Skaftafell: Blue Ice Maze Glacier Hike on Vatnajökull
4.5 / 5 · 30 traveler reviews
Leave the standard tourist trails behind and step into a surreal world of deep blue canyons and frozen corridors. This is not your average glacier walk. The Crevasse Labyrinth is an exclusive route through the ice of Falljökull, where Europe’s largest glacier (Vatnajökull) spills down the mountainside. Led by certified glacier guides, you’ll navigate a maze of shimmering blue ice walls and jagged formations that most visitors only see from a distance. Towering blue ice walls and winding crevasses create a surreal, immersive experience. This tour combines the wonder of a glacier hike with the beauty of blue ice caves - accessible year-round and perfect for all experience levels. Whether you're a nature lover, first-time explorer, or photographer, safely discover Iceland’s icy heart up close. Don’t miss one of the most unforgettable and photo-worthy adventures in Iceland.
Your experience
Stop 1
Our journey begins at the Arctic Adventures Skaftafell Booking Hut , where you’ll meet your guide and fellow explorers. From here, we drive about 11 km to the Fallsjökull glacier tongue, gear up, and set off on a ~4 km adventure through the glacier labyrinth.
Stop 2
Vatnajökull, in the Vatnajökull National Park, is the second largest glacier in Europe, and largest glacier and National Park in Iceland! We explore Falljökull, an outlet of the mighty Vatnajökull.
Stop 3
Falljökull (''Falling Glacier'') is the beautiful glacier outlet where Vatnajökull spills down the mountainside. This is where we hike. Your guide will lead you onto the ice and ensure everyone is comfortable with their crampons and gear. Next, the guide leads you to the Labyrinth, a section of the glacier where the ice is pushed and pulled into deep cracks and narrow alleys. You’ll weave through these blue-tinted corridors, learning about the geology of the ice and the impact of climate change on Iceland’s giants.
What’s included
- Certified Glacier Guide
- Government fees
- 4x4 bus transport from Skaftafell to the foot of the glacier
- Beginner-friendly guided glacier hike
- Safety Equipment: Glacier Crampons, Walking Axe, Helmet, Harness
Not included
- Snacks
- Bottled water
- Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support are required (available to rent for a fee)
- Glacier crampons fit sizes 35-50EU. For safety reasons, those with smaller shoe size cannot join
Meeting and pickup
The meeting point for this tour is at the Arctic Adventures Booking Hut in Skaftafell National Park. Parking is available at the Skaftafell Parking Lot (please note: parking fees apply). Please arrive at the meeting point 10-15 minutes before your scheduled departure time.
Before you go
- Service animals allowed
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Travelers should be prepared to walk approximately 4 km (2.5 miles) with an elevation gain of 200-250 meters (650–820 ft). While the tour is rated as easy and suitable for most fitness levels, there is a moderate amount of walking over uneven glacier terrain.
- We provide all safety gear. Please note that our specialized glacier crampons are only available for shoe sizes 35-50 EU. Those with a shoe size beyond these are unfortunately unable to participate.
- Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support are mandatory for this adventure. Rentals are available for a fee if required.
- Please note: No two glacier hikes are ever the same. Vatnajökull is a living, changing landscape where ice formations, crevasses, and colours evolve throughout the year. Depending on the season, conditions, and weather the ice may be a vibrant blue, or appear lighter. Every tour offers a unique opportunity to explore this glacial environment, and the formations you encounter may differ from those shown in promotional photos.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Check the policy for your selected date and option before booking.
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