacier with sights such as small caves, waterfalls, tunnels, and other stunning ice-related matters.

Ice Climbing and Glacier Hikes

If only hiking on a glacier is not enough, various tours offer additional challenges, such as ice climbing. 

The Skaftafell Glacier Hike and Ice Climbing Tour and the Sólheimajökull Ice Climbing and Glacier Hike Tour take participants to another level. After hiking on the glacier, the guides will set up a climbing rope where the group will be taught how to ascend a vertical wall using ice axes and crampons. So, having the skill to flaunt ice axes isn’t just a cool party trick; it’s the secret to unlocking the frozen wonders of Iceland’s glaciers.

Zipline and Glacier Hike

To add even more adventure into a glacier hike, doing a Zipline and Glacier Hike Tour is possible, giving it a bit more zest. The tour takes participants on a hike on Vatnajökull glacier. Afterwards, tired hikers have the opportunity to slide across the glacier over a vertical ice cave and enjoy the breathtaking views as they swing across. The experience is quite unique as it is the first and only glacier zipline in the world. 

Ice Caving Tours in Iceland

Visiting ice caves in Iceland is a multisensory experience, truly immersing visitors in the raw beauty of the country’s nature. It is an experience that could be described as stepping into a giant, frozen disco ball where the beats come into existence with the echo of the footsteps. The adventure offers a glimpse into the unfiltered beauty of natural formations found countrywide in Iceland. 

Enter an Ice cave on Vatnajökull Glacier

The Vatnajökull Ice Cave Tour lets visitors enter an ice cave on Europe’s largest glacier, Vatnajökull. The ice cave comprises the ice’s blue crystal colours, creating a fantastic opportunity to catch the perfect image. The glacier tour takes about three to four hours and is an unforgettable experience in nature’s icy disco ball. The ice caves are formed naturally, letting Mother Nature decide their shape and location.

Visit the South Coast and Enter a Volcano Ice Cave

The South Coast and Katla Ice Cave tour is an immensely special one as participants get to enter an ice cave located on one of Iceland’s largest volcanoes, Katla. 

After visiting the ice cave, the group will visit two of Iceland’s most beautiful waterfalls, Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss. The group will then drive and walk on a black sand beach where sand derives from the Katla volcano.

Visit the Golden Circle and an Ice Cave in a Monster Truck

The Golden Circle and Ice Cave Tour combines two enjoyable adventures in Iceland, the famous Golden Circle and a visit to an ice cave in Langjökull Glacier. The tour takes participants on a journey to Iceland’s most popular attractions, Þingvellir National Park, Gullfoss waterfall and Geysir geothermal area. Afterwards, the journey leads to another world, inside an ice cave on Langiökull’s glacier. Not only that, but participants get to embark on this adventure in no other than a monster truck.

A man inside an Icelandic ice cave

Glacier Snowmobiling Tours in Iceland

Taking part in a snowmobiling adventure in Iceland is both an adrenaline-filled experience and an opportunity for participants to connect with the unique nature and, nonetheless, on top of a glacier.

Snowmobile Adventure on Mýrdalsjökull Glacier

The Mýrdalsjökull Glacier Snowmobile Tour is an adrenaline-fueled adventure on Mýrdalsjökull glacier on Katla volcano. The tour starts with a glacier truck taking participants up the mountain. Afterwards, the true fun begins roaming the glacier and rejoicing in the breathtaking scenery.

Hot Spring and Snowmobiling on Langjökull Glacier

The Hot Spring and Langjökull Snowmobiling Tour is a contrasted experience between hot and cold, tranquillity and thrill. The tour brings participants to Iceland’s second-largest glacier, Langjökull, for a fun adventure riding on the ever-changing landscape. After the snowmobiling, participants can relax and rejuvenate in the hot geothermal water of the Secret Lagoon.

Snowmobile Adventure on Europe’s Largest Glacier Vatnajökull 

The Vatnajökull Snowmobile Tour gives participants the opportunity to tell their loved ones back home that they have ridden a snowmobile on Europe’s largest glacier, Vatnajökull. The journey starts with a jeep drive towards the glacier, and subsequently, the snowmobiling begins on the famous glacier.

Snowmobilers in Iceland pose in front of the Northern Lights

Other Glacier Adventures in Iceland 

There exists an ocean of extraordinary glacier trips and tours in Iceland: hikes, climbs, helicopter tours, snowmobiling, jeep tours, ice caving and much more. These activities can be taken independently or combined with other classic Iceland tours. 

Iceland’s stunning glaciers offer calm, breathtaking and thrilling adventures, depending on what participants want, need and dare to. The Icelandic glaciers represent a complex interplay of nature, climate and human connection, making them a cornerstone of Icelandic tourism and identity. 

Here , you can see all available glacier adventures.

What to Wear on a Glacier in Iceland?

When glacier hiking, snowmobiling or ice caving in Iceland it is important to prepare well. With Iceland’s unpredictable weather, it is essential to dress in layers with long wool underwear, wool or fleece thermal mid layers and water- and windproof external layers. A warm hat or a balaclava, warm gloves and socks are also a must, where wool is a good option. 

It is also a must to wear proper winter shoes and quality hiking shoes for glacier hikes and walks. 

When needed, tours provide items such as crampons and helmets.

What is the Largest Glacier in Iceland?

Iceland’s largest glacier is Vatnajökull, located in the country’s southeast, covering over 8% of the country. The glacier is not only Iceland’s largest but also Europe’s largest glacier, with a size of 8,100 km². 

Is it Safe to Hike on a Glacier in Iceland?

All tours have specially trained guides who are well-educated and experienced in exploring and navigating these complex landscapes. Therefore glacier hiking, snowmobiling and ice caving in Iceland is a safe option when done with a guide. Nonetheless, participants should always remain cautious and alert, stay with the group and listen to instructions. 

Related Posts

Small boat fishermen crowd the Arnarstapi harbour each summer for the coastal fishing season

Missing Hiker Found Dead in Fimmvörðuháls Hiking Trail

volcano eruption Geldingadalir Reykjanes

Reykjanes Peninsula Eruption Shows Signs of Longevity

eruption, Stóra-Skógfell, Sundhnjúkargígarröð

Authorities Combat Fake Volcano News

To provide the best experiences, we and our partners use technologies like cookies to store and/or access device information. Consenting to these technologies will allow us and our partners to process personal data such as browsing behavior or unique IDs on this site and show (non-) personalized ads. Not consenting or withdrawing consent, may adversely affect certain features and functions.

Click below to consent to the above or make granular choices. Your choices will be applied to this site only. You can change your settings at any time, including withdrawing your consent, by using the toggles on the Cookie Policy, or by clicking on the manage consent button at the bottom of the screen.

  • shopping_cart -->