Walk across blue ice and peer into crevasses on a guided glacier hike from Jökulsárlón. This 3–4 hour tour combines hands-on instruction with exceptional photo opportunities on Breiðamerkurjökull, an outlet of Vatnajökull.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step out of the jeep onto blue-white ice and the air sharpens—cold, clean, and carrying the distant rumble of moving glacier. The walk begins where Breiðamerkurjökull calves into the black moraine near Jökulsárlón: a field of compacted snow, serrated ridges and glassy seracs that catch the light like scattered sapphires.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate cardiovascular fitness and stable balance for uneven ice travel; participants should be able to walk 2–4 km at a steady pace.
Wildlife
History
Breiðamerkurjökull is an outlet glacier of Vatnajökull; records and photos over the past century show dramatic retreat and changing moraine patterns.
Conservation
Guides keep groups on established routes to reduce impact and avoid fragile ice formations; climate-driven retreat makes minimizing visitation impact a priority.
Reserve your spot on the Guided Glacier Walk today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Wear stiff, waterproof boots
Guides provide crampons but not boots—sturdy, ankle-supporting waterproof hiking boots are essential to fit crampons and keep feet dry.
Bring eye protection
Wind, glare and flying ice chips are common—sunglasses or glacier goggles are recommended, especially on sunny days.
Listen to the safety briefing
Crevasses and moulins can be hidden—follow your guide’s route and avoid straying from the group.
Reserve around sunrise or late afternoon
Lighting is best and there are fewer people at the lagoon outside peak mid-day tour times.
Stiff-soled waterproof hiking boots
Needed to fit crampons securely and protect feet from cold, wet conditions.
Insulating base layers and windproof shell
Layering keeps you warm and lets you regulate body temperature during exertion.
Sunglasses or glacier goggles
Protects eyes from glare and wind; polarized lenses help with ice reflections.
summer
Small daypack with water and snacks
Carry hydration, snacks, camera, and an extra layer—guides leave larger bags in the jeep.