Walk across striking blue ice under professional guidance on Sólheimajökull. This accessible glacier hike from Vík combines hands-on skills, geology lessons, and up-close views of crevasses and moulins in a compact three-hour outing.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A low, cold wind pushes across the black sand as the blue face of Sólheimajökull rises ahead—ragged ridges, deep crevasses and glistening moulins that catch the light like wells. Participants clip into harnesses on the moraine, test crampon traction, and follow a guide’s steady rhythm across sullen ice. The landscape feels alive: ice groans, meltwater threads into tunnels, and every step reveals a new shade of blue.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for people in average physical condition who can walk on uneven, icy terrain for up to a couple of hours; no prior mountaineering experience required.
Wildlife
History
Sólheimajökull is an outlet of the Mýrdalsjökull ice cap, shaped by repeated glacial advances and frequent volcanic activity from the Katla system beneath.
Conservation
The glacier is a sensitive indicator of climate change; stick to marked routes, avoid littering, and follow guide instructions to minimize erosion and disturbance.
Reserve your spot on the Glacier Hike Starting from Solheimajokull today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Boots with ankle support
Wear stiff, waterproof hiking boots—guides provide crampons that fit over them; lightweight shoes won’t cut it on ice.
Layer for variable weather
Use a moisture-wicking base, insulated mid-layer, and a waterproof shell to handle sun, wind or sleet in one outing.
Protect your eyes
Bring UV sunglasses—bright reflections off ice can cause glare and snow blindness even on cloudy days.
Follow the guide’s line
Stay roped or within sight of guides; crevasses can be hidden by snow bridges and routes change with melt.
Waterproof hiking boots
Stiff-soled, ankle-supporting boots provide the platform for crampons and protect feet from cold and wet ice.
Waterproof shell jacket
A breathable hard shell blocks wind and melt spray during glacier travel.
Warm gloves (insulated)
Insulated gloves keep dexterity and warmth when handling rope and ice tools in cold conditions.
winter
Sunglasses with UV protection
Reduces glare from ice and protects eyes from reflected UV—useful on bright days.
summer